Gaming News - March 2006

Agoura, CA (March 31, 2006) - THQ today announced that WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2007 is in development for the PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, PSP, and Xbox 360.

From THQ:

Joining the highly visible and successful World Wrestling Entertainment roster of WWE SmackDown/SmackDown vs. RAW licensed video games, which have shipped more than 16.5 million units worldwide since 2000, WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2007 is expected to make its debut on both current and next generation gaming systems beginning this fall.

"We are pleased to bring our highly successful WWE SmackDown vs. RAW franchise to next generation consoles," said Kelly Flock, executive vice president, worldwide publishing, THQ. "As the publisher of the number one wrestling video game brand in the world, we are eager to take this franchise to new heights by offering the game to current generation, next generation and handheld gamers."

"We are excited about the next groundbreaking release in the multimillion dollar SmackDown vs. RAW franchise," said Nelo Lucich, vice president of interactive, JAKKS Pacific. "WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2007 combines ambitious, exciting features, such as the interactive fighting area within the crowd and a brand new analog control grappling system, which enhance the WWE video game experience. We are confident this debut will offer a compelling sports entertainment experience for the next generation of gamers."

WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2007 enables players to experience the intensity of being a WWE Superstar like never before with key updates and new game play features. Environmental hotspots let players select and control multiple objects in and around the ring, as well as from crowd members, to inflict damage on their opponents. Players can also get closer than ever to WWE fans as they battle in an intense new fighting area outside the ring. New high impact combination moves and an enhanced Season Mode with multiple branching storylines let players take control of Superstars like never before, while a brand new Analog Control System adds intuitive movement and improved handling to deliver competitive game play at the next level. WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2007 is also packed with significant updates, including incredible high definition graphics, an expanded General Manager Mode, updated rosters for both RAW and SmackDown, online multiplayer game play with voice chat support and much more.