WWE 2K24

The story modes of WWE 2K24 received praise for their engaging narratives, branching paths, and nostalgic appeal. Critics highlighted the MyRise mode’s distinct male and female storylines—Undisputed and Unleashed—which offered character-driven journeys with moral dilemmas, voice acting from WWE stars like Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes, and Easter eggs that enriched the experience (GamesRadar+, GamersRD). The Showcase Mode celebrating 40 years of WrestleMania was particularly lauded for its historical depth, reenacting iconic matches with detailed storytelling and a documentary-style approach (IGN Italia, TierraGamer, PC Games). Reviewers like IGN France and GamesRadar+ noted the immersive quality of these modes, with branching narratives and character development that added continuity to WWE’s alternate universe. The game also succeeded in capturing the soap opera-like drama of wrestling, blending humor, nostalgia, and personal storytelling (Player 2, Wccftech). However, several critics pointed out significant flaws in the story modes’ execution. The MyRise mode was criticized for being overly rigid, with tonal inconsistencies, awkward dialogue, and repetitive structures that undermined its potential (Push Square, Digital Trends). Jeuxvideo.com and IGN France noted limited world-building beyond combat sequences, comparing it unfavorably to other 2K titles like NBA 2K. The Showcase Mode faced criticism for omitting key matches and feeling hands-off, with some reviewers (Checkpoint Gaming, COGconnected) pointing out gaps in historical coverage. Additionally, the narrative’s reliance on tired tropes, poor voice acting, and a lack of original commentary detracted from authenticity (Digital Trends, IGN Adria). While Wccftech praised the stories as "thought-provoking," others like Dexerto argued that MyRise prioritized certain characters over others, creating an uneven experience. Overall, critics generally agreed that WWE 2K24’s story modes struck a balance between innovation and nostalgia but fell short of perfection. The MyRise mode’s dual narratives and the Showcase Mode’s historical tribute were celebrated as standout features, with many acknowledging their entertainment value despite flaws (GamesRadar+, IGN Italia). However, issues like repetitive gameplay, limited customization, and uneven storytelling created a mixed reception. While IGN France and Jeuxvideo.com highlighted the game’s strengths in character development and world-building, they also emphasized areas needing improvement. The consensus was that WWE 2K24 delivers a compelling narrative experience for wrestling fans but requires refinement to fully realize its potential as a storytelling platform.

The gameplay of WWE 2K24 received widespread acclaim for its refined mechanics, innovative features, and accessibility. Critics highlighted significant improvements in responsiveness and variety, with many praising the introduction of new match types like Ambulance, Casket, and Gauntlet matches, which added freshness to the roster of wrestling scenarios (Impulsegamer, PC Invasion). The inclusion of Super Finishers and Trading Blows mini-games was frequently lauded for enhancing depth and excitement, offering both strategic layers and nostalgic flair (VideoGamer, IGN Adria, Wccftech). Additionally, the game’s accessibility for newcomers—through intuitive controls, tutorials, and button prompts—was balanced by its depth for veterans, with mechanics like customizable move sets and refined grappling systems (Pocket-lint, Gamers’ Temple, GAMINGbible). Critics like PC Invasion noted improved combat mechanics with “streamlined animations,” while IGN Spain commended the game’s “depth and variety across modes.” The Showcase Mode and Universe Mode were also praised for their nostalgic value and creative freedom, respectively (PC Games, GamesHub). Despite these positives, several critics pointed to specific flaws that detracted from the experience. Issues such as sluggish controls, weapon pickup delays, and inconsistent targeting mechanics in multi-wrestler matches were recurring complaints (PC Games, Gamers Heroes, Player 2). The Trading Blows mini-game, while innovative, was criticized for disrupting match flow and feeling “disruptive” or “anti-immersive” (Checkpoint Gaming, IGN Spain). Some reviewers noted that certain modes, like My Faction, felt convoluted or unnecessary (Gaming Nexus), while others pointed to the steep learning curve for newcomers despite tutorials (Jeuxvideo.com, PC GamesN). Additionally, flaws in referee interactions and AI behavior—such as “unnatural” referee movements during chaotic matches—were highlighted as persistent issues (Gamers Heroes, Wccftech). While these critiques were not universal, they underscored that WWE 2K24 was not without its imperfections. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that WWE 2K24 represents a strong evolution of the franchise. The game’s blend of accessibility and depth, coupled with its diverse match types and refined mechanics, earned it praise as one of the best entries in the series (Impulsegamer, Gamers’ Temple, PlayStation Universe). While some critics acknowledged that the core gameplay remained largely similar to WWE 2K23 (Pocket-lint, Power Unlimited), the incremental upgrades—such as improved animations, interactive environments, and enhanced customization—were seen as meaningful refinements. Even with its flaws, the game was consistently described as “the best it’s ever been” (Gamers’ Temple) and a “polished in-depth experience” (Pure Xbox). For most reviewers, WWE 2K24 succeeded in delivering an engaging, varied, and immersive wrestling simulation that catered to both casual players and hardcore fans.

