THQ vs SEAN WALTMAN
Former WWE superstar, Sean "X-Pac" Waltman, is leading the charge against video game maker, THQ, for low-balling him and other former wrestlers offers to be included in their upcoming "WWE 13" game.
Here's what Waltman tweeted yesterday regarding the issue: "@thq trying to low ball & deny customary royalties to Attitude Era stars who dont happen to be currently under WWE contract or Legends deal."
He claims their offer was less than what he'd make in two-three indy shows. It was a flat-rate with no guaranteed money on the backend – a customary typically given to superstars on the current roster and those under "Legends" agreements.
Prior to Waltman tweeting about the upcoming game, I had actually heard something that seems to make more sense out of all of this. Apparently, the theme for "WWE 13" will have something to do with the Attitude era. If that's accurate, then X-Pac's frustration is a little more understandable. I'm not sure he would be so offended with their offer if he wasn't such an intricate part of the very gimmick THQ plans on using to sell the game.
The outcome of all of this will mean very little to me, as I don't "game" often. However, I figured I would pass along the information to those of you that do because if "WWE 13" plans on having an "Attitude" spin on it and more former wrestlers from that era join Waltman in the cause, it could get pretty interesting.
Do the wrestlers give in for the quick payday? Does THQ meet their demands? Is the "Create a Wrestler" mode the only way you'll be able get X-Pac (and potentially others) in a game built and marketed around the Attitude era?
I expect the two parties will find a compromise, but Waltman will need to lower expectations. He and others might be able to negotiate better base-payments, but I can't imagine backend money will ever become an option.
Nick was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and lived there until the age of 18, when he decided to pack his flack jacket and move to New York City.
