For passionate wrestling enthusiasts who may not be prepared to face the action in the ring or execute high-flying maneuvers, wrestling games have long provided an exciting alternative. These virtual experiences enable players to embody their beloved superstars, whether it’s the iconic The Undertaker, the charismatic Rock, or the legendary Stone Cold Steve Austin.
Wrestling games, particularly the WWE 2K series, represent a distinct category within the realm of fighting and sports titles. Unlike traditional fighting games such as Tekken or Street Fighter, they offer a different experience that sets them apart. Additionally, they don’t adhere to the rigid structure found in sports combat games like UFC, Fight Night, or Undisputed.
An ideal wrestling game should embody the excitement and dramatic flair of the sport, combining strategic yet enjoyable gameplay that mirrors the technical aspects showcased on television. For numerous enthusiasts, the finer points of gameplay mechanics can be just as crucial, if not more so, than the visual presentation.
This compilation highlights the best wrestling games that excel in mechanics and gameplay, effectively simulating the in-ring action fans love to watch.
The Best Wrestling Games
1. Fire Pro Wrestling: World
Fire Pro Wrestling: World is a highly acclaimed professional wrestling video game developed by Spike Chunsoft, known for its deep customization options and retro-inspired gameplay. Released in 2017 for PC and later for consoles, the game features a unique 2D art style reminiscent of classic wrestling titles, combined with a sophisticated combat system that emphasizes timing and strategy over button-mashing.
Players can create their own wrestlers, arenas, and even promotions, allowing for endless possibilities and creativity. The game also includes a robust online multiplayer mode, enabling fans to compete against others worldwide.
2. WWF No Mercy
WWF No Mercy is a professional wrestling video game developed by AKI Corporation and published by THQ for the Nintendo 64 in 2000. Renowned for its engaging gameplay and deep mechanics, the game features a roster of popular wrestlers from the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), allowing players to create and customize their own fighters.
It includes various match types, such as singles, tag team, and even more extreme options like Hell in a Cell and TLC matches. The game is celebrated for its smooth and responsive controls, as well as its attention to detail in animations and movesets, making it a favorite among wrestling fans and gamers alike.
3. WWF Wrestlemania 2000
WWF WrestleMania 2000 is a professional wrestling video game developed by AKI Corporation and published by THQ, released for the Nintendo 64 in 1999. Building upon the success of its predecessor, WWF No Mercy, this game features a roster of popular WWE superstars from the late 1990s, including The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and Triple H.
The gameplay incorporates a robust grappling system that emphasizes timing and strategy, allowing players to execute a variety of moves, from basic strikes to complex finishing maneuvers. WrestleMania 2000 introduced a new season mode, allowing players to engage in a series of matches leading up to the iconic WrestleMania event, and included a create-a-wrestler feature that enabled fans to customize their own characters.
4. WCW/nWo: Revenge
WCW/nWo: Revenge is a wrestling video game developed by AKI Corporation and published by THQ for the Nintendo 64. Released in 1998, the game quickly became a favorite among wrestling fans due to its engaging gameplay, impressive graphics for the time, and a roster that featured a plethora of popular wrestlers from World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the New World Order (nWo) faction.
The game built on the success of its predecessor, WCW vs. nWo: World Tour, by refining the controls and introducing new match types, including the much-loved “Steel Cage” and “Battle Royal.” Players could step into the ring as their favorite wrestlers, each equipped with unique moves and signature finishing techniques, and engage in both single-player and multiplayer modes, enhancing its replay value.
5. Fire Pro Wrestling: Returns
Fire Pro Wrestling: Returns is a beloved entry in the long-running Fire Pro Wrestling series, developed by Human Entertainment and released for the PlayStation 2 in 2007. Known for its unique 2D graphics and deep, customizable gameplay mechanics, the game allows players to create their own wrestlers, match types, and even entire wrestling promotions.
Unlike many wrestling games that focus on flashy graphics and complex controls, Fire Pro Wrestling: Returns emphasizes strategy and timing, offering a robust grappling system that rewards skillful play. The game features a vast roster, including both real-life wrestling stars and original characters, alongside a comprehensive edit mode that enables fans to design their dream matches.
