The WWE, and wrestling as a whole, is known for its varied match types. While standard one-on-one affairs are entertaining and can convey excellent ring work and storyline content, varied match types and gimmick matches often allow for unique and interesting situations. Wrestling history has seen many match types phased out, and many more have become mainstay stipulations that can fit within the bounds of many narratives.
TheWWE 2K Seriesis no stranger to varied and plentiful match types. New releases often include variations upon previous match types, returning or even wholly new stipulations.WWE 2K25has continued this formula, including many match types that ensure every player is pleased with the offerings available. Whether they’re new additions or fan-favorite inclusions,WWE 2K25has a great assortment of match types.
7Special Guest Referee
Who Knew Being A Referee Was So Fun?
Special Guest Referee is a stipulation often used in WWE TV products. It involves an existing wrestler taking on the role of a referee for a match, usually as part of a feud that they and the competitors are involved in. The stipulation often involves mass chaos, interference, unfair refereeing, and a complete breakdown of the format.
WWE 2K24introduced special guest referee as a new stipulation to theWWE 2K Series. It consisted of all the expected chaos, with players having the ability not to count pins, not DQ competitors or completely involve themselves in the match physically.WWE 2K25further expanded this mode, allowing for a special guest referee to be present in most match types in the game. This, of course, increases the chaos of the match type and allows for fun variations on existing match types.
6Brawl
Backstage Brawls And More
Brawl, often referred to as Backstage Brawl, is a historic match typein wrestling games. It is inspired by the trope of wrestlers attacking one another outside of the ring or in the backstage area. These match types allow for knockout-only gameplay without a referee, wherein players can use various objects and set pieces in order to dish out maximum punishment to their opponent.
WWE 2K25further expanded the brawl match type. The rules and format have stayed the same, or rather, the lack thereof rules and format. However,WWE 2K25added two new locations. One of which is the NXT Parking Lot, with the far more interesting of the two being the WWE Archives. This is a locationfull of iconic WWE imageryand props that allow players to fight among WWE history.
5Underground
A Visually Distinct Match
WWE Raw Underground was a short-lived attempt to offer a more brutal and gritty WWE TV Show that took inspiration from underground fight clubs. It took place in a ring with no ropes, stylistically similar to Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport, a GCW indie product from around the same time.
WWE 2K25is the first video game appearance of Raw Underground, in the form of the Underground match type. It is a complete replication of the TV Show, from the unique ring to the rabid fans that surround the competitors. Underground is one of the most unique match types, wherein players can win by DQ, submission, or knockout. The latter of which requires players to bring their opponents' health into the ‘Danger’ zone, before utilizing a signature or finishing move.
4Wargames
Team Vs Team Caged Chaos
Wargames is a historic wrestling match type, dating back to Jim Crockett Promotions, before being used in WCW and then in NXT and WWE. It consists of teams of wrestlers, locked in a large cage that surrounds 2 rings. Entrants are staggered, and when all wrestlers have entered, the match can be won via pinfall or submission.
WWE 2K25features the Wargames mode, as did previous games, allowing for a chaotic and fun experience.WWE 2K25also features a Wargames matchin its showcase mode, wherein players play through a Bloodline Civil War-themed Wargames match. The Wargames match is brutal and chaotic, equal parts tense and frenzied as players scramble to break up pinfalls and secure the win for their team.
3Gauntlet
A Showcase Of Endurance
Gauntlet matches come in many forms in wrestling, and the stipulation has evolved and seen many iterations throughout time. A regular Gauntlet consists of staggered entrants, each entering the match one by one, with the wrestler that gets the first pinfall or submission declared the winner.
WWE 2K25has many variations of the Gauntlet match. The main one follows the aforementioned formula. It is a fun and fast-paced match, requiring endurance and smart use of finishers as the ring begins to fill. Players can select how many entrants there will be in the Gauntlet, offering a more restrained or entirely chaotic experience. This match type is unique and compelling, offering a different experience and requiring a unique approach.
2Casket Match
A Classic Gimmick Match
The Casket Match is a gimmick match synonymous with The Undertaker, and it has since been used in many other wrestling promotions with slight variations. The premise is simple but incredibly compelling: To win the match, a competitor must place their opponent into the casket at ringside.
WWE 2K24introduced this match type into the 2K series, so it’s no surprise that players can also play the Casket Match type in 2K25. The match type is incredibly fun and earns its place on the list due to its unique gameplay. The Casket Match is also iconic, and is a perfect fit forWWE 2K25.
1Royal Rumble
The Fan Favorite Match
The Royal Rumble is possibly the most iconic match type in wrestling history. Taking the form of a standard Battle Royale, the Royal Rumble became amust-see event each yearand remains a favorite event of many fans.
It’s no surprise at all thatWWE 2K25includes the Royal Rumble, the match type is a staple of theWWE 2Kseries, and for good reason. Not only is it incredibly fun and chaotic, but the Royal Rumble offers a unique sense of challenge, especially if the player is the first entrant. It is the perfect match type for both solo and multiplayer, providing unparalleled fun.
