WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 vs WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.


WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 brings the excitement of the WWE universe to PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 2, featuring the first inclusion of ECW superstars like The Sandman, Marcus Cor Von, and CM Punk. The game expands the roster, adds eight fighting styles, and introduces a new Struggle Submission system for more realistic grappling. Players can customize their wrestlers with primary and secondary fighting styles, wield a variety of weapons such as guitars, and compete in iconic venues like WrestleMania 23, Unforgiven, and SummerSlam. With single-player, multiplayer, and split‑screen modes, the title offers both solo and competitive experiences for fans of professional wrestling.
Step into the world of professional wrestling with WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009, offering players full control over superstar entrances and dramatic victory moments. The game delivers a realistic wrestling experience across PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 2 platforms.\n\nFeaturing a robust career mode, extensive roster, and split‑screen multiplayer, the title blends sport and fighting elements for both solo and group play. Its interactive features let you personalize matches and showcase the spectacle of WWE entertainment.
- First WWE game to feature ECW superstars
- Innovative Struggle Submission system adds realism
- Wide variety of weapons and eight fighting styles
- Multiple iconic arenas and Legend mode
- Rich roster of WWE talent
- Interactive entrance and victory customization
- Robust career and creation modes
- Split‑screen multiplayer for up to four players
- Roster varies by platform, leading to missing favorites
- Graphics are dated compared to newer titles
- Split‑screen performance can lag on older consoles
- Graphics show their age on newer consoles
- Online matchmaking can be unstable
- Limited innovation compared to previous entries
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008
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Control the action with interactive entrances and epic victory scenes.
Alternatives to WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009
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Step into the ring with ECW legends, new submission system, and classic WWE arenas.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataWWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 offers a deeper career mode and more customization, making it the safer default, while 2008 adds ECW stars and a new submission system for those who prioritize roster variety.
Key differences
- •2009 includes a deep career mode and detailed Create-a-Wrestler customization; 2008 focuses on ECW roster and a Struggle Submission system.
- •2009’s interactive entrance and victory scenes are unique features not present in 2008.
- •2008 offers classic and modern arenas plus Legend mode, whereas 2008’s arena list is not detailed for 2009.
- •Online matchmaking is noted as unstable in 2009; 2008 mentions split‑screen lag on older consoles.
- •Developer lineup differs: 2009 developed solely by Yuke's; 2008 co‑developed by Amaze Entertainment and Yuke's.
Gameplay & fun factor
2009 adds career mode and entrance customization, giving more long‑term play depth than 2008’s submission system.
Platform availability
Both titles are released on the same generation consoles (PS3, Xbox 360) per the facts.
Price & value
Both are priced at $59.99 with one‑time purchase.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both support single‑player, multiplayer and split‑screen; each notes performance issues but no clear advantage.
Content & replayability
2009’s career mode and extensive creation tools boost replay value over 2008’s roster‑focused content.
Difficulty & accessibility
No specific difficulty or accessibility information provided for either game.
Graphics & performance
Both are described as having dated graphics on newer consoles; no clear superiority.
Choose WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 if…
Buyers who prioritize ECW superstars and a unique submission system.
Choose WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 if…
Buyers who want a robust career mode and deep wrestler customization.
Common questions
Is there a price difference between the two games?
No, both have an MSRP of $59.99.
Which game has more online stability?
2009 notes unstable online matchmaking; 2008 does not mention online stability, so 2009 is not better.
Do both games support split‑screen for four players?
Yes, both list split‑screen multiplayer up to four players.



