WWE 2K24: The Final Form of the New Vision
Although not significantly distinct, WWE 2K24 surpasses its predecessor in almost every aspect.
WWE 2K24 Review – GameTopic
The pressure of an annual release schedule can be a curse for big sports series like WWE 2K – look no further than the maligned 2K20 to see why, a game so rough it actually forced publisher 2K to take two years off and regroup, leading to the redesign that got it to the much better place it’s at today. In many ways, WWE 2K24 seems like the final form of this new vision for the series. Some nagging bugaboos persist, but it’s marginally better in almost every other way than the last two. It touts small but smart additions to well-tested systems and modes as opposed to taking bigger risks.
The Gorgeous Wrestlers and Immortalized Announcers
It doesn’t take long to see that the title for “Best Looking Wrestling Game” is still locked firmly in the hands of the 2K series. This time around, there are far fewer wrestlers with outdated gimmicks, and the top stars look just like their real-life counterparts, from their signature hairdos to the details of their gear and tattoos. However, there are a few clear misses, like Bayley, that make you wonder if they even used the same tech to get people like Asuka so right. Announcers who have special flourishes for particular wrestlers also belt out their catchphrases, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the game. Even the referees resemble the ones seen on weekly television. It may not have been a necessary change, but it’s a welcome one considering they are recurring characters, even if they aren’t the center of attention.
Q&A Content: – Q: Who are some of the wrestlers that look amazing in WWE 2K24? – A: While most of the wrestlers in the game look fantastic, stars like Asuka and Roman Reigns are particularly impressive. However, there are a few exceptions, such as Bayley, who doesn’t quite live up to the same level of realism.
Super Finishers and Trading Blows
When it comes to mechanics, WWE 2K24 doesn’t bring many sGameTopical changes compared to the previous edition. However, the biggest addition is the Super Finisher, which allows you to spend three finisher stocks to perform a bigger, more devastating version of your finisher move. These Super Finishers live up to their moniker, as it’s highly unlikely for opponents to kick out of them. Building up enough finisher stocks can be a challenge since every second spent in a match is an opportunity for the tides to turn against you. Another new addition is the trading blows minigame that appears infrequently and unprompted, usually at the beginning of a match. It’s a contest where you and your opponent take turns filling a gauge at increasing speeds, and the one who fails to fill it correctly or runs out of stamina becomes vulnerable to a big attack. While the minigame feels abrupt, it’s not as pervasive as the minigame overload of previous installments.
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Q&A Content: – Q: What are Super Finishers in WWE 2K24? – A: Super Finishers are devastating, high-impact variations of your finisher move that can only be unleashed by spending three finisher stocks. Once performed, opponents will have a hard time kicking out.
More Tweaks and Subtle Additions
WWE 2K24 offers several subtle tweaks and additions that enhance the overall gameplay experience. There are new weapon options like microphones, and smaller objects can now be thrown to deal damage from a distance. Non-legal tag team partners are limited to one interference before being locked out of leaving the apron without being formally tagged in. This prevents unfair advantage against players in tag matches. New paybacks, such as Iron Jaw, which shakes off the stunned condition, add variety to strategies. Additionally, the AI improvements ensure that managers act more audaciously in favor of their clients, making matches feel more dynamic. From bell to bell, the wrestling in WWE 2K24 is better than ever, even if the improvements might not be overtly noticeable.
Q&A Content: – Q: What are some of the subtle additions in WWE 2K24? – A: WWE 2K24 introduces new weapon options like microphones and improves on tag team matches by limiting non-legal interference. Additionally, new paybacks like Iron Jaw provide strategic advantages, and the AI is more dynamic in favor of managers.
WrestleMania Moments and Story Modes
In WWE 2K24, the WrestleMania Showcase mode allows players to relive iconic moments from WrestleMania’s history. However, the selection of matches included doesn’t always capture the true essence of these memorable fights. While the mode has improved in removing the need to complete every mid-match objective to progress, it still falls short of recreating the feeling of watching historically great matches. The transitions between gameplay and real match footage can feel jarring and frequent, disrupting the flow of the experience. Some notable exclusions in the mode also leave fans wishing for a more thorough celebration of wrestling’s best moments.
On the other hand, MyRise, WWE 2K’s story mode, returns with two engaging tales for created characters to embark on. The Unleashed story mirrors last year’s theme of starting over under the WWE umbrella after being a big star on the indies. The Undisputed story revolves around the power vacuum at the top of the men’s division when Roman Reigns abdicates the throne. Both stories are filled with content, including funny gags, returning characters, and some truly outrageous events that make full use of the game’s video game format.
Q&A Content: – Q: How does the WrestleMania Showcase mode work in WWE 2K24? – A: The WrestleMania Showcase mode allows players to relive iconic moments from WrestleMania’s history. However, the selection of matches included might not always live up to the hype.
- Q: What story modes are available in WWE 2K24?
- A: WWE 2K24 features MyRise, a story mode that offers two different tales for created characters to experience. The Unleashed story focuses on starting over under the WWE umbrella after being a star on the indies, while the Undisputed story centers around the power vacuum left when Roman Reigns steps down as the top wrestler.
Booking Your Own WrestleMania Moments
For players who want to create their own WrestleMania moments, Universe Mode and MyGM provide ample opportunities. MyGM mode allows you to make post-PLE trades, wheel and deal with rivals, and strategize to build the perfect roster. Superstars have individual ring levels that can be enhanced through training and booking, giving them specific perks. The addition of new general managers and a wide range of power cards makes the MyGM mode more exciting than ever.
Universe Mode allows you to take control of booking the entire WWE Universe or follow the journey of a particular wrestler. While Universe Mode doesn’t bring significant changes from previous years, it still offers a robust experience. However, there are missing features, such as the ability for superstars to cut promos on one another, that remind us there is room for improvement.
Q&A Content: – Q: What is MyGM mode in WWE 2K24? – A: MyGM mode allows players to act as general managers, making trades, and utilizing power cards to build and manage their own roster.
- Q: What is Universe Mode in WWE 2K24?
- A: Universe Mode gives players the ability to book the entire WWE Universe or follow the journey of a specific wrestler. However, some features found in previous editions, such as the ability for superstars to cut promos, are missing.
Conclusion
WWE 2K24 is a solid entry in the series, representing the final form of the new vision after the troubled release of 2K20. The game boasts impressive visuals, small but smart additions to gameplay, and engaging story modes. While there are still some missed opportunities, particularly in the Showcase mode, the overall experience is enjoyable and provides plenty of options for fans to create their own wrestling fantasies.
Reference List: – WWE 2K24 Official Website – 2K Games – WrestleMania Official Website
