WWE® SmackDown® vs. Raw® 2008 Playable Demo

October 15, 2007  THQ Inc. and JAKKS Pacific, Inc. today announced the WWE® SmackDown® vs. Raw® 2008 official game demo is now available for free download via Xbox Live® Marketplace for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 is scheduled for a European release on November 9 for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Wii home video game system, Nintendo DS and Xbox 360. The PSP (PlayStation®Portable) system is scheduled for release on November 23, while the wireless version of the game is slated to launch on various mobile carriers worldwide throughout November.

"Our official game demo will allow consumers to embrace WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 in the weeks leading up to the official game launch," said Bob Aniello, senior vice president of worldwide marketing, THQ. "The demo strongly supports our campaign as we grow the franchise to seven platforms, giving players multiple ways to enjoy their WWE video game experience."

"The WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 playable demo on Xbox Live Marketplace will offer players a taste of what the game has to offer prior to its release this November," said Nelo Lucich, vice president of interactive, JAKKS Pacific. "The new Superstar Fighting Styles and Struggle Submission System significantly enhance gameplay, and players can take advantage of Superstar and arena options from RAW, SmackDown and ECW®."

About the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 Playable Demo

The WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 playable demo for Xbox Live Marketplace will allow players to experience exhibition match play using the RAW, SmackDown and ECW arenas. Superstars Rey Mysterio®, Bobby Lashley, Undertaker® and Randy Orton® are available for battle in both single-player and two-player, head-to-head gameplay. Throughout the demo, players can sample several of the game's new features, including Superstar Fighting Styles and the Struggle Submission System.

About WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 for the Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, PlayStation 2 system and PSP system will let players take the fight into their own hands with the debut of eight Superstar Fighting Styles. Each fighting style has its own unique strategy with exclusive moves and abilities. A brand new Struggle Submission System gives players intuitive and natural control over their WWE Superstars using the analog sticks. Realism and strategy are at the forefront, as players can now control the amount of pressure they apply. WWE 24/7 Mode, which combines the popular Season and General Manager modes, embraces the intensity of the Superstar lifestyle. Multiple character development options, stat tracking and career goals will guide players toward the ultimate achievement of becoming a WWE Legend. In addition, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 includes numerous fan-requested updates, including new rosters, more environmental hotspots, improved out-of-ring action and much more.

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 for the Wii features unique controls and gameplay created specifically for the platform, resulting in quick response times and a more arcade feel. Ultimate control is taken to the next level, as players can act out slams, strikes, taunts and finishers as they take place on screen.

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 for the Nintendo DS lets players directly control a Superstar's action with the stylus, while situation-based fighting includes over 80 unique holds for a variety of strategic options. Players can also experience a full year of WWE action, storylines and drama in WWE Season Mode.

More information about WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 can be found at www.thq.com and www.smackdownvsraw.com.