WWE 2K25: Early Gameplay Impressions

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, my preview experience focused primarily on the largely unchanged core gameplay and the revised Showcase Mode, centered around The Bloodline. While I couldn't explore the major new additions, several smaller enhancements 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, highlighting 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 the Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins Royal Rumble 2022 bout. Each offered unique fun and perspective, improving upon last year's Showcase Mode. However, some minor issues persist.

Last year's (and the year before's) Showcase Mode suffered from excessive use of real-life footage, a system Visual Concepts calls "Slingshot." As I noted in my WWE 2K23 preview, I found this distracting. While not entirely resolved, WWE 2K25 shows progress. The reliance on lengthy real-life clips is reduced, with key moments recreated in-engine, offering a smoother, more satisfying experience. These sequences are also shorter, minimizing time away from gameplay control. However, in the Nia Jax match conclusion, control was completely removed, forcing passive observation of the final pin. Ideally, I'd prefer more control during such crucial moments.

WWE 2K25 Screenshots

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Other improvements include refinements to the checklist system. While the system remains (a point of contention for some), optional timed objectives with cosmetic rewards are added. Crucially, failure no longer results in penalties, a significant step forward. The ability to alter historical match outcomes is a standout addition, allowing players to rewrite history. This provides a fresh experience for dedicated WWE fans.

WWE 2K25's core gameplay largely mirrors its predecessor, retaining the enjoyable grappling mechanics from WWE 2K24. However, notable additions include the return of chain wrestling, a mini-game allowing players to gain an advantage during grappling. The submission system also returns, offering a mini-game that can be disabled in the options, alongside chain wrestling and other quick-time events. Weapon throwing returns, enhanced with expanded backstage brawls and new environments, including the WWE archives, a treasure trove of easter eggs. The Prime Hydration Station bottle even serves as a weapon.

Perhaps the most significant gameplay change is the inclusion of intergender matches, a long-awaited feature allowing for matchups previously unavailable. Combined with the largest roster yet (300+ wrestlers), this opens up numerous possibilities. I also briefly experienced the new "Underground" match type, a ropeless exhibition match in a Fight Club-esque setting with lumberjacks, which will be detailed further in upcoming IGN First content.

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WWE 2K25 builds upon a strong foundation, adding new features to an already robust game. While not revolutionary, the smart refinements and additions suggest another solid entry in the series. The impact of the unplayed major new modes remains to be seen, but my experience suggests a very incremental yet positive step forward.