When asked about the process of creating games annually in WWE 2K25, the lead gameplay designer Derek Donahue referred to it as both a blessing and a challenge. He appreciates it because it allows them to deliver new content to fans every year, providing insights into audience engagement that shapes the future development. However, he acknowledged the downside: releases like WWE 2K20, which received significant criticism due to its numerous issues, serve as examples of how annualized franchises can potentially falter.
Thankfully, WWE 2K25 has improved significantly from its predecessor, WWE 2K20. It boasts new features, novel match types, and at least one controversial new game mode. Despite this potential controversy, it’s generally a solid update that should delight wrestling enthusiasts craving their next virtual wrestling experience.
If you’ve previously played any WWE 2K series game like WWE 2K24 from last year, you’re likely familiar with most of the gameplay elements. It includes basic and advanced strikes, multiple grappling options for each character, and a variety of finishing and signature moves to defeat your opponents. Notably, these mechanics haven’t seen significant changes in WWE 2K25. Therefore, I won’t delve into detailed explanations of how they function. The core mechanics remain similar, offering a robust platform for wrestling simulation enthusiasts. Additionally, you can customize settings within the options menus to create a more arcade-like experience if that appeals to you.
Intricacies make all the difference: With the addition of a user-controlled referee in various match types, it adds an entertaining twist for those who wish to manipulate the AI or exhibit bias during friendly multiplayer sessions. Moreover, intergender matches have been reintroduced, allowing you to witness Rhea Ripley’s dominance across both halves of WWE’s roster. Alternatively, for individuals like myself, it offers an opportunity to educate characters of all genders about the idea of Tiffy Time.
This year introduces fresh match styles, with Bloodline Rules and Underground as the top picks. The Underground bout originated from Raw several years ago, featuring Shane McMahon organizing brutal fight club-style encounters in unsavory locations. Victory could only be achieved through knockout or submission. The absence of ring ropes allows for characters to be thrown out among spectators, escalating the battle beyond the ring. I found myself quite enjoying the Underground matches, despite my preference for traditional wrestling (I’d love a never-ending iron man match between Kurt Angle and Bret Hart). These brawls bear resemblance to fighting games due to the KO requirement, making them an exhilarating experience when played with friends who enjoy more conventional fighters.
The Bloodlines Rules match is significantly less structured and tends to get quite intense. Introduced for the first time at WrestleMania 40 last year, Bloodline Rules allows you and your opponent to summon allies who can then engage in a brutal brawl against each other. Within minutes, the ring becomes crowded with wrestlers wielding weapons like steel chairs and Kendo sticks. The chaos resembles a barroom brawl more than a traditional wrestling match, which adds to its appeal.
This year, we’ve got the return of MyRise, MyFaction, and MyGM mode, but the main events are the Bloodline Showcase and The Island. Let’s delve into The Island first. It’s a vast, interactive world where you embark on quests and compete in matches to gain Roman Reigns’ approval. The Island is a grand spectacle with numerous exciting spots to discover, but the cost of virtual currency escalates rather swiftly. There’s a subtle push towards spending real money for additional virtual coins and equipment upgrades, which might lead WWE 2K to resemble NBA 2K’s excessive microtransactions in the future, something I find concerning.
Additionally, the cosmetic aspect isn’t the only feature. Users can also use virtual money to enhance their characters’ characteristics, which might lead to a ‘pay-to-win’ situation where online competitions could become unbalanced for those who prefer to improve stats through gameplay rather than purchasing upgrades with real money.
Luckily, you can bypass the Island and concentrate on the game’s alternative modes, specifically Showcase. This year’s Showcase concept lets you revisit and reshape history as you command members of the Bloodline factions and their relatives. For example, you could take control of Roman Reigns in a rematch against Seth Rollins, replicating their thrilling Royal Rumble 2022 confrontation. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to make Tamina the first-ever women’s Money in the Bank winner by participating in the 2017 match with Charlotte Flaire, Becky Lynch, and other original competitors. Paul Heyman provides the narrative for each match’s videos, skillfully conveying the historical significance and weight leading up to each bout.
One concern I have about Showcase mode is that some matchups seem virtually unwinnable. For instance, in the Money in the Bank ladder match I brought up, there are five contestants. It’s incredibly uncommon for four of them to be incapacitated simultaneously so that 1) a ladder can be set up, 2) someone can climb it, and 3) the briefcase can be retrieved by successfully completing the quicktime minigame. This is something you’ll likely remember, and it may give you nightmares.
2025 has been a standout year for the WWE 2K franchise, and I’ve found it to be the most polished and feature-rich installment yet! With numerous play modes available and the largest roster ever, there’s something for every wrestling fan, regardless of your preferred era. Even if your favorite wrestler isn’t included at launch, you can look forward to expanding the roster as players start sharing their custom characters. The Island may not be a home run for everyone, but overall, this game will keep wrestling enthusiasts entertained until we get another installment in 2026!
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2025-03-06 23:36