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Is WWE 2K19 playable on PC?

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Is WWE 2K19 Playable on PC? A Deep Dive

Yes, WWE 2K19 was playable on PC, and, with a few caveats, still is, in a limited capacity. While officially delisted from platforms like Steam, meaning you can no longer purchase it digitally, there are ways to still experience the game on your PC. Let’s explore the details, nuances, and alternative solutions for getting your wrestling fix on the PC platform.

WWE 2K19 on PC: A History

WWE 2K19 launched on PC to generally positive reviews, offering a robust wrestling experience with a deep roster, extensive creation suite, and engaging gameplay. The PC version boasted enhanced graphics compared to its console counterparts, provided your system met the necessary requirements. However, like many licensed games, its availability was time-limited due to licensing agreements regarding wrestlers’ likenesses, music, and other intellectual property. This eventually led to its removal from digital storefronts.

System Requirements

To run WWE 2K19 smoothly on PC, your system needed to meet certain specifications. Here’s a breakdown of the minimum and recommended requirements:

  • Minimum Requirements:
    • OS: 64-bit: Windows® 7 (latest updates) / Windows 8 (latest updates) / Windows 8.1 (latest updates) / Windows 10 (latest updates)
    • Processor: Intel Core i5-3550 / AMD FX 8150
    • Memory: 4 GB RAM
    • Graphics: GeForce GTX 670 / Radeon HD 7850
    • DirectX: Version 11
    • Storage: 50 GB available space
    • Sound Card: DirectX 9.0c compatible sound card
  • Recommended Requirements:
    • OS: 64-bit: Windows® 7 (latest updates) / Windows 8 (latest updates) / Windows 8.1 (latest updates) / Windows 10 (latest updates)
    • Processor: Intel Core i7 3770 / AMD FX 8350
    • Memory: 8 GB RAM
    • Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 / AMD Radeon R9 290X
    • DirectX: Version 11
    • Storage: 50 GB available space
    • Sound Card: DirectX 9.0c compatible sound card

Having at least 4GB of VRAM on your graphics card was crucial for a better visual experience, and the game required OpenGL 4.3 support.

The Delisting and Its Implications

The primary reason WWE 2K19 (and other older WWE 2K titles) disappeared from digital stores is due to licensing. Wrestling games rely heavily on real-world wrestlers, their entrance themes, and various other licensed elements. When these licenses expire, 2K Games is forced to remove the game from sale to avoid potential legal issues. This is a common practice in the gaming industry, particularly with sports titles.

Availability and How to Play Now

While you can’t buy WWE 2K19 on Steam anymore, here are a few ways you might still be able to play it:

  • Physical Copies: If you already own a physical copy of the game for PC, you can still install and play it. However, remember that the online servers are shut down, so you’ll be limited to offline modes.
  • Grey Market Keys: Be extremely cautious of purchasing game keys from unofficial or “grey market” websites. These keys might be illegitimate, revoked, or region-locked. Buying from these sources carries significant risk.
  • Second-Hand Digital Accounts: Similar to grey market keys, buying digital accounts that already own the game is risky. The original owner could reclaim the account, leaving you with nothing.
  • Emulation: Emulation is not relevant for a PC game like WWE 2K19.
  • Focus on Newer Titles: The latest installment, WWE 2K23, is available on PC and offers an updated roster, improved graphics, and refined gameplay mechanics. It is available on multiple platforms, including PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows PC.

The End of Online Services

It’s important to note that 2K discontinued the multiplayer servers for WWE 2K19 (and WWE 2K20) on June 30, 2022. This means that all online functionalities, including online matches and the community creations feature, are no longer available. The decision was made to shift focus to the newer WWE 2K titles, particularly WWE 2K22 and now WWE 2K23.

Community Creations: A Significant Loss

The shutdown of community creations was a major blow to many players. This feature allowed users to download custom wrestlers, arenas, and other content created by the community, significantly extending the game’s lifespan and replayability. Without it, the game’s content is limited to what’s included on the disc or digital download.

The Value of Older Games

Despite being delisted and having its online services shut down, WWE 2K19 remains a good game for those interested in offline wrestling experiences. Its gameplay is generally regarded as more polished and enjoyable than its successor, WWE 2K20, which was plagued with bugs and glitches. For fans of the era of wrestling represented in the game, it can still provide hours of entertainment in its single-player modes.

The Games Learning Society recognizes the value in studying older games. By examining titles like WWE 2K19, we can gain insights into game design, player engagement, and the evolution of the gaming industry. Learn more about the GamesLearningSociety.org.

FAQs: WWE 2K19 on PC

1. Can I still buy WWE 2K19 on Steam?

No, WWE 2K19 has been delisted from Steam and other digital storefronts due to licensing issues. You can no longer purchase it digitally.

2. What are the PC system requirements for WWE 2K19?

The minimum requirements include an Intel Core i5-3550 or AMD FX 8150 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a GeForce GTX 670 or Radeon HD 7850 graphics card. Recommended requirements include a better processor (i7 or AMD equivalent), 8GB of RAM, and a GTX 970 or R9 290X graphics card.

3. Why was WWE 2K19 removed from Steam?

The game was removed due to licensing agreements expiring, particularly concerning wrestlers’ likenesses and music rights.

4. Are the WWE 2K19 servers still active?

No, the servers for WWE 2K19 were shut down on June 30, 2022. All online functionalities are no longer available.

5. Can I still play WWE 2K19 offline?

Yes, you can still play the offline modes of WWE 2K19 if you own a physical copy or previously purchased a digital version.

6. Is WWE 2K19 better than WWE 2K20?

Many players consider WWE 2K19 to be a better game than WWE 2K20, citing its more polished gameplay and fewer bugs.

7. What happened to the Community Creations feature in WWE 2K19?

The Community Creations feature was shut down along with the rest of the online servers on June 30, 2022.

8. Can I download custom wrestlers in WWE 2K19 anymore?

No, since the Community Creations feature is no longer available, you cannot download custom wrestlers or other content.

9. Is it safe to buy WWE 2K19 keys from third-party websites?

Purchasing game keys from unauthorized third-party websites is risky and not recommended. The keys might be illegitimate, revoked, or region-locked.

10. What’s the best way to play a WWE 2K game on PC now?

The best option is to purchase the latest installment, WWE 2K23, which offers updated graphics, gameplay, and a current roster.

11. Does WWE 2K19 require a powerful PC?

While it doesn’t require a top-of-the-line PC, meeting the recommended system requirements will ensure a smoother and more visually appealing experience. A graphics card with at least 4GB of VRAM is recommended.

12. What type of graphics card does WWE 2K19 need?

The game requires a graphics card that supports OpenGL 4.3.

13. Why are older WWE 2K games not available for purchase?

Licensing issues, specifically related to wrestlers’ likenesses and music rights, are the primary reason why older WWE 2K games are removed from digital stores.

14. Are there any mods available for WWE 2K19 on PC?

While the official online services are down, a modding community may exist. Search online forums and communities for potential mods, but always exercise caution when installing unofficial software.

15. Is WWE 2K22 shutting down?

Yes, WWE 2K22 servers shut down on January 3, 2024.

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