WWF SmackDown! (video game)
WWF SmackDown!, released in 2000, is a professional wrestling video game developed by Yuke's and published by THQ for the PlayStation. It was the first game in the SmackDown! series, which later became known as the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw and then WWE 2K series.
The game featured a roster of popular World Wrestling Federation (WWF) wrestlers, including The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H, and Mankind. Players could compete in various match types, such as one-on-one, tag team, and Royal Rumble matches. A create-a-wrestler mode allowed players to design their own characters and incorporate them into the game.
WWF SmackDown! distinguished itself with its arcade-style gameplay and simplified control scheme compared to previous wrestling games. This accessibility contributed to its commercial success and established the foundation for future games in the series. Key features included a season mode where players could follow their chosen wrestler's career, and a robust selection of signature moves and taunts. The game also offered commentary from Michael Cole and Jerry "The King" Lawler, although it was more limited than in subsequent iterations. The success of WWF SmackDown! cemented Yuke's as a leading developer of wrestling video games and ensured the longevity of the series.