WWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain vs WWF SmackDown!
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.
WWF SmackDown! delivers an authentic wrestling experience with a massive interactive backstage area, allowing players to influence rivalries, storylines, and tag teams. The game features a revolutionary Create-a-Superstar system with sliding scales, movies, and personality variables for deep customization. All signature moves, taunts, and mannerisms are faithfully recreated, from iconic elbows to signature eyebrow raises. With both single‑player and split‑screen multiplayer modes, fans can enjoy intense action on the console or with friends.
- Deep character creation and progression
- Authentic WWE storylines
- Variety of match types
- Robust multiplayer options
- Extensive backstage interaction adds depth.
- Robust Create-a-Superstar customization.
- Authentic move set for each WWF superstar.
- Both single‑player and split‑screen multiplayer options.
- Graphics limited to PS2 hardware
- Some match types feel gimmicky
- Learning curve for grappling system
- Limited to two players in split‑screen.
- Graphics reflect hardware of its era.
- No online multiplayer support.
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to WWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain
View all →
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 WWF SmackDown!
View all →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.
Step into the ring and live the drama with enhanced grappling and legendary match types.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataWWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain (B) offers richer content, better reviews, and larger multiplayer, making it the stronger overall choice; WWF SmackDown! (A) is a simpler, older title with limited multiplayer.
Key differences
- •Multiplayer capacity: B supports up to four players, A only two split‑screen.
- •Critic scores: B 90/100 vs A 78/100.
- •Match variety: B adds new types (Elimination Chamber, Bra‑&‑Panty) and legends; A focuses on core matches.
- •Season mode depth: B includes comprehensive stats and attribute building; A tracks decisions but fewer stats.
- •Release era: B (2003) benefits from later PS2 hardware improvements over A (2000).
Gameplay & fun factor
B’s enhanced grappling, more match types, and deeper season mode provide richer, more varied gameplay.
Platform availability
Both are PS2 titles; no other platforms listed.
Price & value
Both priced at $49.99 with one‑time purchase.
Multiplayer / co‑op
B supports up to four players in both competitive and cooperative modes; A limited to two split‑screen.
Content & replayability
B adds legends, new match types, and writer‑crafted storylines, increasing replay value.
Difficulty & accessibility
A’s simpler grappling may be easier for newcomers; B has a steeper learning curve.
Graphics & performance
B benefits from later PS2 hardware, delivering better visuals than A’s era‑specific graphics.
Choose WWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain if…
Enthusiasts seeking deeper customization, more match variety, and robust multiplayer experiences.
Choose WWF SmackDown! if…
Casual players who want a straightforward, less complex wrestling game and don’t need extensive multiplayer.
Common questions
Is there a price difference between the two games?
No, both have a one‑time MSRP of $49.99.
Which game supports more players?
WWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain supports up to four players; WWF SmackDown! supports only two split‑screen.
Do the games have online multiplayer?
Neither title includes online multiplayer; both are limited to local play.