WWE 2K25 REVIEW: A NEW ERA OF GAMING

Much like Triple H's massive resurgence of World Wrestling Entertainment over the past few years, the latest installment of gaming in the WWE franchise, WWE 2K25 is the NEW ERA of gaming. With improved presentation and controls, along with major additions like The Island and Bloodline Rules matches, WWE 2K25 is certainly in the conversation to stand as one of the best pro wrestling games of all time. 

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Let's start with the graphics and overall gameplay. Without a shadow of a doubt, these are THE BEST graphics of any pro wrestling game, and rightfully so. With major improvements to facials, eye movement  and the always particularly difficult hair graphics, the quality comes across much like the TV product. I was absolutely amazed by the bruising and scarring to the bodies of the WWE Superstars throughout a match. What also stood out was attention to detail with every aspect from the large scale arenas, to the catering signs in the backstage areas. Clearly 2K was very hands on with WWE, and did their homework here. 

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The controls are pretty similar to previous installments with no major changes. This is a good thing. Reversals seem a bit easier, and the kick out system, although not my favorite at times, actually makes a lot of sense in terms of timing and creating real life match feel. The mini-games that sometimes feel like they take you out of the match, actually present challenging and different matches similar to those on TV. In other words, you aren't constantly running around doing the same strike on your opponents like previous installments. 

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The chain wrestling is a really cool feature along with another feature where you can trade blows. These are really fun and add a lot to match play, especially for the more educated wrestling fan. Unfortunately, you can get stuck in these modes for over 20 seconds at times, so I think some sort of quick exit or shorter exchange for these mini game moves would help perfect match flow.

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In terms of matches, new editions include (RAW) Underground and Bloodline Rules matches. The Bloodline Rules match is incredibly entertaining, capturing the "Avengers Endgame" moments from WrestleMania XL , featuring up to 6 run-ins during a match (3 per team) and anything goes rules. The ability to call in an ally at certain times is really fun. If there were a way to pick and choose who would run-in with a submenu, this would be even sweeter. Book it for 2K26!!

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The show stealer in this one however, may be The Island. With an incredible intro from the Wiseman, Paul Heyman, (who also introduces the training mode at the PC) and The One and Only Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns, The Island features a somewhat open world of WWE chock of full of monuments, easter eggs, and more. My favorite easter egg by far is the Bray Wyatt fireflies. See if you can find them.

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Every twist and turn features a fun shop, arcade, museum, or place to have a match online with other players. I won't lie. I popped a few times as they say in the business, because The Island is complete fan service. 

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Unfortunately, much like the NBA City/Playground modes you will have to pay to play in some aspects. Microtransactions through VC for better gear and upgraded stats are needed, however you can earn VC by playing matches. At the end of the day WWE and 2K are doing big business, and microtransactions are a major part of video games in this day and age. That being said, the gear shops in The Island are absolutely epic, and even include a store for Air Jordans. 

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This year's 2K Showcase mode is super fun. Again, hosted by the wiseman Paul Heyman, players can play a series of matches with Bloodline members dating back through history. Most of the game's unlockables are available here by completing in-match tasks as always. Without spoiling it, the opening match in this one is really something special.  

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The addition of Intergender matches for the first time marks a milestone for the WWE 2K series. Men and women can square off or tag together.  This seemingly allows for what one could imagine to be endless possibilities as the roster contains over 300 WWE Superstars and Legends, with more on the way through upcoming DLC expansions. 

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MyRise is back again this year, and I have to say the story is pretty solid. Although not without multiple wrestling cliches, there's a few clever plot points, and things pulled from real life/social media. The smart wrestling fan will appreciate these nods. 

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Create mode is back and as always, gets better by the year with more gear, hairstyles, moves, entrance options, and celebrations. The always popular Community Creations is already booming with future franchise hopeful TNA CAWS of The Hardy Boys, Joe Hendry and more. 

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From the in depth roster to the multiple game modes, WWE 2K25 has nearly perfected the series, giving fans the wrestling game they deserve, but just like the performers in the ring, leaving us all wanting more. 

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BCP+ Rating: 9.3 out of 10​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​