Legends of Wrestling (series)

The Legends of Wrestling series is a collection of professional wrestling video games published by Acclaim Entertainment. Released between 2001 and 2007, the series focused primarily on featuring prominent wrestlers from the past, particularly those who rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s, rather than contemporary active wrestlers. The games generally featured simplified gameplay mechanics compared to other wrestling titles of the time, emphasizing accessibility and nostalgia.

The initial games in the series, Legends of Wrestling and Legends of Wrestling II: Wrestlemania Legend, were released on PlayStation 2, GameCube, and Xbox. These titles sought to capture the essence of classic wrestling through their roster and presentation. Later entries, such as Legends of Wrestling: Showdown on the PlayStation 2 and Xbox, expanded the roster and introduced new match types and features. The final entry, Legends of Wrestling: All Stars, developed by Z-Axis and published by THQ, was released on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PlayStation Portable. It presented a more arcade-style approach, featuring stylized graphics and over-the-top action.

While the Legends of Wrestling series aimed to appeal to fans of classic wrestling, it generally received mixed reviews. Criticisms often focused on the simplistic gameplay, dated graphics (particularly in the earlier titles), and repetitive nature. However, the series found a niche audience among fans who appreciated the focus on wrestling legends and the nostalgic appeal.