The 2K series of video games are often some of the most popular, and most maligned games released each year. Sometimes they are great editions into the series, and other times they are regrettable purchases. Fans have high expectations for WWE 2k25. There’s a lot to look forward to and a lot of apprehension around the next edition of the wrestling simulation.
When it comes to wrestling games the first topic is who is in it and what are they ranked. The full roster for WWE 2k25 has dropped, but the ratings are yet to come. There was already controversy over IYO Sky having her rating lower to 86 after it was initially revealed to be 89. A few other ratings have been released, including Bianca Belair sitting at 95, Logan Paul at 91, Liv Morgan at 91, and Naomi at 85, among others.
WWE 2K25 to have the biggest roster ever
Including variants of top names, there are more than 300 wrestlers set for this year’s game. Individuals like Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker will have versions that reflect their on-screen personas from over the years. However, these versions are locked behind in-game achievements and the full list has yet to be revealed.
The roster is set to pull from all three brands, SmackDown, Monday Night Raw, and NXT. This list also includes legends that many of today’s players never saw performing during their prime. For example, Bruno Sammartino, Chyna, Doink the Clown, Harley Race, and Razor Ramon are names who’ve been out of the industry for decades and players will get to relive some of their famous matches or create new dream matches in the game.
Growing concerns over monetization
Monetization has become a major issue in video games overall. This is especially apparent in all the 2K series. Take the NBA 2K series, which is one that is hit with some of the hardest feedback because of its monetization policies. Players frequently talk about spending 70 dollars on the game, only to be enticed to put more money in to get the full enjoyment of the product they already purchased or spend insane amounts of hours playing for little progress.
From early previews this is the concern about the Island of Relevancy mode in WWE 2k25. In this mode, players will create their own unique character and go about building them up to catch the attention of Roman Reigns and become a WWE Legend.
This is the next iteration of the MyPark and The Neighborhood from the NBA 2K series. It’s one of the reasons players frequently complained because so much of the monetization occurred here. Yes, it dropped you into a shared space to play with friends and other players online, but at what cost?
The Island of Relevancy cannot commit this same mistake. Players, especially in today’s economic climate, are not as quick to separate with their money to get more “fun” out of a product they’ve already purchased at full price. Expect this to be a contentious talking point when full reviews of WWE 2K25 are released.
If pro wrestling simulation is your thing for video gaming, WWE 2k25 already has your attention. There’s a lot to be interested in as more information is revealed, but fans are already expressing concerns about what is to come.