RetroMania Wrestling Review – A Retro Throwback With Modern Flaws

Here at Creative Jason, I use reviews like this to show how storytelling connects memory, creativity, and audience value. If your brand is ready for stories that spark connection, let’s talk.

RetroMania Wrestling arrives with big shoes to fill, touted as the spiritual successor to WWF WrestleFest, one of the most iconic arcade wrestling titles of the early ’90s. For fans like me who grew up dropping quarters to play as Hulk Hogan and Jake “The Snake” Roberts, that promise is irresistible.

Grappling With Timing

RetroMania trades button-mashing for a timing-based grapple system. It’s simpler than modern titles like WWE 2K25, but chaining moves together requires rhythm and patience. Once it clicks, the system feels rewarding, though occasional freeze-frames during reversals can break immersion.

Highlights in the Ring

The game shines in its presentation. Executing Jeff Cobb’s multi-suplex moveset is a standout moment, and cameos from wrestling media figures like Bill Apter, Dave Lagrecca, and Dave Meltzer add personality. Then–NWA Champion Nick Aldis brings big-match energy, helping RetroMania feel like WrestleFest: Part 2 — only with indie talent in place of mainstream legends. For newcomers to the indie scene, it doubles as a solid introduction.

Pacing and Drawbacks

Match pacing can feel abrupt, with standard moves occasionally ending bouts too quickly. More concerning is the save file corruption bug. After losing significant progress in story mode, I found I wasn’t alone — it’s been widely reported across platforms. While the developer has acknowledged and attempted to fix it, reports of lingering issues remain.

Creative Takeaway

RetroMania shows how even a flawed revival can remind us why the classics matter. That’s the same with content and creativity: your audience doesn’t need a perfect replica, they need your unique take. Momentum comes from showing up, not from flawless execution.

Final Bell

RetroMania succeeds as a retro throwback, blending old-school charm with indie flair. But technical hiccups and uneven pacing keep it from a full comeback. Even the tease of future DLC — from Magnum T.A. to classic tag teams like Demolition and the Rock ’n’ Roll Express — may not be enough of a “hot tag” to finish the story.

Score: 6 out of 10.

Fun for fans of arcade wrestling, but in need of more polish to earn legendary status.