October 16, 2008 - Although last year’s SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 brought the series into the new generation of consoles, many fans were disappointed with how little the series had evolved from the last generation. Bland features and barebones wrestling modes were some of the chief complaints many fans had from last year.

However, after spending some hands on time with this title at a recent THQ event in L.A., it seems that the developers have been really listening to the fans since last year. There are tons of new features and modes, and this year’s SmackDown vs. Raw looks like it is definitely going to be the best entry in the series yet.

One of the best new features in SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is the new story mode, Road to Wrestlemania. The story mode has really been overhauled this time around and will feature unique storylines penned by some of the WWE’s best writers about your favorite superstars. The DS version also allows you to take a created superstar through this mode. In addition to the new story, 2009’s Road to Wrestlemania mode will also feature a special co-op mode with a completely unique storyline for two characters.

Another facet of the game that has been completely overhauled is the volume of different match types. While previous versions of the game had several broad match types like “Hell in a Cell” and “Ladder Match,” SmackDown vs. Raw has up to fifty different match types, including the fan favorite “Inferno Match,” as well as more specific tag team matches. Another feature that fans will appreciate in SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is the active roster system that will allow you to update the branding of your favorite WWE star based on current standings or your own fantasy settings.

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Another facet of the game that has been completely overhauled is the volume of different match types. While previous versions of the game had several broad match types like “Hell in a Cell” and “Ladder Match,” SmackDown vs. Raw has up to fifty different match types, including the fan favorite “Inferno Match,” as well as more specific tag team matches. Another feature that fans will appreciate in SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is the active roster system that will allow you to update the branding of your favorite WWE star based on current standings or your own fantasy settings.

The DS version is the most basic of all the versions, but still features an interactive storyline and a robust character creation mode. Although the storyline has been scaled back quite a bit for this title, the player will still have lots of options as to where to take their own created character or favorite WWE Superstar in the story mode. Like the console versions, the DS version will have different side missions and character improvement challenges in addition to the basic story matches.

The wrestling controls in the DS version will utilize the stylus for different moves, and the D-pad to move around the ring. You will be able to pull off different basic moves by tapping your opponent, and you can do different grapple moves by drawing a circle around your opponent and pressing a direction on the D-pad. The wrestling moves are definitely not as deep on the DS as they are on the console versions, and I have to say that the controls do feel a little bit too simple at this stage. However, the DS version does succeed in creating a very user-friendly experience that is fun to pick up and play. In addition to the single-player functionality, the DS version features local multi-cart multiplayer functionality.

SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is literally packed with new features and is definitely a much-needed improvement over last year’s game. Although the different versions of the game have different features, it seems there is something in this title for every wrestling fan. So, if you are ready to rumble with your favorite wrestling superstar, then you should definitely keep an eye out for SmackDown vs. Raw 2009, coming this November!

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Staff Contributor