When it comes to wrestling games, it is important to find one that combines the excitement and drama of the sport with strategic and enjoyable gameplay. These games should accurately represent the technical aspects of professional wrestling seen on television.
For fans, the small details in the gameplay mechanics are just as important, if not more so, than the overall presentation. This list highlights wrestling games that excel in their mechanics and gameplay, offering an authentic in-ring experience similar to what is seen on TV.
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The Best Wrestling Games
1. WWF No Mercy
WWF No Mercy is a professional wrestling video game that was released for the Nintendo 64 console in 2000. Developed by Asmik Ace Entertainment and AKI Corporation, the game is based on the World Wrestling Federation (now known as World Wrestling Entertainment) and features a wide range of iconic wrestlers from that era.
Players can choose from a roster of over 60 characters, each with their own unique moves and abilities. The game offers various game modes, including single-player, multiplayer, and a story mode where players can create and customize their own wrestler.
2. Fire Pro Wrestling: World
Fire Pro Wrestling: World is a popular video game that offers a unique and immersive wrestling experience. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, the game allows players to create and customize their own wrestlers, complete with intricate details such as appearance, moves, and even personalities.
Offering a wide variety of match types and modes, including singles, tag team, and battle royale, Fire Pro Wrestling: World provides endless opportunities for players to showcase their skills in the ring.
The game’s advanced AI system ensures that every match feels authentic and challenging, requiring players to strategize and adapt to their opponent’s moves and tactics.
3. WWF Wrestlemania 2000
WWF Wrestlemania 2000 game is a professional wrestling video game that was released in 1999 for the Nintendo 64 console. It was developed by AKI Corporation and published by THQ. This game was highly anticipated by fans of the World Wrestling Federation (now known as WWE) as it offered an immersive and realistic wrestling experience.
Players could choose from a roster of over 50 wrestlers, including legends such as The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and Triple H. The gameplay featured various match types, including singles, tag team, and ladder matches, allowing players to recreate their favorite wrestling moments.
WWF Wrestlemania 2000 also included a comprehensive create-a-wrestler mode, allowing players to customize their own unique characters.
4. Fire Pro Wrestling: Returns
Fire Pro Wrestling: Returns is a popular professional wrestling video game that was released in 2005. Developed by Spike and published by Xseed Games, this game gained a significant following due to its unique gameplay and extensive customization options.
Unlike other wrestling games, Fire Pro Wrestling: Returns focuses on the technical aspects of wrestling rather than flashy graphics or over-the-top animations. Players can choose from a wide range of wrestlers and engage in intense matches that require strategy and skill.
The game also offers a comprehensive editing mode, allowing players to create their own wrestlers, move sets, and even entire wrestling promotions.
5. WCW/nWo: Revenge
WCW/nWo: Revenge is a professional wrestling video game released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64 console. Developed by Asmik Ace Entertainment and AKI Corporation, the game is a follow-up to the successful WCW vs. nWo: World Tour game.
Revenge features an extensive roster of WCW and nWo wrestlers, allowing players to engage in intense wrestling matches with their favorite characters. The game offers a variety of gameplay modes, including singles, tag team, and battle royal matches.
It also includes a championship mode where players can compete for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship.
6. WWE 2K23
WWE 2K23 is a professional wrestling video game that is set to be released in the year 2023. It is part of the long-running WWE 2K series, which is known for its realistic portrayal of professional wrestling and its extensive roster of WWE Superstars.
The game is being developed by Visual Concepts and published by 2K Sports. WWE 2K23 is expected to feature improved graphics, gameplay mechanics, and a wide range of game modes for players to enjoy.
Fans can look forward to creating their own custom wrestlers, participating in thrilling matches, and experiencing the excitement of the WWE universe in this highly anticipated game.
7. WCW Vs. nWo: World Tour
WCW vs. nWo: World Tour is a classic professional wrestling video game that was released for the Nintendo 64 console in 1997. Developed by Asmik Ace Entertainment and AKI Corporation, this game allowed players to experience the intense rivalries between two of the biggest factions in the wrestling world at that time.
