Interview: Why WWE SmackDown vs Raw 2009 DS will touch you
Thanks to the new control method, of course
Like most grown up kids (not to mention those mad ringside grannies), we occasionally rejoice in the odd burst of sweaty muscle-man pantomime that is World Wrestling Entertainment.
We've weren't so keen on last year's version of the WWE franchise on DS however. It tried to do something new in terms of its on-rails control method, but sadly didn't quite manage to pull it off.
So what's the score this year? Let's talk to THQ's associate creative manager Dan Ryan to find out...
Pocker Gamer: It's good to see a new control system. So how will the stylus and D-pad combination work compared to 2008's rather simple version?Dan Ryan: The stylus and D-pad combination in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is a remarkable improvement over the control system in the previous version of the series. The system allows the player to intuitively use the stylus to execute moves by tapping or drawing the motion for manoeuvres such as strikes and grapples.
The D-pad will serve as the movement buttons to navigate the Superstar around the ring. And, for all the left-handed players out there, there is an option to use the face buttons to control the movement of the Superstar instead of the D-pad.
Can you explain how the Create-A-Superstar option will work and will there be any way to swap or trade stars with friends?In Create-A-Superstar mode, players can edit various options for created Superstars, such as customising the body, head, clothing and accessories; distributing attribute points and selecting an Entrance or a custom Move Set.
Each of the menus has a simple interface that makes creating a Superstar a fun way to flex those creative muscles. Although there isn't a way to trade created Superstars in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 for the DS, it's being considered as a possibility in the future.
How much depth do you think the new Season mode will add? Also what abilities will you be able to upgradeThe new Season Mode gives players the opportunity to prove themselves worthy of being called legends in the business by working their way up from being jobbers to main event status. As players progress, they will be able to upgrade their Superstar or Created Superstar's attributes by allocating earned attribute points toward Power, Submission, Durability, Speed and Momentum.
Whether working out at the gym to earn additional attribute points, talking shop with other Superstars at WWE Headquarters or participating in a heated match, there are many fun and interesting things to do in Season Mode.
Who's been added to the Superstar roster and how have you attempted to bring their rivalries and characters into play?To reflect what's currently occurring in WWE programming, we've added Superstars such as Chris Jericho, Santino Marella and Jimmy Wang Yang, in addition to other Superstars. Each of the Superstars will have authentic attire, along with their signature moves, finishers and taunts.
How many modes will there be and should we expect any special extras or mini-games?There are five game modes and seven different match types. There are also fun mini-games that earn players additional attribute points when working out at the gym in Season Mode.
What you can say about the multiplayer modes? Anything via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection?Multiplayer matches between two players will be available in Multi-Card Play Mode via the Nintendo DS Wi-Fi connection.
Finally, what do you think is the most impressive thing about the game?The opportunity to create a Superstar from scratch and bring him up through the ranks in Season Mode by winning matches and increasing attribute points.
Thanks to Dan Ryan for his time.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is released for both DS and PSP on 7 November.
