THIS latest instalment in the Smackdown series is simply the best wrestling title available for the PS2.

The season mode has advanced with superstar points based on popularity, financial reward to be spent on unlocking extras, and experience points based on amount of matches and types of experience as a wrestler.

The graphics are a lot more realistic than previously and never has a wrestling game had quite so many animations.

Now when the people's elbow is executed the camera will pan out cinematically before blurring, complete with multiple replays, to show the damage that has been done.

There are many match types available including the new elimination chamber match and various wrestlers to choose from whether it's an old favourite like The Rock, a new wrestler like Batista or one of a few legends available such as Jimmy Snuka!

In terms of action Smackdown is fast paced as always with a whole host of moves at the gamer's disposal.

Finally, when hit with a chair wrestlers can be seriously injured to the extent that they are bleeding a little or a lot.

If this isn't enough then there's the ability to perform your opponent's finisher on him, fight backstage and create your own wrestler.

Here comes the pain!