adrian dominguez

Last years game was plagued with the follies one would expect from a developer's first attempt on new generation consoles. Can 2K confidently display what their direction is for years to come. Or are they taking indecisive half steps.

 

Time To Play THE GAME

There are caveats to make this game work at its best. At its best it is a simulation of sports entertainment. This means, just like in real wrestling, whether you win or lose is not as important as putting on an entertaining match. Wrestling is a choreographed ballot and players will find the most enjoyment in participating in the dance.

 

Flows of match leave room for give and take. Knowing when to go on the offensive and when to allow yourself to take punishment will determine how authentically a match will play out.

 

Building on ideas from last year, most mechanics play complementary roles to each other. Chain wrestling, rest holds, reversal limits and match speed feel true. A new kickout meter feels more forgiving allowing for easier kickout and heighten drama. As the match gets long and stamina decreases the one count will become automatic and you won't have a chance to kick out until the 2 or 3 count.

 

Can Of Whoop Ass

After an absence last year many modes are back. Anchored by Showcase and MyCareer.

It's clear that heavy lifting has been put into Showcase modes’ supreme authenticity. They are certainly detailed. I've seen some of these matches in past games but not to this detail. Every one’s proper attire for that time and nuances in entrances is represented. Watch Shawn Michaels Wrestlemania 14 entrance compared to his standard one. Devils in the details and Showcase goes as far as any game in replicating historic events. This does come at the cost of taking control away from players. I wouldn’t find it as much of a nuisance , but there’s QTE icons on screen for too long distracting from the action taking place.

 

My career trickles points to you too slowly. You are rated on matches but really only get points for being on the offensive. When your opponent is on the offense and shining that should also contribute to the rating however it is mostly based on your dominance of a match which in real life is never five star calibur.

 

The Future Is Now

I still get the feeling of 2K putting the cart before the horse. They are on the right path of simulating the sport but remain handicapped by a legacy engine, that, though improved in recent years, shows its due for an overhaul. Still the dance that is wrestling has never been as authentic as this, and that is what I’ll keep coming back for.