The graphics and visual design of WWE 2K24 received widespread praise for their significant improvements over previous entries, with many critics highlighting its attention to detail, realism, and immersive presentation. IGN and GAMINGbible lauded the hyper-detailed character models, noting that wrestlers closely resemble their real-life counterparts with accurate gear, tattoos, and facial features. The game’s use of Sling Shot technology for seamless transitions between gameplay and archive footage was particularly praised by Metro GameCentral and God is a Geek, who emphasized its ability to recreate iconic WWE moments with authenticity. Additionally, the improved lighting engine, realistic animations, and enhanced crowd interactions—such as dynamic reactions and camera angles—were highlighted as standout features by GameGrin and WellPlayed. The game’s ability to blend historical accuracy with modern visuals, including detailed arenas and authentic referee designs, further solidified its reputation as a visually impressive entry in the franchise. However, several critics pointed out notable flaws and inconsistencies that detracted from the overall experience. Gaming Nexus and Push Square criticized the uneven character models, noting that some wrestlers like L.A. Knight appeared outdated, while others like Batista looked sharp. Issues with facial animations, hair physics, and lip-syncing were recurring complaints, with Player 2 calling the latter “one of the worst examples of lip-syncing in a AAA title.” Gameblog.fr and Impulsegamer described the visuals as “stale” or “similar to previous entries,” while VideoGamer and Jeuxvideo.com pointed to technical glitches, such as boxy character models during downed interactions and outdated textures in close-ups. Additionally, some reviewers noted that lesser-known wrestlers and female characters, like Bayley, suffered from less refined designs compared to their male counterparts, as highlighted by GamersRD and Hardcore Gamer. These inconsistencies created a mixed experience despite the game’s overall visual ambition. The overall consensus among critics is that WWE 2K24 represents a strong step forward in graphical fidelity and presentation, even if it falls short of revolutionary advancements. While many praised its detailed character models, realistic animations, and immersive environments—echoed by outlets like IGN, GAMINGbible, and GameGrin—others emphasized that the game’s visual polish is uneven, with persistent issues in facial expressions, hair physics, and texture quality. Despite these flaws, the majority of reviewers acknowledged that WWE 2K24 sets a high bar for wrestling games, blending technical improvements with nostalgic nods to WWE history. As GameSpew noted, the game’s “seamless gameplay integration into footage” and expanded creative tools further enhance its visual appeal, even if some critics like Impulsegamer and BaziCenter felt it lacked significant innovation compared to prior titles. Ultimately, the game is seen as a visually robust entry that balances progress with lingering technical shortcomings.

