WWE 2K22 hit shelves amid grand expectations and wild dreams like a WWE wrestler entering the ring-over-the-top, dramatic, and sometimes, well, less than graceful. After its predecessor, WWE 2K20, produced more glitches than a 1990s computer, fans were cautiously optimistic. This time, they were promised a shiny, rebuilt game that would hit different-like a surprise sledgehammer to the back. But did it deliver, or did it just add a few more wobbly moves to its already questionable wrestling repertoire?
Imagine you're a brand-new wrestler in WWE 2K22, ready to face off against foes who may or may not be scripted to not let you win. The first big change is the rebranding of MyCareer to 'MyRISE.' Players can finally pursue separate storylines for male and female wrestlers-thank you, equality! Think of it as getting to choose your own wrestling soap opera. Through alliances and betrayals, you can writer your own wrestling drama right in the living room (popcorn not included).
Suffice it to say, WWE 2K22 is looking pretty good-like a well-groomed wrestler after an image consultant got involved. Character models look better, animations are smoother, and overall visual design sparks joy like a Ric Flair 'Woo!' The game engine, rebuilt from the ground up, feels like it faced a major glow up. What was once awkward and janky now feels perhaps just slightly less awkward and janky-sort of like watching your uncle try to dance at a wedding. Improvements on gameplay mechanics mean less button-mashing and more strategy, as you don't have to do an interpretive dance every time you want to perform a finisher.
All things considered, WWE 2K22 is an improvement over its predecessor, delivering fun, exciting wrestling action with a host of engaging modes (no, 'Professional Couch-Sitting' is not included). While it stumbles in a few moves-like online stability and character roster issues-it performs well enough to keep you glued to your controller. So grab your tights, challenge your friends, and step into the ring; just remember, there's always a chance you'll end up like the unfortunate wrestler who slipped on a banana peel mid-slam. WWE 2K22 gets an impressive 8 out of 10-because we deserve another shot at professional wrestling without a glitch in sight.