THQ and JAKKS Pacific have announced that WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 is in development for the Xbox 360 and other gaming systems. It will mark the largest cross-platform launch for the market-leading franchise and is expected to begin shipping to retail outlets worldwide this fall.
“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, worldwide marketing, 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, 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.”
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 will let players take the fight into their own hands with the debut of Superstar Fighting Styles. The game features eight unique styles, each having its own strategy and exclusive attributes. A brand new Struggle Submission System will give players intuitive and natural control over their WWE Superstars by using the game’s popular analog controls. Realism and strategy are at the forefront, as players will now control the amount of pressure they apply to their opponents. In addition, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 will feature a significant Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) presence, including a variety of Superstars, arenas and weapons. The game is also packed with significant updates requested by fans, including new rosters, more environmental hotspots, a combined Season and General Manager Mode experience, improved out-of-ring action, enhanced online community support and much more. The Nintendo DS version of the video game will offer a unique game play experience, including touch screen control over Superstars, situation-based fighting with unique holds and a full year of nonstop action in WWE Season Mode.
