The Smackdown vs. Raw 2008 edition brings new features to the WWE game franchise, including wrestlers from ECW such as The Sandman, Marcus Cor Von, and CM Punk. This is the first in the series to include these characters, adding a fresh twist to the gameplay.
The game introduces a struggle submission system, allowing for more intense matches, and new weapon choices like guitars, giving players an extra edge in combat. Additionally, eight fighting styles are available, including Showman, Powerhouse, High-Flyer, and others. Each player can choose a primary and secondary style, adding depth to the game.
The Xbox 360 versions offer online multiplayer and allow players to use custom music during entrances, while the PS3 version provides a first-person view during those sequences. These features are exclusive to these platforms.