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Story
All Star Pro-Wrestling III does not follow a traditional narrative structure seen in many other game genres. Instead, the game immerses players in the vibrant and competitive world of professional wrestling. The focus is on the experience of becoming a wrestling superstar, where players create their paths to glory through intense matches and strategic career decisions. Unlike its predecessors, All Star Pro-Wrestling III introduces an enriched career mode where players can develop their wrestling personas, engage in rivalries, and work their way up from being an underdog to a championship-winning superstar.
This career mode serves as an overarching narrative that provides context for the matches, making each victory feel earned and every rivalry personal. Players must navigate through various wrestling promotions, each with its unique challenges and opportunities. The story here is one of personal growth, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of being the best in the wrestling world.
Gameplay
All Star Pro-Wrestling III excels in delivering a realistic and immersive wrestling experience. Its gameplay mechanics are meticulously designed to capture the essence of professional wrestling. The game employs a deep and rewarding combat system that emphasizes technical skill, timing, and strategic thinking.
Combat System
The game features a refined grappling system that allows players to execute a wide range of moves, from basic strikes to complex submission holds. Timing is critical, with players needing to anticipate their opponent’s moves and counter them effectively. The introduction of the “Tension” system adds a layer of strategy, where players build up a meter by performing moves and taunts, which can then be used to unleash powerful signature moves and finishers.
Wrestler Customization
Customization plays a significant role in the gameplay of All Star Pro-Wrestling III. Players can create and modify their wrestlers with extensive options for appearance, move sets, and entrance themes. This level of customization allows players to personalize their wrestling experience and ensures that every match feels unique.
Match Types and Modes
The game offers a variety of match types, including singles, tag team, and battle royals. Each match type presents its challenges and requires different strategies to win. The career mode, as mentioned earlier, is a standout feature, offering a dynamic progression system where players can earn new moves, improve attributes, and unlock special abilities as they advance.
Graphics and Sound
All Star Pro-Wrestling III showcases impressive graphics for its time, capturing the gritty and exhilarating atmosphere of professional wrestling. The character models are detailed, with realistic animations that enhance the immersion. The arenas are vibrant and diverse, echoing the grandeur of real-life wrestling events with their dynamic lighting and enthusiastic crowds.
The sound design complements the visual experience with authentic crowd reactions, impactful sound effects, and a fitting soundtrack. The commentary, while limited, adds to the realism by highlighting key moments in matches and enhancing the overall presentation.
Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, All Star Pro-Wrestling III was well-received for its authentic portrayal of wrestling and its deep gameplay mechanics. Critics and players alike praised the game’s realism and the depth of its combat system, setting a new standard for wrestling games at the time.
The game’s legacy is marked by its influence on subsequent wrestling titles, particularly in Japan, where it became a benchmark for quality. Its emphasis on realism and technical gameplay inspired future developers to focus on authenticity and depth in wrestling games. Though it was not as widely recognized in the Western market, it gained a cult following among wrestling enthusiasts who appreciated its dedication to portraying the sport accurately.
Conclusion
All Star Pro-Wrestling III stands out as a significant entry in the world of wrestling video games. Its commitment to realism, combined with deep gameplay mechanics and extensive customization options, made it a beloved title among fans of the genre. The game not only provided an authentic wrestling experience but also set a precedent for future wrestling games in terms of quality and depth.
While it may not have achieved global fame, its impact on the wrestling game genre and its dedicated fan base speak volumes about its quality and enduring appeal. All Star Pro-Wrestling III remains a testament to the potential of wrestling games to deliver immersive and engaging experiences that capture the essence of the sport.
