A wrestling game for N64.

Original N64europe Review

WCW could be one of the best 3D fighting games ever. “Fighting games you say?” Yes. The wrestling format adds a different element to regular fighters. The use of ring ropes, surrounding gates outside the ring, and the turnbuckles becomes essential in beating one’s opponent. Players can choose from about 30 different wrestlers, all with moves they really use in the ring. It’s good points are it’s graphics and animation--which are the best of any previous wrestling game. A big plus is it’s license--playing with the big boys could never be so much fun. It’s a must have, not only for the great multiplayer, but also for the fresh element of the genre.

Graphics: Right off the getgo I’d kinda compare it to Virtua Fighter. Polygonal characters with rendered bodies and faces, it looks pretty good. The animations on the other hand, are some of the best of ANY fighter out there. Expect to see everything from picking the guy up, grabbing him, then laying him out with a DDT. All in absolute fluid detail. The rendered rings and polygonal/texture mapped ringposts, ropes, fences, ect. look simply marvelous. Score: 9 of 10.

Gameplay: This is a fighter, so everyone knows how that is. But it’s not just that beat each other into a pulp with 10 hit combos. This is wrestling! Throws, punches, kicks, clotheslines, body slams, DDT’s, flying off the top rope.....I think you get my point. Everything from the late night shows on TNT are in this game. Most moves are easy to choose. Control with the pad is fairly tight, although sometimes you can run in the wrong direction. It’s not just another button smasher wrestling games, either. If you try to do a certain moves with a fresh opponent, he’s likely to counter you. There are enough elements of traditional fighting games to make this game easy to pick up. The big downer of the whole thing is the absolutely WORST AI I have EVER played against. You could start patterns, and the computer would rarely put up a fight. For instance, I have the same start off moves: Running Clothesline, pick up opponent, throw against ropes and follow with Running Clothesline hitting over top rope to the floor. If I got this series off, EVER, in the match---the computer never beat me. Also, the doubleteam efforts in tag mode suffered from this. Sometimes your tag partner would help you, but most of the time he just stood there. If you need a challenge--find a friend. Score: 7.5 of 10.

Multiplayer: With up to 4 players, this game is great. Battle royal or tag team modes really shine in this game. Without the laziness of the computer, this game becomes a real crowd pleaser. Hands down the best 4 person sports game since NBA Hangtime!!! The element of your teammate helping you in tag mode made it more fun to play. Also, the battle royal was just that--every man for himself--and there’s nothing like beating your friends into a pulp. A genuine winner! Score: 10 of 10.

Options: With over 30 different wrestlers, and something like 30 different moves, this department is well stocked! It has 4 selectable divisions to compete in, and each of those has at least two ‘belts’ up for grabs. Secret characters are the titleholders in their respective division/weight class. Upon beating them, they become selectable themselves. Game pack, rumble pack supported. Score: 9 of 10.

Overall: If you’re into fighting or sports and like fluid, realistic display of wrestling maneuvers, or just a great multiplayer game--then this is a must have. Overall Score: 8.5 of 10.

-  by Max CARNAGE