Def Jam Vendetta

GamePro

More than just a port of a PlayStation 2 fighting game—it’s a port of a very good PlayStation 2 fighting game... The GameCube version suffers a bit on a few fronts, most notably its controls and graphics.

Electric Playground

I don't listen to rap music and I know very little about it, but I am enthralled by this game's easy control; wild over-the-top moves; and enjoyable story mode.

IGN

When it comes to two-player action, you'll be hard-pressed to find a smoother, slicker slobber knocker than this wrestler... The highest rated wrestling game on the site.

Game Over Online

There’s a ton of replay value with the numerous game modes, and the computer opponents can always be counted on for a challenge, especially with the expansive number of moves for each fighter.

Game Informer

It may not have the depth that wrestling fans expect - such as character creation, gimmick matches, or the largest assortment of moves - but the fundamentals of play are of a much higher quality than any other game in the genre. [Apr 2003, p.88]

Nintendojo

The stunning graphics, superb sound and beautifully addictive gameplay are several of the factors that make this a great game.

GameZone

A vicious high-adrenaline wrestling/street fighting game that defies conventional brawler concepts while managing to one up its nearest WWE competition in terms of style and gameplay.

GamingTrend

This game is beautiful to control, I just wish I could have a more broad story mode so I can play as the rappers or the other wrestlers instead of just 4 made up ones.

Armchair Empire

If you’re a fan of the wrestling genre, Def Jam Vendetta is just what the doctor ordered.

GameSpot

As a wrestling game, Def Jam Vendetta manages to succeed on most every level, providing surprisingly deep gameplay, quality graphics and sound, and a distinctive atmosphere.

Into Liquid Sky

While the lack of extra modes or the theme of the game may turn some people off, most everyone else should enjoy the game.

GameShark

There's no denying that DJV is an awesome game with a lot of flash, charisma, style and action.

Yahoo! Games

Perhaps the best thing that Def Jam Vendetta has going for it, though, is its attitude. The developers took this idea and ran with it, a tactic that makes story mode as engaging as a B movie.

Play Magazine

Def Jam Vendetta is extremely violent (and I mean that in the most positive way).

GameCube Europe

AKI certainly succeded in making a fun wrestling game. On top of that, they’ve managed to keep it completely free of ridiculous men wearing tights.

GameSpy

Even with all its flaws, Def Jam Vendetta is the best wrestling game currently on the market.

Nintendo Power

The inventive momentum-building feature helps keep matches exciting and victory within reach. [June 2003, p.137]

GMR Magazine

One of the fastest-paced, most exciting wrestling games we've ever played... [But] effectively dealing with multiple opponents is highly problematic. [Apr 2003, p.70]

Game Revolution

Unfortunately, Def Jam drops the mic again by not providing any sort of Character Creator.

Gaming Age

It's with a sigh of unfufilled expectations and through clenched teeth that I say Def Jam Vendetta is the best US wrestler this generation.

Gamezilla!

During the mulitplayer portion of the game, I also encountered some pretty big design flaws, which you might call bugs, but I hesitate to do so. A tag team match can't be ended the normal ways each time, and I've played with three of my friends for a half hour or more without being able to end a single match.

Entertainment Weekly

When all is said and done, Vendetta is an uninspired wrestling title that lacks Def Jam's trademark sheen. [21 Mar 2003, p.120]