8.5 /10 24

WWE 2K24 stands as the definitive modern wrestling simulation, refining the franchise’s revival into a polished, content-rich powerhouse that honors the industry’s history while pushing gameplay forward. Released during the road to WrestleMania XL, this iteration doesn’t reinvent the wheel but perfects it, adding nuanced mechanics like the Super Finisher and the Trading Blows mini-game that fundamentally change match pacing. Readers will discover how the “Showcase of the Immortals” mode serves as an interactive museum and why the deepened GM mode finally rivals the beloved managers of the past. This review breaks down exactly why this entry is the new king of the ring.

How to Play WWE 2K24

The core gameplay loop centers on simulation-style wrestling that rewards timing, strategy, and resource management over button mashing, offering a satisfying blend of arcade accessibility and simulation depth.

1. Controls – The combo-based grappling system returns, with light/heavy attacks and grapples. The learning curve is moderate; mastering reversals (Triangle/Y) and dodge mechanics is crucial for higher difficulties.
2. Progression – Players advance by unlocking legends in Showcase mode, earning VC to purchase arenas/superstars, and leveling up their custom wrestler in the dual MyRISE campaigns (Unleashed and Undisputed).
3. Combat/Mechanics – The new “Trading Blows” mini-game adds dramatic chop-battles. Super Finishers (using 3 stocks) can end matches instantly, adding a new layer of risk/reward strategy to long bouts.
4. Tips – Don’t just spam attacks; manage your stamina and stun meter. Use the new throwable weapons feature to turn the tide, and master the timing of the new camera-relative ramp cam.

Who Should Play WWE 2K24

This title is crafted for lifelong wrestling enthusiasts and simulation sports fans who appreciate deep roster management and historical reenactments.

• Player 1 – The Attitude Era fan who wants to relive classic matches like Steamboat vs. Savage with unparalleled production values.
• Player 2 – The creative architect who spends hours in the Creation Suite building custom arenas, belts, and wrestlers.
• Player 3 – Local multiplayer groups looking for chaotic fun with the new Ambulance and Casket matches.
• Skip if – You prefer the lightning-fast, arcade-style gameplay of No Mercy or find simulation stamina management tedious.

WWE 2K24 Platform Performance

Visual Concepts has optimized the engine beautifully for current-gen consoles, delivering rock-solid performance even during chaotic 8-man matches or Royal Rumbles.

WWE 2K24 System Requirements

The PC version is surprisingly scalable, running well on older hardware while scaling up to photorealistic sweat and lighting on high-end rigs.

Similar Games to WWE 2K24

While 2K dominates the sim market, alternatives exist for players seeking different pacing or management focus in the wrestling genre.

• AEW: Fight Forever – Offers a faster, more arcade-like experience reminiscent of N64 classics but lacks 2K’s visual fidelity.
• Fire Pro Wrestling World – The ultimate choice for deep customization and logic-based simulation, favoring sprites over 3D models.
• UFC 5 – For those who want real combat sports physics and grappling without the scripted entertainment aspect.
• WWE 2K23 – The direct predecessor; very similar but lacks the new match types and updated Wrestlemania roster.

WWE 2K24 vs Competitors

Comparing the market leader against its scrappy arcade rival and the broader sports simulation landscape reveals its premium positioning.

WWE 2K24 Story & World

The narrative centerpiece is the “2K Showcase… of the Immortals,” a documentary-style retelling of 21 of the greatest matches in WrestleMania history. Unlike a traditional story mode, this blends seamless live-action footage with gameplay, allowing you to transition from watching Hulk Hogan slam Andre the Giant to controlling the moment yourself. Additionally, the MyRISE career mode offers two distinct voice-acted storylines: “Undisputed” (Roman Reigns’ era dominance) and “Unleashed” (an indie darling breaking into WWE), providing meaningful choices that affect your wrestler’s alignment and alliances.

WWE 2K24 Multiplayer & Online

Online stability has seen improvements, with the MyFACTION mode serving as the primary live-service hub for competitive play.

• MyFACTION – A card-collecting team management mode similar to Ultimate Team, now featuring direct head-to-head online play.
• Online Lobbies – Custom match types available; up to 8 players in chaotic stipulations like Money in the Bank.
• Leaderboards – Ranked play is available for standard matches, tracking win/loss records globally.
• Cross-Play – Sadly missing; players can only compete within their console family (PS4/PS5 or Xbox One/Series).

WWE 2K24 DLC & Expansions

The post-launch roadmap is extensive, adding over 20 superstars including CM Punk and Post Malone through staggered releases.

• ECW Punk Pack – Adds CM Punk, Bubba Ray, and D-Von Dudley.
• Post Malone & Friends – Adds the musician alongside legends like The Headbangers.
• Season Pass – $39.99 for all 5 DLC packs and the MyRISE Mega-Boost.
• Free Updates – Periodic patches adding MyFACTION persona cards and stability fixes.

WWE 2K24 Community & Support

The game thrives on its passionate community creators who fill the gaps in the roster with photorealistic CAWs (Create-A-Wrestler).

• Community Creations – The in-game hub allows cross-platform downloading of user-created wrestlers and arenas.
• Reddit (r/WWEGames) – A massive hub for sharing creations, sliders, and troubleshooting bugs.
• Mod Support – Robust on PC (via ProWrestlingMods), allowing for ported music, arenas, and character models.
• Updates – Visual Concepts releases monthly patches addressing hitbox issues and AI logic.