7.5

Review: WWE 2K25

WWE 2K25 marks the 25th anniversary of the popular sausage ranch. After a disappointing period around WWE 2K20 and a successful restart with WWE 2K22, this edition again tries to raise the bar. With enhanced gameplay, a renewed career experience and ambitious visual upgrades, WWE 2K25 is primarily focused on refinement and innovation. But does the game also know to make this happen?

Gameplay and Control
The gameplay of WWE 2K25 is a clear step forward. The struggle movements are more fluent, the transitions between animations are more natural, and there is noticeably more weight and impact in the fights. The control is largely unchanged, but feels tighter. Especially the timing of reverses and counters is better balanced, leading to fairer and more exciting matches.

The AI is smarter than in previous editions. Opponents now make greater use of tactical choices, such as targeting specific body parts or searching for escapes from the ring. Tag-team matches are also less chaotic, thanks to improved partner interaction.

The new mode: The Island
One of the biggest innovations in WWE 2K25 is The Island, a semi-open world experience in which you train with your own created wrestler, build rivalries and complete missions. This mode largely replaces the classic MyCareer structure and introduces RPG elements, such as choice-based dialogues and reputation systems. Although not every side mission is equally interesting, The Island offers a fresh and creative perspective for solo players.

Universe Mode and MyGM
Universe Mode is back with enhanced storyline control, more customizable rivalries, and the ability to actively manage scripts and promoâ€TMs. This makes it possible to create deeper narratives without external tools. MyGM has been expanded with new match types, larger rosters, multiple seasons, and more realistic budgeting. It remains a favorite among players who love strategy and management, and feels richer this year than ever.

Graphics and performance on PC
On a graphical level WWE 2K25 is impressive. The character models are more realistic, facial animations are more elaborate, and the lighting during shows provides more visual flair. The arenaâ€TMs eyes are vivid and dynamic, with an audience that responds better to in-ring events. On PC the game performs excellently, with support for high resolutions and framerates, although longer loading times and occasional texture pop-ins can occur.

Audio and presentation
The audio presentation is solid. The commentators are slightly less repetitive than in previous editions, and the sound of impact, audience and ringside action is convincing. The soundtrack is varied, with a mix of rock, hip-hop and pop that fits the atmosphere of WWE.

Online multiplayer and community creations
Online gameplay is more stable than before, with fewer delays and better matchmaking. The Community Creations are more extensive, faster to download and better integrated. Players can share and download their own arenaâ€TMs, superstars, logoâ€TMs and storylines, which significantly prolongs the game's lifetime.

Critical points
Not everything is perfect. Although The Island is a nice addition, it sometimes lacks depth or variety. Some animations have been reused from previous editions, and the micro transactions in MyFaction remain a disturbing element for players who want full access at no extra cost. Also, the learning curve for newcomers remains steep, partly due to the lack of a truly comprehensive tutorial.