All Star Pro-Wrestling III (2003) was Square Enix’s final entry in the NJPW-branded series for PlayStation 2. Building on its predecessors, it offered polished visuals, authentic rosters, and lifelike entrances, but its slow-paced, simulation-heavy style continued to divide fans. It leaned into cinematic presentation, with dramatic camera work and detailed animations of moves like Chono’s Yakuza Kick or Nagata’s submissions.

The gameplay emphasized realism over accessibility, with deliberate pacing and complex grappling chains. While hardcore fans appreciated the authenticity, casual players often found it stiff compared to the faster SmackDown series. Still, it is remembered as a faithful NJPW simulation that showcased Square’s production values, even if the gameplay lagged behind.