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Is It Worth Upgrading to WWE 2K23? A Deep Dive for Wrestling Game Fans

In a word: Yes, especially if you’re coming from anything older than WWE 2K22 or are a dedicated wrestling game enthusiast. WWE 2K23 represents a solid step forward, refining the gameplay and adding meaningful content that makes it a worthwhile upgrade. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, the improvements across the board – from smoother controls and enhanced modes to a compelling Showcase mode and robust creation suite – create a more polished and engaging experience. If you skipped 2K22, then 2K23 is an absolute must-buy to get you back into the virtual squared circle.

What Makes WWE 2K23 Stand Out?

WWE 2K23 doesn’t just slap a new coat of paint on last year’s model; it takes the solid foundation of 2K22 and builds upon it. Here’s what makes it a worthwhile upgrade:

Improved Gameplay: The core gameplay feels more fluid and responsive. While the control scheme is largely the same as 2K22, the animations are smoother, and the overall pacing is better. This leads to more believable and exciting matches. The developers have clearly listened to fan feedback and addressed some of the clunkier aspects of the previous installment.
Revamped Modes: Several key modes receive significant upgrades. MyGM mode is deeper, with more GMs to compete against, and cards to disrupt rival shows, and the ability to play beyond one year, adding considerable replay value. The Universe mode offers more customization options, and the MyRise mode provides a more engaging career experience with less restrictive storytelling. Custom Money In The Bank matches are also a welcome addition, bringing back a beloved feature missing for too long.
John Cena Showcase: This year’s Showcase mode focuses on John Cena’s legendary career, but with a unique twist. Instead of playing as Cena, you play as his opponents, reliving his most famous losses. This offers a fresh perspective on his career and provides challenging and engaging gameplay scenarios.
Creation Suite Enhancements: The creation suite remains a series strength, but in 2K23, it gets even better. More options for customizing your superstar, including expanded titan tron creation tools, add a new layer of depth to character creation. These improvements cater to players who love to build their own wrestling universe.
Visual Polish: While not a massive leap, the graphics are noticeably improved. Character models look more realistic, and the arenas are more detailed. The overall presentation is slicker and more polished, contributing to a more immersive experience.

Potential Drawbacks

Despite the improvements, WWE 2K23 isn’t without its drawbacks:

Gameplay Familiarity: If you were expecting a radical departure from 2K22, you might be disappointed. The core mechanics remain largely the same, so if you didn’t enjoy the previous game, this one might not change your mind.
Missing Features: Some features that were present in older WWE games, such as weapon grapples and double-title matches, are still absent. While not deal-breakers, their absence is still noticeable to long-time fans.
Showcase Mode Objectives: While the John Cena Showcase is fun, some of the mandatory objectives within the matches can be frustrating, pulling you out of the experience.
PC Performance: While the game is available on PC, some users have reported performance issues. It is advised to check user reviews and ensure your system meets the recommended requirements.

Considering the Deluxe Edition

The Deluxe Edition of WWE 2K23 offers several enticing bonuses, including:

Early Access: Get the game three days before the official release.
Season Pass: Access to all five post-launch DLC character packs, expanding the roster with new superstars.
MyRISE Mega-Boost and Supercharger Packs: Unlock all base-game WWE Legends and throwback arenas, and get a boost in MyRISE mode with additional attribute points.

If you plan on playing the game extensively and want access to all the available content, the Deluxe Edition is definitely worth considering.

WWE 2K23: A Worthy Upgrade

WWE 2K23 is not a revolutionary title, but it’s a refinement of a solid base. The smoother gameplay, enhanced modes, and expanded creation suite make it a worthwhile upgrade for most wrestling game fans. While some missing features and occasional frustrations might hold it back from being a perfect game, it’s a clear improvement over its predecessors and offers a lot of content for both casual and hardcore players.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision about upgrading to WWE 2K23:

1. Is WWE 2K23 significantly different from 2K22?

Yes, but it’s more of an evolution than a revolution. The core gameplay mechanics are similar, but 2K23 features smoother controls, enhanced modes, and a new Showcase mode. The AI has been tweaked to be more challenging, and several quality-of-life improvements have been implemented.

2. Is WWE 2K23 worth buying if I haven’t had a WWE game since 2K16?

Absolutely! If you haven’t played a WWE game since 2K16, WWE 2K23 will feel like a massive upgrade. The graphics, gameplay, and overall experience have come a long way, and you’ll find plenty of new features and content to enjoy, like custom Money In The Bank matches and a greatly improved Universe mode.

3. What are the benefits of the WWE 2K23 Deluxe Edition?

The Deluxe Edition includes 3-day early access, a season pass with all five post-launch DLC character packs, the MyRISE Mega-Boost pack, and the Supercharger pack, unlocking all base-game WWE Legends and throwback arenas.

4. Can I upgrade WWE 2K23 (PS4) to PS5?

Yes, in some cases. If you purchase the Deluxe Edition (PS4) in a retail store, you will receive a PS4 disc and a voucher to redeem the Deluxe content and the PS5 digital version of the game. Check the packaging for specific details.

5. Is WWE 2K23 Next Gen only?

No, the Standard Edition is available on previous-gen platforms (PS4, Xbox One) and on current-gen consoles (PS5, Xbox Series X|S) in both physical and digital formats. It is also available on PC.

6. Is it worth it to buy WWE 2K23 if I enjoyed 2K22?

Yes, most likely. WWE 2K23 builds upon the foundation of 2K22, offering a more refined and complete experience. If you enjoyed the gameplay and modes in 2K22, you’ll likely appreciate the improvements in 2K23.

7. What features are missing from WWE 2K23?

Some features from older WWE games, such as weapon grapples, weapon finishers, and double-title matches, are not included in WWE 2K23.

8. Is WWE 2K23 better than 2K22?

Generally, yes. WWE 2K23 offers smoother gameplay, enhanced modes, and a more polished overall experience compared to 2K22.

9. I only play single-player franchise mode. Is 2K23 better than 2K22 for me?

Yes. WWE 2K23 is considered to be significantly better than 2K22, particularly for single-player franchise mode gamers.

10. What is the most successful WWE 2K game?

According to some rankings, WWE 2K23 is the most successful WWE 2K game, based on recent fan reception and overall improvements. However, some may still prefer older titles based on nostalgia or specific features.

11. Does WWE 2K23 have a career mode?

Yes, WWE 2K23 features MyRISE, which is the career mode where you create your own wrestler and guide them from obscurity to main event status.

12. Why isn’t Bray Wyatt in WWE 2K23?

WWE 2K23 was released in March, a few months after Wyatt made his WWE return. There wasn’t enough time to include him in the initial roster. He will likely appear in a future DLC pack or the next game.

13. Is there blood in WWE 2K23?

Yes, the blood feature is available in WWE 2K23, but it’s off by default in the settings. You can enable it to have more violent matches.

14. Is MyGM mode in WWE 2K23 good?

Yes, MyGM mode is a clear improvement in 2K23. There are small changes that make it much more engaging and enjoyable to play through, like the assistant GM who provides helpful guidance.

15. What’s the difference between the WWE 2K23 Deluxe and Standard editions?

The Deluxe Edition includes the base game plus early access, a season pass for DLC, the MyRISE Mega-Boost, and the Supercharger pack. The Standard Edition only includes the base game.

The skills you use in the digital wrestling ring can even transfer to real-world learning, as explored by the Games Learning Society and other research organizations studying the intersection of games and education. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.

Is it worth upgrading to WWE 2K23?