Few sports blend with video games as naturally as professional wrestling. Despite being more performance than competition, wrestling translates surprisingly well to gameplay, where the objective is to win. That inherent contradiction has always been part of the WWE video game formula, but thanks to major upgrades to Showcase and MyRise modes, fresh features like intergender matchups, and consistently solid modes such as MyGM and Universe, WWE 2K25 delivers a strong showing. One blemish on an otherwise polished package is the new mode called The Island, which underwhelms and detracts slightly from the overall experience — though not enough to significantly hurt the game’s appeal.
Stepping into the Ring
Veterans of wrestling games may start with the tutorial each year, as small but meaningful changes often get introduced. WWE 2K25 brings back Chain Wrestling, a long-requested feature, and offers a comprehensive tutorial that walks players through everything they need to dominate the squared circle. The Performance Center proves an excellent training ground, accommodating both newcomers and returning players needing a refresher. Visual Concepts seems mindful that every edition might be someone’s first, and the onboarding experience reflects that awareness.
Once familiarized, the expansive roster stands out. WWE 2K25 is loaded with iconic names like Bret Hart, crossover stars such as Dwayne Johnson and Dave Bautista, legends like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, and oddities like Doink the Clown. Multiple versions of stars across different eras are available, offering variety in stats and presentation — from the earlier, less formidable Rock of 1997 to modern iterations. The depth of customization continues to impress, with players able to adjust crowd reactions, attributes, and movesets. If you want to unlock specific or all wrestlers in the game, read our guide.
In-Ring Mechanics and Match Variety
The core gameplay doesn’t stray far from WWE 2K24, which makes sense given how well it worked. The return of Chain Wrestling adds nuance to early-match sequences, where players battle through holds and counters to gain control. It can take time to master, involving analog stick movements to locate a sweet spot before the opponent does, but once understood, it mirrors the pacing and technique of real pro wrestling. The only real drawback is how infrequently this system appears outside of match openings.
WWE 2K25 introduces new match types, including intergender matchups, which are functionally standard but expand creative possibilities. Underground matches shake things up with fighting game-like mechanics — no ring ropes, knockouts, and full health depletion. Meanwhile, Bloodline Rules matches crank up the chaos. These additions enrich the game’s variety, an essential ingredient in keeping gameplay fresh.
A Stronger Showcase
This year’s Showcase focuses on the legendary Bloodline and the historic Anoa’i, Fatu, and Maivia families. Hosted by Paul Heyman, who leans into the role with gusto, the mode offers context, personality, and archival footage, though blurred faces remain an odd visual hiccup likely due to licensing.
Showcase shines brighter this year thanks to full entrances and dynamic mid-match commentary. A new twist tasks players with altering the outcomes of historic losses or crafting fictional “what if” matchups. Gameplay now transitions more smoothly, as key moments are recreated within the game rather than cutting away to video clips. While optional objectives — especially timed ones — can frustrate due to AI behavior or reversals, the rewards are generally worthwhile.
A sticking point is the mode’s underlying narrative, which heavily leans into correcting losses suffered by members of the Bloodline in actual WWE history. While it reinforces their dominance, it creates a thematic inconsistency — great wrestlers can lose without diminishing their legacy. A balance between real outcomes and reimagined ones might better serve the experience.
Rising Through the Ranks
MyRise returns with another story-driven experience, where custom characters face off against NXT invaders in a turf war over WWE dominance. In one run, a calculated technical wrestler joins forces with a quirky ex-girlfriend to push back against the hostile takeover. Voice performances in MyRise can be inconsistent, but the storyline oscillates effectively between the theatrical and the serious, embodying wrestling’s unique blend of drama and sport. Choices have consequences, and the ability to re-import characters adds replay value.
Franchise Staples: Universe, MyGM, and MyFaction
MyGM and Universe modes remain largely the same, with minor yet appreciated updates. MyGM now supports online play, offering friendly rivalry over who can book the better show. Universe mode brings back promos at long last. Players can control entire shows or single wrestlers, making it flexible depending on how someone wants to play.
MyFaction returns, though its card-collecting structure still feels formulaic. Players gather wrestler cards, complete objectives, and engage in online battles to earn packs. The shiny animations and progression loops feel aimed at encouraging spending. For those invested in this gameplay loop, WWE 2K25’s implementation will satisfy — but it remains a mode that prioritizes monetization over innovation.
The Island: A Missed Opportunity
The Island stands out for all the wrong reasons. Framed around Roman Reigns inviting competitors to an isolated battleground for a chance at WWE glory, the concept has promise. In execution, however, it falls flat. The PvPvE structure, sparse world, static dialogue, and grindy progression lack engagement. Multiplayer feels geared toward big spenders who can immediately overpower others. For players unwilling to invest heavily in microtransactions, the experience becomes a slog. This mode feels like an attempt to emulate trends from other franchises and serves more as a monetization platform than a compelling part of WWE 2K25.
Visual Presentation
Despite that misstep, WWE 2K25 impresses visually. It continues the series’ reputation for high-quality character models and detailed animations. Damage accumulates realistically during matches — from sweat to bruising — helping communicate match momentum and intensity at a glance. The attention to visual storytelling enhances immersion across all modes.
Verdict
WWE 2K25 stands as a strong follow-up to its predecessor, delivering another polished and content-rich wrestling experience. While microtransactions in MyFaction and the underwhelming Island mode represent notable low points, they are overshadowed by the strength of Showcase, MyRise, and the moment-to-moment gameplay. The addition of new match types and subtle gameplay refinements round out an impressive offering. WWE 2K25 is a well-stocked wrestling buffet — varied, satisfying, and deep enough to keep players entertained for the long haul.