WWE Road to WrestleMania X8

"A Definite Improvement"

Introduction
WWE Road to Wrestlemania X8, is a game based on the popular television show by the same name, released on October, 2002. This game however is not the first one for GBA. While WWE games which was previously known as WWF (World Wrestling Federation) has spawned over the various console, there has only been two WWE/WWF games including this in the relatively new console-GBA. The first game, called WWF: road to Wrestlemania was released in 2001.

Gameplay
Compared to the previous game, this game is definitely a huge improvement. In my opinion, the first game is a major letdown. However, there has been significant improvement in this game.

There are 15 wrestler based from real life that you can choose from. While the number of playable wrestler in this game is much lower compared to the first game (23 Wrestler), The huge improvement in gameplay make up for he lack of wrestler.

There are more match option available, such as four way match which was not available in the first game. Of course popular type of match like the royal rumble and King of the Ring is still in the game.

There are also a championship mode, in which you can try to win titles and become the undisputed champion of WWE. This is probably an aspect of the game that you will try and like.

Graphics
Slight improvement in this area compared to the first game. the wrestler are slightly bigger and therefore it's easier to potray them in more detailed way. The crowd and the ring are also potrayed in a more mesmerising detail.

Sound
Not much improvement here, but in the sound department, this game is still of considerable quality. There are themes for each wrestler. Moreover, the sound effect are not pretty bad also, that you can feel your opponent leg is breaking when you tried to do a submission on him.

Control
Probably this is the area where most improvement were made. In this game, the control is better than the first game. You can move the wrestler easily, and it is easier to execute moves and finisher, whereas in the first game, it is slightly harder to slam your opponent.

Conclusion
Final Score: 7/10
A decent wrestling game, even though still not as good as Fire Pro Wrestling. However if you prefer more recognizable wrestler you might as well get this game. If you are a WWE fans, this game is a must buy. A good game overall, even though there are still much room for improvement.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 10/28/02, Updated 10/28/02