WWE Legends of WrestleMania Preview

Game: Legends of Wrestlemania

Platforms: 360, PS3

Preview for: 360/PS3

Release Date: March

E3 2008 Preview

There are millions of wrestling fans all over the world, but not all of them are playing the WWE Smackdown Vs. Raw series. THQ believes this is partially because of the difficulty and learning curve, which is considerably higher than other fighting games on the market. Legends of Wrestlemania, an arcade-style fighter with simpler mechanics and controls that are easier to grasp, could be the alternative that gamers have been waiting for.

Given how early the game is into development, THQ couldn't allow us to wrap our hands around the controller. But they did show us a taste of what the gameplay will look like, specifically with Hulk Hogan and Andre The Giant. Their character models were nothing short of jaw-dropping -- their muscles were perfectly ripped, their faces were incredibly detailed, and Hogan's hair swayed with every motion. THQ said that these models are slightly exaggerated to enhance their appearance on-screen. The crowd is lively, realistically animated and is packed with variety. You'll spot many differences among the attendees, from cheering and raised arms to waving hands and foam fingers.

Unlike Smackdown Vs. Raw, Legends of Wrestlemania will only feature one health bar. For the time being, gameplay is limited to the four face buttons and the analog stick, but the developers may add more if that becomes necessary. Combo moves will branch from the main attacks, and archive WWE footage will be used to set up these legendary battles.

Other than these intriguing tidbits, the future of Legends of Wrestlemania is a question mark. THQ seems to be on the right track, and assuming that the gameplay can match or beat the Smackdown series, it shouldn't have a hard time getting wrestling fans to jump on board when it's released next March.

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