WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is quite simply the best ever wrestling game. Why? Well, first and foremost, the overall gameplay is superb. Added to this we have a compelling storyline and an amazing new customisation feature and plenty of modes. Gamers who have played earlier versions might well be sceptical, especially when recalling the inordinately long load times and the less than impressive graphics. Fortunately Yuke have addressed these problems: the load times are short and the graphics stunning. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is available on PS3 and Xbox 360.
The game handles beautifully, satisfying both newcomers and veterans. But best of all, when it comes to the storyline, the developers of WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 seem to have hit upon the magic formula for success. Possibly learning from previous mistakes, they decided upon simplicity: WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 offers just a few superstars, and then having made your choice you will progress through nightly bouts on Raw, SmackDown or ECW, along a path which will lead to WrestleMania. But the genius of the game is this: having taken one or two superstars all the way, boredom does not set in. The options are sufficiently varied and captivating that you will want to explore all the possibilities. And you must not, whatever happens, miss out on the brilliant Tag Team option. Few video games ever succeed in maintaining this level of interest.
Together with an expanded create-a-superstar, there is a new, mouth watering customisation option. Create-a-finisher actually enables you to create your very own finishing move.
Another sparkling innovation is WWE Highlight Reel movie creator. A video editing tool gives you the freedom to take your favourite clips and re-jig them; creating your own masterpiece to impress both family and friends.
As with last years offering, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 has an online mode. The visual graphics are not only a great improvement upon previous versions, they are better than any other wrestling video game. The character models are top-of-the-range, they are realistic looking and free moving. The animations have certainly been taken to a new level.
The sound matches the excellence of the visual graphics. The dialogue is good, and you have the opportunity of using your own music for your entrances.
A strong, interesting storyline, top quality gameplay that will please newcomers and veterans, very realistic graphics, plenty of variation and an online option mean that WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 has everything a gamer could want. The only question is, how can the developers improve upon this next year? WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is a must have for all fans of this genre.