Lay the Smackdown
Smackdown v.s Raw is chalked full of matches, like it's predecessors, and this year adds a buried alive and fulfill your fantasy match to the mix. Fulfill your fantasy is a pretty pointless spinoff of last years bra and panties match. Buried alive can bet a pretty fun match, and is a nice addition, though it can be pretty frustrating. This year Smackdown has added the ability to have title for title matches, and by creating titles and defending them, it can make for many wasted hours of fun with a few friends. Also new to Smackdown v.s Raw 2006 is GM Mode. A mode that allows you to take control of Raw or Smackdowns GM. You draft the roster, sign the contracts, give them title shots, and manage their morale, all that good stuff. The best part is that you are able to play the matches yourself or let the cpu sim them. You also have to win the war of fans with the other show, which can be quite a challenge over the year. Did I mention they have the draft for next year, and you can play for as many years as you'd like.
Smackdowns season mode has improved upon last year, but not much. There are only a few different ways you can go with it, which really kills any innovation. They still haven't allowed for a 2 player season, which in my eyes, still makes Smackdown 2, arguably the best Smackdown game to date. But oh well, maybe next year. The graphics look nice, and the game features a good number of superstars, with a few alternate outfits, and plenty of unlockables. Create a superstar is there, as usual, and continues to improve every year. All in all, Smackdown v.s Raw 2006 improves upon last year, but leaves some to be desired. The GM Mode is sure to be improved next year, and should be a valuable feature to the series for years to come, but for those of us still searching for 2 player season to come back, better luck next year.