The game featured a variety of gameplay modes, including single-player, multiplayer, and tournament modes. Players could choose from a roster of over 20 WCW and nWo wrestlers, each with their own unique moves and abilities.
WCW vs. nWo: World Tour was praised for its smooth gameplay, realistic graphics, and intuitive controls, making it a favorite among wrestling and video game enthusiasts alike.
8. WWE 2K19
WWE 2K19 is a professional wrestling video game developed by Yuke’s and Visual Concepts. It is the latest installment in the WWE 2K series and was released in October 2018. The game offers an immersive experience for wrestling fans, allowing them to create and customize their own wrestlers, compete in various game modes, and relive iconic moments from WWE history.
With a roster of over 200 playable characters, including current superstars and legends, players can choose their favorite wrestlers and engage in intense matches and rivalries. WWE 2K19 also features improved gameplay mechanics, stunning graphics, and a comprehensive creation suite that allows players to design their own arenas, championships, and even storylines.
9. WWE Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain
WWE Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain is a popular professional wrestling video game that was released in 2003. Developed by Yuke’s and published by THQ, the game was available for PlayStation 2.
It was widely praised for its realistic gameplay, extensive roster, and immersive story mode. Players could choose from a wide range of WWE superstars, including The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and Triple H, and engage in intense wrestling matches with various game modes such as singles, tag team, and Royal Rumble.
The game also introduced several new features, such as the ability to fight backstage and interact with the environment.
10. WWE Day Of Reckoning 2
WWE Day of Reckoning 2 is a professional wrestling video game that was released for the Nintendo GameCube in 2005. It is the sequel to WWE Day of Reckoning and offers an immersive and authentic wrestling experience.
The game features a wide range of popular WWE superstars, including Triple H, The Rock, John Cena, and many more. Players can engage in various game modes, such as story mode, where they can create and customize their own wrestler and participate in a career-like journey.
The gameplay mechanics are intuitive and allow players to perform a variety of moves, from powerful suplexes to high-flying aerial attacks. With its realistic graphics, exciting gameplay, and extensive roster of wrestlers, WWE Day of Reckoning 2 provides fans of professional wrestling with an enjoyable and entertaining gaming experience.
11. WWE 2K14
WWE 2K14 is a professional wrestling video game developed by Yuke’s and Visual Concepts. Released in October 2013, it is the sequel to WWE ’13 and the 14th installment in the WWE 2K series.
The game features various game modes, including the popular “30 Years of WrestleMania” mode that allows players to relive iconic matches and moments from the history of WWE’s flagship event. WWE 2K14 also introduces a revamped single-player campaign called “The Streak,” where players take on the daunting task of ending The Undertaker’s undefeated WrestleMania streak.
With a roster of over 80 WWE Superstars and Legends, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and impressive graphics, WWE 2K14 offers an immersive and authentic wrestling experience for fans of the sport.
12. Def Jam: Fight for New York
Def Jam: Fight for New York is a popular video game that was released in 2004. It falls under the genre of fighting and sports, and was developed by AKI Corporation and published by Electronic Arts.
The game is set in a fictional world where various hip hop artists battle it out in underground fighting tournaments. Players can choose from a wide range of characters, including real-life rap stars such as Snoop Dogg, Method Man, and Lil’ Kim.
The gameplay involves intense one-on-one fights in various urban locations, using a combination of martial arts, wrestling, and street fighting moves. Def Jam: Fight for New York received positive reviews for its engaging story mode, diverse character roster, and impressive graphics.
13. WWE ‘13
WWE ’13 is a professional wrestling video game that was released in 2012. It was developed by Yuke’s and published by THQ for multiple gaming platforms, including PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii. The game is part of the WWE video game series and offers an immersive experience for wrestling fans.
