WWF Wrestlemania (GB) (WWF Wrestlemania (GB))

Member Name: thole09

Product:	WWF Wrestlemania (GB)
Date:	01/04/09 (34 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: In-depth story mode, Second player option

Disadvantages: Graphics, Gameplay

"WWF Wrestlemania 2000" is a game released for the Gameboy Color console in 1999 by THQ. It was not released in the United Kingdom and required importation from North America. The game received the "T" rating by the ESRB in the United States which deemed it suitable for the "Teen" age; likely equivalent to the "12" or "15" rating in the United Kingdom.

In keeping with other professional wrestling titles, Wrestlemania 2000 offers the player the chance to compete within a full-fledged story mode or through a variety of singles matches with varying stipulations, such as a "survivor series" or "gauntlet" match with the player's choice of normal or steel cage ring. The player also has access to an extensive roster of wrestlers from the termed "Attitude" era and these names include "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, Shawn Michaels, The Rock and The Undertaker. I didn't find the game to be difficult and was able to compete successfully in various matches without much challenge.

Wrestlemania is very in-depth in comparison to other professional wrestling titles for hand held consoles. The story mode features numerous areas of text presentation to build action and suspense regarding bouts the player will compete in followed by being presented with a visual entrance way to determine his or her upcoming opponent, rather than simple text presentation similar to other wrestling games (although this is seen after the aforementioned entrance scene). Gameplay itself, though, handles very poorly and comes across as almost a slow motion cut scene during a feature film. I find it be difficult to play this game due to this perceived slowness and did not find much enjoyment because of it. The game does feature a second player option via game-link cable and it is possible that this is the only salvaging measure of the game.

Graphics could have used additional work. Detailing of the wrestlers is very poor and does not accurately reflect the characters which were seen on television at the time. The only distinguishing features of the wrestlers were their combat attire but even this came across as often misunderstood during my testing, especially where wrestlers are known to wear similar items of clothing which is common even under today's wrestling standards. The audio came across as acceptable but did not readily feature much variation to the player. What was presented wasn't of a repelling nature and I was happy to leave audio on while playing.

Overall, I would be somewhat hesitant about recommending this title to prospective buyers. It is possible that there is some entertainment to be had through the second player option but I didn't find the single player option to be particularly enjoyable.

Summary: Thumbs in the middle