WWE 2K25: Is It the Greatest Wrestling Game in History or a New Setback?

Professional wrestling isn’t just a combat sport; it’s a mix of drama, spectacle, and challenge, making it perfect for video games. For years, wrestling games have tried to capture the excitement of WWE, blending intense matches, dramatic storylines, and charismatic characters. However, the big challenge has always been balancing pre-scripted shows with interactive gameplay that relies on player skill.

The WWE 2K series has seen many ups and downs, with WWE 2K20 being a major low point, forcing the developers to rethink the series’ future. Since then, Visual Concepts has worked hard to regain trust, improving each new release. With WWE 2K25, expectations are higher than ever, especially with the current resurgence of real-life wrestling and dramatic character changes, like John Cena’s sudden heel turn.

So, what does WWE 2K25 bring to wrestling fans? Has it improved the gameplay experience significantly? Is it the best entry in the series so far, or does it undo all the progress? Let’s find out!

Content and Game Modes

WWE 2K25 offers a variety of game modes, blending realism and fantasy, spectacle and challenge. Whether you prefer single matches, managing shows, or trying something new outside the ring, WWE 2K25 has something for everyone.

The game boasts the largest roster in its history, with over 300 stars from Raw, SmackDown, and NXT, alongside WWE legends and Hall of Famers. You’ll find big names like Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and Seth Rollins, as well as icons like The Undertaker and Stone Cold Steve Austin.

The Showcase mode returns, focusing on The Bloodline, offering interactive experiences revisiting their key matches with new “What If?” scenarios. You can play fantasy matches like 3 Minute Warning vs. The Authors of Pain in Extreme Rules or rewrite history by having Rikishi defeat Stone Cold at No Mercy 2000. The mode is less restrictive, allowing you to play without being forced to lose to follow historical events.

MyRise has been revamped, with a faster-paced story that combines male and female wrestlers in one narrative. This time, the story revolves around NXT stars invading the main roster, making it more engaging and dynamic, with player choices affecting the outcome.

MyGM mode has also seen significant improvements, with fixes to previous issues, more accurate belts for each show, and the addition of online multiplayer for up to four players. Monthly joint shows between brands have returned, adding more competition and excitement.

The biggest new addition is The Island, a competitive mode where 50 players battle for a WWE contract under Roman Reigns’ supervision. However, the mode heavily relies on VC (virtual currency), which can be time-consuming to earn or require real money, making it feel pay-to-win.

Universe mode has also been enhanced, with promotional shows allowing for more dynamic rivalries and longer storylines. You can control match schedules and customize stories, making it ideal for fans who want to design their own WWE experience.

While other modes have seen significant improvements, MyFACTION remains largely unchanged, still focusing on card collection and team building, which may not appeal to everyone.

Gameplay

WWE 2K25 brings improved gameplay with new mechanics that make matches more dynamic and enjoyable. The return of “Chain Wrestling” allows for smoother transitions between moves, adding tactical depth. You can also disable this feature if you prefer a more direct style.

Wrestlers can now climb barriers and jump off them for aerial attacks, making out-of-ring action more lively. Environmental interactions have also improved, with barriers and ring posts breaking during matches, adding realism. For the first time in the series, wrestlers can bleed during matches, enhancing drama and violence.

A new “Giant Class” has been introduced, featuring wrestlers with an extra health bar that must be depleted before they can be pinned. The game also offers a new camera system, giving players more control over the viewing experience.

Backstage areas have been expanded, with new interactive elements like the “Prime Hydration Station,” which can be used as a weapon during matches. The classic submission wheel has returned, replacing modern submission mechanics, and ladder matches have been improved, allowing for more exciting moments.

AI has also been enhanced, with more control over opponent behavior in “Create-A-Moveset,” making matches feel more realistic. New “Paybacks” abilities, like REF BUMP and POWDER, add tactical options during fights, while BLOODLINE RUN-IN allows you to call for help from The Bloodline during matches.

Graphics

WWE 2K25 features significant visual improvements, making it one of the most impressive entries in the series. Character models are more realistic, with detailed facial expressions, muscle definition, and even sweat that appears during matches. Injuries are now visible, adding to the realism.

The rings and crowds have also been upgraded, with dynamic lighting that reflects off the ring and wrestlers, making every moment feel like a real WWE show. The crowd is more interactive, cheering, reacting to big moves, and changing their responses based on the match.

Animations have been refined, with smoother strikes and more natural-looking collisions. These improvements make WWE 2K25 a visually stunning experience that feels like watching a real wrestling show.

Final Verdict

8.5/10

WWE 2K25 takes the series forward with clear improvements in gameplay, graphics, and modes. The game strikes a balance between realism and spectacle, making it a fun experience for wrestling fans. However, it still has some flaws, like the heavy reliance on virtual currency in certain modes. Despite this, the enhancements in AI, environmental interactions, and visual details make WWE 2K25 one of the strongest entries in the series to date.