WWE 2K23 has arrived, promising a deeper, more engaging wrestling experience than its predecessors. I’ve spent countless hours grappling with its roster of superstars, testing the new features, and generally beating the hell out of my opponents. This review aims to give you the lowdown on whether this latest iteration is worth adding to your gaming library.

WWE 2K23 boasts a stacked roster of WWE Superstars and Legends. From the current top dogs like Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes to legendary icons such as “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, there’s a phenomenal amount of variety. The inclusion of John Cena’s 20-year career mode is a fantastic addition for long-time fans, allowing you to relive some of his most memorable moments. But the standout feature is undoubtedly the new Warfare match type. This chaotic, multi-ring brawl is a breath of fresh air for the franchise, adding a significant amount of strategic depth to the already familiar gameplay.

Graphically, WWE 2K23 is a marked improvement on previous entries. The character models are detailed, the animations are fluid, and the overall presentation is polished. Gameplay is smooth and responsive, although there were a few minor instances of lag during particularly chaotic multi-player matches. The physics engine feels realistic, adding weight and impact to every move. However, the game’s AI, while improved, still occasionally makes questionable decisions.

The career mode, focusing on John Cena’s career, is well-structured and engaging, offering a good balance of in-ring action and storyline progression. The new Showcase mode allows players to relive key moments of Cena’s career offering a fun and nostalgic experience.

Pros:

• Impressive roster of superstars and legends
• Innovative Warfare match type
• Improved graphics and animations
• Engaging John Cena Showcase mode
• Fluid and responsive gameplay (mostly)

Cons:

• Occasional lag in multiplayer matches
• AI can be unpredictable at times
• Some minor glitches encountered during testing

Overall, WWE 2K23 is a solid wrestling game that offers a significant step up from its predecessors. The new features, improved graphics, and the extensive roster make it a worthwhile purchase for wrestling fans. While there are still a few minor issues to iron out, these are far outweighed by the fun and engaging gameplay experience. If you’re a WWE fan, you’ll likely find a lot to love here. I would wholeheartedly recommend it.