Preview: Smackdown Vs Raw 2011 at Gamescom
Smackdown Vs Raw is now a much loved THQ series, blending wrestling and violence in a very pleasing way. In the newest instalment only 10 of your favourite grapplers have been announced, the only new-comer being Sheamus, the flame haired former champion. In total we are told there will be around 70 Superstars to take to the ring, each with their official entrances and trademark moves. The animations for the entrances and moves have been updated and as you can imagine are now looking more realistic than ever. The move sets have also had a touch up, and character movement is so close to the real wrestlers and first glance you would think you were watching Wrestlemania.
The series is also well known for it's variety of game modes and these have also had a few upgrades as well as whole new modes. The most notable of the game types is certainly 'Universe Mode', which tracks everything you do from exhibition matches to Wrestlemania's and uses that information to create new rivalries and partnerships, meaning that your game will be unique and different from your friends versions. And speaking of Wrestlemania, 'Road to Wrestlemania' returns as the career or story based game with some new improvements of it's own, such as the new backstage area which is 'free roam', allowing you to pick fights and gain information on other challengers progress as you hunt for championship glory. Some of the individual matches are better than ever too, with new physics and moves for the Tables, Ladders and Chairs matches such as resting the ladders on the ropes and running and leaping off of them like a springboard. Another match I saw today was the Hell in a Cell which is now much bigger than ever before with an area outside the ring to scrap in and interact with as well as a selection of chairs etc you can pull from under the ring to hammer your opponents with.
Customisation is another area targeted for an overhaul by THQ with new options in the 'Create a Superstar' and 'Create a Finisher'. The finishing moves can now be longer and you can adjust the speed and length of the move and even link a few moves together. For the first time in the series you will also be able to use the turnbuckles within your finishing moves, sitting opponents on them and them merrily throwing them around.
If any more info arises on this game during Gamescom, we'll make sure we have it so check back soon for updates and interviews.