6. WCW Vs. nWo: World Tour
WCW Vs. nWo: World Tour is a classic wrestling video game released in 1997 for the Nintendo 64, developed by AKI Corporation and published by THQ. It marked a significant milestone in the world of wrestling games, as it was one of the first to feature a 3D graphics engine, allowing players to experience more dynamic and fluid animations compared to its predecessors.
The game includes a roster of iconic wrestlers from World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the New World Order (nWo) faction, enabling fans to engage in electrifying matches with their favorite superstars. Players can compete in various match types, including singles, tag team, and even battle royals, utilizing a simplified yet engaging control scheme that emphasizes timing and strategy.
The game was well-received for its deep gameplay mechanics and multiplayer capabilities, allowing friends to join in on the wrestling action, making it a beloved title among wrestling fans and gamers alike. Its impact on the genre paved the way for future wrestling games, solidifying its legacy in the gaming community.
7, WWE 2K19
WWE 2K19 is a professional wrestling video game developed by Yuke’s and published by 2K Sports, released in October 2018. It serves as the 20th installment in the WWE game series and is lauded for its return to form, focusing on delivering a more engaging and polished gameplay experience compared to its predecessors.
The game features an extensive roster of over 200 WWE Superstars, legends, and hall-of-famers, allowing players to create their dream matches. One of the standout modes is the “MyCareer” mode, which allows players to guide their created wrestler through the ranks of WWE, culminating in a quest for the championship.
Additionally, the game includes the “WWE Towers” mode, presenting a variety of unique challenges and match types to test players’ skills.
8. WWE Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain
WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain is a critically acclaimed professional wrestling video game released in 2003 for the PlayStation 2. It is the fifth installment in the WWE SmackDown! series and is celebrated for its engaging gameplay, robust roster, and deep career mode.
Players can choose from a wide array of WWE superstars, each equipped with unique moves and attributes, allowing for diverse matchups and strategies. The game introduced a new grappling system that enhanced the realism and fluidity of in-ring action, along with a variety of match types, including the popular Hell in a Cell and Elimination Chamber.
9. WWE Day Of Reckoning 2
WWE Day of Reckoning 2 is a professional wrestling video game released for the Nintendo GameCube in 2005, serving as a sequel to the original Day of Reckoning. The game features an enhanced grappling system that allows players to execute a wide array of moves, including signature and finishing techniques, with greater fluidity and realism.
Players can engage in various modes, such as a robust Story Mode that immerses them in the world of WWE, complete with character development and storyline choices. The roster includes a diverse lineup of WWE superstars from the time, allowing fans to step into the ring as their favorite wrestlers. Additionally, the game offers a comprehensive Create-a-Superstar feature, enabling players to customize their own characters with unique appearances and move sets.
10. WWE 2K14
WWE 2K14 is a professional wrestling video game developed by Yuke’s and published by 2K Sports, released in October 2013 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. This installment is notable for its emphasis on the “30 Years of WrestleMania” mode, which allows players to relive key moments from the iconic wrestling event, starting from its inception in 1985 to the present day.
Featuring a roster packed with legendary superstars, including The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and John Cena, the game offers a mix of classic and contemporary wrestlers, providing an immersive experience for fans.
In addition to its engaging single-player modes, WWE 2K14 introduced improved graphics, animations, and gameplay mechanics, making it one of the most celebrated entries in the franchise. The game’s signature feature, the “Defeat the Streak” mode, challenges players to take on The Undertaker’s legendary WrestleMania undefeated streak, adding an extra layer of excitement and challenge.
11. Def Jam: Fight For New York
Def Jam: Fight For New York is a unique fighting game that merges the worlds of hip-hop culture and professional wrestling, developed by Aki Corporation and published by Electronic Arts in 2004. Set in the gritty streets of New York City, the game features a roster of popular hip-hop artists and wrestlers, allowing players to engage in intense, over-the-top brawls across various urban environments.
