With open world and intergender matches, Visual Concepts and 2K are going big for WWE 2K25. However, the developers and publishers could once again put their foot in it when it comes to the world.
Whether it’s Luke Gallows or Rey Mysterio, Rhea Ripley doesn’t shy away from attacking her male colleagues. In the future, wrestlers will have to watch out for ‘mommy’ not only in the analog ring but also in the virtual one.
As 2K officially announced, intergender wrestling is making its debut in the WWE 2K franchise. In the new installment, male and female characters can compete against each other, whether they are WWE superstars or player-created characters. The feature is not limited to certain modes.
While Chain Wrestling, Bloodline Rules and Underground Match are returning in WWE 2K25, Barricade Diving is a new addition. “You can climb on the apron or the commentary table, so why not on the barrier?” explained Derek Donahue, Lead Combat Designer at Visual Concepts, in a media interview. Players can run on the barricade and perform special diving moves.
Speaking of the ring: LED panels, which were previously indestructible, can now be broken. If a wrestler is thrown against them, “you can see the debris”. This remains for the duration of the fight. “So it’s not a bug,” Donahue clarified with a grin.
Open World: WWE 2K25 is following suit
NBA 2K has been known for its small open world in the player career for a few years now. Now WWE 2K is getting an open world too. “The Island” is the name of the new area, which, according to 2K, consists of various WWE themed areas. Players can explore the environment, compete with others, and fight for a place in the Bloodline with “The Original Tribal Chief” Roman Reigns.
There are no visual impressions yet – but one thing is certain: the open world is only available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series XS. A similar scenario already existed in NBA 2K24, which led to a lot of criticism.
Paul Heyman tells the story of the Anoa’i wrestling dynasty
The trio of features is completed by the new Showcase mode. This time, the legendary Anoa’i wrestling dynasty is the focus – moderated by Paul Heyman. Players can relive historic matches with Roman Reigns, The Rock, Yokozuna and more, as well as “what if?” scenarios in which players can change the outcome of famous fights.
WWE 2K25 will be released on March 14, 2025 – pre-orders are already available. Prices vary by platform and edition:
PC (Standard Edition only): €59.99 PlayStation 5 / Xbox Series XS (Standard Edition): €74.99
Deadman Edition: €99.99
Bloodline Edition: €129.99
The two special editions include a range of pre-order bonuses in addition to 24 hours earlier access. However, some of these are also available with the Standard Edition.
