System: PS3, X360, PS2
Dev: JAKKS Pacific
Pub: THQ
Released: Nov 2006
Players: 1 - 4
More real the televised professional wrestling that it’s fashioned after, WWE Smackdown! Vs Raw 2007 has more depth than the staged fights we’re used to seeing on TV. This games requires strategy, skill and commitment, and unlike pro wrestling, the outcome is not determined before the match.
WWE Smackdown! Vs Raw 2007 seems like the final hurrah for the popular series, at least with the present engine. It seems to be about as good as it can get which still isn’t perfect but at least it’s playable and enjoyable despite its shortcomings. This version offers everything but the kitchen sink. It almost seems like a peace offering, apologizing for some of the less-than-stellar games of the past and the overall lack of new features and upgrades. In this way WWE Smackdown 2007 is almost a retrospective, or “best of.” It features all of the modes from the last game with a few new ones which as you may already know is a hell of a lot of modes. The main story mode is the flagship of the game but it’s the on and offline multi-player modes that make this title worth the money.
The control system has gone through some refinements which make things feel smoother and more realistic. Grappling is now relegated to the analog stick and feels more context-sensitive, although you do have full control over your moves at all times. By moving the stick in various directions you will access your character’s different grappling moves. Pressing down on a R1 button will increase the power of a particular grapple move. The only downside is that there is a slight pause when you press the button which takes away the natural feel instilled by the stick.
When you have your opponent in your grasp you can pick him up instead of going into a grapple move. With your opponent over your head you can drop him down into the ring with a pile driver, suplex or choke slam. If you want to do a little bit of traveling you can make him land on the top ropes or throw him into the announcers’ table. There is also a hot spot area where you can employ the use of items such as chairs, ladders, fire extinguishers and the public address system as weapons.
Full Reviews
Screen Shot
