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WWE 2K22 marks the return of the professional wrestling franchise after the widely criticized WWE 2K20, a stumble that led to the cancellation of WWE 2K21. This installment, developed by 2K, represents a two-year development cycle, a departure from the annual release schedule. Trailers and gameplay previews suggest a more focused and polished experience. But does WWE 2K22 deliver on its promise of a revitalized wrestling game? This review dives into the ring to find out.

Hits and Misses in the Squared Circle

WWE 2K22 Gameplay

A Revitalized Combat System

The most significant change in WWE 2K22 is the revamped control scheme. Gone are the complex grappling and reversal systems of previous entries. WWE 2K22 introduces light and heavy attacks that can be chained into combos, and combined with grapple inputs for even more devastating sequences. Even seasoned veterans will benefit from the in-game tutorial to master the new mechanics. This new system gives the wrestlers a more fluid, responsive feel, reminiscent of traditional fighting games. Each strike feels impactful, giving players greater control over their in-ring actions.

WWE 2K22 Gameplay

While the combat is improved, WWE 2K22 isn’t a hardcore fighting game. The combos aren’t overly complex, focusing on accessibility and fun. This approach caters to both newcomers and long-time fans. Reversals have also been redesigned. Instead of a simple button press, some reversals require predicting the opponent’s attack type (light or heavy). This adds a layer of mind-reading to the mix, even during finishing moves. The revised controls, combined with improved animations and physics, contribute to a more engaging and dynamic in-ring experience.

WWE 2K22 GameplayWWE 2K22 GameplayWWE 2K22 Gameplay

Returning Favorites and New Additions

WWE 2K22 offers a variety of match types, including singles, tag team, and Battle Royale, along with a tweaked Universe mode. But the real highlights are the revamped and returning game modes: MyRise (formerly MyCareer), MyFaction (card collecting and challenges), MyGM (management sim), and 2K Showcase (Rey Mysterio’s career).

WWE 2K22 MyRise

MyRise offers a substantial improvement over previous iterations. Players create their own wrestler and navigate a branching storyline with choices that impact their career trajectory. Rewards and progression systems further enhance the experience. While not perfect, the narrative and voice acting represent a significant step up from WWE 2K20, with separate storylines for male and female created wrestlers.

2K Showcase chronicles the iconic career of Rey Mysterio, revisiting memorable matches and moments. Completing objectives unlocks additional content, providing further insight into Mysterio’s legacy.

MyGM puts players in the role of a General Manager, drafting wrestlers and managing shows for Raw, SmackDown, or NXT. Strategic decisions and power cards influence show ratings and revenue. This mode provides a compelling management experience with surprising depth.

WWE 2K22 MyGM

Room for Improvement

WWE 2K22 Issues

Despite the improved combat, the reversal system can feel inconsistent, relying on guesswork rather than skill. Also, a fan-favorite feature – creating custom storylines – is absent. Other match types lack significant innovation, and some arenas from WWE 2K20 are missing. This gives the impression of a refined experience rather than a truly groundbreaking one.

WWE 2K22 Graphics

Visually, WWE 2K22 presents a mixed bag. While top-tier wrestlers look detailed, lesser-known characters appear less polished. Character skin textures in the creation suite also lack the realism of previous entries. Despite claims of graphical advancements, the lighting and shadows aren’t consistently impressive. On a positive note, performance is generally stable, with fewer crashes than previous installments. Some balancing issues are also apparent in MyGM mode, particularly concerning AI difficulty across different season lengths.

Conclusion

WWE 2K22 represents a significant step forward for the series, addressing many of the issues that plagued WWE 2K20. The revamped gameplay, engaging game modes, and improved performance make it a worthwhile experience for wrestling fans. However, some shortcomings, particularly in the reversal system, character models, and missing features, prevent it from being a true knockout. Ultimately, WWE 2K22 is a solid comeback, laying a strong foundation for future installments.