WWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain vs WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Relive the excitement of WWE with a deep Season Mode that tracks stats, builds superstar attributes, and delivers storylines crafted by WWE writers. Create your own wrestler, earn money, and unlock hidden content as you progress through dynamic narratives.\nThe game introduces new match types like Bra‑&‑Panty and the Elimination Chamber, features a Legends roster including Sgt. Slaughter and Jimmy Snuka, and boasts an enhanced grappling system for more realistic combat. All of this comes on the PlayStation 2 with polished production values.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 brings the excitement of the WWE universe to PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 2, featuring the first inclusion of ECW superstars like The Sandman, Marcus Cor Von, and CM Punk. The game expands the roster, adds eight fighting styles, and introduces a new Struggle Submission system for more realistic grappling. Players can customize their wrestlers with primary and secondary fighting styles, wield a variety of weapons such as guitars, and compete in iconic venues like WrestleMania 23, Unforgiven, and SummerSlam. With single-player, multiplayer, and split‑screen modes, the title offers both solo and competitive experiences for fans of professional wrestling.
- Deep character creation and progression
- Authentic WWE storylines
- Variety of match types
- Robust multiplayer options
- First WWE game to feature ECW superstars
- Innovative Struggle Submission system adds realism
- Wide variety of weapons and eight fighting styles
- Multiple iconic arenas and Legend mode
- Graphics limited to PS2 hardware
- Some match types feel gimmicky
- Learning curve for grappling system
- Roster varies by platform, leading to missing favorites
- Graphics are dated compared to newer titles
- Split‑screen performance can lag on older consoles
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to WWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain
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Step into the ring with The Rock, Stone Cold and 30+ stars on PS2.
Outrageous WWF action with backstage brawls, tornado tag teams, and hardcore weapons.
Alternatives to WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008
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Control the action with interactive entrances and epic victory scenes.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataWWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain (B) offers higher critical acclaim, deeper character creation, and lower price, while WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 (A) adds ECW roster and more weapons but costs more and has dated graphics.
Key differences
- •Critic Score: B scores 90/100 vs. A's 64/100.
- •Price: B is $49.99, A is $59.99.
- •Roster: A includes ECW superstars; B focuses on classic and current WWE talent.
- •Gameplay depth: B features extensive character creation and attribute building; A adds eight fighting styles and new weapons.
- •Multiplayer: A supports split‑screen on three platforms; B supports up to four players but limited to PS2 hardware.
Gameplay & fun factor
B’s deep character creation and enhanced grappling system are praised, whereas A’s new weapons add variety but receive mixed feedback.
Platform availability
A is released on three platforms with split‑screen; B is PS2‑only.
Price & value
B costs $49.99 versus A’s $59.99, offering better value for the lower price.
Multiplayer / co‑op
A supports split‑screen multiplayer across three platforms; B supports up to four players but only on PS2.
Content & replayability
A adds ECW roster, eight fighting styles, and new weapons; B offers Legend mode and varied match types but no ECW.
Difficulty & accessibility
B’s learning curve is noted but generally accessible; A’s split‑screen lag may hinder smooth play on older consoles.
Graphics & performance
B’s graphics are limited to PS2 but were praised for the era; A’s graphics are described as dated and can lag in split‑screen.
Choose WWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain if…
Buyers seeking higher reviews, deeper character creation, and lower cost.
Choose WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 if…
Buyers who want ECW wrestlers, more weapons, and multi‑platform split‑screen.
Common questions
Which game offers better value for money?
Here Comes the Pain (B) costs $49.99 and has a 90/100 critic score, while SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 (A) costs $59.99 with a 64/100 score.
Do either of these games include ECW wrestlers?
Only WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 (A) includes ECW superstars such as The Sandman, Marcus Cor Von, and CM Punk.
Can I play with friends on the same console?
A supports split‑screen multiplayer on three platforms; B supports up to four players but only on the PS2.