The squared circle has seen its share of legendary battles, and on the Nintendo Wii, two titans of wrestling gaming clashed: WWE SmackDown! and WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007. For wrestling fans eager to step into the virtual ring, the choice between these titles was a significant one.
Each offered a unique take on the WWE experience, aiming to capture the excitement, drama, and raw power of professional wrestling. Whether you craved a deep roster or innovative gameplay, the Wii’s motion controls added a new dimension to the rivalry.
This comparison delves into what made each game stand out on the popular console. We’ll break down the gameplay, roster, presentation, and overall fun factor to help you decide which WWE title truly conquered the competition on the Wii.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | smackdown | raw wii |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | 2008 | 2009 |
| Developer | Yuke’s | Yuke’s |
| Publisher | THQ | THQ |
| Platform | PS2, Wii, PS3, Xbox 360, PC | Wii |
| Genre | Professional Wrestling | Professional Wrestling |
| Modes | Exhibition, Career, Create-a-Superstar, Online | Exhibition, Career, Create-a-Superstar, Road to WrestleMania |
| Roster Size | Large | Moderate |
| Gameplay Mechanics | Traditional grappling and striking | Motion controls, traditional controls |
| Graphics | Good for its time, platform dependent | Functional, Wii-specific |
| Sound Design | Solid soundtrack and commentary | Decent crowd noise and commentary |
| Online Play | Available on some platforms | Not available |
| Motion Control Integration | Limited/None | Core gameplay element |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Roster Size
- Smackdown: Features a robust roster of over 40 WWE Superstars and Divas, encompassing a wide array of talent from both brands. The large selection allows for diverse match-ups and career mode progression.
- Raw Wii: Offers a significantly smaller roster, typically around 20-25 wrestlers. While it includes key stars, the limited selection can lead to repetition and a less varied experience.
- Winner: smackdown
Gameplay Mechanics
- Smackdown: Utilizes a traditional button-based control scheme with a focus on combos, reversals, and signature moves. This system is deep and offers a high skill ceiling for experienced players.
- Raw Wii: Employs motion controls for many actions, such as striking and grappling. While innovative, the motion controls can be imprecise and sometimes frustrating, leading to a less fluid experience.
- Winner: smackdown
Graphics & Presentation
- Smackdown: Boasts more detailed character models and environments, with smoother animations and more impressive visual effects. The overall presentation feels more polished and closer to the television product.
- Raw Wii: Suffers from a noticeable downgrade in graphical fidelity due to the Wii’s hardware limitations. Character models are simpler, and animations can appear choppy, impacting the overall visual appeal.
- Winner: smackdown
Match Types
- Smackdown: Includes a comprehensive selection of match types, such as standard matches, tag team, tables, ladders, chairs, and cage matches, offering a lot of variety for players.
- Raw Wii: Features a more limited set of match types, often omitting some fan favorites or offering simplified versions. The focus is on core match types, which can feel restrictive for those seeking deeper customization.
- Winner: smackdown
Career Mode
- Smackdown: Presents a lengthy and engaging career mode where players can create their own Superstar, work their way up the ranks, and compete for championships across multiple years.
- Raw Wii: Offers a simplified career mode that often feels less fleshed out. The progression can be linear, and the customization options for created Superstars are generally more basic.
- Winner: smackdown
Online Multiplayer
- Smackdown: Provides robust online multiplayer options, allowing players to compete against each other in various match types and test their skills against a wider community.
- Raw Wii: Online multiplayer is either absent or very limited due to the Wii’s online infrastructure at the time. This significantly hinders the game’s replayability for those who enjoy playing with others online.
- Winner: smackdown
Create-a-Superstar/Diva
- Smackdown: Features a deep and intricate Create-a-Superstar mode with a vast array of customization options for appearance, movesets, and entrance. This allows for immense player expression.
- Raw Wii: The Create-a-Superstar mode is significantly pared down, offering fewer options for customization. While functional, it lacks the depth and detail found in its console counterpart.
- Winner: smackdown
Unlockables & Extras
- Smackdown: Offers a wealth of unlockable content, including classic superstars, alternate attires, arenas, and bonus matches, rewarding players for their dedication and progression.
- Raw Wii: The amount of unlockable content is generally less extensive. While there are some rewards, they don’t provide the same breadth of extra content to keep players engaged long-term.
- Winner: smackdown
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Platform Availability | smackdown |
| Motion Control Innovation | raw wii |
| Depth of Creation Tools | smackdown |
| Unique Wii Experience | raw wii |
| Traditional Gameplay Fidelity | smackdown |
| Online Play | smackdown |
What They Have in Common
- Core Gameplay: Both games are built upon the foundation of professional wrestling simulation, featuring a roster of WWE superstars and a variety of match types. They aim to replicate the excitement of WWE events with signature moves, finishers, and wrestling holds.
- Roster of Superstars: Players can expect to find a substantial collection of popular WWE wrestlers from their respective eras, allowing them to recreate dream matches and compete as their favorite athletes.
- Create-a-Superstar Mode: Both titles offer robust customization options, enabling players to design their own wrestlers from scratch, including their appearance, entrance, and move set, adding significant replay value.
