“WWE 2K24” video gameplay. (Take-Two Interactive Software/Contributed)
When the annual sports game returns, it's hard to tell if anything has changed, let alone if it's actually worth picking up. By relying on its storied heritage, WWE 2K24 creates a strong roster for the game that brings improvements and familiar problems.
The big twist for this year's match is the addition of a showcase featuring matches from throughout the event's history, as it coincides with WrestleMania 40. “WWE 2K14” from 10 years ago did the same thing, but each year's WrestleMania match included at least one of his matches.
In this game, the showcase mode jumps around the timeline, unfortunately leaving out many famous matches. Similar to last year's games, there is no commentary on the matches, and footage of the actual match often cuts out when players complete certain goals.
The novelty of Showcase mode wears off quickly. Without commentary or even commentary from the wrestlers during the gameplay, these matches start to feel soulless. Even if you're just looking for a trip down memory lane, it's better to watch the actual match.
The real draw of this game is the improved MyGM mode. This mode allows the player to draft a roster and compete with the player or his CPU to see who can run the best promotion. Players can now swap wrestlers to get more of a feel for the sports simulation, and an XP system has been added to make top stars feel even more valuable to the brand.
Another big change is the new progression system. Now, there is no need to wait for improvements to be unlocked, and players can choose from a variety of tracks as long as they have the money.
One of the big surprises of the game is that the career mode is actually pretty good this time around.
For the past few years, career mode has been filled with terrible writing and storylines that don't even come close to what happens on TV. Well, the writing is solid, with some interesting references for longtime fans, and features a story that could pass as an actual pro wrestling plot. The male and female created characters have stories, which helps ensure that neither one overstays their welcome.
One of the biggest issues since its release has been a glitch that interferes with the creation of downloaded communities. One of the things that makes these games unique is the dedicated community that uploads wrestlers, arenas, images, and belts for players to enjoy.
Lately, these titles have been causing problems for players by causing errors about exceeding the download limit. This is a game-critical issue and we hope it will be resolved soon.
Another disappointment is the lack of major changes to the popular Universe mode. This is a mode that was a big factor in the game's longevity, as it allowed players to simulate and carry out their vision of a wrestling company. It feels old these days, but aside from a few small tweaks, the mode is the same as the old one.
What's worse is that there are still problems such as rivalries not functioning properly.
New match types, changes in presentation, and an impressive roster underpin this game. It's not night and day different from last year's game, but it builds on a solid foundation even further. If the developers can iron out all the issues with creating a community, this could be the best WWE game in years. “WWE 2K24” currently has 4 out of 5 stars.
