WWE 2K25 Preview: Exclusive Hands-On Experience

Ever since its successful 2022 reinvention, 2K's popular WWE series has been making iterative improvements to build upon its winning formula and justify its annual releases. WWE 2K25 introduces a new batch of iterations, including an online interactive world called The Island, a revamp of its story, general manager and Universe mode, a new hardcore match type called Bloodline Rules, and more. However, I couldn't experience these new additions at a recent preview event, so I can't say if they will elevate 2K25 above its predecessor.

My time with 2K25 focused mainly on the core gameplay, which remains largely unchanged, and the adjusted Showcase Mode, centered around The Bloodline stable of wrestlers. Although I was unable to explore most of the new features, I did appreciate some small but significant alterations that suggest WWE 2K25 will be another successful evolution of the series, likely worth any wrestling fan's time.

WWE 2K25's Showcase Mode delves into the history of the Anoa'i family, spotlighting stars like Roman Reigns and The Bloodline, as well as previous generations such as The Wild Samoans, Yokozuna, and The Rock. The mode now features three types of matches: those where you recreate history, create history, and alter history. I experienced recreating Nia Jax's Queen of the Ring victory from 2024, creating a dream match between The Wild Samoans and The Dudley Boyz, and altering the outcome of the iconic Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins match from the 2022 Royal Rumble. Each match provided unique fun and perspective for hardcore WWE fans, marking an improvement over last year's showcase mode. However, there are still some minor issues to address.

Last year's WWE 2K24 Showcase Mode, like its predecessor WWE 2K23, was criticized for over-reliance on real-life footage through the "Slingshot" system. 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." Thankfully, progress has been made in WWE 2K25. The cut to real-life footage is gone, replaced by in-engine animations that recreate key moments, offering a smoother experience and satisfaction from seeing iconic moments in the game's graphics. These sequences are also shorter, reducing time away from the action.

WWE 2K25 Screenshots

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Despite these improvements, not all control issues have been resolved. During the conclusion of my Nia Jax match, control was taken away, forcing me to watch the 1,2,3 as a bystander rather than staying in the ring. I would prefer more control during these crucial moments, allowing me to relive them with my own gameplay decisions.

WWE 2K25 also refines other aspects, such as the checklist system in previous showcase modes. While the system returns, it has been slightly refined with optional objectives on a timer. Completing these actions rewards you with cosmetics, but failing them doesn't penalize you, marking a step in the right direction.

The standout addition to Showcase Mode is the ability to change the outcome of historic matches. For instance, you can now see how things might have played out if Roman Reigns had altered his actions in the final moments against Seth Rollins. This feature offers a fresh experience for hardcore WWE fans, and I'm eager to see what other unannounced change matches will be included.

While there are notable changes in modes and match types, the core gameplay of WWE 2K25 remains largely the same with minor tweaks. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, as I was already satisfied with the grappling action in WWE 2K24. The decision to stick with the proven formula feels smart. However, there are some interesting additions and returns.

WWE 2K25 brings back the long-requested chain wrestling mechanic, which was removed with the engine revamp in WWE 2K22. During the opening moments of a match, initiating a grapple triggers a mini-game where you can gain the upper hand by driving, wrenching, attacking, and repositioning your opponent. Like the trading blows mechanic from last year, chain wrestling adds a staple of WWE action, enhancing the game's realism.

The submission system also makes a return, featuring a mini-game where you must match or avoid your opponent's color block on a wheel. Despite its initially overwhelming UI, it becomes intuitive quickly. Both chain wrestling and the submission system can be disabled in the options menu, offering players flexibility.

One of my favorite features from WWE 2K24, weapon throwing, also returns. The roster of weapons has been improved, and backstage brawls now take place in new environments, such as the WWE archives, perfect for weapon tossing. You can fight in areas filled with history and easter eggs, on top of a giant Wrestlemania sign, and even use the giant Prime Hydration Station bottle as a weapon. Wrapping a bottle of Logan Paul's luminous juice around your opponent's head is a highlight.

Perhaps the most significant gameplay change is the introduction of intergender matches, allowing men and women to compete against each other. Combined with the largest roster ever, featuring over 300 wrestlers, this opens up a wide range of new matchups.

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Lastly, although the demo build had limited new updates, I did get hands-on time with the brand-new Underground match type. It's a ropeless variation of an exhibition match set in a Fight Club-like environment with lumberjacks around the ring. This is a completely new addition to the series, and I'll share more about it 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 layering new features onto robust fundamentals. While nothing feels revolutionary, the formula remains consistent with last year's offering, enhanced by small but smart tweaks. Time will tell if the advertised sweeping changes and new modes I didn’t get to see will truly make this edition stand out, but from my brief experience, it seems to be an incremental step for an already well-realized series.