Over the years, the WWE 2K games have been a very mixed bag. Ever since 2K acquired the rights to produce licensed WWE games in 2013, the company has received vast backlash. Most games in the series have been released with a plethora of bugs and glitches. In addition, a focus on simulation rather than arcade-like gameplay has received criticism.
While WWE 2K14 and 2K19 were well received, other titles such as 2K15, 2K17, and the notorious 2K20 have destroyed the hopes of WWE fans looking for a terrific gaming experience year after year. 2K20 was arguably one of the worst wrestling games of all time. This is due to the various glitches in gameplay and graphics. Hopefully – with over a two-year break aside from WWE 2K Battlegrounds – 2K can get back on track and produce a fine, polished title in WWE 2K22.
Fortunately – unlike with WWE 2K20 – we have seen gameplay trailers long before WWE 2K22′s upcoming launch rather than just three weeks ahead of time. Graphically, it looks very impressive so far! In-game models have been shown, and they are the best to appear in a WWE game. Promises of a “Redesigned Engine”, “Fresh Gameplay” and “Stunning Graphics” look to be fulfilled as face scans and entrances look sublime. Whether or not WWE 2K22 will look this good on all platforms is unknown. So, be cautious if buying the game for PlayStation 4 or Xbox One.
A video game can look magnificent, but it must also work. 2K has a bad history of releasing unfinished WWE games, only creating skepticism for this upcoming game. Hopefully, the heavy backlash received on WWE 2K20 is encouraging enough to ensure the title is polished. It is now time for 2K to regain their fans; the only way to do that is by listening and effectively responding.
Aside from bugs, a big complaint with WWE 2K games has been a lack of content. In particular with WWE 2K17, there was little to do in terms of game modes. Thus, playing match after match rarely had context or excitement. 2K, in this regard, have listened, and players will have an assortment of game modes to explore in WWE 2K22. First, there is the standard Exhibition Mode, where you pick a match type and the superstars. Then, there is Universe Mode, which has hopefully received some slight tweaks to increase the replayability. From here on, it’s quite exciting!
Also being the cover star, WWE legend Rey Mysterio is receiving his own Showcase. This will cover key moments in the Luchador’s WWE career, from his debut in 2022 to winning the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 22. Speaking of careers, the Career Mode has been revamped and is now known as MyRISE. Not much has been revealed yet, but this mode is usually a fun distraction with cameos from many of the top WWE superstars. Seemingly, the creation suite is also better than ever, so we could see some interesting customisation options.
Here is where things get interesting. MyFACTION is a completely new game mode. It is an intriguing concept, making a mode out of building a dominant force in the WWE. If it has depth and some form of narrative weaved through, MyFACTION will be a very welcome surprise.
From here it only gets better. For the first time since WWE SmackDown! vs. Raw 2008, players can experience a General Manager Mode. Titled MyGM in WWE 2K22, players can build a roster and book either SmackDown!, Raw, or potentially NXT. This mode was massively popular in previous games and has been requested for years. Creating dream matchups and choosing the top stars on your brand has always piqued the interest of fans. Get this mode right and 2K are onto a very special game.
It is only a matter of time before WWE 2K22 releases. If the gameplay effectively blends simulation and arcade with polish and consistently good graphics, then this can be the best WWE game in a long time. The signs are looking hopeful, although checking out reviews before investing is a smart move. There is plenty of potential here due to the many game modes. WWE 2K22 will release on the 11th March 2022.