WWE and EA are reportedly in negotiations for the publishing rights to future WWE games, which could see the end of theWWE 2Kera. If this deal does go through, EA can improve certain elements of other franchises likeFIFA,Madden, andUFC, making them more enjoyable for gamers by using certain elements and features from titles likeWWE 2K22.
WWE has always enjoyed success in the gaming community, whether during theSmackdown vs. RAWera or the more recentWWE 2Kera. However, recent 2K games have faltered due to an abundance of bugs and a lack of in-depth game modes to offer longevity.EA could reinvigorate the franchiseby introducing elements found in games likeFIFAandMadden. Yet there are also features likeWWE 2K’sCreation Suite that could be implemented in other EA games to give fans more to do.
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MyRise and MyCareer Mode
While many recentWWE 2Ktitles have failed to deliver meaningful career modes, the ability to create entertaining stories remains within reach. Player-driven stories breathe life into the game’s different superstars and gives users the opportunity to define their created superstars in the process.WWE 2K22successfully re-implemented entertaining storylinesvia the MyRise system, which could add a certain level of depth to series likeFIFAandMadden.
Career Modes inFIFA,Madden, andUFCcould have many features that work toward providing a simulation mode in which gamers meeting certain objectives through matches or fights. However, a fewFIFAtitles in recent history have had a story mode that focused on a single pre-built character. Similar storylines in a variety of sports titles could benefit fromWWE games' ability to write out compelling plots.
Creation Suite
TheWWE 2Kfranchise’s crowning jewel has always been its massive character creation modes that allow players to create nearly anything they can imagine. The number of options available can drain hours into creating a superstar, and it is one of the features that initially made theWWEgames a fan favorite. This is another place where other EA games fall short.
Games likeFIFAandMaddenhave made significant improvements to their player creation features, but they still have many limitations, especially when trying to morph body parts. The superior Creation Suite available inWWEgames could help improve not only created player models, but also assist in improving kit designs and possibly evenstadium customization options inFIFA’sCreate-A-Clubmode. Further,UFCgames would benefit from the more in-depth creation suite with body morphs so that each superstar can better reach opponents without appearing unnatural.
Other Gameplay Mechanics in WWE Titles
WWEhas a refined gameplay system that has been steadily improved each year to make a simple, yet effective loop. While some titles have failed at delivering great gameplay, most of the issues arose from bugs, lackluster animation, and a lack of diversity. The blend of arcade and simulation elements overall tend to makeWWEgames more enjoyable thanUFCtitles.
WWE’ssubmission system could have a massive impact onUFC,for example. WhiletheUFCgames' submission systemisn’t bad, it is not easy for beginners to understand, and as a result fights against grapplers are significantly harder for newcomers. Having a simpler submission system would make the game more accessible to beginners, and might increase the number of grappling fighters created by fans.
WWE 2K22is one of the best in theWWE franchisein recent memory, building an all-new game engine with updated mechanics and a back-to-basics approach that includes plentiful content built for longevity. The new mechanics within the game, along with already solid features such as the Creation Suite, would be great additions to EA’s arsenal of sports games for future titles.
WWE 2K22is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S.
