WWE 2K25 Hands-On Preview
Since its successful 2022 relaunch, 2K's WWE series has consistently refined its gameplay, justifying annual releases with iterative improvements. WWE 2K25 promises more of the same, boasting a new online world called The Island, revamped story, general manager, and Universe modes, a hardcore "Bloodline Rules" match type, and more. However, a recent preview event focused primarily on the largely unchanged core gameplay and this year's revised Showcase Mode, centered on The Bloodline. While I couldn't explore the major new additions, several smaller refinements impressed me, suggesting WWE 2K25 will be another successful evolution of the series.
WWE 2K25's Showcase Mode chronicles the Anoa'i family's history, spotlighting Roman Reigns and The Bloodline, while celebrating past generations like The Wild Samoans, Yokozuna, and The Rock. The mode features three match types: recreating history, creating history, and—most intriguingly—altering history. I experienced recreating Nia Jax's 2024 Queen of the Ring victory, creating a Wild Samoans vs. Dudley Boyz match, and altering Roman Reigns' 2022 Royal Rumble match against Seth Rollins. Each offered unique fun and fresh perspectives for WWE fans, improving upon last year's Showcase Mode. However, some minor issues remain.
Last year's (and the year before's) Showcase Mode suffered from overuse of lengthy real-life footage segments ("Slingshot"). While not entirely eradicated, this issue is significantly improved. Key moments are now recreated in-engine, resulting in a smoother experience and leveraging the game's impressive graphics. These sequences are also shorter, minimizing time away from gameplay.
Despite this improvement, complete control was still relinquished during the conclusion of my Nia Jax match, forcing passive observation of the final pin. Ideally, more control over these pivotal moments would enhance the experience.
Other refinements include a slightly improved checklist system. While the system itself returns (a point of contention for some), optional timed objectives are now included, rewarding players with cosmetics without penalizing failure—a welcome change.
The standout addition is the ability to alter historical match outcomes. For example, Roman Reigns' disqualification loss to Seth Rollins can now be played out differently, offering a unique experience for dedicated fans. I eagerly await exploring other alterable matches.
WWE 2K25's core gameplay remains largely unchanged, retaining the enjoyable grappling mechanics from WWE 2K24. However, several welcome additions and returns enhance the experience. The return of chain wrestling adds depth to the opening moments of matches, allowing strategic maneuvering. The submission mini-game also returns, though thankfully remains optional, as do other quick-time events.
Weapon throwing, a highlight from WWE 2K24, returns with an expanded roster of weapons and new backstage brawl environments. The WWE archives location, filled with historical items and easter eggs, is a particular standout. The inclusion of Prime Hydration bottles as weapons adds a humorous touch.
The most significant gameplay change is the introduction of intergender matches, finally allowing players to pit male and female wrestlers against each other. This, combined with the largest roster ever (300+ wrestlers), opens up a vast array of previously unavailable matchups.
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I also briefly experienced the new "Underground" match type, a ropeless exhibition match in a Fight Club-esque setting with lumberjacks. More details on this will be shared later.
WWE 2K25 builds upon a solid foundation, adding incremental but smart improvements. While the major new features remain unseen, the refinements present suggest another strong entry in the series. Only time will tell if the larger additions truly elevate it above its predecessors.
