If you're revisiting the classic PS2 wrestling game WWE SmackDown!: Here Comes The Pain, mastering the controls is essential to dominate the ring. This guide will help you learn all the basics, including how to perform finishers, reversals, grapples, and more. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer, here's everything you need to know about the SmackDown Here Comes The Pain controls.
Key Controls for WWE SmackDown Here Comes The Pain
Here’s a breakdown of the PS2 controller buttons and their actions in the game:
| Action | PS2 |
|---|---|
| Perform a Finisher ("Smackdown! Move") | L1 |
| Run | Triangle |
| Strikes | X + Directional Button |
| Initiating Grapples | Circle + Directional Button |
| Power Grapple | Circle + Up |
| Submission Grapple | Circle + Down |
| Signature Grapple | Circle + Left |
| Quick Grapple | Circle + Right |
| Irish Whip | Circle |
| Pin Opponent | Circle + Down |
| Strike Reversal | L2 |
| Grapple Reversal | R2 |
| Finisher Reversal | L2 + R2 |
| Taunt | R-direction |
| Enter/Exit Ring | Square + Directional Button (toward ropes) |
| Pick Up Weapons | Square |
| Drag opponent | Hold Circle |
| Change Target | R1 |
Ladder Match Controls
| Action | PS2 |
|---|---|
| Pick up Ladder | Square |
| Stand Ladder | Square |
| Place Ladder in Turnbuckle | Square + Directional Button |
| Climb Ladder | Square + Directional Button |
| Diving Attack | X (standing on ladder) |
| Reach for Belt | Circle (standing on ladder) |
| Jump for Belt | Circle + Directional Button (standing on ladder) |
| Climb Down Ladder | Square |
| Knock Ladder Over | Square |
Cage Match and Hell In A Cell Controls
| Action | PS2 |
|---|---|
| Climb Cage | Square + Directional Button (toward cage) |
| Climb Cell | Triangle |
| Dive from Cage Attack | X (on top of cage) |
| Push Opponent off of Cage (HIAC) | Circle (near edge of top of cage) |
| Open Cage Door | Triangle + Directional Button |
Tips to Dominate the Game
WWE SmackDown!: Here Comes The Pain is regarded as one of the best wrestling games of all time, thanks to its fluid gameplay and deep mechanics. By mastering the controls, you can enjoy the game at its full potential, defeat tougher opponents in the HCTP Roster, and relive the glory days of WWE gaming.
- Master Your Finishers
Timing is everything. Build up your Smackdown Meter and unleash a devastating finisher with L1. Aim for moments when your opponent’s stamina is low for maximum impact. - Use Reversals Effectively
Learning when to press L2 (for strike reversals) and R2 (for grapple reversals) is key to countering your opponent's moves. Practice makes perfect! - Control the Ring with Grapples and Strikes
Use the directional combinations with Circle to vary your grapples and keep opponents guessing. Strikes with X are quick and can interrupt your opponent’s moves. - Maximize Mobility
Running with Triangle can help you avoid danger or set up a high-impact move. Combine running with grapples or strikes for dynamic attacks.
FAQs about SmackDown Here Comes The Pain Controls
How do you perform a finisher in SmackDown Here Comes The Pain?
Build your Smackdown Meter, then press L1 near your opponent to execute your superstar’s finisher move. If the Superstar has multiple finishers in the same situation, press L1 + directional button to perform the secondary finishing move.
How to reverse in Here Comes The Pain?
Use L2 to reverse strikes and R2 to reverse grapples. To counter a finisher, press L2 + R2. Timing your presses just before the attack connects is crucial.
How do I pick up weapons in Here Comes The Pain?
Stand near a weapon and press Square.
This guide ensures you're fully equipped to enjoy and master the SmackDown Here Comes The Pain controls. Whether you're reliving your childhood or experiencing the game for the first time, these tips and tricks will help you dominate the squared circle!
