Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 Strap Match

THQ has confirmed that its latest addition to the Smackdown series will contain the strap match as a selectable match type. After receiving a positive response to the inferno match in its last two incarnations, THQ decided that adding new and innovative match types is the way to go.

"We really wanted to include a match that fans have never seen before in a wrestling game," stated Bobby Hodges, senior consumer analyst for THQ. "The strap match has been around forever and we felt that its inclusion in Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 will add new levels of depth and strategy to the terrific gameplay fans are already accustomed to."

When asked about the mechanics of the strap match, THQ had no problem shelling out the details.

"Both players will be tied to each other by an 8 foot leather strap. The wrestlers will then be limited to how far they can distance themselves from one another. Depending on the amount of stamina the wrestler currently has at any given moment effects their ability to manipulate the strap in their favor. If their stamina is high, they can pull their opponent around the ring like a dog on a leash. If their stamina is low, their opponent will do most of the pulling. We are proud to announce that "quick" yanks of the strap will use the SIXAXIS motion controls. With a quick tug of the controller, players can tug their opponents around, setting them up for high power moves."

The use of the SIXAXIS motion controls is a first for the Smackdown vs. Raw series.

"When the wrestlers are close to each other, pressing R3 will initiate what we've deemed as the "strap" grapple. Once R3 is clicked, the player can choose from four different moves that take advantage of the strap."

THQ was not at liberty to go into details concerning the strap moves, but Hodges did make a choking motion when describing the new grapple. Unfortunately, moves from the top of the turnbuckle and leaving the ring will not be possible in the strap match this year.

With this exciting edition announced, we're looking forward to getting our hands on Smackdown vs. Raw 2011!