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WWE and 2K will be putting a temporary pause on the WWE 2K series. Yes, the rumors have been confirmed. Following their most recent installment, the disastrous WWE 2K20, this news comes as both a relief and a surprise. Last year’s game was incredibly buggy and ridden with game-breaking glitches. Even so, a complete shut down of WWE themed games seemed unfathomable. But then, from the top rope, WWE and 2K have put such fears to rest. Later this year, 2K will be releasing a new, arcade-style WWE action-brawler game called WWE 2K Battlegrounds.
A Wrestling Game As It Should Be
The 2K series began way back with WWE 2K14 and has followed a yearly release schedule since then. Its popularity has remained impressive since the inaugural game’s launch. Like most professional sports games, there have been several playable modes offered throughout the years, including its immersive Universe Mode. Breaking the cycle may seem odd, but a rebranding might be a breath of fresh air that WWE and 2K needs.
This pill is probably tough to swallow for some, but the new direction looks rad. WWE 2K Battlegrounds appears to be a call-back to the good-old-days of wrestling video games. From its quick teaser trailer, the game looks like a cartoony, melee-first, brawler. The game’s emphasis on over-the-top action is clear from the get-go. Becky Lynch is seen punching while her fists are ablaze with searing flames. Crazier still, it looks like The Rock feeds John Cena to an alligator.
A Call-back To Simpler Times
WWE 2K Battlegrounds emphasizes the basic nature of fighting games. It’s all about the punches and the kicks. Similar to Street Fighter or Smash Bros, Battlegrounds is striving to be a pick-up and play the game. Rather than extensive simulations and user-created storylines, Battlegrounds is all about teaming up with a friend or two and having a good time.
Battlegrounds is set for a Fall 2020 release. Though no specific date was given, the timeframe keeps the publisher and WWE on their normal schedule (WWE 2K typically released in the Fall). More details are sure to follow regarding the WWE 2K Battlegrounds and the fate of the WWE 2K series.