After a bad outing in Smackdown vs. RAW, the 2006 installment comes back as the best in the Smackdown franchise.
User Rating: 9.1 | WWE SmackDown! vs. Raw 2006 PS2
Last year, Smackdown vs. RAW was a disappointing chapter in what was a quickly improving wrestling series. However, this year, Smackdown vs. RAW 2006 comes back with more matches, new gameplay additions, and modes of play than you can swing a steel chair at. As always, the wrestlers list is not too up to date as one might hope for, but the huge strides in improvement that this year brings more than make up for it. Graphic wise, this is the best wrestling game I have seen, and the in-match mechanics, aided (surprisingly not hindered) by a simple stamina meter, are better than they have ever been, including mini games that have been missing in wrestling games for a long time (sleeper hold mini game, lock up, etc.). The standard game modes are all here, but season is greatly improved, and the new general manager mode is addicting, but ultimately frustrating and a bit too repetative. Commentary and superstar voice over have improved and add a great level of realism, but the horrible playlist makes what would be a great overall sound a bit flawed. Still, 2006 ultimately adds up to what is a WWE fan's perfect game, and one that redeems the mistakes of the past with promise for the future. 
