THQ's popular wrestling game is headed to Nintendo's duo later this year, the publisher has announced.
THQ and JAKKS Pacific have announced the multi-platform development of WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008, with titles set to land on Nintendo's Wii and DS, as well as the PS2, PS3, PSP, Xbox 360 and wireless devices, when it launches throughout the world at the end of the year.
The game will allow players to take the fight into their own hands, says THQ, with the introduction of eight 'Superstar Fighting Styles', each having their own unique attributes and strategies. A new 'Struggle Submission System' will also appear, and will see players grasp intuitive and natural control of their wrestlers, allowing them to determine the amount of pressure they'll apply to their opponents, thanks to analogue controls.
A variety of wrestling Superstars, arenas and weapons will be available, coming straight from Extreme Championship Wrestling, and fan requests will be made a reality too, with the inclusion of new rosters, additional environmental 'hotspots', a combined 'Season' and 'General Manager Mode' experience, better out-of-ring action, and enhanced online community support, among other things.
"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 of worldwide marketing at 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 at 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."