This is WWE No Mercy 2 for PS2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Controls
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In this Smackdown! title, the controls changed a little. Instead of just executing a move by just pressing circle and a direction, THQ changed the control scheme similar to Def Jam Vendetta (if anything, almost exact). So when you play for the first time (and if you have never played Def Jam Vedetta), the controls may seem a little strange, or intimidating. Don't worry, two matches in and you'll find yourself a pro at it.
Graphics
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As usual, its quite better and rather stunning. The crowd near the ring are no longer just real people copied in a crappy 2D fashion, but rather fully animated characters who are rather lively (all the time, by the way). The background set designs look really cool, so it is safe to say this is quite an improvement from previous titles.
Gameplay
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The heart of the game, which has undergone quite some work. First off, there are numerous more matches (ranging from Elimination Chamber to Bra-and-Panty matches)and a totally changed Career mode. Instead of following real WWE Storylines (which had the problem of being dated upon release of the game), the WWE staff writers scripted many events creating a totally unique gameplay experience. Another thing you will notice when playing in a match is that all voice acting was taken out. So now there are no ring announcing or of the such. This often got annoying due to the fact that after a while you will have heard every sample, and following that they just continually loop. Also, in HCTP, instead of unlocking items through participating in PPVs, there is now a monetary system where you unlock items by paying for them. Among unlockable items are characters such as Old School Undertaker, The Iron Sheik, The Million Dollar Man, and a few others.
But before I continue, I should address the Bra-and-Panties match, which has been quite hyped and awaited. You will only be allowed to use a select few of women (from an already short list) in this type of match, and you will NOT be allowed to use Create-A-Player women for this. All in all, its not a bad idea for a match, but its more a novelty if anything.
All in all, the gameplay features are great, and a definite update from Shut Your Mouth.
Sounds
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Everything from the mat sounds, to the music is just great. Most of the entrance music and such is up to date (which is rather difficult for a title since stories and other gimmicks can change often), and sounding excellent. Of course, if game music isn't your thing, you could always just listen to your CD player right, :-)?
Overall
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A great game, very much worth getting. With updated gimmicks, great graphics, more matches, and an awesome story mode, this game is a must have for any wrestling fan or anything interested in wrestling.