This main game, released in 2016, is a sports fighting simulator centered on professional wrestling, featuring ultra-authentic gameplay with thousands of new moves and animations. You engage in matches utilizing the largest roster of WWE and NXT Superstars and Legends available, with a distinctive feature being the ability to brawl in backstage areas in addition to the standard in-ring action. The core loop involves competing in various match types to progress through the simulation.
The central gameplay loop involves competing in various match types utilizing a deep system of strikes, grappling maneuvers, and signature moves. The simulation focus is supported by thousands of new animations and moves designed to enhance the responsiveness and impact of in-ring encounters. Players engage in strategic back-and-forth action, managing stamina and momentum to gain the upper hand against opponents.
A key mechanical feature expands the traditional match environment. Players can engage in brawling outside the ring, utilizing the backstage areas surrounding the arena as part of the competitive space. This adds a layer of environmental interaction and unpredictability to standard contests.
This iteration features what was, at the time of release, the largest roster in the franchise, encompassing popular Superstars from the main WWE roster alongside talent from the developmental NXT brand, as well as numerous Legends from the history of the sport. The depth of the roster allows for a wide variety of dream matchups and career progression possibilities.
The distinctiveness of this title lies in its commitment to graphical fidelity and environmental depth. Beyond the standard squared circle, the ability to take the fight into the backstage areas provides a unique setting for intense, unscripted confrontations that break the traditional match structure.
Furthermore, the game supports robust customization systems, allowing players to design and fine-tune their own Superstars, championship belts, and arena environments, contributing significantly to long-term replayability.
The core game experience is supplemented by several post-launch additions. There are 6 distinct downloadable content (DLC) packages available for separate purchase. These packages typically introduce new playable characters, movesets, and story-based content to expand the overall offering of the simulation.
As in televised WWE and previous WWE games, players engage in both unarmed (punching, throwing, slamming, kicking, stomping or elbowing) and armed (with a baseball bat, steel chair or even sledgehammer) violence with their opponents. Violence is met with varying realistic reactions and characters may also become bruised and bloody after sustained beatings. Live action footage of WWE events is also included.

AcceleratorDecide the overall rankings and attribute levels of every WWE Superstar and Legend in the game. Unlock every WWE Superstar and Legend, including alternate attires with the Accelerator pack!

Future Stars Pack:Play as 5 of WWE’s brightest new Superstars. The Future Stars pack features Austin Aries, Karl Anderson, Luke Gallows, Mojo Rawley, and Tye Dillinger.

Hall of Fame Showcase:Relive some of WWE’s most historic matches featuring the 2016 Hall of Fame Class and also get new playable characters, attires, and arenas! Matches include Sting vs Ric Flair (1988), Cactus Jack and Diamond Dallas Page vs. The Fabulous Freebirds (1992), Papa Shango vs. The Godfather, Big Boss Man vs.

New Moves Pack:Over 50 new moves to add to your arsenal! Stun your opponents with the Swingout Neckbreaker like Charlotte, dive off the top rope with a Zack Ryder Elbro Drop, or give your opponent a Face Wash Combo like Samoa Joe.

NXT Enhancement Pack: Playable characters Apollo Crews, Nia Jax and Shinsuke Nakamura Earn a 50% boost in points earned for your MyCareer Superstar while in NXT!

Legends Pack: Expand your roster and play as some of the greatest legends in WWE history with the WWE 2K17 Legends Pack. Playable legends include Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake, Eddie Guerrero, Greg “The Hammer” Valentine, Sycho Sid, and Tatanka.