WWE ’13 features an extensive roster of popular WWE superstars from different eras, allowing players to relive iconic matches and storylines. The gameplay includes various match types, such as singles, tag team, and Royal Rumble, with improved mechanics and controls.
Additionally, the game introduces a new feature called “Attitude Era Mode,” which allows players to experience the famous Attitude Era of the WWE through a series of matches and storylines. Overall, WWE ’13 offers an exciting and authentic wrestling experience for fans of the sport.
14. WWE All-Stars
WWE All-Stars is a video game that brings together some of the greatest professional wrestlers from past and present eras. Developed by THQ, this game offers a unique and exaggerated style of gameplay that captures the essence of WWE’s over-the-top action.
Players can choose from a wide range of iconic WWE superstars, including legends like Hulk Hogan, The Rock, and Stone Cold Steve Austin, as well as current fan favorites like John Cena and Roman Reigns.
The game features fast-paced and arcade-style wrestling matches, allowing players to perform gravity-defying moves and execute powerful signature moves.
15. WWF SmackDown! 2: Know Your Role
WWF SmackDown! 2: Know Your Role is a professional wrestling video game that was released in 2000 for the PlayStation console. It is the second installment in the SmackDown! series and features a wide range of popular wrestlers from the World Wrestling Federation (now known as World Wrestling Entertainment).
The game allows players to create their own wrestler and compete in various game modes, including singles matches, tag team matches, and Royal Rumble events. It also offers a comprehensive career mode where players can work their way up the ranks, win championships, and even participate in backstage confrontations.
16. Virtual Pro Wrestling 2
Virtual Pro Wrestling 2 is a professional wrestling video game released for the Nintendo 64 console. Developed by AKI Corporation, this game offers an immersive experience for wrestling enthusiasts.
It features a wide range of real-life wrestlers from various promotions, allowing players to choose their favorite stars and engage in intense matches. The game incorporates realistic graphics and smooth gameplay mechanics, making it an enjoyable and authentic wrestling simulation.
Additionally, Virtual Pro Wrestling 2 offers a plethora of match types, including singles, tag team, and battle royale, providing players with endless entertainment options.
17. Tecmo World Wrestling
Tecmo World Wrestling is a classic video game that was released in 1989 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Developed by Tecmo, the game offers players the opportunity to participate in professional wrestling matches.
The game features a variety of wrestlers, each with their own unique moves and abilities. Players can choose to compete in single-player mode, where they can take on the computer-controlled opponents, or multiplayer mode, where they can challenge a friend to a wrestling match.
The gameplay involves executing various moves such as punches, kicks, and special wrestling techniques to defeat the opponent and emerge victorious. Tecmo World Wrestling is known for its fast-paced action, easy-to-learn controls, and engaging gameplay, making it a popular choice among wrestling enthusiasts and retro gaming enthusiasts alike.
18. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 is a professional wrestling video game that was released in 2006. It is the eighth installment in the SmackDown vs. Raw series and was developed by Yuke’s and published by THQ.
The game features a wide roster of WWE Superstars from both the SmackDown and Raw brands, including popular wrestlers like John Cena, Triple H, and The Undertaker. Players can engage in various match types, including singles matches, tag team matches, and even the iconic Hell in a Cell match.
The game also introduced a new feature called the “Ultimate Control Grapple,” allowing players to execute more realistic and intricate grappling maneuvers. With its improved graphics, immersive gameplay, and extensive roster, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 quickly became a favorite among wrestling fans and gamers alike.
19. WWF Wrestlefest
WWF Wrestlefest is a classic arcade game that was released in 1991 by Technos Japan Corporation. It is a professional wrestling game that features various iconic wrestlers from the World Wrestling Federation (now known as the WWE).
The game allows players to choose their favorite wrestlers and compete in intense matches against the computer or a friend. With its vibrant graphics, fast-paced gameplay, and a wide range of moves and special attacks, WWF Wrestlefest quickly became a fan favorite.
