Wrestling is amazing, but a step back overall
WWE 2015’s debut on the newest generation of consoles has hit the same pitfall as some other high-profile titles and game studios that have taken the leap to ‘next-gen’ gaming. It looks and feels astounding, but the lack of content and overall feature depth means that it feels less like a progression, but a step backwards.
The first and very obvious change is that the frantic pace that characterised previous editions has been reined in. Punches and kicks now feel like the hit harder - not unlike the precise combat from EA’s UFC. The slower strike rate also makes it easier for you to counter your opponent, meaning that button mashers and punch spammers are now a lot easier to shut down.
The new My Career mode is exclusive to the current generation of consoles and carries along with it a certain sense of purgatory. You’ll spend over 10 hours bringing your superstar from NXT tryouts to Pay-Per-View, and eventually, to championship gold. Exciting stuff, if it weren’t for the appaling amount of filler that you’ll have to wade through on the way. Sure, you’ll have a few feuds and run afoul of a handful of factions but, ultimately, the vast majority of your time will be spent fighting outside of the storyline, in tune-up bouts and dark matches.
Luckily, your time will be much better spent in the 2K Showcase mode. It’s a fairly broad look at two major wrestling feuds: the Triple H and Shawn Michaels rivalry and the CM Punk and John Cena feud. There’s a few no-contest finishes and meaningless Smackdown main events that didn’t really need to surface but overall Showcase is one for the fans, and a welcome addition.
Even more welcome are the improvements in commentary. It’s nice to see that Jerry Lawler and Michael Cole have recorded a hell of a lot more commentary. The rapport between them is good to hear, as well as a good amount of trivia for every wrestler. Though, be warned, there is still plenty of repetitive and recycled dialogue from previous titles.
But here’s the thing. 2K Showcase and improved commentary simply can’t make up the numbers after the appaling ommissions in other areas of the game. Gone are customised title belts and arenas. And gone are the abilities to create original stories and even original female wrestlers.
The wrestlers look amazing, combat feels a hell of a lot better. Going on that alone you could say that perhaps there are being some steps taken in the right direction, but between the glaring