WWE 2K23 Review

After the reinvention in the previous year laid a solid foundation, WWE 2K23 has come out even stronger, as it has refined almost every aspect for the better. You will find greater flexibility in combat without any added burden and there is no compromise in open-ended gameplay, even though more focused stories are told via the MyRisecampaign. The flagship game from WWE certainly deserves to be at the top of the wrestling game table.

The improvements

In terms of sound and looks, 2K wrestling games have proven to be a hit or a miss for the most part. Therefore, it is good to know that 2K23 has fallen in the ‘hit’ category. Some characters have adopted newer attitudes and looks and almost everyone looks good, with just a few exceptions. On the high end, the characters that stand out are John Cena, the cover boy, and Cody Rhodes, the son of a plumber.

The game also comes with new reflections and lighting effects and they add sparkle to the title belts and shine to the stages. You will find menus to be colorful and clean, certainly an improvement from the bland layout seen last year and legibility remains just as impressive. Essentially, 2K23 is a stellar game.

The combat

It should not be surprising that 2K23 has the same combat as seen in 2K22, considering that it is an annual sports game and there was a big overhaul last year, which turned out to be a success. You have almost 200 wrestlers available at launch, or they can be unlocked via in-game currency. Some depth has been added to these wrestlers through the combo-based striking system and a simple grappling layout.

But, you will come across some noticeable changes, such as an optional stick-flick mechanic is now available with the pin minigame. Stamina plays a big deal, particular its lack because it can be difficult to run faster without it, making it easier for your opponents to beat you down. You can tire out early if you spam offense relentlessly and hanging idle for a few seconds is how you can get your energy back.

The payback system

Individual characters have been given special abilities, which can have huge consequences on matches, and these are referred to as the payback system. 2K23 has expanded these as well, as two abilities are given to each wrestler and this adds more flexibility. While you can still use just one in a match, but it gives you the option of turning the tables in a secondary scenario.

Some of the payback options that were not found in 2K22 have also been added and these can be found as general defensive options. You have to use your special bar for this purpose. Such resource management is usually common in traditional fighting games like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat, but it works for 2K23 as well.