Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Legends of Wrestling II picks up where its predecessor left off, amplifying every aspect of ring combat. You can step into the shoes of over 65 iconic grapplers—from Hulk Hogan’s trademark leg drop to Andre The Giant’s crushing bear hug. The controls are intuitively mapped, allowing newcomers to pull off basic holds and throws with minimal button-mashing, while seasoned veterans can chain complex combos and reversals to dominate the ring.

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The variety of match types is staggering. Whether you’re craving the chaos of a Battle Royal or the strategic depth of a Cage match, the game delivers. Elimination bouts featuring six to eight fighters keep you on your toes as alliances shift and unexpected pinfalls occur. Special modes like the Ladder match or Body Slam Challenge with Big John Studd add an extra layer of spectacle—each rule set feels faithfully recreated, complete with dynamic ring hazards and interactive props.

Create-A-Legend has been overhauled in this sequel, giving you unprecedented customization options. From sculpting your wrestler’s physique and facial features to fine-tuning their move set and entrance theatrics, the new creation suite empowers you to craft a superstar unique to your vision. You can even assign signature taunts and finishers, then test them out in solo exhibition or career mode. The result is a personalized experience that keeps you invested long after the standard roster has been explored.

Graphics

Graphically, Legends of Wrestling II represents a clear step up from the original. Character models exhibit more detailed musculature and realistic facial features, helping each legend feel distinct and recognizable. While still holding onto a slightly stylized look, the lighting and texture work in the arenas accentuate sweat, chalk dust, and ring mat wear-and-tear, lending authenticity to every match.

Arena design has received noticeable enhancements as well. Crowd animations are livelier, with fans jumping, waving signs, and reacting to near-falls in real time. Subtle touches—like sweat glistening under the spotlights or a wrestler’s attire tearing after a brutal slam—add immersion. Camera angles dynamically adjust during high-impact moments, enhancing the dramatic flair without becoming disorienting or taking control away from the player.

Despite a few occasional clipping issues—most notably during multi-person brawls—the game holds a steady frame rate across platforms. Loading times between entrances and match transitions have been trimmed, and commentary graphics incorporate actual late-’80s and ’90s promotional art. These visual cues celebrate wrestling’s golden eras and reinforce the game’s nostalgic appeal.

Story

Legends of Wrestling II doesn’t follow a traditional narrative campaign, but it weaves a compelling historical tapestry through its Career and Legend modes. By choosing a classic star—such as Rowdy Roddy Piper or Bret “Hitman” Hart—you unlock era-specific feuds, rivalries, and title opportunities. Each match feels like an episode in a larger saga, supported by archival footage and period-accurate commentary.

The handful of unlockable documentaries and gallery features deepen the lore, offering behind-the-scenes anecdotes and rare photographs. This approach forgoes a linear storyline in favor of an anthology format, letting you experience wrestling’s most memorable moments in any order. While some players might miss a tightly scripted plot, the freedom to forge your own path through history compensates effectively.

Create-A-Legend mode doubles as a narrative sandbox. You guide your custom character from rookie exhibition bouts to main-event glory, crafting your own wrestling legend. Rivalries emerge organically based on match outcomes, and you can even form tag teams or stables with AI-controlled partners. This emergent storytelling keeps the game fresh, as no two careers unfold in the same way.

Overall Experience

Legends of Wrestling II shines as a tribute to the sport’s larger-than-life personalities and unforgettable match types. The comprehensive roster ensures that nearly every fan favorite is represented, from the hulking presence of Sid Vicious to the technical prowess of Bruno Sammartino. Combined with robust multiplayer options—both local and online—this sequel promises hours of competitive fun with friends.

While the game focuses heavily on nostalgia, it doesn’t feel content to rest on its laurels. Gameplay refinements, graphical upgrades, and the improved Create-A-Legend suite demonstrate a genuine evolution from the original. Even seasoned players will discover new strategies and hidden taunts to master, ensuring replayability well beyond the first dozen bouts.

For aspiring wrestlers and hardcore fans alike, Legends of Wrestling II is an engaging package. It respects the sport’s storied past while delivering deep, customizable gameplay and polished visuals. If you’ve been waiting to step into the boots of wrestling’s greatest champions—or forge your own path to the championship belt—this sequel is a must-play.

Retro Replay Score

6.5/10