Since its successful reinvention in 2022, 2K's beloved WWE series has consistently refined its formula, introducing iterative improvements with each annual release. WWE 2K25 is no exception, promising a suite of new features including an online interactive world called The Island, revamped story, general manager, and Universe modes, as well as a new hardcore match type dubbed Bloodline Rules. However, due to my limited access during a recent preview event, I couldn't fully assess these additions and their impact on elevating 2K25 beyond its predecessor.

My hands-on experience with WWE 2K25 was predominantly centered around the core gameplay, which remains largely unchanged, and the updated Showcase Mode, spotlighting The Bloodline wrestling stable. Despite being unable to explore the bulk of the new features, I did notice several small yet significant enhancements that instill confidence in me that WWE 2K25 will be a successful evolution of the series, well worth the time of any wrestling enthusiast.

WWE 2K25's Showcase Mode delves into the rich history of the Anoa'i family, celebrating icons like Roman Reigns and The Bloodline, as well as legends such as The Wild Samoans, Yokozuna, and The Rock. This mode introduces three types of matches: those that recreate history, others that create history, and the intriguing option to alter history. I had the chance to experience all three by recreating Nia Jax's Queen of the Ring victory from 2024, crafting a dream match between The Wild Samoans and The Dudley Boyz, and altering the outcome of the iconic Roman Reigns versus Seth Rollins match from the 2022 Royal Rumble. Each match offered a unique and enjoyable experience, marking an improvement over last year's Showcase Mode. However, some minor issues persist.

In previous iterations, such as WWE 2K24 and WWE 2K23, the Showcase Mode was criticized for its over-reliance on switching to real-life footage through the "Slingshot" system, which detracted from the gameplay experience. As I mentioned in my WWE 2K23 preview, "I found myself wanting to be back in the action and create these moments myself, not just watching clips of footage that are already burned into my brain." Thankfully, WWE 2K25 has made strides in addressing this issue. The cut to real-life footage is now gone, replaced by in-engine animations of key moments, resulting in a smoother and more immersive experience. These sequences are also shorter, ensuring players spend less time away from controlling the action.

WWE 2K25 Screenshots

11 Images

However, not all control issues have been resolved. During the conclusion of my Nia Jax match, control was taken away from me, forcing me into a bystander role during the final 1,2,3 count. Ideally, I'd prefer more control during these pivotal moments, allowing me to relive them through my own gameplay decisions rather than passively observing.

WWE 2K25 also refines other aspects of previous showcase modes. The checklist system, which required completing often basic maneuvers to trigger live-action sequences, returns but with enhancements. Optional objectives on a timer have been added, rewarding players with cosmetics for completion but not penalizing them for failure, marking a crucial step forward.

The most exciting addition to Showcase Mode is the ability to alter the outcomes of historic matches. For instance, you can now explore what might have happened if Roman Reigns had changed his approach in his match against Seth Rollins. This feature offers a fresh experience for hardcore WWE fans, and I'm eager to see more of these alternate history matches.

While the core gameplay of WWE 2K25 remains largely unchanged, it's not a negative aspect. The grappling action was already satisfying in WWE 2K24, and maintaining the proven formula is a wise choice. However, there are some notable additions and returns. Chain wrestling, a fan-requested feature absent since WWE 2K22, makes a comeback. During the opening moments of a match, initiating a grapple triggers a mini-game that allows players to gain an advantage by driving, wrenching, attacking, and repositioning their opponent. This, along with the returning trading blows mechanic, enhances the authenticity of the WWE experience.

The submission system also returns, featuring a color block wheel mini-game. While its UI can be overwhelming at first, it becomes intuitive with practice, and it can be disabled in the options if preferred, along with other quick-time events like chain wrestling.

A standout gameplay feature from WWE 2K24, weapon throwing, makes a triumphant return in 2K25. The roster of weapons has been expanded, and backstage brawls now take place in new environments, such as the WWE archives, which is filled with history and Easter eggs. Additionally, players can fight atop a giant Wrestlemania sign and the iconic giant fist from the Smackdown era. The ring area, adorned with Prime sponsorships, allows for creative uses of the Prime Hydration Station's giant bottle as a weapon, adding a humorous touch to matches.

Perhaps the most significant gameplay change is the introduction of intergender matches, allowing men and women to compete against each other for the first time in a 2K WWE game. Coupled with the largest roster ever, featuring over 300 wrestlers, this opens up a vast array of new matchups.

What's the Best WWE Game of All Time?

Pick a winner

New duel1ST2ND3RDSee your ResultsFinish playing for your personal results or see the community’s!Continue playingSee results

Lastly, although the demo build offered limited new updates, I did get hands-on time with the brand-new match type called Underground. This rope-less exhibition match set in a Fight Club-like environment with lumberjacks around the ring is a fresh addition to the series. I'll be sharing more about this later this month as part of our exclusive IGN First content. Be sure to check IGN later this week for a full match and a detailed explanation from Visual Concepts developer, Derek Donahue.

WWE 2K25 continues the series' tradition of building upon its robust fundamentals with new features. While not revolutionary, the game feels like a smart, incremental evolution of last year's offering. Whether the advertised major changes and new modes will make this edition stand out remains to be seen, but from my brief experience, WWE 2K25 is shaping up to be another strong entry in an already well-realized series.