The Sound Design and Music of WWE 2K24 received generally positive feedback, with several critics highlighting its immersive and diverse audio elements. Many praised the soundtrack curated by Post Malone, noting its genre variety and ability to enhance the game’s atmosphere. For instance, Gamers’ Temple called it “the best since 2K19,” while XboxAddict and XboxEra emphasized how well-executed sound effects, such as crowd reactions and impact noises, contributed to immersion. The commentary by figures like Corey Graves was also lauded for its authenticity, with KeenGamer noting that it “blends well with the visuals” to create a “truly immersive experience.” Additionally, Generación Xbox and MondoXbox highlighted the authentic commentary and diverse musical mix, including Post Malone’s tracks and classic wrestler themes. The Showcase mode’s use of real-life footage and cutscenes further complemented the audio, as noted by Pure Xbox, which praised the nostalgic blend of voice work and storytelling. However, several critics pointed out notable flaws in the sound design and music. The lack of customization for entrance music was a recurring complaint, with GameCritics calling it a “notable limitation.” Some criticized the soundtrack’s adherence to Post Malone’s style, as Windows Central argued it didn’t fit the WWE aesthetic, while Gaming Nexus noted issues like overpowering crowd noise and mismatched tracks. Repetition of entrance themes also drew criticism, with Twinfinite calling the repetition “grating” and GamesRadar+ dismissing the Showcase mode’s soundtrack as “dire.” Additionally, voice acting quality was uneven, with PlayStation Universe noting some wrestlers’ lines sounded “phoned in,” and GameOver.gr criticizing “wooden dialogue” from commentators. These issues, while not universal, underscored areas where the audio fell short of expectations. Overall, the consensus among critics leaned toward appreciation for WWE 2K24’s sound design and music, particularly its energetic soundtrack and immersive commentary, but with caveats about repetition and technical shortcomings. The Post Malone-curated soundtrack was a standout feature, praised by Gamers’ Temple, XboxAddict, and Vandal for its variety and authenticity, though some felt it leaned too heavily on his style. While the game’s audio generally enhanced the wrestling experience—thanks to impactful sound effects and authentic commentary—issues like lack of customization, repetitive tracks, and uneven voice acting created a mixed reception. Critics like GameGrin and Gaming Nexus acknowledged these flaws while still recognizing the soundtrack’s broader strengths, indicating that WWE 2K24’s audio remains a strong but imperfect component of its overall package.

The voice acting in WWE 2K24 receives generally positive feedback for its authenticity and integration with WWE’s real-world talent. Multiple reviewers highlight the inclusion of actual wrestlers like Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and Mick Foley in MyRise mode, which adds a layer of realism and nostalgia for fans (MondoXbox, Dot Esports). Critics such as TheXboxHub praise William Regal’s narration for enhancing narrative depth, while GamesHub notes that the dialogue, though occasionally cheesy, contributes to an immersive wrestling RPG experience. Additionally, commentators like Corey Graves and Samantha Irving are lauded for their roles in modes like the 2K Showcase, providing historical context and engaging delivery (LevelUp, GAMINGbible). The presence of real WWE voices is seen as a significant improvement over previous iterations, with GameCritics noting that MyRise’s voiceovers offer more depth than earlier games. However, several critics point to inconsistencies and technical shortcomings in the voice acting. Digital Trends and Gaming Nexus criticize the dialogue as "wooden" or "awkward," with some performances feeling stiff or unconvincing, while others mention mismatched mouth movements during cutscenes (Gaming Nexus, GameOver.gr). XboxAddict notes that while WWE talents contribute to character depth, their work sometimes lacks the polish of professional voice actors. Additionally, VGC and ZTGD observe varying quality in MyRise mode, with some lines falling short of expectations. The commentary team’s delivery is also a point of contention, as GameGrin and GAMINGbible note that it can feel flat or unengaging, detracting from the overall experience despite the presence of recognizable voices. Overall, the consensus leans toward a mixed reception, with critics acknowledging the value of real WWE talent in enhancing immersion but critiquing the technical execution. While many praise the authenticity and narrative contributions (But Why Tho?, GamesHub), others highlight uneven quality and occasional missteps in delivery (Digital Trends, Gaming Nexus). The game’s voice acting is seen as a step forward for MyRise mode, but its effectiveness depends on the specific context—whether it’s the Showcase’s historical narration or the character-driven storytelling. Despite the flaws, the presence of real wrestlers remains a standout feature that resonates with fans, even if not all performances meet the same standard.

