GRAPHICS-Graphics are pretty nice for nearly all of the Wrestlers. Some do look better than others, but for the most part, everyone is well done.
GAMEPLAY-Well, its still Smackdown meaning that there isn�t any �real� selling of the moves even though there are animations of specific parts being hurt at times. This looks nice, but has no actual effect on said part after the animation has ended.
There have been many improvements to the GAMEPLAY, but it�s still not that simulation most want it to be. Some people like the Arcadish game play, some don�t.
BEST FEATURE-
*It has great CAW cosmetics.
*All of the player mannerisms are well done.
*Many different match modes to choose from.
*Improved season over Just Bring It.
*Extended replay value, it takes a while to unlock everything in season mode. This could be good or bad, it depends how you look at it.
*The Ability to modify the default Wrestlers moves.
*More than 1 outfit per Wrestler.
*The ability to reverse/counter Finishing moves.
WORST FEATURE-
*No double team moves outside of the Wrestling ring.
*Can�t break submission or interrupt moves.
*Still no weight detection.
*No way of pulling your opponent off the cage, one must punch or kick the cage.
*Still no TRUE apron moves.
*No counter for the superplex after 4 SD games.
*Most of the backstage events in season mode have nothing to do or any bearing on what happens the rest of the season, just a filter.
*No entrance attire.
*CAWS have no teeth.
IN A NUTSHELL- It really captures the essence of the WWE. Any aerial move can be done from anywhere which is a plus and the weapons moves are a nice addition. Being able to call your partner in tag matches is nice, but why Yukes didn�t program it like in Wrestlemania 18 where there we�re specific commands for your partner to do specifics, is beyond me.
If Yukes fixes the submissions, adds ground double team moves (TR series) and gets back to the simulation basics, SD5 will be a hard game to beat, they�ve always had the bells and whistles, not they just need to concentrate on what is important, Game Play.
Score: 8.9 out of 10