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Story
Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP, developed by Yuke’s and published by THQ, represents the zenith of the series’ narrative ambitions. While traditionally wrestling games are not heavily story-driven, Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP introduces a unique twist with its career mode, where players can experience the rise of a professional wrestler from the humble beginnings of local circuits to the grand stages of international fame.
In this installment, the game offers an engaging narrative arc that includes rivalries, alliances, and the personal growth of the player-created character. The story mode is enriched by cinematic sequences, providing context and depth to the matches. Players are tasked with making decisions that influence their wrestler’s path, engaging in rivalries that can affect their standing within the fictional wrestling federation. This decision-making aspect adds a layer of strategy and immersion, setting it apart from its predecessors and contemporaries.
Gameplay
Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP excels in delivering robust and nuanced gameplay that caters to both wrestling aficionados and casual gamers. The game features an extensive roster of wrestlers, each equipped with a unique moveset that reflects their real-life counterparts. This attention to detail extends to the control mechanics, which are intuitive yet offer depth for those who wish to master the intricacies of virtual wrestling.
Control Mechanics
The control scheme in Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP is a fine balance of simplicity and depth. With responsive controls, players can execute a variety of moves, from grapples and strikes to high-flying maneuvers and submission holds. The game introduces a dynamic momentum system, where the flow of the match can shift based on a player’s performance and timing, encouraging strategic play.
Match Types and Modes
The game offers a diverse array of match types, including singles, tag team, ladder, cage, and hardcore matches, each with its own set of rules and strategies. The inclusion of a career mode, as mentioned earlier, provides a narrative-driven experience, while the exhibition mode allows for quick, customizable matches. The game also supports multiplayer, enabling players to compete against friends locally or online, enhancing its replayability.
Character Customization
One of the standout features of Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP is its comprehensive character customization system. Players can create their own wrestlers, customizing everything from appearance and attire to move sets and entrance themes. This level of personalization allows for a highly tailored experience, as players can craft a wrestler that truly represents their vision.
Graphics and Sound
Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP pushes the boundaries of what was possible on its platform, delivering a visually impressive experience. The character models are intricately designed, capturing the likeness of real-world wrestlers with remarkable fidelity. The arenas are faithfully recreated, with dynamic lighting and crowd animations that enhance the realism of the matches.
Visuals
The game’s graphics stand out for their attention to detail. Wrestlers’ animations are fluid and realistic, with each move and interaction meticulously crafted to mimic real-life wrestling. The visual effects, from pyrotechnics during entrances to the wear and tear visible on wrestlers’ bodies as matches progress, add to the immersive experience.
Audio
The sound design in Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP complements its visual prowess. The game’s soundtrack features an adrenaline-pumping mix of rock and metal tracks that energize the player. Commentary from in-game announcers adds authenticity, providing play-by-play analysis and enhancing the atmosphere of each match. Crowd reactions are dynamic and responsive, further drawing players into the virtual wrestling world.
Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, establishing itself as a benchmark for wrestling video games. Critics praised its comprehensive gameplay mechanics, engaging story mode, and impressive graphics and sound design. The game was lauded for its ability to capture the essence of professional wrestling, appealing to both fans of the sport and casual gamers alike.
The legacy of Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP is evident in its influence on subsequent wrestling games. Its introduction of a narrative-driven career mode and advanced customization options set new standards for the genre. The game has garnered a dedicated fanbase, with many players considering it a high point in the franchise.
Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP also contributed to the evolution of wrestling games by emphasizing the importance of storytelling and player agency. This shift towards narrative depth and customization has become a staple in modern wrestling games, reflecting the lasting impact of this installment.
Conclusion
Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP stands as a monumental achievement in the realm of wrestling video games. With its engaging story, refined gameplay mechanics, and impressive audiovisual presentation, it continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike. The game’s innovative features and attention to detail have left a lasting mark on the genre, influencing the design and development of future titles. As a testament to its enduring legacy, Exciting Pro Wrestling 5JP remains a beloved entry in the series, remembered for its ability to encapsulate the thrill and spectacle of professional wrestling.
