For the WWE, bigger can still get better. After the huge story mode called "30 Years of WrestleMania" in last year's "WWE 2K14," game developer Yuke's was challenged to come up with something to top that for "WWE 2K15."
IGN.com reports that "a more focused, up-close-and-personal story" will be offered in the renamed "2K Showcase" mode. Breaking up into two episodes, each placing a spotlight on classic WWE rivalries, rumors abound as to which storyline feuds will be highlighted.
Could it be Stone Cole Steve Austin vs The Rock? What about Austin's classic feud with Mr. McMahon? Perhaps the Hulk Hogan vs Andre the Giant rivalry? Or will the Mega-Powers explode again when Hogan butts heads with "Macho Man" Randy Savage? How about John Cena squaring off against Randy Orton?
These mini-documentaries based on the WWE's rich history promise to engage sports entertainment fans both old and new.
Already, WWE2K.com has announced a "Hulkamania" Collector's Edition of "WWE 2K15" in tribute to the Hulkster. This limited edition version of the game will include bonuses such as:
- Exclusive Premium Packaging
- An exclusive collectible art card autographed by Hulk Hogan himself
- An exclusive Funko Hulk Hogan vinyl figure featuring his "Hollywood" Hogan persona
- An exclusive piece of authentic ring canvas from the Hulkster's appearance on Monday Night Raw on March 10, 2014
- Two pre-order launch-exclusive characters, namely "classic" Hulk Hogan in yellow and red, and now Hollywood Hogan in his black and white ring gear
- Access to the "WWE 2K15" global pre-order offer featuring Sting
Prior to these announcements, the biggest news surrounding "WWE 2K15" was the addition of long-time World Championship Wrestling (WCW) icon Sting to the game. This will mark the first time that the Stinger, whether it be his "surfer" bleach blonde persona or the darker "Crow" Sting of the late 90s and beyond, will be involved with anything related to WWE video games. The announcement of Sting's addition to "WWE 2K15" via a commercial on WWE Raw three weeks ago sent wrestling fanboys into ecstasy.
Taking inspiration from the career mode of "NBA 2K14," a graphically and audibly-rich "MyCareer" mode is promised for this year's WWE game, but only for the PS4 and Xbox One editions. All the current WWE Superstars, as well as several WWE Legends and alumni have been motion-captured in 50 days worth of sessions. That means you'll see Sweet Chin Music, Batista Bombs, Tombstones, and other trademark moves from top wrestling stars over the past thirty years. "WWE 2K15" will feature five times the animation data used in "WWE 2K14," a remarkable technological jump to be sure.
As for the audio side, this year's WWE game also aims to improve one of its past deficiencies, namely the color commentary side. Expect better coverage featuring the voices of Michael Cole, Jerry "The King" Lawler, and JBL.