JAKKS Deliver SmackDown to Wii

Mike Bantick
Saturday, 31 March 2007 05:35

Opinion and Analysis

Making its debut on the Nintendo Wii, developer JAKKS Pacific has given us the first details of WWE SmackDown vs Raw 2008

There are a lot of wrestling style games on the market, but the WWW SmackDown vs Raw franchise has established itself as one of the finest examples on the market today.

Puffing out its chest and striding confidently into the room comes the 2008 release of the game, with a number of new moves to show us.

First and foremost is the transition to an expanded list of platforms, Microsoft's Xbox 360, Sony's PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable and now PlayStation 3 along with the Nintendo DS and now the Wii gaming system.

"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(tm) (ECW(r)) 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.

Look for WWW SmackDown VS Raw 2008 from this Autumn (Southern hemisphere)