WWE 2K25 Hands-On Preview

Since its successful 2022 relaunch, 2K's WWE series has consistently refined its gameplay, adding iterative improvements to its winning formula. WWE 2K25 promises more of the same, boasting a new online interactive world called The Island, revamped story, general manager, and Universe modes, a brutal new match type—Bloodline Rules—and more. However, my recent preview event focused primarily on the largely unchanged core gameplay and this year's revised Showcase Mode, centered around The Bloodline. While I couldn't explore the major new additions, several smaller refinements impressed me, suggesting WWE 2K25 will be another successful entry in the series.

WWE 2K25's Showcase Mode chronicles the Anoa'i family's history, spotlighting Roman Reigns and The Bloodline, while also celebrating past generations like The Wild Samoans, Yokozuna, and The Rock. The mode features three match types: recreating historical events, creating hypothetical matches, 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' Royal Rumble 2022 match against Seth Rollins. Each offered a unique and enjoyable experience for WWE fans, a clear improvement over last year's Showcase Mode. However, some minor issues remain.

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 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." While not entirely resolved, this issue shows significant improvement in WWE 2K25. The reliance on real-life footage is reduced, with key moments recreated in-engine, resulting in a smoother, more satisfying experience. These sequences are also shorter, minimizing time away from gameplay control. However, during the Nia Jax match conclusion, control was briefly removed, forcing passive observation of the final pin. Ideally, I'd prefer more control during these crucial moments.

WWE 2K25 Screenshots

WWE 2K25 refines other aspects as well. Previous Showcase Modes used a checklist system to trigger cutscenes, often criticized for feeling less like dynamic gameplay and more like a to-do list. While this system returns (likely to be a point of contention), it's been improved with optional timed objectives. Completing these earns cosmetics, but failure no longer results in penalties—a significant improvement. The ability to alter the outcome of historical matches is a standout addition, allowing players to rewrite iconic moments. This offers a refreshing experience for dedicated WWE fans.

While modes and match types have changed, WWE 2K25's core gameplay remains largely the same, with minor tweaks. This isn't necessarily a negative; the grappling system in WWE 2K24 was already solid. However, some interesting additions and returns are present. Chain wrestling, absent in WWE 2K22, is back, adding a mini-game element to early grapples. The submission mini-game also returns, though it's optional, as are other quick-time events.

Weapon throwing, a highlight of WWE 2K24, returns with an expanded roster and new backstage brawl environments. The WWE archives location is particularly impressive, offering a wealth of historical Easter eggs. The inclusion of Prime Hydration Station products as weapons is noteworthy, with Logan Paul's drink bottle being a particularly memorable weapon.

Perhaps the most significant gameplay change is the introduction of intergender matches. For the first time in a 2K WWE game, men and women can compete against each other, opening up numerous previously unavailable matchups. This, combined with the largest roster ever (300+ wrestlers), adds significant depth.

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While my preview was limited, I did experience the new Underground match type—a ropeless exhibition match in a Fight Club-esque setting with lumberjacks. This is a completely new addition to the series, and I'll share more details later this month as part of IGN First content. Check IGN later this week for a full match and a detailed explanation from Visual Concepts developer Derek Donahue.

WWE 2K25 builds upon a strong foundation, adding new features to an already robust experience. While nothing feels revolutionary, the smart tweaks and additions suggest a worthwhile iteration. The larger changes and new modes remain unseen, but based on my preview, WWE 2K25 appears to be a solid, incremental step forward for a well-established series.