WWE 2K24: A Legendary Wrestling Experience

The Evolution of WWE 2K

To truly appreciate WWE 2K24, it’s worth reflecting on the journey of the WWE 2K series. Originating as a collaboration between 2K Sports and Yuke's, the series redefined wrestling games with a focus on simulation gameplay and realism. After taking full control in 2019, Visual Concepts introduced significant overhauls, culminating in WWE 2K22, which rebuilt the franchise from the ground up.

With WWE 2K23, the developers expanded on those foundations, adding the critically acclaimed WarGames match type and further refining the MyRISE career mode. Now, with WWE 2K24, the developers aim to strike the perfect balance between honoring wrestling’s legacy and embracing modern gameplay trends.

Game Editions: Tailored for Every Wrestling Fan

One of the standout aspects of WWE 2K24 is its variety of game editions, ensuring players of all preferences can find an option that suits them. Here's a breakdown of each edition:

Standard Edition

The base version of the game includes everything players need to enjoy the core experience. Pre-ordering the Standard Edition unlocks the Nightmare Family Pack, featuring:

• Dusty Rhodes (1976)
• Stardust
• Undashing Cody Rhodes
• "Superstar" Billy Graham

This edition is ideal for casual fans or those new to the WWE 2K series.

Cross-Gen Digital Edition

Designed for players transitioning to newer consoles, the Cross-Gen Digital Edition offers access to both the previous and current-generation versions of the game. This edition also includes the Nightmare Family Pack, making it a versatile choice for gamers upgrading their hardware.

Deluxe Edition

For those who want the ultimate wrestling experience, the Deluxe Edition includes:

• Early access to the game (three days before official release)
• The Season Pass, featuring five DLC packs with additional Superstars and content
• MyRISE Mega-Boost and SuperCharger to accelerate career progression
• Exclusive MyFACTION content, including rare cards and perks

This edition is perfect for fans who want to dive deep into WWE 2K24's customization and progression systems.

Forty Years of WrestleMania Edition

A tribute to WrestleMania's legacy, this edition celebrates four decades of wrestling's grandest stage. Exclusive content includes:

• The WrestleMania 40 Arena
• "Macho King" Randy Savage
• Retro versions of Rey Mysterio and Trish Stratus
• Historic WrestleMania attires and entrances

This edition is a must-have for wrestling historians and collectors.

Bray Wyatt Edition

Honoring the late Bray Wyatt, this special edition features:

• A new playable version of "The Fiend"
• Themed arenas and attires inspired by Wyatt's haunting persona
• Additional eerie-themed MyFACTION content

This edition pays homage to one of WWE's most creative and enigmatic Superstars.

Revolutionary Gameplay Enhancements

At the core of WWE 2K24’s appeal are its refined gameplay mechanics. Building on the solid foundation of its predecessors, the game introduces several new features that elevate the wrestling experience:

New Match Types

Match variety is one of the game’s most exciting aspects. WWE 2K24 introduces:

• Guest Referee Matches: Take control of the match as a referee, influencing the outcome with unbiased calls—or blatant favoritism.
• Casket Matches: A chilling addition where players must incapacitate their opponent and lock them inside a casket.
• Gauntlet Matches: Face multiple opponents back-to-back, testing endurance and strategy.
• Ambulance Matches: A brutal match type where the objective is to incapacitate your opponent and place them in an ambulance.

Backstage Brawls and Weapons

The Backstage Brawl mode now supports up to six Superstars, turning confined spaces into chaotic battlegrounds. Players can use a variety of weapons, including microphones, trash cans, and steel steps, adding layers of realism and brutality to fights.

Super Finishers

The introduction of Super Finishers adds cinematic flair to critical moments. These moves allow players to deliver devastating, match-ending attacks that amplify the excitement and drama.

Modes: A World of Wrestling at Your Fingertips

WWE 2K24 boasts a rich array of modes, each offering unique gameplay experiences. Here's a closer look:

2K Showcase: Showcase of the Immortals

This year’s Showcase mode focuses on the history of WrestleMania, spanning 40 years of iconic matches. From Hulk Hogan’s era-defining battles to Becky Lynch’s trailblazing victories, the mode mixes gameplay with archival footage, immersing players in wrestling’s most memorable moments.

MyRISE

The career mode returns with two distinct storylines:

• Undisputed: A journey through the men’s division, highlighting rivalries, championships, and personal triumphs.
• Unleashed: A path through the women’s division, emphasizing empowerment and groundbreaking achievements.

MyRISE allows players to create custom Superstars and guide them from WWE Performance Center recruits to global icons.

MyFACTION

This mode combines strategic management with intense wrestling action. Players can assemble factions of Superstars and Legends, competing in single-player and online multiplayer modes. The addition of ranked quickplay matches enhances competitiveness, while seasonal content ensures a steady stream of updates.

MyGM

As a general manager, players draft rosters, book matches, and manage contracts. New features, such as Superstar trades and budget management, add depth and strategy, making every decision impactful.

Universe Mode

Universe Mode gives players full creative control, allowing them to craft rivalries, feuds, and storylines. Expanded rivalry actions and new cutscenes provide endless opportunities for storytelling.

Roster: A Dream Lineup of Wrestling Legends

The WWE 2K24 roster is a wrestling fan's dream, featuring over 200 Superstars, Legends, and rising stars. Highlights include:

• Current Champions: Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, Bianca Belair
• Legends: The Rock, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, Hulk Hogan
• Returning Icons: Kurt Angle, Lita, and Jeff Hardy
• Debut Superstars: LA Knight, Bron Breakker, and NXT’s brightest prospects

DLC packs further expand the roster, introducing groups like the nWo, WCW legends, and additional attires for fan-favorite characters.

Technical and Visual Mastery

WWE 2K24 takes full advantage of next-gen hardware, delivering stunning visuals and smooth performance:

• Graphics: Character models feature lifelike details, from muscle tone to facial expressions.
• Animations: Movements are fluid and realistic, with enhanced hair physics and collision detection.
• Environments: Arenas are beautifully rendered, capturing the grandeur of WWE events.

Technical improvements also include reduced load times and optimized online matchmaking, ensuring a seamless experience across platforms.

Reception and Community Feedback

Critics and players have praised WWE 2K24 for its ambitious features and polished gameplay. Key highlights include:

• The nostalgic appeal of Showcase mode
• The depth of MyGM and Universe modes
• The extensive roster and customization options

While minor bugs and balancing issues in online matches have been noted, they are far outweighed by the game’s strengths.

Game Details at a Glance

• Genre: Sports simulation, wrestling
• Year: Released in 2024
• Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC
• Game Modes: Single-player, local multiplayer, online multiplayer
• Developer/Publisher: Visual Concepts / 2K Sports
• Awards: Likely contender for Best Sports/Racing Game of 2024
• Ratings: Metacritic score ofbes 85+, user ratings averaging 8.5/10

Is WWE 2K24 Worth Your Time?

For wrestling fans, WWE 2K24 is an unmissable experience. Its blend of nostalgia, innovation, and sheer variety ensures there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re reliving WrestleMania classics, building a dominant faction, or scripting your own WWE universe, the game delivers hours of entertainment.

Our Verdict: 9/10

WWE 2K24 stands as a shining example of what a sports simulation game can achieve. It combines the drama and excitement of professional wrestling with cutting-edge technology, ensuring its place as one of the best entries in the WWE 2K series.