WWE 2K25: The Island

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Approaching WrestleMania this year, we find ourselves drawn to 2K’s annual wrestling simulation, WWE 2K25. This latest installment offers fresh features, a larger roster of playable superstars, and a new multiplayer mode called The Island. However, the question remains: Does it keep up the good work that Visual Concepts has been doing in recent versions, or does this year’s game cross a line so wicked that even John Cena’s latest missteps seem tame by comparison?

Initially, let’s discuss the latest updates. For one, the transformation of the ladder match minigame is commendable. Moreover, new game types such as the Underground have been added, along with overall enhancements throughout the game. Therefore, we are delighted to say that 2K has once again produced a fantastic product. The return of intergender wrestling allows players to engage in matches against more opponents, which not only provides numerous exciting dream matches but also helps prevent the repetitiveness of certain modes by expanding the opponent pools.

In the upcoming WWE 2K25, wrestling enthusiasts will once more discover a wealth of value. Aside from the recurring spotlight features, they’ve been amplified and improved for an even better experience this year. For instance, the Showcase in WWE 2K25 chronicles the legendary Bloodline, allowing players to influence and potentially alter the trajectory of the Fatu, Maivia, and Anoa’i families’ careers within WWE. The entire package is skillfully presented by Hall of Fame manager Paul Heyman, who delivers captivating introductions for each match. To progress, players must meet specific requirements, and the matches then unfold as they did in reality, interspersed with gameplay segments. Unlike its predecessor, WWE 2K24, the periods of downtime have been minimized, reducing idle waiting time.

WWE 2K25’s Showcase mode is an excellent tool for fans or casual enthusiasts of this iconic wrestling empire, as it delivers a “documentary-style play experience” better than ever. However, some significant events are missing from the depicted moments, and the inclusion of time-bound optional tasks didn’t sit well with us. At times, with mere seconds left on the timer and no prior notice, even a single counter from our opponent could result in us failing, thus forfeiting the anticipated wrestler and costume unlocks, forcing us to repeat the entire match to receive the rewards again.

2K25’s WWE mode, MyRISE, starts off dramatically, as members from the NXT brand, both old and new, team up to sabotage, challenge, and cause chaos for those linked with RAW and SmackDown shows. This commotion occurs precisely when your custom superstar makes their debut, and the choice of a distinctive backstory influences character interactions and how the narrative unfolds.

In this game, replayability is key as your wrestler encounters bold, comedic, cunning, or supportive storylines based on your decisions. A new feature this year is creating both male and female MyRISE characters, as their interconnected narratives alternate control, rather than having separate stories for men and women as in the past. The character you pick to start MyRISE with will influence your gameplay experience. This unique narrative approach adds depth to the storyline of NXT’s power struggle, making the coup feel more real and immersive.

As a gamer, I’ve got to admit that the voice acting in this year’s MyRISE isn’t always top-notch. The heroes’ actors seem a bit off compared to the real wrestlers, and the mutinous crew’s actions feel a tad understated when they play out on the in-game social media feed. But despite these minor hiccups, this game’s story is nothing short of captivating – it’s easily the most intriguing tale 2K has crafted during their time in the gaming world, and it’s definitely worth a closer look.

In WWE 2K25, both MyGM and Universe modes have undergone improvements. The MyGM mode, where you strive to outrank friends or AI opponents, now offers a broader range of match types and a diverse selection of General Managers, each with distinct advantages. Notably, this mode also allows for multiplayer action online, with up to four players engaging in competition simultaneously. Similarly, the Universe mode retains its versatility, introducing the return of promos once more.

In WWE 2K25, the equivalent to Ultimate Team is called MyFaction, and while it retains similar gameplay mechanics as previous versions, it’s been updated with new features such as various card types, challenges, events, and towers. The World Tour mode lets players take their powerful team on a journey. Essentially, it offers more matches and opportunities to earn currency to purchase additional cards. If you’re a dedicated MyFACTION fan, these updates should be exciting.

MyFACTION can be played without spending any money, but the cost of some digital collectibles might make you raise an eyebrow; for instance, a Sapphire-tier Stone Cold Steve Austin Card costs around £10’s worth of VC (Virtual Currency). However, it’s not something I would personally invest in.

Moving on to discussing the highly anticipated feature in WWE 2K25, The Island mode: Roman Reigns has an opening on his Island of Significance, inviting aspiring wrestlers to explore his territory and demonstrate their skills with the aim of earning a WWE contract. To join the Bloodline, players can’t import existing characters; instead, they must create new ones from scratch. Once created, these hopefuls will be transported into an online environment reminiscent of PlayStation Home, where they can interact with other players, accomplish missions, and advance in levels.

If you’ve played NBA 2K’s The City mode, you might feel a bit cautious about this new concept. Unlike MyRISE where points are earned by completing stories, The Island requires you to use Virtual Currency (VC) to upgrade your wrestler, with many stats to enhance and a costly price tag. You can spend VC in various shops scattered around The Island, not just on tattoos or WWE Superstar merchandise, but also items from real brands like Nike and DSYF. Essentially, The Island feels like a massive online store right now. It’s well-branded, with different areas themed after specific wrestlers, but it could feel a bit commercial and raise concerns about future WWE 2K games if they decide to continue this model extensively.

In MyFACTION, you don’t need to purchase anything if you choose not to; the primary purpose for players is to win a contract for their avatar. However, this engaging concept leads to spending a lot of time walking from one part of the map to another to interact with quest givers before having a match. Despite the impressive visual design of The Island’s environment, these interactions are somewhat underwhelming, featuring static images of the characters you’re talking to and dialogue without voiceovers. It’s worth noting that if resources had to be allocated, we’d prefer them to be directed towards the Showcase and MyRISE modes. Fortunately, WWE 2K25 offers an enjoyable experience even without this new feature. As The Island develops over the next few months, we hope it doesn’t impact other modes that aren’t monetized.

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2025-03-10 21:07