WRESTLING WITH THE LATEST INCARNATION.

Byline: Redmond Carolipio Staff Writer

``Wrestlemania XIX'' is the best wrestling game you can get for GameCube. On the other hand, there's plenty wrong with it.

Unlike previous versions, the game's roster is a little more current. Visually, the game is a treat, especially during the entrances for the wrestlers. There are crowd shots, TitanTron entrance videos and the wrestlers themselves mimicking their real-life counterparts. The characters move a lot better, too, but they're still a bit bulky and stiff.

The most dramatic adjustments, however, were made for the game's controls - with a simplified ``grapple-to-move'' action that gives players control of the match pace. You also have the ability to target specific body parts, which actually forces you to think more during a match. Also factored in are real-life body physics. This means if you try to go aerial with the creaky-kneed, gravity-bound Stone Cold Steve Austin, you're in for a few minutes of embarrassment before coming to your senses.

But the game loses its bearings in a story mode called ``Revenge,'' which transforms it into a B-movie action flick where you're stuck doing silly ``missions'' like tossing Vince McMahon's security guards around in a construction site. Another problem is the ``King of the Ring'' tournament, a generic exercise that has little replay value.

It's best, however, to play ``Wrestlemania XIX'' with other people and take part in the various match types the game provides.

WRESTLEMANIA XIX - Two and one half stars

Platform: GameCube.

Price: $49.99.

Rated: T for Teen

In a nutshell: It's the best wrestling you can get for GameCube, despite its several problems. To get the most out of the game, play it with other people and take part in the various match types the game provides.

CAPTION(S):

photo, box

Photo:

no caption (Wrestlemania XIX)

Box:

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