- Career/story Mode: Each game provides a mode where players can guide their created or existing superstar through a career path, competing in matches, building rivalries, and striving for championship glory.
- Match Variety: Fans can engage in a wide range of match types, from standard one-on-one bouts to tag team matches, hardcore brawls, and special stipulation matches, ensuring diverse gameplay experiences.
Smackdown Vs Raw Wii Buying Guide
Platform Considerations
When purchasing Smackdown vs. Raw for the Wii, the primary consideration is the console itself. Ensure you have a functioning Nintendo Wii console to play the game. Unlike other platforms, the Wii version offers unique motion controls that significantly impact gameplay. This can be a pro for those seeking a different wrestling experience or a con for those who prefer traditional button inputs. Researching the specific Wii model you own and its compatibility with various Wii games is also a good idea, though most Wii titles are broadly compatible. (See Also: Maybelline Exhilarator Vs Pioneer )
Game Version and Condition
Smackdown vs. Raw has seen multiple iterations on the Wii. Identify which specific year’s game you are interested in, as each offers a different roster, set of features, and gameplay refinements. For example, if you’re a fan of a particular wrestler, check their inclusion in the roster of the version you’re considering. When buying physical copies, pay close attention to the condition of the disc and the game case. Look for minimal scratches on the disc, as this can affect playability. Used copies can be a great value, but inspect them carefully.
Where to Buy
Several avenues exist for acquiring Smackdown vs. Raw on the Wii. Online marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, and specialized retro gaming websites are excellent resources for finding both new and used copies. Local game stores, especially those that deal in older consoles and games, can also be a good bet. Be sure to compare prices across different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Reading seller reviews is crucial, especially for online purchases, to gauge reliability and the accuracy of item descriptions.
Price and Value Assessment
The price of Smackdown vs. Raw for the Wii can vary significantly based on the specific game version, its rarity, and its condition. Older or more sought-after titles might command higher prices. Consider what features are most important to you. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date roster and features available on the Wii, you might need to invest a bit more. However, for casual play or nostalgia, older versions can offer excellent value. Always check multiple sources to get a sense of the market value before making a purchase. (See Also: Omron Bp5450 Vs Bp7450 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy smackdown If…
- You are looking for a more traditional wrestling game experience across multiple platforms.
- You prefer a deeper dive into the career mode and extensive creation tools.
- You want the option for online multiplayer on compatible systems.
- You don’t own a Wii or prefer playing on other consoles.
Buy raw wii If…
- You are a dedicated Wii owner looking for a wrestling game specifically designed for the console.
- You are intrigued by the use of motion controls and a more interactive gameplay experience.
- You want to experience the “Road to WrestleMania” mode unique to the Raw series.
- You are a fan of the WWE Raw brand and its associated presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there significant differences between the Wii versions of Smackdown vs. Raw and other console versions?
Yes, the Wii versions of Smackdown vs. Raw often feature unique gameplay mechanics primarily driven by motion controls. While the core wrestling action is present, signature moves, reversals, and even basic attacks might be mapped to specific Wii Remote and Nunchuk movements. This can lead to a more interactive, albeit sometimes less precise, experience compared to the button-heavy control schemes of the PlayStation or Xbox versions.
Which Smackdown vs. Raw game is considered the best on the Wii?
The “best” Smackdown vs. Raw game on the Wii is subjective and often depends on individual preferences. However, titles like “Smackdown vs. Raw 2008” and “Smackdown vs. Raw 2009” are frequently cited as strong entries on the platform. These games generally offered a good balance of roster depth, gameplay features, and effective utilization of the Wii’s motion controls for the era.
Can I use a Classic Controller with Smackdown vs. Raw on the Wii?
Some Smackdown vs. Raw titles on the Wii do offer support for the Classic Controller, providing a more traditional control scheme for players who prefer it over motion controls. However, not all games in the series on the Wii implemented this feature universally. It is advisable to check the game’s packaging or online descriptions to confirm Classic Controller compatibility before purchasing if this is a priority. (See Also: Furnace Rental Vs Purchase )
What is the typical lifespan of a Wii game disc?
Wii game discs, like other optical media, have a considerable lifespan if handled and stored properly. With careful use, avoiding excessive scratches, and keeping them in their cases when not in use, a Wii disc can function for many years, often decades. However, significant physical damage, such as deep scratches or warping, can render a disc unplayable regardless of its age.
Are there any online multiplayer features still active for Smackdown vs. Raw on the Wii?
Unfortunately, the online multiplayer servers for most Wii games, including Smackdown vs. Raw titles, have been officially shut down by Nintendo. This means that any online gameplay modes are no longer accessible. You can still enjoy local multiplayer with friends and family on the same console, but online connectivity for these games is a thing of the past.
Final Verdict
The Smackdown vs. Raw series on the Wii offered a distinct wrestling experience, leveraging motion controls for a more hands-on approach. While not always as deep as its console counterparts, the Wii versions provided accessible fun for fans of the WWE looking for a unique way to play. The best iteration often depends on personal preference for roster and specific gameplay tweaks, but overall, the series delivered a solid wrestling simulation for the platform.
Winner: Smackdown vs. Raw Wii