|
 |
WWE Smackdown! vs. RAW - Australian Review (Reviews)08/03/2005 11:35:12
The next instalment of the Smackdown series is here and ready to power-bomb last year's WWE hit to claim the undisputed best wrestling title. Following on from WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain's huge success, Smackdown! Vs Raw not only retains the qualities and game modes that made its predecessor such a huge hit but also tightens gameplay, deepens customisation and enhances all graphical aspects to give fans one hell of a game. Fans will be pleased to know that THQ and Yukes have included all the previous game modes, so you can bleed it out in First Blood, get busy S and M style in the Steel Cage and tear each others' knickers off in Bra and Panties mode. So many matches have been crammed in that all fans are left begging for now is an Edible Panties mode. The Career runs much the same as previous titles' but is a little disappointing in terms of its linear storyline. Although the career mode plays out just like a real WWE saga complete with betrayals and vendettas, you'll never be able to hear it direct from your created superstars' mouth as they're mute. Thankfully, all the trademarked WWE stars are in command of their vocal chords which really adds to the wrestling experience, even though the amount of effort they put into their voice work is questionable. A bit more conviction would have made the experience that more enjoyable. The Create-a-Wrestler mode is incredibly in-depth, with players able to customise everything from dental work to fight night tactics. With increased polygons, higher resolution and more fluid animations, your wrestlers look and feel every bit the chest-thumping fighters they truly are. Not only do player models look and behave realistically, they also act so with the ability for you to choose your wrestler's attitude, from clean, neutral or dirty. By fighting according to your alignment (low blows and ref bashing for dirty fighters and submissions and taunting for clean) you will be able to fill up your meter to unleash special moves depending on your style. Two other very welcomed additions to the create modes are the new Create-A-PPV and Create-A-Belt options. Not only can you create your own belts but you can fight for them in your very own pay-per-views. No longer will friends and family have to smash chairs over each others' heads to determine who holds what title, as you can now create and challenge for your own coveted belt! Another very cool addition is the mini-games that have been implemented as pre match testosterone battles. There are five in all, and they'll have you slapping, shoving and staring down your opponent before fights actually start. These happen at complete random but seem to be exacerbated by ongoing feuds with other wrestlers and add a nice flair to the typical wrestling action. Visually and technically, Smackdown! Vs Raw beat all other wrestling game out there. With the polished character models, improved gameplay and awesome creation possibilities, this latest WWE title is definitely a force to be reckoned with.
Score = 8.5/10
 [ Printer Friendly Version ] [ Other stories about THQ, Gameplay ]
|
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of IDG Communications is prohibited.
IDG Sites: PC World | GoodGearGuide | Computerworld Australia | CIO Australia | CSO Online | LinuxWorld.com.au | ARN
Subscribe to Newsletters | Contacts |
Terms Of Service Agreement | Privacy Statement | Email Us | Advertise
