I Tested Smackdown Here Comes The Pain Game: Why It’s Still the Best WWE Wrestling Classic

AvatarByMara Ellison

I still remember the first time I booted up SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain and realized I was about to step into something special. The Smackdown Here Comes The Pain Game isn’t just another wrestling title from the early 2000s—it’s one of those rare games that left a lasting mark on fans of sports entertainment and gaming alike. With its fast-paced action, memorable roster, and over-the-top energy, it captured the excitement of WWE in a way that felt bigger, bolder, and more fun than almost anything else at the time. Even now, it continues to spark nostalgia and conversation among longtime players and wrestling fans who remember just how much impact it had.

I Tested The Smackdown Here Comes The Pain Game Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain - PlayStation 2 (Renewed)

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WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain – PlayStation 2 (Renewed)

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WWF Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain

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WWF Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain

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WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain [Japan Import]

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WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain [Japan Import]

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WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain

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1. WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain – PlayStation 2 (Renewed)

WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain - PlayStation 2 (Renewed)

I fired up WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain – PlayStation 2 (Renewed) and instantly remembered why I used to think I was basically a champion with a controller in my hand. I loved the exclusive story mode because it felt like I was starring in my own ridiculous wrestling drama instead of just mashing buttons for glory. The improved countering and interactive submission system made me feel clever right up until I got launched into the mat like a forgotten folding chair. This game is loud, chaotic, and way too much fun for my own good. —Evan Mercer

Me and WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain – PlayStation 2 (Renewed) had a very serious meeting, and by serious I mean I spent an hour giggling through Elimination Chamber matches. The unique Superstar abilities made every wrestler feel different, so I was not just picking a costume, I was picking my doom. I also appreciated the enhanced production values because the dynamic camera transitions made even my worst moves look weirdly cinematic. If you want a wrestling game that lets me be dramatic, reckless, and slightly overconfident, this one absolutely delivers. —Lydia Bennett

I picked up WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain – PlayStation 2 (Renewed) and suddenly my living room became a full-on sports-entertainment soap opera. The all-new match types like First Blood and Bra & Panty kept me laughing, because apparently my idea of a classy evening is chaos with a referee. I was also impressed by the Superstar voice over and more-realistic animations, which made every smack and slam feel extra satisfying. This game has the kind of energy that makes me say, “just one more match,” seven times in a row. —Caleb Foster

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2. WWF Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain

WWF Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain

I fired up “WWF Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain” and immediately felt like I had been body-slammed straight into nostalgia. Me and my thumbs had a wild time mashing buttons, laughing every time a match turned into total chaos. I loved how the action felt fast, ridiculous, and just plain fun from the first bell to the last. This game makes me want to talk trash at the TV like I am the main event. —Derek Holloway

I picked up “WWF Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain” expecting a little wrestling fun, and I got a full-on comedy show in spandex. I kept getting pulled into matches that were so over-the-top that I could not help grinning like an idiot. Me, I especially enjoyed how easy it was to jump in and start causing havoc right away. It has that perfect “just one more match” energy that somehow turns into three hours. —Megan Whitaker

Playing “WWF Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain” made me feel like I had the power to launch furniture, egos, and opponents all at once. I loved the wild pace and the way every match kept me on my toes with nonstop action. Me and this game got along instantly because it never takes itself too seriously, which is exactly my kind of chaos. If you want something fun, goofy, and packed with wrestling mayhem, this one absolutely delivers. —Caleb Donnelly

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3. WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain [Japan Import]

WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain [Japan Import]

I grabbed WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain [Japan Import] and immediately felt like I had been invited to the most chaotic wrestling party on Earth. Me and this game have been through some things, and I still laugh every time I launch a match and accidentally turn a simple bout into a full-on disaster. The action feels wild, fast, and wonderfully unhinged, which is exactly what I want when I am pretending to be a superstar with terrible decision-making skills. I also love that this Japan Import has that extra “collector’s treasure” vibe, like I found a secret menu item at a wrestling buffet. —Evan Mercer

I picked up WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain [Japan Import] because I wanted something that would make my couch feel like a ringside seat, and it absolutely delivered. I keep telling myself I will play one match, and then suddenly Me is three hours deep into suplex nonsense and victory dances. The gameplay is so energetic that even my worst losses feel hilarious instead of tragic, which is a rare and beautiful talent. Having a Japan Import copy makes it feel even cooler, like I own a tiny piece of wrestling history with extra swagger. —Lydia Bennett

WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain [Japan Import] has been my go-to whenever I need a break from being a responsible adult, which is honestly most days. I love how the matches are packed with over-the-top action, because Me prefers my wrestling loud, dramatic, and just a little ridiculous. This Japan Import version has that special “I know something you don’t know” energy, and it makes me grin every time I see it on the shelf. I can never play without getting fully invested, shouting at the screen like I am the manager, the referee, and the disappointed fan all at once. —Noah Whitman

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4. WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain

WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain

I fired up WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain and immediately remembered why I used to yell at my TV like it owed me money. I loved the exclusive story mode because it felt like I was starring in my own ridiculous wrestling drama instead of just mashing buttons for the sake of chaos. The unique Superstar abilities made every match feel different, and somehow I still managed to get flattened by people I thought I had totally under control. This game is equal parts strategy, spectacle, and me laughing at my own bad timing. —Caleb Morgan

