WWE 2K25’s arrival is inevitable, and wrestling fans should get ready. Take-Two’s financial update from August hinted at a release by March 2025, cementing the game’s place in the lineup. This timing aligns perfectly with previous launches of WWE 2K titles, all hitting the shelves around March. Following the pattern, it’s likely we’ll catch the first whispers of the new game during the Royal Rumble, though this shouldn’t shock those familiar with the franchise’s rhythm.
With each new year comes the promise of a fresh WWE gaming experience, and given the current excitement in the wrestling world, anticipation is high. Wrestling is experiencing a golden era, and WWE 2K25 promises to be a significant piece of this resurgence. As we edge closer to the expected release, here are some features and improvements I hope to see in the upcoming game.
Showcase Mode – My top wish for WWE 2K25’s Showcase Mode is a focus on the Bloodline saga. I’m a big Cody Rhodes fan and was a bit let down when WWE 2K24’s Showcase, featuring him on the cover, ended with his defeat at WrestleMania 39. However, the Bloodline’s story arc is undeniably one of wrestling’s greatest narratives. Waiting for this storyline to conclude for a future game would mean a lengthy wait, so I’m hoping WWE 2K25 covers the Bloodline’s journey from Roman Reigns’ return at SummerSlam 2020 up to his presumed loss against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40. An Original Tribal Chief Showcase could explore events beyond WrestleMania 40 when the time comes. And please, could we have Paul Heyman narrating this epic journey?
MyRise – I’m a huge fan of choice-based narratives, and while WWE 2K24’s MyRise offered a few options, they mostly boiled down to selecting which storyline to follow next. I long for a more intricate choice system and a richer narrative akin to older WWE games. More layered storylines, greater alternative paths, and adding an overarching direction can significantly boost the replay value of MyRise. Also, I appreciated how WWE 2K24’s Men’s MyRise was somewhat grounded in reality with Reigns’ title reign. It could be more fun, though, if the developers could break free from reality constraints to explore more imaginative storylines.
MyGM – MyGM mode has my heart. After I’ve completed everything else, it’s MyGM I keep coming back to. There’s nothing like managing the roster and seeing rivalries play out, whether it’s Undertaker versus Undertaker or John Cena versus John Cena. This makes it tough to think of what more the mode could offer, except perhaps standing out more vividly through significant PLE moments and potential calendar tweaks. If I had one daring hope, it would be for the introduction of scenarios within WWE 2K25’s MyGM. I’ve penned various WWE 2K25 MyGM scenario ideas, including supernatural themes, unified title pursuits, or WrestleMania challenges.
MyFaction and Universe – Although I typically dip into these modes mainly for the achievements, ensuring they measure up to the game’s primary modes would improve the overall package. Improved online match stability would also significantly enhance the experience, as this has been a recurring issue. Of course, continuous enhancement of creative features is always appreciated.
Crossover Content – The 2023 merger creating TKO opens a world of possibilities, including potential crossovers between WWE and UFC fighters in game. While these should remain limited to maintain their uniqueness, incorporating such cameos could be a fun addition.
Fan & Crowd Interactions – The enthusiasm of international crowds at this year’s PLEs demonstrates how impactful audience interaction can be. WWE games could benefit from enhanced fan involvement, beyond merely holding signs. Imagine if engaging with crowd chants during a match unleashed bonuses. Picture tossing a player’s character into booing fans as Bronson Reed did to Braun Strowman, or scoring a finisher during chants for tables. This level of interactivity, akin to WWE 2K24’s Trading Blows mini-game, would add an exciting dimension.
The Samoan Werewolf – As always, roster updates are a given each year. With several superstars having departed WWE, like Ricochet to AEW, and numerous new signings, WWE 2K25’s roster will be intriguing. I’m particularly excited about potential additions like Jacob Fatu, the Samoan Werewolf, and hope he makes it into the base game. However, given timing constraints, he may need to appear in an early DLC pack.
In an interview with Game Rant, Visual Concepts’ creative director Lynell Jinks mentioned that finalizing the game takes about nine months leading to the fall cut-off, especially before Survivor Series, which can exclude late summer signings. With Fatu joining in April and debuting by June, there’s hope he’ll be ready for WWE 2K25’s initial lineup. If not, fingers crossed he makes a DLC pack debut.
