WWE WrestleMania X8 is a wrestling game based on the World Wrestling Entertainment license. The core gameplay relies on a grappling system, featuring a variety of specific grapple moves, and counter move system, allowing the player to respond with counters assigned to different buttons. A few weapon-based moves are also included, as well as signature moves and entrances unique to each wrestler.
Players can compete in various match types, including Standard, Hardcore, Table, Ladder, TLC, Battle Royal, Steel Cage, Hell in a Cell, and Ironman, with differing numbers of participants. The game mode allows for singles, tag team, handicap, Triple Threat, Fatal Four-Way, and large-scale matches.
The game features the Path of a Champion mode, where players can win any of the WWF titles, as well as a Create-A-Wrestler mode to create a customized wrestler. Additionally, there is the Battle for the Belts mode, which allows players to win one of fifty-one fictional belts.