Fire Pro Wrestling will disappoint series fans thirsty for a traditional version of Spike’s famously complex franchise, but it’s surprisingly fun for everyone else. It’s definitely a much simpler game than its predecessors, but its goofy air and use of players’ 360 Avatars aren’t aimed at hardcore wrestling fans.
Controls are simple — a blend of striking and grapple attacks used to wear down your opponent before you go for the pin. A rock-paper-scissors mechanic lets you counter grapple attacks, and the game’s flashy, Street Fighter IV–style finisher moves suit the overall silliness.
You can actually import an Avatar’s clothing and props (not shown), which can make for some pretty funny entrances.Your wrestler gains new moves, experience, and cash with every match, and the game’s scoring system rewards skilled play with extra bounty. Cash unlocks a bevy of costume options, although most of them unnecessarily feature a built-in fake muscle shirt. XP goes into one of six stats and dictates how strong, fast, and tough you are while allowing access to more advanced moves.
On the downside, hit detection and some animations seem off at times, and moves done outside the ring seem particularly glitchy. Battle Royale matches can be irksome given your inability to manually target opponents. And the total lack of submission moves and weapons is also unfortunate.
The career mode doesn’t have a story, but it does span four divisions, each with three difficulty levels.You still get a decent value for your $10, though, including fun (if simple) combat, a several-hour career mode, engaging character customization, and serviceable online matches. Plus, minor hiccups are easy to overlook when you’re Marcus Fenix flying off the top rope.
PUBLISHER: Microsoft Game Studios • DEVELOPER: Spike • ESRB: Teen • MULTIPLAYER: 4 locally or over Xbox Live • ACHIEVEMENTS: Reasonable (but only 200G!)nbsp; • COST: 800 Microsoft Points ($10) • RELEASE DATE: September 21, 2012
+ Easy to pick up and instantly fun to play.
+ Customizing Avatars makes for wacky fun.
– Occasionally buggy hit detection and brain-dead A.I.
? Why use the Fire Pro brand on something so not Fire Pro?