Players can create custom fighters and choose from a wide array of fighting styles, including street fighting, wrestling, and martial arts, to develop their own combat techniques. The storyline revolves around a power struggle in the underground fighting scene, with players taking on the role of a fighter seeking revenge against the villainous character, D-Mob.
12. WWE’13
WWE ’13 is a professional wrestling video game developed by THQ and released in late 2012 as part of the WWE video game franchise. Building on the success of its predecessor, WWE ’12, the game introduces a new gameplay mechanic called the “Attitude Era” mode, which allows players to relive iconic moments from the late 1990s and early 2000s, a time when WWE was at the peak of its popularity.
Featuring a roster that includes legendary wrestlers like Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, and DX, the game offers a nostalgic experience for long-time fans. The revamped control system enhances in-ring action, making it more intuitive and engaging, while the extensive customization options allow players to create their own unique wrestlers and storylines.
13. WWE All-Stars
WWE All-Stars is an arcade-style wrestling video game developed by THQ and released in 2011, featuring a unique blend of classic and contemporary WWE Superstars. The game is characterized by its exaggerated, over-the-top art style and fast-paced gameplay, allowing players to perform spectacular moves and combos that emphasize the larger-than-life personalities of wrestlers.
With a roster that includes legends like Hulk Hogan and Stone Cold Steve Austin alongside modern stars such as John Cena and Randy Orton, WWE All-Stars appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The game offers various modes, including exhibition matches and a robust tournament feature, allowing players to engage in thrilling one-on-one battles or tag team showdowns.
14. WWF Smackdown! 2: Know Your Role
WWF SmackDown! 2: Know Your Role is a professional wrestling video game released for the PlayStation in 2000, serving as the sequel to the original WWF SmackDown! game. Developed by Yuke’s and published by THQ, the game builds upon its predecessor by introducing enhanced graphics, a more extensive roster of wrestlers, and an improved gameplay experience.
Players can choose from a wide array of beloved WWE superstars, each with their own unique moves and finishing techniques, allowing for a diverse range of match types and strategies. The game features a robust season mode, enabling players to create and develop their own wrestlers while engaging in storylines and rivalries that mirror the dramatic narratives of WWE programming.
15. Tecmo World Wrestling
Tecmo World Wrestling is a classic wrestling video game released in 1990 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Developed by Tecmo, the game features a colorful roster of fictional wrestlers, each with their unique moves and characteristics.
Players can choose from various match types, including single matches, tag team bouts, and even championship contests, providing a diverse gaming experience. The game’s graphics, while limited by the technology of the time, offer a charming aesthetic that resonates with fans of retro gaming. Tecmo World Wrestling is particularly notable for its engaging gameplay mechanics, allowing players to execute a variety of moves, counters, and grapples, which create a dynamic wrestling experience.
16. Virtual Pro Wrestling
Virtual Pro Wrestling is a renowned series of wrestling video games developed by AKI Corporation, primarily for the Nintendo 64 and PlayStation platforms in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Known for its engaging gameplay mechanics and deep roster of characters, the series garnered a dedicated fanbase due to its realistic grappling system and fluid animations, which were groundbreaking at the time.
Players could choose from a variety of wrestlers, each with unique moves and styles, allowing for dynamic matchups and strategies. The game featured multiple modes, including single matches, tournaments, and a robust create-a-wrestler feature, enabling gamers to customize their own fighters.
17. WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2007
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 is a professional wrestling video game developed by Yuke’s and published by THQ, released for multiple platforms including PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii.
This installment in the long-running series introduced several innovative features and gameplay mechanics, most notably the “ECW” brand, allowing players to engage in matches featuring Superstars from World Wrestling Entertainment’s Extreme Championship Wrestling roster.
The game also enhanced its grappling system, offering a more fluid and realistic combat experience, along with the introduction of the “General Manager Mode,” where players could take on the role of a brand manager, making strategic decisions to build their wrestling promotion.
18. WWF Wrestlefest
WWF WrestleFest is a classic arcade wrestling game released by Technos Japan in 1991, notable for its vibrant graphics and engaging gameplay that captured the essence of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during its peak popularity.
