Every year, I find myself stepping back into the virtual squared circle, lacing up my digital boots, and diving into the latest installment of the “WWE 2K” franchise. “WWE 2K25” marks my fourth consecutive review of the series, and as always, the game sticks closely to the established formula while gradually layering on new elements. Some of these additions are fantastic, while others feel like unnecessary roadblocks to the fun. Right out of the gate, “WWE 2K25” boasts an impressive roster of over three hundred superstars, spanning multiple eras. Whether you’re a fan of Seth “Freakin” Rollins, Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, or WWE Hall of Famers like The Undertaker, there’s plenty of dream matches to set up. The game’s Showcase mode, hosted by Paul Heyman, is an absolute highlight, this year specifically celebrating the legendary Bloodline faction with historic and what-if encounters that make this the best Showcase mode yet. The way the game presents these matches, with seamless transitions between real footage and in-game action, is more polished than ever.
Another welcome improvement comes in MyRISE, which for the first time features a single, multi-gender storyline where top stars like Bayley and Kevin Owens invade NXT in a power struggle. This approach makes the mode feel more immersive than ever, with branching choices that add a level of unpredictability to the storytelling. The return of chain wrestling, the inclusion of new match types like Underground and Bloodline Rules, and the addition of intergender wrestling all push “WWE 2K25” forward in meaningful ways. Even MyGM has gotten a boost with online multiplayer, making it easier to test your booking prowess against real-life opponents. Universe Mode also benefits from new cutscenes and commentary-driven promos, adding more dynamism to long-term storytelling. These improvements, while iterative, continue to make the franchise feel more complete with each passing year.
But then there’s The Island. WWE 2K25’s biggest new mode is also its most frustrating. On paper, it sounds like an exciting new way to experience the game—an open-world-inspired hub where you can undertake challenges, complete quests, and win favor with Roman Reigns. In execution, however, it’s an absolute slog. The absence of a map makes navigation a chore, and crucial information, such as where to find specific locked items, is nowhere to be found. The final straw for me was realizing that a piece of attire I’ve always used for my created wrestlers was locked behind The Island. Trying to obtain it became an exercise in frustration, with endless wandering and the creeping suspicion that I’d have to grind for it. And if grinding is involved, I’m out.
Microtransactions are also a bigger problem this year, as The Island introduces its own economy and separate character progression. Unlike MyRISE or MyFaction, characters you create don’t carry over, meaning if you’ve invested time in one mode, you’ll have to start from scratch elsewhere. It’s the kind of design choice that feels intentionally restrictive, pushing players toward spending real money instead of just enjoying the game’s offerings. This issue is compounded by the fact that some items that were previously free in past entries are now locked behind these systems, making progression feel more like an uphill battle rather than an organic reward for playing.
That said, even with its missteps, “WWE 2K25” remains a fantastic wrestling game. The action in the ring is as polished as ever, with fluid animations and responsive controls that make every match feel exciting. The AI has also seen slight improvements, making opponents more aggressive and strategic in their approach. The combination of gameplay tweaks and expanded modes makes this the best installment in years. If you’re a fan of the current WWE product, especially the Triple H-led era, then there’s plenty to love. The sheer depth of content ensures that whether you’re here for Showcase, Universe Mode, MyGM, or online competition, there’s always something to do.
It’s just a shame that The Island had to be such a focal point. If 2K had put as much care into making it engaging as they did with Showcase or MyRISE, it could have been a real game-changer. Instead, it’s the one major flaw in an otherwise excellent package. Wrestling fans will still find plenty to enjoy in “WWE 2K25,” but I can’t help but hope that next year’s game learns from this mistake and doesn’t put content behind frustrating mechanics and microtransactions. Until then, I’ll be busy putting Roman Reigns through a table the old-fashioned way, enjoying everything else this game gets right while avoiding the unnecessary grind.
8/10
Visit the game’s official website, Facebook, TikTok, X, Instagram, Twitch, and YouTube, for more information on WWE 2K25.
Related: Reviews by Nick Navarro
Gaming since I was given an original Nintendo as a kid. I love great storytelling and unique ingenuity. When both collide in a single game, I'm a happy gamer. Twitter/IG @NickNavarro87
More Stories
URBAN JUNGLE Demo Impressions on Steam
KONAMI Reveals SILENT HILL f: A Terrifying New Episode in the Legendary Horror Series
astragon Reveals Highly Realistic and Immersive Firefighting Simulation, Firefighting Simulator: Ignite