![]() ![]() ![]() While the dreaded social feed is still present in 2K23, we were thrilled to discover a return to a much more focussed, linear narrative. The previous MyRise offering in WWE 2K22 had an over-reliance on the in-game social media feed, with much of the game’s “Stories” taking place with minimal fanfare and no real overarching narrative. A similar tale of underdog tenacity can be found in the female story, where you’re cast as the niece of a fictitious WWE Hall of Famer as you attempt to escape her shadow and forge your own path. Unfortunately, he’s immediately saddled with a very rough gimmick (character) from management that he must outgrow and overcome. The male campaign sees you lace up your boots as The Lock, a world-travelled, indie wrestling standout who fulfils his dream of joining the WWE. Acting as the title’s career mode, you’ll either play as The Lock or The Legacy. Thankfully, 2K23’s MyRise mode is much improved. Additionally, there are a few high-profile losses notable by their absence (CM Punk, anyone?), and some of the animated/real footage combos that separate gameplay go on for a really long time – in one, we were just sat watching real footage of the final few minutes of the match. While we certainly appreciate John Cena must be an extremely busy man, this year’s mode fell flat for us on account of the vast stretches of silence between his appearances. ![]() After a pre-match monologue, players are left to themselves, with no commentary, no pointers or narration from the subject of the Showcase – as with Rey last year – and with only a generic soundtrack and crowd noise for company. Playing through Cena’s biggest defeats as he “tries to get his wins back” is a fun way to freshen up the formula, but we just wish it was a bit more engaging. In an interesting twist, you don’t actually play as Mr Cena, instead taking on the role of the big names that’ve manage to upset him over the years. The man himself is on hand to talk you through encounters with some of his greatest rivals, with you then playing through these matches, completing objectives in line with real events as archive footage melds with in-game animation. Here, much like with Rey Mysterio’s run last year, the spotlight is shone on the 16-time world champion’s 20-year career in WWE. This year’s flagship mode is the John Cena Showcase. With over 180 playable wrestlers there’s plenty to choose from too, and although a number of them feature outdated entrance music and attires, it’s a far more up-to-date roster than we had in 2K22. It’s difficult to say whether or not this year’s release looks better, but certainly the scans of the superstars are excellent, with entrances, and moves motion captured to preserve this pristine presentation. It’s good news, then, that at least you’ll be looking darned good while being kicked in the face, as the overhauled lighting engine from last year’s game is back in action. More complex controls are also in the mix for experienced players allowing for the lifting/positioning of opponents – as well as outside-the-ring offence – and usually involve utilising the right stick or a shoulder button. An accessible, combo-based system will see you opening up an assault with a light strike, before continuing with a mix of light, heavy, and grab attacks to produce a variety of violent offence. Those of you who played last year’s WWE 2K22 will feel right at home with how the game plays, as, for the first time in a good few years, 2K has stuck with the same control scheme. Standing on the shoulders of WWE 2K22’s solid efforts, the hulking mass of WWE 2K23 can barely fit through the door, boasting such an obscene number of playable modes, match types, and grapplers that it not only wants to consume all of your free time but then drop an elbow for good measure. Yes, the teams and kits may be updated, player ratings may be tweaked, and 4K beard follicles may now be visible in replays, but that’s usually your lot. Minor tweaks and improvements are the usual selling points of annualised sporting titles. ![]()
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