WWE 2K22 Review – PlayStation 5

WWE 2K22 is a long-awaited release that brings a lot of evidence against releasing an IP yearly. Taking a couple years off to learn from the mistakes of the previous two releases proved to be a smart move. A newly adjusted gameplay engine, a better theatrical flair for entertainment, and a more playable game that allows for an overall better experience. There were a few flaws, but the overall experience makes it easy to overlook the bad.

The new engine gives off a more arcade style approach, which is by far more superior compared to the predecessor. 2K22 does a great job of making grappling feel realistic and allows matches to be faster. Grappling is simplified to light and heavy moves, which makes it easier to. Melee combos can be easily achieved, but the downside being that button mashing becomes an instant result. A new counter called Breaker, allows players to react to strikes and grapples by pressing the same button their opponent may be pressing and stopping them upon success. With it being a guessing game, the results can lead to soaking up damage for guessing the wrong input. It also allows for both players to get moves in without having to see who can outlast counters like in previous installments.

2K22 is a stunning title for the franchise. Character models are very accurate, the animations look clean and smooth, and the cinematography/lighting improvements truly breathe life into their surroundings. The UI is simple and allows you to absorb your surroundings better. Even the crowd received some love and attention. The main menu is easy to navigate and has plenty for players to go through. There were not many glitches either. Smaller ones a character getting caught up or changing shape can occur, but barely affect any enjoyment. They do not happen often enough to spoil the experience. Online play had more of an issue due to lag and server issues. I imagine this will improve over time and become a thing of the past.

2K22 has a ton of modes to try out and enjoy. Showcase is an interactive documentary that lets players play as the legendary star Rey Mysterio and follow his career by playing a selection of 12 matches. There are a few great additions to this mode such as transitions from the actual match footage. MyGM gives you control of a single brand. Allowing you to draft superstars and book shows to be on top of the ratings against rival brands. Universe mode allows you control over everything, allowing players to essentially live out their fantasies with the huge roster of over 200. MyFaction is another new mode where players can collect trading cards to create your own faction and battle other player factions with your collection in the ring. There are daily, weekly, and tower challenges that help give you currency to purchase more card packs; otherwise, it is your standard vs mode, but with a great twist.

MyRise allows players to create a wrestler from scratch, including choosing their background. Character creation may not be as diverse as many would hope, but there is plenty of customization for players to go through and feel immersed in the experience. Starting from practicing in the Performance Center and working your way up to being on the main roster, there is plenty to do. You can agitate your opponents over social media, force them into a match, and beat them into submission. Plus you can add some hilarious antics like making the loser wear a humiliating costume. There are side goals as well that can help boost your stats. Some are fairly easy and can be attempted at any time. Others can lead down a rabbit hole that can take some time to complete.

2K22 has come a far way from its predecessors. Improving the overall experience and upgrading the gameplay engine were definitely in the right direction. Giving love to all of the details including the backgrounds really make it very soft on the eyes and aesthetically pleasing. The gameplay has a ton of improvements making it a more enjoyable and simple experience. As well as being able to play a variety of modes thanks to the amount available. Between Universe mode and MyRise, there is plenty to do and love in 2K22. I would recommend everyone to give it a try.

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Author: Josh Coffman

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