The Unsung Heroes: Who’s Missing from the WWE 2K22 Roster?
The roar of the crowd, the smell of sweat and liniment, the gravity-defying maneuvers – it’s all part of the captivating world of WWE. And for wrestling fans, few things are as exciting as diving into the latest WWE 2K game, ready to recreate classic matches and forge new rivalries. But every year, the roster omissions spark debate and disappointment. So, let’s get down to brass tacks: what wrestlers aren’t in WWE 2K22?
The simple answer is: a lot of them. While WWE 2K22 boasts a significantly improved and generally well-received roster compared to its predecessor, numerous popular and historically significant wrestlers are conspicuously absent. This absence stems from various factors, including contractual issues, releases, creative decisions, and licensing complications. To name just a few, we’re talking about notable names like:
- Jeff Hardy: A high-flying daredevil who remains popular worldwide. His absence is related to his release from WWE in December 2021.
- Bray Wyatt (The Fiend): A character whose unique persona made him a major draw. His release also contributes to this absence.
- Adam Cole: Now a star in AEW (All Elite Wrestling), Cole’s departure means his appearance in a WWE game is currently impossible.
- Johnny Gargano and Kyle O’Reilly: These former NXT stars had significant runs in WWE but moved on to other promotions.
- Keith Lee: Formerly known as “Limitless” Keith Lee, now known as Bearcat Lee, his release prevents his inclusion.
- Braun Strowman: Another surprising release from WWE, Strowman’s “Monster Among Men” persona isn’t present in 2K22.
- Ric Flair: “The Nature Boy” is a wrestling legend, but his departure from WWE and signing with other ventures make his inclusion complicated.
- CM Punk: Although he ended up back in wrestling with AEW after a long absence, his absence from WWE 2K22 is due to his earlier contentious departure from WWE.
- Daniel Bryan (Bryan Danielson): Now wrestling in AEW, his absence is due to his move.
- Undertaker: While appearing in several forms in previous games, his absence in certain “modern” forms might disappoint some fans.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it highlights some of the more prominent names missing from the WWE 2K22 roster. It’s crucial to remember that the gaming landscape is constantly shifting, and roster availability is subject to change with each installment.
The Reasons Behind the Roster Absences
Understanding why these wrestlers are absent requires looking at several key factors:
- WWE Releases: As mentioned above, many wrestlers were released from their WWE contracts prior to or during the game’s development. This instantly removes them from consideration, as WWE no longer owns their rights or likeness.
- Contractual Issues: Even if a wrestler is still signed with WWE, contractual disagreements regarding their appearance in the game can prevent their inclusion. These disagreements can relate to royalties, usage rights, or other financial considerations.
- Moves to Other Promotions: Wrestlers who sign with rival promotions, such as AEW, Impact Wrestling, or NJPW, are highly unlikely to appear in a WWE game. WWE is understandably reluctant to promote their competitors.
- Licensing Complications: Licensing issues surrounding a wrestler’s name, likeness, or catchphrases can also hinder their inclusion. This is especially true for wrestlers who have used multiple names or personas throughout their careers.
- Creative Decisions: Sometimes, the decision to exclude a wrestler is simply a creative one made by the game developers. They might prioritize certain characters or storylines over others, leading to some omissions.
- Legal Issues: Lawsuits or legal problems affecting a wrestler can make WWE wary of associating with them in a video game.
The Impact on the Gaming Experience
The absence of these wrestlers can significantly impact the gaming experience, especially for players who are fans of those specific individuals. It limits the ability to recreate dream matches, relive historical moments, or build custom storylines involving those characters.
However, the WWE 2K community is known for its ingenuity. Many players utilize the Creation Suite to create their own versions of missing wrestlers, often sharing their creations online for others to download. This helps to fill the void left by the official roster omissions. The Community Creations feature helps players make the game as close to what they want as possible.
WWE 2K22 FAQs: Addressing Your Burning Questions
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the WWE 2K22 roster, providing further insights and information:
What does “DLC” mean for WWE 2K22?
DLC (Downloadable Content) refers to additional content that can be purchased and added to the base game after its initial release. This can include new wrestlers, arenas, storylines, and other features.
Will missing wrestlers be added to WWE 2K22 as DLC?
It’s always possible, but unlikely for wrestlers who have joined competing promotions or have contentious relationships with WWE. DLC characters are usually planned well in advance.
How does WWE decide which wrestlers to include in the game?
The decision involves multiple factors, including current roster status, popularity, historical significance, contractual agreements, and creative considerations.
Can I create missing wrestlers using the Creation Suite?
Yes! The Creation Suite allows you to customize wrestlers, arenas, championships, and more. This is a popular way to add missing wrestlers to the game.
Are there any limitations to the Creation Suite?
Yes, there are limitations on the level of detail and customization possible. You might not be able to perfectly replicate a wrestler’s appearance or moveset.
What are “Community Creations” in WWE 2K22?
Community Creations is a feature that allows players to upload and download custom content, including wrestlers, arenas, and championships. This is a great resource for finding creations of missing wrestlers.
How do I download wrestlers from Community Creations?
Within the game, navigate to the Community Creations menu and search for the desired wrestler. You can then download them to your game.
What are the legal implications of creating and sharing wrestlers based on real people?
It’s a grey area. As long as you’re not profiting from the creations, it generally falls under fair use. However, using copyrighted logos or trademarks without permission could be problematic.
How often does the WWE 2K roster change?
The roster changes with each new installment of the game, typically released annually or bi-annually. Significant roster changes can also occur through DLC updates.
Why are some legends missing from WWE 2K22?
Legends are often included in the game, but their absence can be due to licensing agreements, contractual disputes, or creative decisions.
What is the relationship between WWE and 2K Games?
WWE licenses its intellectual property to 2K Games, allowing them to develop and publish the WWE 2K series. This is a business partnership that benefits both companies.
How can I influence which wrestlers are included in future WWE 2K games?
Providing feedback to 2K Games through their official channels, social media, and online forums can influence their decision-making process.
Does AEW have its own wrestling video game?
Yes! AEW has released its own video game, AEW: Fight Forever.
What happens when a wrestler leaves WWE after the game is released?
They typically remain in the game until the next installment, unless there are specific legal or contractual reasons for their removal.
How does WWE 2K22’s roster compare to previous WWE 2K games?
WWE 2K22 has a larger and generally more diverse roster than its predecessor, WWE 2K20. However, roster omissions are always a point of contention among fans.
The world of video games is about more than just playing, it’s about learning and community. For more on the intersection of gaming and education, check out the GamesLearningSociety.org website.
In conclusion, while WWE 2K22 offers a robust wrestling experience, the absence of certain key wrestlers is undeniable. The reasons behind these omissions are varied, ranging from contractual issues to creative decisions. However, the active WWE 2K community provides creative solutions through the Creation Suite and Community Creations, allowing players to partially fill the gaps and customize their wrestling world. The cycle continues as fans look forward to the next iteration, hoping their favorite wrestlers will finally make their digital debut.