THQ Confirms SmackDown vs. Raw For Wii, DS, PS3

Officials from THQ and toy maker Jakks Pacific have confirmed that WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008, the latest iteration in the company's long running professional wrestling franchise, is currently in development for multiple platforms, including debuts for the Wii, Nintendo DS, and PlayStation 3. In addition to these platforms, game is also being created for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PSP, and wireless devices. The game is expected to ship across all platforms simultaneously this fall. WWE SmackDown! vs Raw 2007, currently available for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, and PSP, was originally planned to debut on the PlayStation 3 as well. However, the game was later pushed back to “late 2007.” This latest announcement would seem to confirm 2007's cancellation for Sony's console, making 2008 the series' first appearance on the PlayStation 3. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 will build upon the best selling wrestling franchise with a number of new features, headlined by superstar fighting styles. The game will include eight different fighting styles and a new struggle submission system, as well as updated rosters, more environmental hotspots, and a combined season and general manager mode experience. "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."