Without the over-rated introductions, wresting, well, is just not the same. Ultimate warrior, Hulk Hogan, Rick Rude, Rowdy Rowdy Piper - and let's not forget the Bush Whackers - are just some of the names that pioneered the way of big introductions.

The Ultimate Warrior is by far the one that stands out from memory, with the most electrifying introductions: running down the aisle, shaking the ropes, you just had to see it to feel it. To date no other has managed to produce the same goods, but nonetheless the introductions today are just as big and a lot more risqué than what has been seen previously.

SmackDown vs. Raw 2006 is packed with all new features which set it alight and stands it apart from other wrestling titles previously seen. It moves away from the standard arcade feel and tries to bring a new dimension to wresting that has not yet been seen on console. But is it enough to make the gaming crowd go wild?

Realistic feel is the main focus of SDvsR06 with many new features based on realism. Take, for instance, the wrestlers: SmackDown vs. Raw 2006 has all the big names that are found in today's wresting arena. All are perfectly modelled on the real thing, and this time round, through new high-resolution textures and motion captured technology, we see improved facial expressions that bring the game alive. See your wrestler sweat it out in the ring and see the pain he feels when body slammed or restrained in a match-ending hold.

Further adding to the realistic feel of the game is the addition of the stamina and momentum meters of the wrestler. The stamina meter determines the energy of the wrestler and drains throughout the match, during both attack and being on the end of a beating. The momentum meter will grow or decrease based on how well you do in the ring. Pull off big moves and get the crowd behind you to fill meter and allow you to pull off bigger and better moves. If you don't do so well, then you really have no hope.

With both these meters incorporated you can no longer carry out continuous and full-on attacks: button bashing won't help you either, more strategy will be required to last the distance. A combination of both complicated and basic moves and recovering stamina will be the key to better your chances of pulling off a finishing move that will see you come out on top.

A lot of variety is on offer with plenty of modes, wresters and over 100 ring types to choose from. Of the modes available, of interest is the improvement to the Season mode and the addition of General Manager mode. The Season mode is a big improvement and features storylines specific to the wrestler. To compliment this, the wrestler's persona is accurate to real life, scenes are plugged in throughout the season and the voiceovers ties it all in perfectly, adding more conviction to a once dull mode. Storylines vary depending on how you go and whom you choose. Even the legends are here and have storylines specific to their role.

The addition of General Manager mode sees you managing your own WWE, with the aim of taking your show to the top of the ratings. You get to manage your own wrestlers, draft your roster and determine rivalries as you make your bid towards being the best on the market. Making it more interesting, this mode is multiplayer capable. Mange Raw as the other manages SmackDown. GM mode is a good addition to the series and the flexibility and variety will have many impressed.