Players could choose from a roster of iconic wrestlers, including legends like Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, and The Undertaker, each with their unique moves and finishing techniques. The game offered both single-player and multiplayer modes, allowing fans to compete against the computer or challenge friends in tag team matches.
WrestleFest was particularly celebrated for its use of digitized graphics and animations, which brought the wrestlers to life in a way that resonated with fans. Its combination of fast-paced action, memorable characters, and the excitement of professional wrestling made WWF WrestleFest a beloved title in the arcade scene and a nostalgic favorite among gaming enthusiasts.
19. WWF Wrestlemania: The Arcade Game
WWF WrestleMania: The Arcade Game is a classic fighting game released in 1995, developed by Midway Games. This title brought the excitement of professional wrestling to the arcade and home console systems, featuring a roster of popular WWF superstars like Hulk Hogan, Bret Hart, and The Undertaker.
The game is renowned for its vibrant, cartoonish graphics and fast-paced gameplay, which combines traditional fighting mechanics with unique wrestling moves and signature finishing attacks. Players can engage in one-on-one battles or tag-team matches, utilizing a variety of power-ups and special moves to dominate their opponents.
20. Saturday Night Slam Masters
Saturday Night Slam Masters is a classic wrestling video game developed by Capcom, first released in 1993 for arcade and later on various home consoles. The game features a unique blend of traditional wrestling mechanics and over-the-top, arcade-style action, showcasing a roster of colorful and exaggerated characters, each with their own special moves and fighting styles.
Players can engage in one-on-one matches or tag team battles, utilizing the game’s dynamic grappling system to execute powerful throws, strikes, and signature moves. The vibrant graphics and catchy soundtrack contribute to the game’s energetic atmosphere, making it a memorable experience for fans of the wrestling genre.
21. WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 is a professional wrestling video game that was released in October 2010, developed by Yuke’s and published by THQ for various platforms, including PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii. This installment in the long-running WWE franchise introduced several innovative features, most notably the “WWE Universe” mode, which allowed players to create and manage their own wrestling storyline, complete with rivalries and championship matches.
The game also offered an expanded roster, featuring a mix of current superstars and legends, as well as improved gameplay mechanics that enhanced the overall realism of the wrestling experience. Additionally, the inclusion of new match types and the ability to customize wrestlers and arenas provided players with a deeper and more immersive gaming experience.
22. 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.
23. AEW: Fighter Forever
AEW: Fight Forever is a highly anticipated professional wrestling video game developed by Yuke’s and published by THQ Nordic, inspired by All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a promotion known for its dynamic roster and engaging storylines. Set to deliver an authentic wrestling experience, the game features a roster of popular AEW stars, each equipped with unique moves and abilities, and aims to capture the spirit of the promotion’s high-octane matches.
Players can expect various game modes, including single-player campaigns, online multiplayer, and traditional exhibition matches, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the AEW universe. The game boasts a blend of classic arcade-style gameplay and modern graphics, appealing to both longtime wrestling game enthusiasts and new fans alike.
24. WWE 2K17
WWE 2K17 is a professional wrestling video game developed by Yuke’s and published by 2K Sports, released in October 2016. It is part of the long-running WWE 2K series and features an extensive roster of over 130 wrestlers, including legends, current superstars, and NXT talent, allowing players to engage in matches using their favorite characters.
The game boasts improved graphics and animations, providing a more realistic and immersive experience, while its gameplay mechanics, including the revamped reversal system, offer a deeper level of strategy in the ring. WWE 2K17 also showcases a comprehensive MyCareer mode, enabling players to create and develop their own wrestler, navigating through various storylines and rivalries.
25. WWE 2K22
WWE 2K22, released in March 2022, marked a significant return for the popular wrestling video game series after a hiatus, following the poorly received WWE 2K20. Developed by Visual Concepts, the game boasts a revamped gameplay engine that emphasizes smoother mechanics and more responsive controls, providing a more immersive wrestling experience.
Players can create their own wrestlers, arenas, and storylines, while also enjoying a roster filled with current WWE superstars and legends. The game introduces a new mode called “MyGM,” allowing players to step into the role of a General Manager and run their own show, making decisions on matchups and managing resources.
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source: Gamerode
