WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 includes a host of new improvements that'll immerse fans in the world of professional wrestling. THQ, in collaboration with Yukes, enhanced the in-ring brawling and crafted a helpful tutorial to teach newcomers the game's nuances. It's biggest feature, though, is the new Story Designer mode, an innovative set of tools that allow gamers to channel their inner Vince McMahon.
Story Designer lets players create their own episodes of Raw, SmackDown and ECW from the ground up. They control each aspect of the show, including the matches, wrestler dialogue and backstage antics. Perhaps they'll start a feud between two wrestlers, schedule a series of interviews or even better, create a love triangle between Beth Phoenix, Randy Orton and John Cena. They can even set up dramatic moments, including one where a car explodes before a superstar gets inside, and another where someone gets hit by a vehicle.
Since gamers write each show's script, we expect to see lots of funny situations. Like Twitter, there's a limit to the number of characters in each dialogue box and wrestlers don't actually speak their lines; THQ has a filter in place to censor inappropriate words.
As for creating matches, numerous types are available, as well as various conditions. A Hell in a Cell match between Triple H and The Undertaker? Sure. A First Blood match starring Kane and The Big Show. Have at it. They can even throw created superstars into the mix, and with loads of 3-D outfits/items to choose from (luchador masks, a chicken's head), there's bound to be some impressive and bizarre designs.
What makes Story Designer so intriguing is the option to upload a program for the world to see or view other gamers' creations. In addition, players have the opportunity to rate them; players can also download created wrestlers. Since the WWE has millions of fans, we expect this option to open up a wealth of possibilities, similar to Sony's LittleBigPlanet.
Yukes also made improvements to create-a-finisher, with plenty of new content to pulverize the competition. This includes top rope maneuvers, and players have the option of stringing together 10 unique moves. They can even dictate how high a character jumps and the number of flips they can perform.
We're also excited about the new Paint Tool and Superstar Threads features. With Paint Tool, gamers can make custom tattoos and slap them onto digital clothing and a wrestler's body. Superstar Threads, on the other hand, lets them alter the color of a superstar's outfit; it's time for an all pink Undertaker.
In addition to the wealth of creation tools, players can also expect numerous in-ring improvements and additions, starting with the aforementioned tutorial. After selecting a wrestler, gamers can walk through more than 100 different instructions, against the computer or a training dummy.
When they're ready to get it on, players will enjoy a cleaner HUD that lacks location-specific damage and health meters. On top of that, gamers will notice lots of little things during matches that add authenticity to the experience. Chopping a guy across his chest or choke slamming him onto the mat result in red welts on his chest/back. And if someone bleeds, his blood will drip onto the other wrestlers.
It's the reversal system, however, that gets us really excited. In previous SmackDown vs. Raw video games, players must guess whether their opponents are about to throw a punch/kick or grapple and then press one of two buttons. This year's game, however, only uses one, a switch that's bound to please fans who suck at guessing. THQ also borrowed the pin mechanics from Legends of WrestleMania, forcing players to rapidly mash buttons to build a meter in order to kick out or perform a successful pin.
Finally, the story mode (Road to WrestleMania) returns, this time with six unique superstars including one for a WWE Diva and a created wrestler. Featuring different plot twists, plenty of action and voice acting from the wrestlers, it'll let players get even closer to the WWE experience.
Now factor in a huge cast of characters, online multiplayer and various bells and whistles, and WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 sounds like the best game in THQ and Yuke's popular wrestling franchise. Even better, it debuts October 20, a full two weeks before we usually see the newest entry in the series. That's enough to get any wrestling fan excited.
Chris Buffa is GameDaily's senior editor. He enjoys easy achievement points, first person shooters and starting trouble.
Reader Comments (0)