The game featured over 50 superstars, including several notable debuts and returns:

: Jeff Hardy made his long-awaited return to the franchise.

: Each style provided primary and secondary abilities. For example, a Powerhouse like Batista could "hulk up" to become impervious to strikes, while a Showman could steal an opponent's finisher.

: CM Punk , MVP , Kelly Kelly , and Cryme Tyme made their first appearances in the series.

: The roster included Hall of Famers like Stone Cold Steve Austin , The Rock , Bret Hart , and Rick Rude . Modes of Play Why WWE Smackdown Vs RAW 2008 Was Good!

: A new analog-based system allowed players to apply varying pressure or attempt to escape more dynamically.

: The game expanded crowd fighting and backstage interactions, including the "weapon wheel" for selecting objects like barbed-wire 2x4s and flaming tables. The Roster: New Blood and Legends