WWE 2K25 Review

Marcel Dee

24 Mar 2025 • 4 min read

As WrestleMania season approaches, so does another entry in the WWE 2K series. WWE 2K25 builds on the successes of its predecessor, WWE 2K24 while introducing some new features, game modes, and enhancements to an already solid foundation. But does it have what it takes to be the undisputed champion of wrestling games, or does it need to tag out?

A Stacked Roster with Legacy Content

This year’s installment boasts an impressive roster of over 300 superstars, plus managers and GMs, ensuring a deep and varied selection. A notable improvement is the inclusion of persona cards from WWE 2K24, allowing players to utilize alternate versions of their favourite wrestlers right from the start. Whether you want to play as classic legends or the hottest current superstars, the lineup is packed with options.

The Bloodline Dynasty Takes Center Stage in Showcase Mode

This year’s WWE 2K Showcase mode highlights the legendary Bloodline dynasty, chronicling the legacy of icons like The Rock, Roman Reigns, The Usos, and the Wild Samoans. The game allows players to relive key moments from their careers, but what makes it unique is the ability to rewrite history. Imagine Tamina winning Money in the Bank or The Headshrinkers toppling The Steiner Brothers—it’s a fresh way to experience the past.

A highlight of Showcase mode is the behind-the-scenes insight provided by real-life family members. Hearing them share personal anecdotes about their wrestling lineage adds an emotional depth that hardcore fans will appreciate. Completing this mode unlocks additional superstars, making it a rewarding experience beyond just reliving classic matches.

Bloodline Rules Matches Bring Chaos and Fun

One of the standout features in WWE 2K25 is the new Bloodline Rules Match. Inspired by the WrestleMania spectacle, this match type allows players to summon reinforcements mid-fight, shifting the momentum dramatically. If your opponent builds enough meters, they can call in multiple allies to help them turn the tide, leading to absolute mayhem in the ring. It’s unpredictable, chaotic, and incredibly entertaining—easily one of the best new additions this year.

Improved Visuals and Realism

Visually, WWE 2K25 continues to refine its presentation. Character models have received updates, though some wrestlers remain unchanged from previous iterations. A welcome new feature is the inclusion of visible bruising and blood effects for both male and female competitors, adding a layer of realism to matches. The ability to engage in intergender wrestling is another first for the WWE 2K series, offering more freedom in match customization.

MyRise: A New Era Story Mode

MyRise, the game’s story-driven career mode, offers an engaging experience where players make choices that shape their path to stardom. Whether in the men’s or women’s division, the storylines adapt based on decisions, creating a more personalized journey toward becoming the face of WWE’s "new era."

Chain Wrestling Returns

Classic chain wrestling mechanics make a return, allowing for a more fluid and technical approach to grappling. Fans of realistic in-ring action will appreciate the depth this adds to matches, giving skilled players more opportunities to outmaneuver their opponents.

New Camera Angles for Entrances

A simple but effective addition is the ability to control camera angles during entrances. This feature, though minor, enhances the immersion and allows players to appreciate the spectacle of WWE entrances in new ways.

MyFaction: Easier Persona Card Access

MyFaction mode sees some improvements, particularly in how players obtain persona cards. These alternate versions of superstars add variety and extend the game’s longevity. However, at its core, MyFaction remains WWE’s answer to Ultimate Team, meaning microtransactions still play a role.

A major new addition is The Island, a mode reminiscent of NBA 2K’s MyCity. Here, players create a wrestler and explore a shared online space filled with challenges and PvP opportunities. While potentially an exciting concept, its long-term success hinges on whether it can keep players engaged without excessive reliance on microtransactions. During the review period, The Island felt empty, leaving its future uncertain.

Universe Mode: Play as One Superstar

Universe Mode, the classic sandbox experience, makes a return with the Superstar Mode variation. This allows players to control a single wrestler while attempting to dominate a chosen brand. While not drastically different from last year’s iteration, it remains a solid mode free from heavy microtransaction influence.

MyGM: Online Play Expands, but Needs More Features

The MyGM mode allows players to book shows, manage talent, and compete against rivals to create the best wrestling brand. Online functionality expands the experience, but the inability to spectate matches is a disappointing omission. Additionally, more match types—such as Royal Rumble—would help make MyGM feel more complete.

Creation Suite: The Ultimate Customization Experience

Customization remains a strong point in WWE 2K25. The Creation Suite allows players to modify nearly every aspect of the game, including:

Custom Superstars
Entrance animations
Championships
Shows and arenas
Custom Matches
Video packages and Titantron graphics

Fans will no doubt enjoy crafting their dream wrestlers, whether it’s recreating legends, adding fictional characters, or designing original talent.

Final Verdict

WWE 2K25 refines the series rather than revolutionizing it, but the additions it brings are meaningful. The Bloodline Dynasty Showcase, Bloodline Rules Matches, and expanded customization elevate the experience, while visual enhancements and intergender wrestling add more realism and variety. However, The Island mode's viability remains questionable, and certain areas like MyGM and MyFaction could still use improvements.

For longtime fans, WWE 2K25 delivers another solid wrestling experience, though it may not be a game-changer. If you loved WWE 2K24, this year’s entry provides enough new content to justify the upgrade, even if some features still feel like they’re holding back the franchise’s full potential.