WWE 2K25’s Dino Zucconi on celebrating the Bloodline in this year’s Showcase

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The Showcase mode in every WWE 2K game is a standout feature that lets players relive popular matches from various eras of WWE history. You might wonder how the designers select which stories to highlight and what makes this year’s Showcase mode for WWE 2K25 unique. Lead Showcase designer Dino Zucconi addresses these questions, as well as discussing improvements fans can look forward to and his personal journey in game development.

This interview has been lightly edited for clarity.

Shacknews asks: Why was 2021 the perfect time to highlight WWE’s most intense storyline, which has captivated audiences for nearly five years without a letup?

In my view, it was a straightforward decision. Roman Reigns has been the most popular performer within the company for quite some time now. The Bloodline has been dominating every aspect of the business, from Raw to SmackDown and everywhere in between, winning almost all the titles. Moreover, it allowed us to concentrate on the current stars while also providing an opportunity for other family members to shine. It seemed like the ideal platform for us. Not only does it offer a vast roster, but it also keeps the history fresh while remaining relevant to current events.

Shacknews: Will players control different members of both Bloodline factions throughout the story?

As a fervent admirer, I’d like to clarify that Dino Zucconi’s concept is about assigning one match for every character we refer to as part of the Bloodline. This means each player gets their unique experience, with distinct characters to control in each gameplay session. There are also additional perks tucked away within the design, but rest assured, everyone will find their place in this engaging world.

Shacknews: What’s been your favorite match, moment, or other Showcase moment to work on?

For myself, I’ve always been a devoted fan of wrestling, and it brings me immense joy. The Showcase mode offers me an opportunity to reminisce about my cherished memories from the world of wrestling and share them with newer fans. Each Showcase mode is essentially a tribute born out of my passion for this sport. I take great pleasure in selecting the cutscenes, choosing the matches – it’s difficult to pinpoint my favorite aspect. Simply put, I adore this mode.

Shacknews: What other changes and improvements can fans expect from this year’s Showcase.

Dino Zucconi: It seems that this time around, we’ve done away with the Slingshot technology and are returning to full cutscenes. Many fans have expressed their desire for this change, and we’ve taken note. This year, we’re revisiting full cutscenes. Another exciting feature this year is the introduction of three distinct match types: altering history, crafting history, and revisiting history. Revisiting, of course, is our traditional Showcase offering. We also have dream matches, such as the Wild Samoans versus the Dudley Boyz, where you can create your own dream encounter. Lastly, for those who wish to change the past, we’ve included a feature that allows you to switch the outcomes of cutscenes, providing an alternate route to victory for a Bloodline member.

Shacknews: What other changes and features are coming to WWE 2K25 that you’re excited about?

Dino Zuconi expresses his enthusiasm for upcoming mixed-gender matches. He believes this is a desire that fans have harbored for some time now, and it’s great to reintroduce such an aspect. If the fans are asking for it, we should certainly deliver.

Shacknews: Who are your picks to win the women’s and men’s Royal Rumbles?

Dino Zucconi: I’m unashamedly cheering for John Cena to triumph in the men’s Royal Rumble. I fear it might not transpire, but that’s alright. This time around, I’m eager to cheer him on with utmost enthusiasm one last time. In the women’s division, I’m leaning towards Becky Lynch. I’m uncertain if she’ll make it, but rooting for her is essential. It’s not always about picking winners and appearing intelligent.

Shacknews: If time and money were no issue—and licensing—what would be your dream WWE match?

Dino Zucconi: My ideal WWE match has always been between Kurt Angle and Bret Hart. It’s a contest that I’ve longed to see and one that I wish had taken place at some point. That’s the ultimate dream match for me.

Shacknews: What’s a big misconception when you tell someone you work in video games?

Dino Zucconi: Often people assume that I can write code. However, it’s actually our engineers who possess that skill. While I do collaborate with the systems and our tools, I myself am not a coder. This misconception is quite common.

Shacknews: What was your path to game development?

Dino Zucconi shared an unusual career journey. Initially, he studied Spanish with the intention of becoming a teacher. Later on, he worked in Quality Assurance (QA) for 2K Games. When they acquired the WWE video game license, Dino reached out to his colleagues and expressed his willingness to do anything. For several years, he served as a production assistant. He demonstrated enthusiasm for the Showcase mode, and eventually, they entrusted him with that role. Since then, he’s continued working on it.

Shacknews: What advice would you give to aspiring game designers?

Dino Zucconi: Passion should never be underestimated. My success proves that formal education isn’t always necessary to achieve great things. If you truly understand a subject, learning becomes accessible to everyone. This opportunity is open to all.

Shacknews: And learn Spanish.

Dino Zucconi: And definitely learn some Spanish along the way.

Shacknews received an invitation to try out WWE 2K25 early in Indianapolis. The cost of our journey, accommodation, and commuting to and from the Royal Rumble occasion was covered by 2K.

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2025-02-05 20:33