Since its successful reinvention in 2022, 2K’s WWE series has consistently introduced iterative improvements to refine its winning formula and justify its annual releases. WWE 2K25 promises a new suite of enhancements, including a brand-new online interactive world called The Island, revamped story, general manager, and Universe modes, and a new hardcore match type called Bloodline Rules. Unfortunately, I couldn't experience these new features firsthand at a recent preview event.

Instead, my time with WWE 2K25 was centered on the core gameplay, which remains largely unchanged, and the revamped Showcase Mode, focusing on The Bloodline stable. Despite missing out on the major updates, I noticed several small but impactful changes that give me confidence that WWE 2K25 will be another successful evolution of the series, likely worth any wrestling fan's time.

WWE 2K25’s Showcase Mode delves into the history of the Anoa’i family, spotlighting stars like Roman Reigns and The Bloodline, while also honoring past generations such as The Wild Samoans, Yokozuna, and The Rock. The mode introduces three match types: recreating history, creating history, and altering history. I experienced all three through recreating Nia Jax’s Queen of the Ring victory in 2024, creating a dream match between The Wild Samoans and The Dudley Boyz, and altering the outcome of the iconic Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins match from the 2022 Royal Rumble. Each type offered unique fun and a fresh perspective for hardcore WWE fans, marking an improvement over last year’s showcase mode. However, minor issues persist.

Last year’s WWE 2K24, like its predecessor WWE 2K23, relied heavily on switching to real-life footage, a feature dubbed “Slingshot” by developer Visual Concepts. As noted in my WWE 2K23 preview, this approach often felt like a distraction from the action. I'm pleased to report that progress has been made in WWE 2K25. The reliance on real-life footage has been eliminated, replaced by in-engine animations that recreate key moments more seamlessly. These sequences are also shorter, allowing for more time spent in control of the action.

WWE 2K25 Screenshots

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However, not all control issues have been resolved. During the conclusion of my Nia Jax match, I was forced into a spectator role during the final pinfall, which I found less satisfying. I prefer to have more control over these crucial moments to relive them through my gameplay choices.

WWE 2K25 also refines other elements of the Showcase Mode. The checklist system, which previously made matches feel like a to-do list, returns with some improvements. Now, optional objectives on a timer offer rewards without penalizing failures, a small but important step forward.

The highlight of the Showcase Mode is the ability to change the outcomes of historic matches. For instance, you can alter the result of Roman Reigns’ disqualification loss to Seth Rollins, exploring alternate scenarios. This feature adds a fresh layer of engagement for hardcore WWE fans, and I'm eager to see what other changes will be available.

While new modes and match types receive significant updates, the core gameplay of WWE 2K25 remains largely the same with minor tweaks. This consistency isn't necessarily negative, as the grappling action from WWE 2K24 was already satisfying. However, there are notable additions and returns. Chain wrestling, a long-requested feature absent since WWE 2K22's engine overhaul, makes a comeback. It involves a mini-game during the initial grapple, allowing players to gain the upper hand, adding another layer of realism to the WWE experience.

The submission system also returns, featuring a color-matching mini-game that, despite its initially overwhelming UI, becomes intuitive. Both chain wrestling and the submission system are optional, which is a welcome flexibility.

One of my favorite features from WWE 2K24, weapon throwing, returns with an expanded roster of weapons and new backstage brawl environments. The WWE archives, filled with history and easter eggs, was a standout location for weapon tossing. Additionally, you can now fight atop a giant Wrestlemania sign and the iconic giant fist from the Smackdown era. The ring area features Prime sponsorships, allowing you to use a giant Prime Hydration Station bottle as a weapon, humorously described as wrapping Logan Paul’s luminous juice around an opponent's head.

A significant gameplay change this year is the introduction of intergender matches, enabling matchups between male and female wrestlers for the first time in a 2K WWE game. Combined with the largest roster ever, featuring over 300 wrestlers, this opens up numerous new possibilities.

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Lastly, I had some hands-on time with the new match type called Underground, a ropeless variation of an exhibition match set in a Fight Club-like environment with lumberjacks around the ring. This is a completely new addition to the series, and I’ll share more about it later this month as part of IGN’s exclusive First content. Keep an eye on IGN for a full match showcase and a detailed explanation from Visual Concepts developer Derek Donahue.

WWE 2K25 continues the series' tradition of building on a solid foundation with new features. While nothing feels revolutionary, the game introduces smart, incremental improvements. Whether the promised major changes and new modes will make this edition truly stand out remains to be seen, but based on my brief experience, WWE 2K25 appears to be a solid, if evolutionary, addition to an already well-established series.