WWE 2K25 Introduces Surprising Changes to the Wrestling Simulator.

Last year, when reviewing WWE 2K24, I mentioned that the series had reached its peak. The franchise managed to complete its comeback arc thanks to a tighter fighting system, a variety of exciting modes, and a huge roster of superstars. This milestone was a significant achievement for 2K Games, but it left the franchise with the question of what the next step would be after reaching the summit. After playing a few hours of WWE 2K25, I am beginning to get an idea of the direction it will take.

In many ways, this year’s simulator appears to maintain the status quo, making slight adjustments to existing modes like MyGM and implementing subtle modifications to its combat foundation. However, there is much more beneath the surface, from a new open-world mode to the inclusion of inter-gender matches. Although I have not tried all the new features, the elements I experienced felt sufficiently improved to prevent this edition from feeling repetitive. On the flip side, some changes might displease long-time fans, putting the revitalized series to the test since its return in 2022.

Winning a title is just one challenge; successfully defending it is another. During the demo session, I had the opportunity to explore various modes and match types. I participated in three of this year’s Showcase matches, tried out a backstage brawl, and even simulated a Royal Rumble before the actual event that would take place later. By the way, Rhea Ripley was the winner of my match after eliminating Bubba Ray Dudley.

I began with a traditional one-on-one match between Jacob Fatu and Nia Jax. However, perhaps "traditional" is not the right word, as WWE 2K25 features inter-gender matches, a breakthrough that even real WWE has not fully adopted yet. The only caveat is that those matchups will not include blood, although women's matches will. While there may be some controversy over this, it is an excellent decision as it allows for more dynamic fights between competitors of different sizes and opens the door for more “dream matches,” which is the essence of simulation. As a fan of hard-hitting battles, the clash between Fatu and Jax pleasantly surprised me.

The fundamentals of wrestling are familiar to old fans, as 2K25 retains the same controls, pinning system, and quick reversal alerts. However, there have been some significant changes. Players can now engage in chain wrestling from the start of the match through a minigame where two players manipulating a lever choose a move and must hold the joystick position to gain an advantage. It’s worth mentioning that I did not manage to master it completely, as it is a minigame driven by the interface that, unlike last year’s exchange system, does not come off as visually satisfying. There’s also a new minigame for submissions, where instead of pressing buttons, players rotate colored bars around a circle, adding an extra layer of complexity.

The most successful changes in WWE 2K25 are in the subtle details that make matches flow more naturally. For instance, players can now execute attacks more easily from different positions. Pinfall reversals occur more organically against AI-controlled opponents thanks to adjustments in their behavior. Paybacks (recovery moves) are more accessible, allowing players to chain attacks more strategically. Tag team matches have also improved, preventing AI-controlled opponents from interrupting pinfalls in situations where it wasn’t necessary.

With the addition of elements like dives over barricades, WWE 2K25 captures the unpredictable essence of wrestling, making each match feel unique in rhythm and personality. This is what is expected from a good wrestling simulator. Though I have not deeply explored the most relevant modes in the series, I enjoyed the expanded backstage brawls, which allowed players to fight in a parking lot and leap from the hoods of cars.

Furthermore, the overall presentation of the game has received a considerable boost. The 2K series has been influenced by the wrestling promotion it emulates, and unlike WWE 2K22, which faced issues due to a turbulent real-life context, WWE is enjoying a resurgence that is reflected in WWE 2K25, featuring a more polished production and a more cinematic atmosphere.

Regarding this year's Showcase mode, it could generate mixed reactions among fans. Over the years, 2K has created interactive documentaries that seamlessly integrate footage of real matches within the game. This year, the mode focuses on the story of the Anoa’i family (The Bloodline), but it seems that historical accuracy has been emphasized less this time around. A significant decision is that the transition technology that connected the game footage with actual match clips has been discontinued. This could make the mode feel less unique compared to previous editions, but it reflects a desire from players to focus more on gameplay.

There is still much to explore in 2K25, such as MyGM, Factions, MyRise, and new match types, among others. With the healthy expectation that at least a couple of these elements will be excellent, a good gaming experience can be anticipated. Thus, WWE 2K25 remains in a promising state leading up to its upcoming release, with a solid fighting system, improvements in AI, and the inclusion of inter-gender matches that bring freshness to a familiar lineup. The game is scheduled for release on March 7 for various platforms, although those who purchase the standard edition will have to wait an additional week, until March 14.