As a die-hard wrestling enthusiast and also a fan of classic video games, WCW vs. NWO World Tour for the Nintendo 64 holds a special place in my heart. Released in 1997, this game captured the excitement of the wrestling world’s most iconic rivalry, delivering an engaging experience that left a lasting impact.
Graphics and Presentation:
For its time, WCW vs. NWO World Tour pushed the N64’s graphical capabilities to the limit. The character models were impressive, sporting realistic wrestler likenesses and attire details. The arenas were faithfully recreated, complete with a cheering crowd and a vibrant atmosphere that added to the immersion. Though not as polished as modern games, the graphics captured the essence of the wrestling matches, making every encounter visually exciting.
Gameplay and Mechanics:
The gameplay was where WCW vs. NWO World Tour truly shined. The controls were intuitive, allowing players to execute a variety of wrestling moves and signature maneuvers with ease. Each wrestler had a unique move set that mirrored their real-life counterparts, making the experience authentic and enjoyable. The grapple-based system, though sometimes a bit clunky, offered a satisfying balance between strategy and action.
Roster and Variety:
The game’s roster was extensive for its time, featuring a mix of WCW and NWO superstars. From Hollywood Hulk Hogan to Sting, Goldberg, and Kevin Nash, the lineup was a dream come true for fans of that era. However, the absence of certain notable wrestlers was a disappointment. Despite this, the available characters offered a good variety in terms of wrestling styles, ensuring each match felt distinct.
Single and Multiplayer Modes:
WCW vs. NWO World Tour provided a range of single-player and multiplayer modes to keep players engaged. The Championship mode allowed players to climb the ranks and compete for various titles, while Exhibition matches offered quick, casual bouts. The multiplayer mode, however, was the real star, offering hours of fun with friends. The four-player capability was a game-changer, as it intensified the chaos and excitement of multiplayer matches.
Sound and Commentary:
The game’s sound design was solid, with impactful sound effects that complemented the bone-crunching action. However, the commentary was somewhat lackluster, repeating phrases and lacking the dynamic nature of real wrestling commentary. It’s a minor drawback, but one that could have added more immersion to the experience.
Pros:
- One of the best games released in 1997.
- At release, one of the very best wrestling games ever made as it was solid fun gameplay.
- Good graphics for the time. It blew away Playstation 1 wrestling titles.
Cons:
- Later Nintendo 64 wrestling games – such as WWF No Mercy, WrestleMania 2000 and it’s very own sequel WCW NWO Revenge – over-shadowed it.
WCW vs. NWO World Tour for the N64 is a nostalgic gem that successfully captured the essence of the wrestling world during its prime. Its engaging gameplay, authentic roster, and multiplayer fun made it a staple in many gamers’ collections. Despite a few technical limitations, it remains a must-play for wrestling fans and anyone looking to relive a slice of 90s gaming history.
Buy WCW vs NWO World Tour
Copies of WCW NWO World Tour are quite reasonable on eBay. Check out eBay listings below: