Twenty-three years later, and we're still talking about it. Released in late 2003 for the PlayStation 2, wasn't just a game—it was the peak of an era. It was the final title to use the standalone "SmackDown!" name before the series transitioned into SmackDown vs. Raw .
You have peak Brock Lesnar (the strongest non-legend in the game with a 91 rating), Goldberg , and Scott Steiner .
High-flying and technical legends like Rey Mysterio , Eddie Guerrero , and Kurt Angle .
Early versions actually had Hulk Hogan and Jeff Hardy , but they were removed after they left WWE during development. 🕹️ Gameplay & Features
Play as legends like The Undertaker , Stone Cold Steve Austin , and The Rock .
HCTP perfected the arcade-style wrestling mechanics that many fans still prefer over modern simulations.
🎮 Throwback: Why SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain is Still the GOAT