However, beyond the realm of WWE, there have beenplenty of standout wrestling gamesthroughout the years that have earned a special place in gamers' hearts.
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Some are straightforward brawlers that focus on fast-paced action, while others dive deeper into strategy and simulation, allowing players to control every aspect of a wrestler’s career.
From iconic franchises to hidden gems, these non-WWE games have pushed the boundaries of what wrestling video games can be and, in some cases, given the WWE a run for their money.
10AEW Fight Forever
A Return to the Arcade Style
AEW Fight Forever
AEW Fight Foreverbrings back the arcade-style wrestling of classics likeWWF No Mercy, offering fast-paced gameplay, simplified controls, and a retro aesthetic.
Developed by Yuke’s, who developed many classic WWE games, it stands out from WWE’s simulation-heavy 2K series. However,it’s been criticisedfor its basic customization options and lack of match types, not to mention the various bugs and glitches it had at launch.
It’s definitely not perfect, but I still have fun with it. Plus, the Exploding Barbed Wire Death Match almost makes up for the lack of modes. That’s not something you see every day.
9WCW/nWo Thunder
A Nostalgia Trip for WCW Fans
WCW/NWO Thunder
A sequel to WCW Nitro,Thunderamped up the presentation with more match types, a sizable roster, and flashy menus that screamed late-’90s wrestling.
While its over-the-top style was fun, the gameplay felt clunky and repetitive compared to its N64 competitors, particularlyWCW/nWo Revenge. The sluggish controls and shallow mechanics made matches feel stiff, and critics at the time noted it lacked the depth and polish ofWWF No MercyorRevenge.
Still, for fans of WCW’s wild era, it’s a nostalgic trip— if you can overlook the gameplay hiccups.
8TNA iMPACT!
Visually Stunning And Fun, But Flawed
TNA iMPACT!
Released in 2008,TNA iMPACT!brought the high-energy world of TNA Wrestling to consoles with an all-star roster that included the likes of AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, Sting, and Kurt Angle.
While the game did face criticism for its repetitive gameplay and limitedmovesets, it earned praise for its simple controls and impressive graphics, which still hold up today. I still believe, like many others, that Booker T’s model in this game is a much better one than in any WWE game.
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One of its standout features was the story mode, which introduced a wrestler named Suicide. The character was so well-received that he made his way to TNA television shortly after the game’s release.
To fans like me, who didn’t watch a lot of TNA at the time, Suicide was probably the most popular wrestler in the company (aside from the former WWE talent).
In summary,TNA iMPACT!is a fun, albeit flawed, entry that provides a taste of what TNA offered during its heyday.
7WCW vs. nWo: World Tour
It Laid The Blueprint
This was one of the first wrestling games to introduce 3D arenas to the genre, making it a groundbreaking title for its time. With a roster that included some of WCW’s biggest stars— including former and future WWF/WWE Superstars— the game brought fast, fun, and accessible wrestling to the Nintendo 64.
Playing this game, the controls can be a bit janky at times, but the experience still offers enough depth to keep you engaged. The multiplayer mode, in particular, is a standout, providing endless fun with friends.
If nothing else,World Touris remembered for paving the way for future classics.
6King of Colosseum II
A Simulation-Based Gem for Fans of Japanese Wrestling
A Japanese-exclusive gem,King of Colosseum IIis a must-play for fans of Japanese pro wrestling. The game stands out for its simulation-style gameplay that gives players detailed control over everything, from striking to grappling and submission holds.
Featuring a massive roster of real-life Japanese wrestling stars, it’s a dream come true for those who follow the scene.
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However, the steep learning curve and slower-paced matches may not be for everyone, especially if you’re used to the faster, more arcade-style wrestling games from western developers. For those who can stick with it, though, the depth and authenticity make it an unforgettable experience.
5Fire Pro Wrestling Returns
Strategic and Customizable
Fire Pro Wrestling Returns
This is often considered the peak of theFire Proseries, and it’s easy to see why. It combines deep, strategic gameplay with an unparalleled level of customization, allowing players to create and modify wrestlers, movesets, and even entire promotions.
The game stands apart with its 2D isometric perspective, giving it a timeless pixelated look that still feels fresh today. Rather than relying on frantic button mashing, the game focuses on timing, positioning, and strategy in its combat.
While it’s not the most beginner-friendly, the game’s immense depth and freedom have made it a favorite for players who appreciate the art of professional wrestling, and it continues to bea strong contender for one of the best wrestling games around.
4Wrestle Kingdom
Build Your Legacy in Japan
Another Japan-exclusive,Wrestle Kingdomfeatures a dream roster from NJPW, AJPW, and Pro Wrestling NOAH. The gameplay blends simulation-style grappling with accessible controls, emphasizing timing and match pacing over arcade-style action.
Its standout Drama Mode lets players create a wrestler and train under a legendary mentor from each of the featured promotions. Improving stats through training is essential, as it’s the only way to unlock new moves.
While it never saw a Western release, an English fan translation is available, making it easier than ever to experience this hidden gem.
3Def Jam Vendetta
A Fresh Alternative
Def Jam Vendetta
One of the more unique entries on this list,Def Jam Vendettacombines the worlds of hip-hop and pro wrestling—and it works.
The game’s fast-paced combat blends striking, grappling, and signature moves. Its arcade-style gameplay has been compared toWWF No Mercy, which is a huge compliment as it’s considered one of the best wrestling games ever made.
The lengthy story mode allows players to rise through a street fighting circuit, featuring real-life rap legends like DMX, Method Man, and Ludacris.
Offering a fresh alternative to WWE and other traditional wrestling games, it’s easy to see why it remains a cult classic to this day.
2WCW/nWo Revenge
The Game That Defined Late ’90s Wrestling
IfWCW vs. nWo: World Tourlaid the groundwork,WCW/nWo Revengeperfected it. Building on its predecessor’s success,Revengeimproved on nearly every aspect—more wrestlers, better graphics, and even smoother gameplay.
For the first time, THQ added actual arenas, including Monday Nitro and PPVs like Starrcade and Bash at the Beach.
The game’s roster included almost every wrestler from WCW at the time, and its intuitive controls made it a joy to play.WCW/nWo Revengeis widely considered one of the best wrestling games of the late ’90s, offering both fun and technical depth in equal measure.
1Wrestling Empire
A Love Letter to the Classics, With Modern Mechanics
Despite its retro-style graphics,Wrestling Empirehas captured the hearts of wrestling fans with its expansive career mode and the freedom it offers. Players can not only control wrestlers but also manage their careers, including booking matches and forming relationships with promotions.
The game offers a remarkable level of customization, letting players create their own storylines and promotions. Not to mention its excellent free roam, unlike any other wrestling game before it.
Plus, if you download mod packs that include WWE wrestlers, arenas, and championships, you could easily mistake it for a WWE-licensed retro-style game.
While the visuals might harken back to the 64-bit era, the game’s modern mechanics and open-ended gameplay make it a standout in the genre. It’s a love letter to classic wrestling games with a fresh twist, and it’s easy to see why it’s become a fan favorite. It’s as dramatic a show asyour favorite wrestling anime.
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