For years, the WWE 2K series has held a near-monopoly over pro wrestling games, and with the recent release of WWE 2K25, it’s easy to see why.
It includes smooth gameplay, a large cast, an eye-catching presentation, and fresh modes such as The Island and Bloodline Rules to hold players interest.
While the franchise works well, it feels too safe since it is confident there is no true competition.
That is the issue because WWE’s games have become too commercial and predictable, so longtime fans want something fresh in the ring.
AEW fills that gap, and right now, they’re in the strongest spot they’ve ever been to provide exactly what’s needed.
What Did AEW Fight Forever Get Right (and Wrong)?
When AEW Fight Forever dropped in mid-2023, it avoided following the 2K formula and went for a simple arcade-style, pick-up-and-play feel like the wrestling games from the early 2000s.
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+ 3Although the content was limited, online modes were simple, and updates came slowly after launch, it gained a dedicated fanbase. Fans liked the nostalgic vibe, though the execution fell a bit short.
Fight Forever was more than a debut; it proved AEW could release a game and showed players were open to an alternative.
That early experiment set the base for something bigger, and with AEW looking for a new developer to replace Yuke’s and teasing future games, the next title could be more polished, ambitious, and competitive.
How Can AEW’s Sequel Deliver What WWE 2K Doesn’t?
With WWE’s games steadily leaning into monetization and recycled systems, AEW’s sequel has the chance to stand apart by doing things differently.
click to enlarge+ 3The next title is said to feature a wider, up-to-date roster, in line with AEW’s strengthening relationships with NJPW, CMLL, and others.
This makes it possible to have a playable lineup from multiple promotions, something WWE has yet to properly embrace, even after buying AAA and partnering with TNA.
If AEW builds on the storytelling from its 2025 All In pay-per-view with matches like Jon Moxley versus Hangman Page in a Texas Deathmatch and Dustin Rhodes winning the TNT Championship, its next game could include a story mode that rivals WWE’s Showcase.
On top of that, the community has been vocal about wanting more flexible gameplay systems.
AEW could depart from WWE’s simulation-heavy gameplay and instead focus on a player-first design that is quick and responsive.
It would be easy to get into but difficult to perfect and include fewer barriers like unlocks cosmetics, and currency.
Has WWE 2K Become Too Predictable?
WWE 2K25 is far from a disaster and could be the cleanest, most content-rich entry yet.
click to enlarge+ 3It adds much-asked-for features such as intergender matches, revamped MyRise storylines, and a somewhat livelier match pace. It’s operating at peak performance, though some flaws are beginning to surface.
The Island mode aims high creatively but has faced criticism for being pay-to-win and limited to certain consoles. Many PC players have been locked out entirely.
On top of that, microtransactions are still very much part of the game’s DNA. Whether it’s in the form of cosmetic gear or character progression boosts, the monetization model continues to frustrate players who just want to enjoy the game without being upsold every few minutes.
The game is smooth, but it’s lost its wow factor. For a series that once thrived on personality and unpredictability, it now plays like it’s coasting on reputation.
Why Now Might Be AEW’s Best Shot Yet at Gaming Success
Tony Khan is pushing AEW to grow fast as a multimedia brand through streaming deals, cross-promotional events, and collaborations with DC Comics, not just focusing on wrestling.
You can now watch AEW content more easily, with availability on Max as well as TNT and TBS cable broadcasts. That kind of reach will make the next AEW game a much bigger deal if marketed correctly.
Khan has already stated that future AEW games are coming, and sources close to AEW have said they’re avoiding the premature hype cycle that bogged down Fight Forever.
Instead of rushing out teases, the company appears to be taking a more calculated approach and may wait until after high-profile events like All In before making major announcements.
That’s a smart move because fans want a solid start that shows a real effort to build a franchise, not just a one-off.
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