WWE SmackDown! vs. Raw 2008 - Season Mode Revealed

We've recently had a chance to go hands-on with THQ's WWE SmackDown! vs. Raw 2008 for Nintendo DS, and while our official hands-on needs to wait a little longer we've got a hot little nibblet of info to tide you over.

Up until now we've only been able to cover the basics of what SmackDown! vs. Raw is all about on DS, but new details on the season mode have been revealed, and it seems to be shaping up to be a more in-depth experience than we were originally expecting. It's common knowledge that the DS version of SvR will be unorthodox, featuring a fully touch-controlled battle system. Rather than just kicking the crap out of your opponents, however, there's going to be a bit of drama to deal with as well. Hey, it wouldn't be WWE without some backstage action, right? In DS's season mode players can begin by selecting one of three paths: SmackDown, Raw, or ECW. Depending on your choice you'll experience a totally different story, and interact with different WWE wrestlers on your path to glory. Like any other season or "story" mode you'll be expected to not only run up the ranks, but also get involved in true-to-form rivalries and grudge matches just like show itself, and this year is no different. After selecting your show affiliation you'll have full access to the backstage area, where you're free to roam the area and chat with other stars, discover new foreign objects to use for in-ring weapons, or track down "Time Tokens" that are exchanged for gym time. Cash those babies in for time on weights, jump-rope cardio strengthening, or punching bag sessions. As you train you'll build up your character for future bouts, helping you to kick the crap out of rivals all the faster.

In addition to individual training you'll also need to balance an entire AI ally/rival system with other superstars. Stay on a person's good side by getting them out of jams and you'll earn them as a friend, allowing you to not only call them in during key matches but also add to your stats at all times. If you've got a strongman like like Bobby Lashley or Cena on your good side, for example, you'll see a boost in strength.

And of course it wouldn't be a season mode without the events, and the DS version of SmackDown vs. Raw of course has you covered. You'll hit up 18 different WWE venues including Backlash, No Mercy, and No Way Out, and of course work your way up to the World Heavyweight Championship, WWE Championship, or ECW Championship respectively. Should you choose, you can also grab secondary titles along the way to boost your stats. After all, why hold one belt when you can hold them all?

We'll have more on WWE SmackDown! vs. Raw 2008 for Nintendo DS when we go hands-on with the game in just a few short days. Until then, be sure to check out our exclusive season mode screens in the gallery below.

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