WWE SMACKDOWN VS. RAW 2007

THQ, PS2, $49.99 / Xbox 360, $59.99

Grease up, squeeze into those pastel tights and start swinging… It’s just you against an entire league (and loony bin’s) worth of “sports entertainment” superstars in the sharpest-looking wrestling simulation yet. Whereas previous virtual outings have been content to deliver expansive career modes, trash-talking online multiplayer and a star-studded cast of brawlers, the current contender offers all of the above attributes plus so much more. Think hyper-responsive analog controls that make applying body slams and clotheslines a cinch with a flick of the joystick. A host of context-sensitive hotspots that let you choke enemies with errant cords and slam them into tables. And, of course, raging conflicts that spill out into the seats, where crowds fuel the flames by passing over weapons (e.g. canes, signs, etc.) with which to cover your rivals in the crimson mask (i.e. beat them bloody). More intense and hard-hitting than the average foot-to-Spandex-clad-ass encounter, you’ll also appreciate further additions such as updated rosters, character creation options and support for voice chat-enabled broadband scraps. We’re especially fond of the Xbox 360 edition, whose sharper visuals and immersive sound effects better help call to mind visions of Vinny Mac’s perverse primetime events. SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 gels rather naturally into a whole that’s greater (and sweatier) than the sum of its individual parts. Play now, practice your championship belt-winning acceptance speech later – the more insulting to competitors’ parentage, the better. Adam Rosen

www.svr2007.com

Love: Great Visuals, Responsive Controls, Hotspot Assaults

Hate: Time Commitment, Getting Your Ass Whooped

Score: 8.5/10