Wrestling fans will soon be able to play as their favorite New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) stars such as Kazuchika Okada, Kenny Omega, Tetsuya Naito and many more in the upcoming game for the Playstation 4 titled "Fire Pro Wrestling World."
The big reveal was made during the "Wrestle Kingdom Fan Fiesta 2018" event in Japan, the night before NJPW's biggest annual event, "Wrestle Kingdom 12."
Days before the announcement, it was speculated that Bandai Namco, one of Japan's leading game developers is working with NJPW in developing their newest wrestling game. This was due to a recent partnership between the two companies that gave Bandai Namco permission to use some themes from NJPW for "Tekken 7," such as Kazuchika Okada's "Rainmaker" outfit.
The rumors, however, were proven false when it was revealed that the game is a console version of Spike Chunsoft's original title. The game is actually an updated version of "Fire Pro Wrestling World" that came out for the PC in December 2017 and will be scheduled for a PS4 release in 2018.
FPWW has simple 2D graphics that give wrestlers a cartoonish look similar to wrestling games for the Super FamiCom in the early 90s. For a game that is developed in this day and age, it looks pretty down to earth.
As it turns out though, "Fire Pro Wrestling World" is deceptively complex in terms of its features. The game is fully customizable from the players right down to the matches. Players can choose to alter the looks of wrestlers, their moves, the ring, and even the referee. It also has game modes not present in current PS4 wrestling titles such as Deathmatch mode and Mixed Martial Arts rules.
What sets it apart from other games is that the developers are aware that the player knows pro wrestling is an entertainment business and not a real sport, thus the inclusion of a "match rating system" where players must also be aware of how to make the match exciting for the audience either by allowing the other player to land his attacks or by executing high-risk moves.
An online feature is also added allowing players to test their skills and introduce their custom-made characters to other players around the world.
The announcement during the event included a demo of the game, which featured one of the playable characters, NJPW's KUSHIDA.
