SmackDown vs. Raw Coming to Wii, DS

Wii

March 31, 2007, 10:50 am EDT
Total comments: 10

It's official: THQ's big game is coming to every platform under the sun.

The Number One Fighting Video Game Franchise Takes on Three New Platforms in WWE® SmackDown® vs. Raw® 2008

Premier Video Game Brand Poised To Deliver More Depth and Strategy With Prominent New Features, Key Annual Enhancements and Incredible Graphics

AGOURA HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--THQ Inc. (NASDAQ:THQI) and JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (NASDAQ:JAKK) today announced that WWE® SmackDown® vs. Raw® 2008 is in development for multiple gaming platforms, including the franchise debut on Nintendo’s Wii™ video game console, Nintendo DS™ and the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. In addition, development is underway for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system and wireless devices. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 will mark the largest cross-platform launch for the market-leading franchise and is expected to begin shipping to retail outlets worldwide this fall.

“We are extremely pleased with the success of the SmackDown vs. Raw franchise and its continued growth to a widespread audience, particularly in our European markets," said Bob Aniello, senior vice president, worldwide marketing, THQ. “With the addition of fresh, innovative game play on the Wii, the tremendous capabilities of the PLAYSTATION 3 system and unique handheld experiences for Nintendo DS and wireless devices, gamers can now truly live the life of a WWE Superstar and choose from numerous ways to play."

“We are excited about the incredible potential for WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 as the franchise expands to six platforms," said Nelo Lucich, vice president of interactive, JAKKS Pacific. “The game’s new Superstar Fighting Styles and Struggle Submission System, combined with year-over-year improvements, are certain to bring the sports entertainment video game experience to new heights with long-standing franchise fans and casual gamers alike."

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 will let players take the fight into their own hands with the debut of Superstar Fighting Styles. The game features eight unique styles, each having its own strategy and exclusive attributes. A brand new Struggle Submission System will give players intuitive and natural control over their WWE Superstars by using the game’s popular analog controls. Realism and strategy are at the forefront, as players will now control the amount of pressure they apply to their opponents. In addition, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 will feature a significant Extreme Championship Wrestling™ (ECW®) presence, including a variety of Superstars, arenas and weapons. The game is also packed with significant updates requested by fans, including new rosters, more environmental hotspots, a combined Season and General Manager Mode experience, improved out-of-ring action, enhanced online community support and much more. The Nintendo DS version of the video game will offer a unique game play experience, including touch screen control over Superstars, situation-based fighting with unique holds and a full year of nonstop action in WWE Season Mode.

More information about WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 can be found at www.thq.com.

Talkback

NWR_pap64Pedro Hernandez, Contributing WriterMarch 31, 2007

I don't care much for Wrestling games, but its great that Wii is getting all these games.

BranDonk KongMarch 31, 2007

IGN's quasi-preview gives me an e-boner. Actually holding the Wiimote and nunchuck while doing the D-X "crotch chop" to make your wrestler do it on screen is the GREATEST THING THAT HAS EVER HAPPENED TO A WRESTLING GAME...and I will NOT apologize for the CAPS!

Jin-XMarch 31, 2007

I'd rather have Day of Reckoning 3, I don't like Smackdown's gameplay style.

IceColdMarch 31, 2007

Quote
Originally posted by: Jin-X
I'd rather have Day of Reckoning 3, I don't like Smackdown's gameplay style.

QFT. And I've never even used "QFT" before.

BranDonk KongApril 01, 2007

I'm guessing you haven't played Smackdown in a few years. It's gotten a lot more simulation-like, although it seems like they might be taking a step backwards gameplay-wise for the Wii, but the controls call for it.

IceColdApril 01, 2007

I think I played 2006 last. The grapple system was horrible, the controls felt loose and you can't even break up a move or special once it's in progress. That's unacceptable.

The only thing I liked better about SDvR was the roster size and variety. Well, it had more options than DoR too, but gameplay-wise, DoR mops the floor with it.

BranDonk KongApril 01, 2007

2007 plays very differently. It actually plays pretty similar to All Star Pro Wrestling for PS2 (Squaresoft, I believe). You use the right analog for grapples, and get way more actual moves at your disposal than ever before. I watched the video of SVR2008 for Wii, it looks pretty decent, even though it's grainy. Still, since it's pretty obvious they're most likely using SVR07 for PS2's character models, it's safe to say this one will look at least AS GOOD as SVR07 for PS2, if not better, which is actually pretty good news, since it's arguably one of the best look PS2 titles, period.