WWE 2K25: Hands-On Preview Impresses with Gameplay Tweaks

WWE 2K25: A Solid Evolution, But Is It Enough?

2K's WWE series, revitalized in 2022, continues its iterative improvements with WWE 2K25. Promising additions like "The Island," a revamped story mode, and a new "Bloodline Rules" match type, were unfortunately unavailable for preview. My hands-on experience focused primarily on the core gameplay (largely unchanged) and the updated Showcase Mode.

The Showcase Mode, centered on The Bloodline, offers a fresh approach with 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 the Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins Royal Rumble 2022 encounter. While enjoyable, the mode still suffers from some minor issues.

A significant improvement over previous iterations is the reduced reliance on lengthy real-life footage segments ("Slingshot"). Key moments are now recreated in-engine, resulting in a smoother, more engaging experience. However, complete control was still relinquished during the final moments of the Nia Jax match, a point needing further refinement. The checklist system, while still present, is less punitive, rewarding optional timed objectives with cosmetics without penalizing failure. The ability to alter historical match outcomes is a standout addition, offering a unique perspective for dedicated fans.

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Core gameplay remains largely consistent with WWE 2K24, which isn't necessarily a drawback. The welcome return of chain wrestling adds depth to the grappling system, allowing for strategic positioning. The submission mini-game, while initially overwhelming, becomes intuitive and is thankfully optional, as are other quick-time events. Weapon throwing returns with expanded environments and an improved weapon selection, highlighting the WWE archives as a particularly fun location. The inclusion of Prime Hydration bottles as weapons adds a humorous touch. Significantly, intergender matches are now possible, opening up a wide range of previously unavailable matchups, coupled with the largest roster yet (300+ wrestlers).

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A brand-new "Underground" match type, a ropeless exhibition in a Fight Club-esque setting, promises further excitement. While the preview offered limited exposure to the major new additions, WWE 2K25 appears to be a refined iteration of a solid formula. Whether the unplayed features will truly elevate it remains to be seen, but based on my experience, it represents a smart, incremental step forward.