It offered a unique experience for wrestling enthusiasts, allowing them to step into the shoes of their favorite wrestlers and engage in thrilling battles. The game was praised for its smooth controls and dynamic wrestling action, making it a staple in arcades during the early 1990s. Even today, WWF Wrestlefest is remembered as one of the greatest wrestling games of all time.
20. WWF WrestleMania: The Arcade Game
WWF WrestleMania: The Arcade Game is a video game that was released in 1995 for various gaming platforms. Developed by Midway, this game brought the excitement of professional wrestling to the arcade scene.
Unlike traditional wrestling games, WrestleMania: The Arcade Game took a more exaggerated and over-the-top approach, incorporating fantastical moves and special abilities for each wrestler.
Players could choose from a roster of popular WWF superstars, such as The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, and Bret Hart, and engage in fast-paced matches filled with power-ups and unique finishing moves. The game also featured colorful graphics, digitized voiceovers, and an energetic soundtrack, enhancing the overall immersive experience.
21. Saturday Night Slam Masters
Saturday Night Slam Masters is a classic arcade wrestling game developed and published by Capcom in 1993. The game features a unique blend of fast-paced fighting gameplay and professional wrestling elements.
Players can choose from a roster of colorful and diverse characters, each with their own unique set of moves and abilities. The objective is to defeat opponents in one-on-one matches and ultimately become the champion of the Slam Masters tournament.
The game offers a variety of game modes, including single-player arcade mode, versus mode, and tag team matches. With its vibrant graphics, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters, Saturday Night Slam Masters remains a beloved title among fans of both wrestling and arcade games.
22. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 is a professional wrestling video game that was released in 2010. It is part of the long-running WWE SmackDown vs. Raw series and is the 12th installment in the franchise.
The game is available on various gaming platforms such as PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 offers an immersive experience for wrestling fans, allowing them to play as their favorite WWE superstars and compete in various match types, including singles, tag team, and ladder matches.
The game also introduces new features, such as the WWE Universe mode, which provides a dynamic and evolving gameplay experience. Players can create their own storylines, rivalries, and even customize their own WWE Pay-Per-View events.
23. WCW Vs. World
WCW Vs. World is a professional wrestling video game that was released for the Sony PlayStation in 1996. Developed by Asmik Ace Entertainment and published by THQ, the game features a wide range of popular wrestlers from World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and other wrestling promotions from around the world.
Players can choose their favorite wrestler and engage in various match types, including singles, tag team, and battle royale. With its realistic graphics and intuitive controls, WCW Vs. World offers an immersive wrestling experience for fans of the sport.
The game also includes a create-a-wrestler mode, allowing players to customize their own unique characters and participate in the intense action. WCW Vs. World was praised for its extensive roster, smooth gameplay, and accurate depiction of wrestling moves. It remains a beloved title among wrestling enthusiasts and a nostalgic reminder of the golden era of professional wrestling.
24. AEW: Fighter Forever
AEW: Fighter Forever is a highly anticipated video game that is based on the All Elite Wrestling (AEW) promotion. AEW has quickly gained popularity in the world of professional wrestling, offering a fresh and exciting alternative to other major wrestling promotions.
The game, developed by Yuke’s, promises to deliver an immersive and realistic wrestling experience for fans. Players will have the opportunity to control their favorite AEW wrestlers and compete in intense matches and storylines.
25. WWE 2K17
WWE 2K17 is a professional wrestling video game that was released in 2016. Developed by Yuke’s and Visual Concepts, this game is the eighteenth installment in the WWE video game series.
It offers players an immersive experience in the world of professional wrestling, allowing them to create and control their own wrestlers, participate in various game modes, and compete against other players online.
WWE 2K17 features a roster of over 150 playable characters, including current WWE superstars, legends, and even NXT wrestlers. With enhanced graphics and gameplay mechanics, the game offers a realistic and exciting wrestling experience for fans of the sport.
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