Developer: THQ
Format: Xbox 360/PlayStation 2
Review: Brendan Mays

Prepare to lay the smackdown on your favourite WWE superstar in the 2007 edition of SmackDown vs Raw. Believe me, even if you aren’t a fan of wrestling, this game will have you hooked. We started on Saturday morning for ‘a quick punt’ at multiplayer, and by Sunday night had seven mates around cheering on a little TLC (Table, Ladders, Chairs). Unlike other wrestling games, SmackDown vs Raw is surprisingly easy to master the basics. In no time, I was smashing people with sledgehammers and pile-driving heads through tables. Who could argue the fun of that? Plus, also unlike the real wrestling, the animated violence is realistic and (for twisted minds such as ours) quite comical. There is also an in-depth story mode that is different each time you play. You choose your path to WrestleMania, and can be a downright evil bastard, or the epitome of heroic crowd favourite. You’ll also compete in the Royal Rumble and possibly a cage match or two. This game is addictive, fun and highly entertaining. I would recommend it to violence loving gamers and wrestling fans alike.

4/5