WWE WrestleMania 21 (video game)
The last WWE game on the original Xbox.
WWE WrestleMania 21, sometimes shortened to WrestleMania XXI, is a pro wrestling game that came out only on the original Xbox in 2005. THQ published it, and Studio Gigante handled development. Although it takes its name from the WrestleMania 21 pay-per-view, the game actually covers the WrestleMania XX event. This title was the final WWE game for the original Xbox and also marked Studio Gigante's last release.
Quick Facts
- Developer
- Studio Gigante
- Publisher
- THQ
- Director
- John Tobias
- Designer
- Matt Cianchetti; Mike Vinikour
- Released
- April 20, 2005 (NA); May 27, 2005 (EU)
- Genre
- Sports
- Modes
- Single-player, multiplayer
- Platforms
- Xbox
Facts from the source article.
Gameplay
WWE WrestleMania 21 includes superstars from WWE Raw 2 and new wrestlers such as Charlie Haas, Jackie Gayda, Garrison Cade, René Duprée, Shelton Benjamin, and Eugene. It introduces the Pro Reversal System for simpler move reversals. Online multiplayer was available until Xbox Live terminated on April 15, 2010, and is now playable again via the Insignia replacement servers.
Development and release
THQ announced WrestleMania 21 just before E3 2004, stating it would replace the Raw series. Microsoft accidentally sent an older broken version to the disc manufacturer, preventing Xbox Live connectivity at launch until a downloadable patch was released. The Platinum Hits version contains the latest patch, as the update can no longer be downloaded from Xbox Live.
Reception
The game received a very mixed reception due to its gameplay, despite upgraded visuals and a fully voiced career mode. It was built from the ground up and contained numerous glitches. GameSpot noted horrible hit detection, and other problems included slow unresponsive AI and a Create-a-Wrestler mode lacking moves and items. Specialty matches are only playable in 1 on 1. VideoGamer.com mentioned sloppy controls. IGN rated it 6 out of 10, praising visuals but criticizing gameplay flaws.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was WWE WrestleMania 21 (video game) released?
WWE WrestleMania 21 was released on April 20, 2005 in North America and on May 27, 2005 in Europe.
Who directed WWE WrestleMania 21 (video game)?
WWE WrestleMania 21 was directed by John Tobias.
Who designed WWE WrestleMania 21 (video game)?
WWE WrestleMania 21 was designed by Matt Cianchetti and Mike Vinikour.
Is WWE WrestleMania 21 (video game) single-player or multiplayer?
WWE WrestleMania 21 offers single-player and multiplayer play.
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