On the way WWE 2K22Released in March, 2K released the first episode of the Ringside Report series. These developer commentary videos are designed to showcase in-game scenes while also providing developer commentary on the game’s system. This first installment focuses on the action in the ring itself, detailing the redesigned combat system and streamlined philosophy.
For the first time, we get to see footage of an actual in-game matchup between cover star Rey Mysterio and current US Champion, Damien Priest. The 2K team spends most of the video emphasizing the game’s accessibility enhanced by a simpler control scheme that makes 2K22 easier for newbies to play. While the game is more about a pick and play experience, there’s still a lot of depth for veterans in learning how to perform (customizable) attack/grapple combos and reverse time .
While standard inversion can negate most actions, combos and grappling can only be stopped by performing a new counter called a Breaker. At any time this can only be activated by hitting the same attack or grappling input that is being used against you. That means predicting your opponent’s attack in your favor.
Blocking is a new feature. Holding the reverse button puts you in a blocking position allowing you to better withstand light/heavy hits/runs. It also allows you to counterattack faster than your opponent. An dodge button mapped to the right padding allows you to dodge attacks by hitting it at the right time. However, 2K says doing so carries a higher risk of failure than with a block.
Kicking off the peg or simply getting up off the mat requires the player to repeatedly press the button to fill a meter, much like WWE games from the early to mid-2000s. That meant there weren’t many games. play mini pinfall again. Alternatively, you can also tap the bumper to use resources to perform an immediate restore.
The HUD superstar has also been streamlined from busier incarnations. It now has three meters: health, a special meter for performing offensive, return and defensive moves, and a finisher meter (where up to three finishers can be stored). ). The body damage indicator is still present, but the reversing stock has malfunctioned; players now have an unlimited number of reverses, but they are harder to draw. Although it doesn’t appear on the HUD, characters now also have a stun meter. Using weaker light attacks will fill up the stun meter faster. Once full, it makes your opponent vulnerable to your big move, eliminating the risk of a counterattack.
The 2K22 looks impressive thanks to its new graphics and VFX engine, although special attention has been paid to lighting. 2K emphasizes the importance of matching the lighting of not only current broadcasts but classic matches as well. The Rey Mysterio vs Eddie Guerrero in-game scene at WrestleMania 21, for instance, provides a great example of how the game fits into the 2005 light, further selling the idea that you’re playing a word match. last year. The full integration of the Havok physics engine means that the 2K22 has breakable weapons and props, such as corner obstacles, that degrade more realistically.
WWE fans have been eagerly awaiting a hands-on look at the game in action, making today’s presentation a welcome update. Everything we’ve seen looks promising, so we just hope that all comes together when WWE 2K22 launches on March 11 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC. To learn more about the special editions of the game, including an nWo themed bundle, click here.
