WWE 12 Preview

Dropping the 'Smackdown vs Raw' title for WWE 12, A new chapter in WWE games has been made. This latest decision is set to give the series an overhaul, with better graphics, camera angles used in WWE programming, simpler controls and more modes.

Create an Arena is a brand new mode, with the tools to create your own logo, style of rope, barricades, outside mats and announcer tables. This is excellent fan service by Yukes, allowing players to create their own PPV arena or even replicate an old one.

The ring is a lot more realistic now that physics have been applied to it. Reacting to a move performed in the ring, as you see in real matches. The animation system  has also been improved, allowing players to interrupt a move and perform combos during tag matches . Previously you had to wait for the finisher or move to end, before you could grapple someone again.

New to the experience is comeback moments, whereby the player does a series of signature moves, to gain momentum again. Rising from the mat like the Undertaker, performing  the snake eyes manoeuvre and finishing with a big boot.

You can also wear down your opponent with the limb targeting system. Weakening them down for the pin fall or fatal submission. The new submission system introduces button mashing controls to fill a meter, resulting in a tap out, reversal or getting closer to the ropes.

An addition to the gameplay is wake up taunts, setting up your opponent for a finisher. Just like your favourite wrestlers do in televised matches. WWE Universe 2.0 now lets you create your own shows and features more cutscenes, for a varied experience. So you won't see the same storylines and ultimatums. 

 
As if that isn't enough, classic WCW arenas such as Nitro and Starcade will be in WWE 12. There's so many improvements or new additions to this year's game, that's its simply overwhelming. Be sure to watch this space as we approach 25th November 2011, when WWE 12 releases on Sony PS3, Microsoft Xbox 360 and Nintendo Wii.