WWE SmackDown Vs Raw 2007: Review, Roster, And Gameplay

Hey wrestling game fans! Let's get ready to rumble with a deep dive into WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007. This game holds a special place in many hearts, marking a significant step in the evolution of wrestling games. We're going to explore what made this game so awesome, from its roster and gameplay to its unique features and overall impact. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer curious about the classics, buckle up for a trip down memory lane!

Reliving the Glory: What Made SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 Special?

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 wasn't just another wrestling game; it was a cultural phenomenon. Released in 2006, it quickly became a fan favorite due to its improved gameplay, extensive roster, and innovative features. The game captured the essence of WWE's mid-2000s era, a time when wrestling was hitting its stride with iconic superstars and memorable storylines. One of the main reasons for its popularity was the enhanced realism it brought to the virtual ring. Developers worked hard to make the matches feel more authentic, with improved animations, realistic character models, and a more fluid combat system. This level of detail was a major leap forward compared to its predecessors, drawing players deeper into the wrestling experience.

Another key aspect of its appeal was the massive roster of WWE superstars. The game featured a who's who of wrestling legends and contemporary stars, allowing players to live out their dream matches. From John Cena and Triple H to Rey Mysterio and Edge, the possibilities were endless. Each wrestler was accurately represented, complete with their signature moves, taunts, and entrance themes. This attention to detail made the game feel like a true celebration of WWE's rich history and vibrant present.

Furthermore, SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 introduced several new features that enhanced the gameplay experience. The Ultimate Control Moves system allowed players to execute devastating finishing moves with more precision and impact. The analog grappling system provided a more intuitive and engaging way to control grapples and submissions. These innovations added depth and complexity to the gameplay, making each match feel unique and unpredictable. Beyond the in-ring action, the game also offered a variety of game modes to keep players entertained. The Season Mode allowed players to create their own WWE superstar and guide them through a career filled with rivalries, championships, and unforgettable moments. The Create-a-Superstar mode gave players the freedom to design their own wrestlers from scratch, complete with custom attires, movesets, and entrance themes. These features combined to create a truly immersive and customizable wrestling experience that kept players coming back for more.

The Roster: A Dream Match Goldmine

The WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 roster was stacked with talent, representing a diverse array of wrestling styles and personalities. Here's a glimpse at some of the iconic superstars featured in the game:

• John Cena: The face of WWE at the time, Cena was known for his incredible strength, unwavering determination, and signature moves like the FU (later renamed the Attitude Adjustment) and the STFU (later renamed the STF).
• Triple H: The Cerebral Assassin, Triple H was a master strategist and a dominant force in the ring. His arsenal included the Pedigree and a variety of power moves.
• Rey Mysterio: The high-flying luchador, Mysterio wowed audiences with his acrobatic maneuvers and signature moves like the 619 and the West Coast Pop.
• Edge: The Rated-R Superstar, Edge was known for his cunning tactics and ability to win at any cost. His signature move was the Spear.
• Kurt Angle: The Olympic Gold Medalist, Angle was a technical wrestling wizard with a knack for showmanship. His signature move was the Angle Slam.

And that's just scratching the surface! The roster also included legends like The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, and Stone Cold Steve Austin, as well as rising stars like Randy Orton, Batista, and Bobby Lashley. With such a diverse and talented roster, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 offered endless possibilities for dream matches and rivalries. Whether you wanted to see John Cena take on The Undertaker or Rey Mysterio face off against Kurt Angle, the game had you covered. This extensive roster was a major selling point for the game and a key reason why it remains so popular to this day.

Gameplay Mechanics: A Step Above the Rest

What truly set WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 apart was its innovative gameplay mechanics. The game introduced several new features that enhanced the realism and depth of the wrestling experience. One of the most notable additions was the Ultimate Control Moves system. This system allowed players to execute devastating finishing moves with more precision and impact. By carefully timing their button presses and using the analog sticks, players could unleash a variety of spectacular attacks that left their opponents reeling. This system added a new layer of strategy to the gameplay, requiring players to think carefully about their timing and positioning.

Another key innovation was the analog grappling system. This system provided a more intuitive and engaging way to control grapples and submissions. Instead of relying on simple button presses, players could use the analog sticks to control the direction and intensity of their grapples. This system made the grappling feel more realistic and dynamic, allowing players to feel like they were truly in control of the match. The analog grappling system also opened up new possibilities for strategy and technique. Players could use a variety of grappling techniques to wear down their opponents, set up signature moves, and secure the victory.

In addition to these new features, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 also refined many of the gameplay mechanics from its predecessors. The striking system was improved, allowing for more fluid and realistic combat. The AI was made more intelligent, providing a greater challenge for players of all skill levels. The commentary was also enhanced, with more dynamic and engaging commentary from WWE's broadcast team. These improvements combined to create a more immersive and authentic wrestling experience that kept players hooked for hours on end. Whether you were a seasoned wrestling game veteran or a newcomer to the genre, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 offered something for everyone.

Game Modes: Endless Entertainment

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 wasn't just about the in-ring action; it also offered a variety of game modes to keep players entertained for hours on end. The Season Mode was a particular highlight, allowing players to create their own WWE superstar and guide them through a career filled with rivalries, championships, and unforgettable moments. In Season Mode, players could customize their wrestler's appearance, moveset, and entrance theme. They could then embark on a journey through the ranks of WWE, competing against other superstars, forming alliances, and battling for championships. The Season Mode was filled with dramatic storylines, unexpected twists, and plenty of opportunities for players to make their mark on the wrestling world.

Another popular game mode was the Create-a-Superstar mode. This mode gave players the freedom to design their own wrestlers from scratch, complete with custom attires, movesets, and entrance themes. The possibilities were endless, allowing players to create everything from realistic representations of their favorite wrestlers to completely original characters with unique looks and abilities. The Create-a-Superstar mode was a great way for players to express their creativity and add their own personal touch to the game.

In addition to these flagship modes, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 also offered a variety of other gameplay options. The Exhibition Mode allowed players to quickly jump into a match with their favorite wrestlers and play around with different match types and settings. The General Manager Mode put players in charge of either Raw or SmackDown, tasking them with managing the roster, booking matches, and building their brand into a ratings juggernaut. These various game modes combined to create a truly immersive and customizable wrestling experience that kept players coming back for more.

Legacy: Why It Still Matters

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 left a lasting impact on the wrestling game genre. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, extensive roster, and engaging game modes set a new standard for wrestling games. The game's success paved the way for future installments in the SmackDown vs. Raw series, as well as other wrestling games. Many of the features introduced in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007, such as the Ultimate Control Moves system and the analog grappling system, have become staples of the genre.

Beyond its influence on the wrestling game genre, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 also holds a special place in the hearts of many wrestling fans. The game captured the essence of WWE's mid-2000s era, a time when wrestling was at its peak. The game allowed players to relive their favorite moments from that era and create their own dream matches and rivalries. For many fans, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 is more than just a game; it's a nostalgic reminder of a simpler time when wrestling was king.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Play Classic

So, there you have it, folks! WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 remains a classic for good reason. Its innovative gameplay, stacked roster, and diverse game modes made it a standout title in the wrestling game world. Whether you're a die-hard wrestling fan or just someone looking for a fun and engaging game, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 is definitely worth checking out. Go back and experience the glory days of wrestling gaming – you won't regret it!