WWE 2K25 Hands-On Preview

WWE 2K25: A Refined Wrestling Experience

2K's WWE series continues its annual evolution, building upon the successful 2022 reboot with iterative improvements. WWE 2K25 promises significant additions, including a new online world ("The Island"), revamped story, general manager, and Universe modes, a "Bloodline Rules" hardcore match type, and more. However, a recent preview event focused primarily on core gameplay and the updated Showcase Mode.

The Showcase Mode, centered around The Bloodline, offers three match types: recreating history, creating history, and—most intriguingly—altering history. This allows players to experience iconic moments from different perspectives, offering a unique and engaging experience for WWE fans. While an improvement over previous iterations, minor issues remain.

Previous Showcase Modes suffered from excessive use of real-life footage, interrupting gameplay. WWE 2K25 mitigates this by significantly reducing the length of these cutscenes and recreating key moments in-engine, resulting in a smoother, more immersive experience. While not entirely resolved, this is a substantial improvement. One minor drawback: in the Nia Jax match, control was removed during the final pin, preventing active participation in a pivotal moment.

The checklist system, a previous point of contention, returns but with refinements. Optional timed objectives reward players with cosmetics without penalizing failure, a welcome change. The ability to alter historical match outcomes is a standout feature, adding replayability and a fresh perspective on familiar events.

Core gameplay largely retains the successful mechanics of WWE 2K24, with minor but impactful adjustments. The return of chain wrestling adds strategic depth to the beginning of matches, allowing players to gain an advantage through a mini-game. The submission mini-game also returns, though it remains optional, along with other quick-time events.

Weapon throwing, a highlight of WWE 2K24, returns with an expanded roster of weapons and new environments, including the WWE archives, offering a nostalgic and fun experience. The inclusion of Prime Hydration bottles as weapons adds a humorous touch. Most significantly, intergender matches are now possible, opening up a vast array of new matchups.

A new match type, "Underground," a ropeless exhibition match in a Fight Club-esque setting, was briefly showcased. Further details will be available soon.

Overall, WWE 2K25 builds upon a strong foundation with smart refinements. While the impact of the unplayed new modes remains to be seen, the improvements to existing features suggest another successful entry in the series.