The original (released in 2004) introduced several defining features to the long-running wrestling series, bridging the gap between the arcade-style "SmackDown" games and a more simulation-heavy approach . Core Gameplay Features
: Carried over and refined from previous entries, preventing lighter wrestlers from lifting heavyweights without significant effort . Key Game Modes
: Wrestlers can be designated as "Clean," "Dirty," or "Neutral." Performing specific actions (like technical moves for Clean or eye rakes for Dirty) fills a unique meter that allows for powerful special moves . wwe-smackdown-vs-raw
: Allows players to design their own belts and defend them in custom Pay-Per-Views (PPVs) .
: A single-player experience featuring voice acting from actual WWE superstars . It follows a storyline feud between the Raw and SmackDown brands . The original (released in 2004) introduced several defining
: Includes a "rope break" mechanic where a wrestler can sustain a submission until the referee's count of 5 .
Check out the original gameplay and features from the 2004 classic: : Allows players to design their own belts
: The interface changes based on whether the player selects the Raw or SmackDown brand .