The technical performance of WWE 2K24 across platforms shows mixed results, with notable strengths in stability and optimization. On Xbox Series X, several reviewers highlighted improvements, such as Generación Xbox praising "consistent frame rates and minimal loading times" and MondoXbox noting the game runs smoothly at 60fps. Gamers’ Temple also appreciated faster startup and mode transitions, while XboxEra acknowledged improved stability with fewer physics-related bugs compared to previous entries. For PS5, critics like God is a Geek and Guardian emphasized solid technical performance, with the latter praising "controls that function well" and the former noting no significant issues during extended play. On PC, Worth Playing commended the game’s ability to reach 60fps across hardware configurations, while PCGamesN acknowledged potential fixes for MyRise mode glitches via day-one patches. These positives suggest a generally polished experience, though not without flaws. However, technical shortcomings persist across platforms. On Xbox Series X, issues like crashes (Dot Esports), online lag (GameCritics), and AI unpredictability (Xbox Tavern) were frequently cited, alongside minor bugs such as character clipping (XboxAddict) and animation flaws (Pure Xbox). For PS5, while some praised stability, others noted frame drops (Jeuxvideo.com), problematic AI behavior (Digital Trends), and long load times (IGN France). The PC version faced more severe issues, with PC Invasion reporting "bugs and game-breaking problems" and PLAY! Zine highlighting crashes and net code instability. Additionally, persistent glitches like collision detection errors (Metro GameCentral) and unresponsive referees (Xbox Tavern) were mentioned across platforms, indicating recurring technical challenges that detract from the experience. Overall, critics agree that WWE 2K24 represents incremental improvements in technical performance but remains plagued by unresolved issues. While Xbox Series X and PS5 versions received praise for smoother gameplay and reduced bugs compared to prior titles (e.g., XboxEra’s "fewer physics-breaking instances"), persistent problems like online lag (TheXboxHub) and AI inconsistencies (VGC) were common complaints. The PC version faced the most criticism, with reports of crashes and optimization issues undermining its potential. Despite these flaws, many reviewers acknowledged that the game is "satisfactory" (Windows Central) or "solid and stable" (God is a Geek), suggesting that while technical performance is not flawless, it does not entirely detract from the core experience. The consensus leans toward a game that is functional but requires further refinement to address lingering bugs and optimization gaps across all platforms.

The majority of critics highlight WWE 2K24’s strong replay value through its diverse array of modes and customization options. Multiple reviewers praise the game’s extensive content, including MyRise, MyFaction, Showcase, and Universe modes, which offer varied gameplay experiences. For instance, Impulsegamer notes that the game provides "a variety of gameplay options" with improvements in mechanics, while Jeuxvideo.com emphasizes the historical depth of Showcase mode and the flexibility of user-generated content. Push Square and GAMINGbible commend the game’s robust editor tools and post-launch updates, which allow players to create unique leagues and scenarios. Additionally, COGconnected and MondoXbox highlight how modes like MyGM and Universe cater to long-term engagement through branching storylines and community-driven content. The sheer volume of wrestlers (over 300) and match types further enhances the game’s appeal for dedicated fans. However, several critics point out flaws that limit the game’s replayability. ZTGD criticizes the repetitive nature of Showcase mode, calling it "flawed," while Player 2 notes technical issues and frustration with certain match types. SpazioGames and Wccftech express disappointment with the annual release model and underdeveloped features like Universe mode, respectively. IGN Adria and GameOver.gr mention that some modes, such as MyFaction and the "40 Years of Wrestlemania" campaign, may lose appeal after a single playthrough. Additionally, Twinfinite and VGC highlight in-game currencies and microtransactions as potential drawbacks, while Checkpoint Gaming points out the absence of online multiplayer in MyGM mode. These critiques suggest that while the game offers depth, its execution in certain areas falls short of expectations. Overall, critics largely agree that WWE 2K24 delivers strong replay value through its breadth of content and customization, despite notable shortcomings. While Hardcore Gamer and XboxAddict praise the game’s ability to keep players engaged with historical matches and creative freedom, others like Impulsegamer and Jeuxvideo.com acknowledge that improvements are "minor" and not groundbreaking. The consensus leans toward a positive assessment, with many reviewers emphasizing that the game’s variety and depth justify repeated playthroughs for wrestling enthusiasts. However, issues like repetitive modes, technical hiccups, and a reliance on annual updates temper the overall enthusiasm, making it clear that while WWE 2K24 is highly replayable, it isn’t without its flaws.