As an expert wrestling simulator, the WWE 2K collection is already an entire package deal. It doesn’t simply provide a massive roster of wrestlers and arenas, however a protracted record of match sorts too. Ladder matches, TLC, backstage brawls — you identify it, and it’s there. What extra is there so as to add in a recreation that already has all of it?
WWE 2K25 has a number of solutions this 12 months, together with a brand new sort of battle: underground matches. Throughout a recent hands-on preview, I gave the choice for a spin in a collection of hard-hitting matches. Whereas it actually isn’t a game-changer, it would simply be one of the best new mode for informal gamers who wish to make a posh battle system only a bit simpler to choose up and play.
The hook of underground matches is straightforward: The ring has no ropes. Gamers battle on a flat canvas that solely has its nook turnbuckles in place. Just a few onlookers stand instantly at ringside, although the match nonetheless occurs in a traditional area stuffed with followers. There are not any pinfalls or submissions. Gamers solely win by knockout after taking down their opponent’s well being, just like the best way backstage brawls work. It makes WWE 2K really feel extra like a normal preventing recreation.
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Whereas that’s only a slight rule change, it does create some enjoyable moments that change the movement of battle. Fights really feel extra bodily since they’re extra about staying near my opponent and slugging it out relatively than working the ropes are climbing turnbuckles for high-flying spots. In a single match, I pitted Ethan Web page and The Rock towards each other in a hard-hitting — and bloody — slugfest. It’s not fairly a UFC struggle, but it surely’s the closest the 2K collection has ever come to reaching that tone.
The shortage of ropes opens the door for some enjoyable spots. In a single match, I managed Jade Cargill by a Liv Morgan beatdown. The crowning second of that conflict got here once I suplexed Liv instantly off the apron and onto the group, who scattered out of the best way. Moments like that make underground matches really feel each bodily and private like backstage brawls, however with out the cartoon gimmicks.
This seems like one of the best mode for individuals who simply wish to expertise WWE 2K in an informal setting. Nobody has to discover ways to execute pinfalls, climb turnbuckles, bounce off ropes, or something like that. It simply requires gamers to know how primary assaults and holds work. There’s extra nuance to it, however one may give attention to three buttons and nonetheless maintain their very own pretty effectively. It’s the collection’ personal model of “Remaining Vacation spot, no gadgets,” the Tremendous Smash Bros. Melee ruleset that the professionals swear by.
That’s not a motive to purchase WWE 2K25 by itself, but it surely’s a part of a wider suite of updates that feels substantial. There are Bloodline Guidelines matches, intergender clashes, a brand new open-world mode, on-line play in MyGM, and a lot extra coming on this 12 months’s entry. I think about that underground matches will change into probably the most substantial a part of my multiplayer rotation, although. It’s the perfect method to beat up your buds. WWE 2K25 launches on March 14 for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Collection X/S, and PC should you purchase one among its particular editions. Those that go for the usual version will get entry one week afterward March 7.