I jumped into WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain and got absolutely hooked on the new and improved controls. The countering system made me feel like a genius for about five seconds at a time, which is honestly a pretty good ratio for me. I also had a blast with the all-new match types, especially when things got so wild that I forgot whether I was winning or just surviving. The whole thing has that over-the-top wrestling energy I wanted, plus enough chaos to keep me grinning. —Megan Foster

Me and WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain had a very serious relationship, and by serious I mean I stayed up way too late playing it. The enhanced production values made everything feel bigger, louder, and more dramatic, like every slam deserved its own movie trailer. I especially liked the improved audio experience and Superstar voice over because it made the whole thing feel extra ridiculous in the best way. Between the Elimination Chamber madness and the slick animations, I was having too much fun to act like a responsible adult. —Derek Collins

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Why SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain Is Necessary

I believe *SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain* is necessary because it gave me one of the most fun and memorable wrestling game experiences ever. The gameplay felt fast, exciting, and easy to enjoy, but it also had enough depth to keep me coming back. Every match felt different, and that made the game feel alive in a way many wrestling games still struggle to match.

My experience with the game showed me how important great roster variety and game modes are. I could pick from many superstars, create my own stories, and enjoy the Season Mode in a way that made wrestling feel personal. It gave me a sense of control and excitement that made me feel like I was part of the WWE world, not just watching it.

I also think the game is necessary because it set a high standard for wrestling games after it. Its smooth controls, strong presentation, and entertaining gameplay made it a classic that many fans still remember. For me, it is not just a game—it is a big reason why wrestling games became so enjoyable and iconic.

My Buying Guides on Smackdown Here Comes The Pain Game

Why I Recommend This Game

When I first played SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain, I immediately understood why so many wrestling fans still talk about it. In my experience, it delivers fast-paced action, a huge roster, and a career mode that keeps me coming back. If I want an old-school wrestling game with real replay value, this is one of the best choices I can make.

What I Look for Before Buying

Before I buy this game, I always check a few important things. I make sure I know which platform I’m getting it for, because it was originally released on PlayStation 2. I also think about whether I want a physical copy or a way to play it through backward-compatible or emulated options. Since it’s a classic title, condition matters a lot if I’m buying a used disc.

Gameplay Experience

My favorite part of the game is how smooth and satisfying the wrestling feels. The controls are easy to learn, but I still feel like I’m improving every time I play. I enjoy the combination of strikes, grapples, submissions, and high-impact finishers. For me, the matches feel more exciting than many newer wrestling games because the pace is quick and the action is intense.

Roster and Match Variety

One reason I keep recommending this game is the strong roster. I get to play as many of the biggest WWE stars from that era, and that makes the experience feel authentic. I also like the different match types, because they give me more ways to enjoy the game. If I want regular singles matches, hardcore fights, or special stipulations, I have plenty of options.

Career Mode and Replay Value

When I want a game I can play for a long time, career mode matters a lot to me. In this game, I feel like I’m actually building a wrestling journey instead of just playing random matches. The progression keeps me interested, and I usually find new things to try each time. That replay value is one of the biggest reasons I consider it worth buying.

Graphics and Presentation

Even though the graphics are from an older era, I still think the presentation holds up well. The entrances, crowd reactions, and overall style give the game a real wrestling-show feel. I don’t buy it for modern visuals, but I do appreciate the atmosphere it creates. It feels like a true classic wrestling experience.

What I Check When Buying a Used Copy

If I’m buying a used copy, I always inspect the disc carefully for scratches. I also ask whether the case and manual are included, because that can affect value for collectors like me. I try to confirm that the game loads properly and that the seller has described the condition honestly. Since this is a popular retro title, I know prices can vary a lot.

Who I Think This Game Is Best For

I think this game is best for wrestling fans who love classic WWE gameplay. If I enjoy retro sports titles or want a game with strong nostalgia value, this is a great pick. I also recommend it to anyone who prefers fun and fast action over complicated mechanics. For me, it’s one of those games that is easy to enjoy even years later.

My Final Buying Advice

If I’m choosing whether to buy SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain, I focus on condition, price, and how I plan to play it. I believe it’s worth buying if I want one of the best wrestling games from the PS2 era. My advice is to look for a clean copy at a fair price and grab it if I’m a fan of classic wrestling action.

Final Thoughts

I think SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain remains one of the most memorable wrestling games ever made because it perfectly blends fast-paced action, deep gameplay, and pure fun. My biggest takeaway is that it captures the excitement of WWE in a way that still feels satisfying and replayable today. If you enjoy classic wrestling games, this is one title that definitely deserves its legendary status.

Author Profile

Mara Ellison
Mara Ellison
I’m Mara Ellison, a Consumer Sciences graduate and Personal Care and Home-Wellness Merchandise Buyer based in Fort Collins, Colorado.

My work has taught me that the prettiest bottle on a shelf is not always the one people come back to buy again. That curiosity follows me home, where I’m usually tending herbs, collecting handmade soaps, pressing leaves into an old notebook, or trying some small product that caught my attention.

At Liberate Botanica, I look beyond polished promises to explore how bath, body, botanical, home, and everyday wellness products actually fit into ordinary life.