The game introduced Asmik/AKI's critically acclaimed grappling system, in which all moves are started by holds. Choosing to either tap or hold the A button will subsequently produce either "weak" or strong results once the move is performed, while a similar system is used for strikes. Wrestlers can also perform taunts to help elevate their Spirit gauge and perform "Special" front and rear grapple moves when their gauge peaks. Due to this innovative control style, the game sold phenomenally well and soon reached Player's Choice status.