THQ returns to the handheld arena with WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2008. But, does this version bring home the Championship? Read on and find out.

WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2008 comes again to the PSP this year, and, unfortunately, like most of the versions of the game this year, it is an unfinished product that shows promise, but is not fully realized.

Part of this is due to the limitations of the system. With only one analog stick, the PSP cannot adapt the controls of the larger home console versions. Instead, the control scheme uses the direction pad for movement and all directional controls. This makes the control scheme a bit more awkward and not at all easy to use, as most moves require you to hold the R shoulder button, hold a direction and press one of the face buttons. Running is accomplished by holding the L shoulder button and moving a directio. Unfortunately, using this control scheme to pull off the grapple moves is very difficult. This is a real detriment to this game.

The game features all of the modes found in the main game, including Hall of Fame mode and the new WWE 24/7 Mode, which combines the Season and GM Modes. The game features all of the Superstars and unlockables from the main console games. The PSP version also features 3 Exclusive Superstars: Sgt. Slaughter, Eddie Guerrero and Jim”the Anvil” Neidhart. All of the match types from the main console versions are present here, including the 6 man Elimination Chamber. Online play is supported through the system’s WiFi connection.

Graphically, the game resembles the PS2 version of the game. The game is graphically impressive for a handheld system. But, when played on the older PSP system, this game, like many others, suffers from awful load times and crippling slowdowns and freezes at the most inopportune times. Character models look great for a handheld, as do the different arenas and entrances.

Sound is minimal, with only a few voice overs and no match commentary. The music is identical to the larger console versions, including all of the entrance themes.

In the end, this game is an unfinished project. It shows potential in every area, but that potential is, for the most part, unrealized. I hope this is a work in progress and next year, there will be an improvement. For now, this game is only for the most ardent of fans.

WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2008 for the PSP scores a 3 out of 5.