10 Landmark Wrestling Video Game Firsts
2. Backstage Fighting Areas (WCW Mayhem, 1999)
Towards the end of the 1990's, both the WWF and WCW started showcasing more action outside of the ring. Brawling onto the floor, into the crowd and around ringside was one thing, but Hardcore Title matches that took place in various backstage areas in the arena became exciting additions to the weekly TV lineup.
Seeking to capitalise on this trend, Electronic Arts decided to shout about a new feature in the WCW Mayhem video game. For the first time ever, players would now be able to actually leave the ringside area, attacking opponents and fighting in different rooms in each arena. The whole idea was undeniably cool.
Mayhem received mixed reviews, but most pointed out that the backstage brawling was a fun addition to the tried-and-tested in-ring format. WWF SmackDown would expand upon the template set by Mayhem, making backstage areas a vital component of each subsequent release.
WCW Mayhem was the first, and it did the gimmick extremely well. Boiler rooms and outside areas looked interesting, and greatly helped Mayhem rise above mediocrity for at least a while.