WWE 2K25: Exclusive Hands-On Preview Unlocks Wrestling Action

WWE 2K25: A Refined Wrestling Experience

2K's WWE series, revitalized in 2022, continues its iterative improvements with WWE 2K25. Promising additions like "The Island" online world, revamped modes (Story, General Manager, Universe), a new "Bloodline Rules" match type, and more, were unfortunately unavailable for preview. My hands-on time focused on the core gameplay (largely unchanged) and the updated Showcase Mode.

Showcase Mode: A Bloodline Legacy

This year's Showcase Mode chronicles the Anoa'i family, featuring Roman Reigns and The Bloodline, alongside legends like The Wild Samoans, Yokozuna, and The Rock. It offers 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 Roman Reigns' 2022 Royal Rumble match against Seth Rollins. While enjoyable and offering a unique perspective, minor issues remain.

Addressing Past Concerns

The over-reliance on lengthy real-life footage ("Slingshot") from previous iterations is significantly reduced. Key moments are now recreated in-engine, resulting in a smoother, more engaging experience. These sequences are also shorter, minimizing time away from gameplay control. However, complete control was still relinquished during the Nia Jax match's conclusion, a point needing further refinement. The checklist system, while present, is improved with optional timed objectives offering cosmetic rewards without penalties for failure.

Gameplay Enhancements

The core gameplay remains largely consistent, retaining the well-received grappling system from WWE 2K24. Notable additions include the return of chain wrestling, a mini-game allowing players to gain an advantage during grappling exchanges. The submission mini-game also returns, though it's optional, as are other quick-time events. Weapon throwing returns, expanded to new environments like the WWE archives, offering a wealth of items and unique locations. Intergender matches are now possible, alongside a roster boasting over 300 wrestlers.

New Match Type: Underground

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

Overall Impression

WWE 2K25 builds upon a solid foundation, adding smart refinements rather than revolutionary changes. While the core gameplay remains largely familiar, the improvements to Showcase Mode and the inclusion of new features like intergender matches and chain wrestling are welcome additions. The full impact of the unpreviewed features will determine if 2K25 truly surpasses its predecessors, but based on my experience, it's a strong incremental step for a well-established series.

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