WWE 2K22 took the franchise back to its roots by including fan-favorite game modes. From its mechanics to the many options given to players, WWE 2K22 has set up the franchise for long-lasting success after years of ups and downs. With WWE 2K23 now revealing its Showcase Mode, it has a leg up over prior WWE 2K games by offering a new way to experience the journey of one of the WWE’s most decorated superstars: John Cena.
WWE 2K23’s Showcase Mode will throw players into the shoes of many famous wrestlers that John Cena has fought over the years. This is a stark contrast to previous iterations where they could only control the featured superstar. By giving players control over Cena’s opponents, WWE 2K23 can potentially have a Showcase Mode that does not grow stale after the first run-through, and could even encourage replayability by giving players a taste of various wrestling styles.
The Problem with Past WWE 2K Showcase Modes
Past WWE 2K Showcase Modes have not been failures, in fact they've been some of the franchise's biggest highlights. However, one major issue has been that playing the same superstar over and over grows stale, often leading to many putting the game down before completing it. This issue has plagued more recent WWE 2K games in particular, including WWE 2K22 which featured Rey Mysterio as the Showcase Superstar.
Coupled with gameplay issues present in past installments, 2K Games and Visual Concepts had to think out of the box to reimagine its series staple. With a different superstar in the spotlight every match, WWE 2K23’s Showcase Mode already has a lot of promise. While WWE 2K22 did deliver a decent Showcase Mode, WWE 2K23 may have it beat in terms of gameplay variety, and the caliber of superstars included.
The Benefits of Playing as John Cena's Opponents
John Cena had a decorated career in the WWE, being a part of some legendary fights. So, WWE 2K23 has no shortage of bouts and superstars to pick for its Showcase Mode. From his iconic rivalry with Randy Orton to his encounters with The Rock, the Showcase Mode will likely feature many of Cena’s greatest fights, but also highlight his early days in the WWE. Further, as players will get to control the opponents in this year’s Showcase Mode, it will likely only feature iconic John Cena fights where he ultimately loses.
These changes to Showcase Mode in WWE 2K23 will bring more variety to the mode, as players will need to understand the moveset of various wrestlers to succeed. From using WWE superstars like Randy Orton that take Cena head-on, to cruiserweights like Rey Mysterio who will need to use their speed, fans should have a good understanding of each wrestler. Further, with the various types of opponents bring unique kinds of matches, as John Cena has been a part of everything from Single matches to a Hell-in-a-Cell, which could give WWE 2K23’s Showcase Mode even more variety.
While WWE 2K22's Showcase Mode did not fall short, it didn't feature the variety and replayability that would have made it a favorite among players. WWE 2K23 has the formula to achieve this by giving players a chance to finally experience John Cena's career from a different point of view. As Cena’s opponents, players will be able to appreciate the ability of his many opponents and rivals over the years, which could lead to a complete revamp of Showcase Modes beyond WWE 2K23.
WWE 2K23 launches March 17 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
