WWF Attitude: A Classic Wrestling Game of the Late '90s

Story

WWF Attitude, released in 1999, stands as a hallmark of the wrestling video game genre, capturing the essence of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during one of its most vibrant eras. Unlike narrative-driven games, WWF Attitude does not follow a traditional storyline. Instead, it immerses players in the thrilling world of professional wrestling, allowing them to experience the drama and excitement of the sport through a variety of modes and features.

The game offers a Career Mode where players can create their own wrestler and embark on a journey through the ranks of the WWF. Starting from humble beginnings in the house shows, players must win matches, earn titles, and eventually become the WWF Champion. This mode provides a sense of progression and achievement, as players navigate the highs and lows of a wrestling career, complete with rivalries and alliances that mirror the unpredictable nature of the sport.

Gameplay

WWF Attitude builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, WWF War Zone, by refining and expanding its gameplay mechanics. The game features an extensive roster of over 40 wrestlers, including iconic names such as Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, and The Undertaker. Each wrestler comes with their own unique moveset, entrance, and personality, offering players a diverse range of styles and strategies to explore.

The game employs a complex control scheme that requires players to input button combinations for moves, similar to fighting games. This system allows for a wide variety of moves, from basic strikes and grapples to signature moves and finishing maneuvers. While the learning curve can be steep, mastering the controls results in a rewarding gameplay experience that captures the tactical nature of professional wrestling.

In addition to Career Mode, WWF Attitude offers several other modes to keep players engaged. These include Versus Mode, Tag Team, Cage Matches, and the Royal Rumble. The Create-a-Wrestler feature is particularly noteworthy, allowing players to customize their own characters with a wide array of options for appearance, moves, and entrance music. This level of personalization was groundbreaking at the time and added significant replay value to the game.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, WWF Attitude boasted impressive graphics that captured the larger-than-life personalities of its wrestlers. The character models were detailed and recognizable, with distinct features and attire that matched their real-life counterparts. The animations, while somewhat stiff by today’s standards, were fluid enough to convey the action and intensity of the matches.

The game’s presentation was enhanced by the authentic sounds and music that accompanied each match. The commentary, provided by Jerry “The King” Lawler and Shane McMahon, added a layer of authenticity, although it could become repetitive over time. The entrance themes for each wrestler were faithfully recreated, contributing to the atmosphere and excitement as players made their way to the ring.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, WWF Attitude received mixed to positive reviews from critics and players alike. It was praised for its extensive roster, depth of gameplay, and the innovative Create-a-Wrestler mode. However, some criticized the game’s complex control scheme and occasional graphical glitches.

Despite these criticisms, WWF Attitude was a commercial success, capitalizing on the popularity of the WWF during its Attitude Era. The game managed to capture the chaotic and rebellious spirit of the time, resonating with fans who were eager to recreate their favorite wrestling moments.

WWF Attitude’s impact on the wrestling game genre is significant, as it set a new standard for customization and realism. Its success paved the way for future wrestling games, influencing titles like WWF SmackDown! and the WWE 2K series. While newer games have surpassed it in terms of graphics and mechanics, WWF Attitude remains a beloved classic that holds a special place in the hearts of wrestling fans.

Conclusion

WWF Attitude is a testament to the enduring appeal of professional wrestling in the world of video games. By capturing the essence of the WWF’s Attitude Era, the game offered players a chance to step into the ring and experience the thrill of being a wrestling superstar. Its complex gameplay, extensive roster, and groundbreaking customization options set it apart as a standout title of the late ’90s.

While the game may show its age in terms of graphics and control complexity, its legacy lives on through the fond memories of those who played it. WWF Attitude is a reminder of a time when wrestling games began to truly capture the drama, excitement, and spectacle of the sport, laying the groundwork for the future of the genre.