EZ Mode | WWE 2K23 [Script & Video]

As the WWE announcer says: “kids, don’t do this at home!” Unless you’re playing a 2K WWE game, of course – then you can straight-up go to town on your friends. The good news is that the latest entry in the series, WWE 2K23, will happily scratch that DDT itch and save your little brother from a trip to the emergency room.

Before you step into that ring, Fandom is here to give you a guide to the new and returning mechanics and features so that when taking up the challenge, you’ll be power-bombing your pals in EZ Mode.

It's all in the way you sell it

Let's start with 2K23’s roster of returning superstars. All of your favourites from WWE past and present are here, such as John Cena, Xavier Woods, and Sasha Banks.

All stars on the roster fall into distinct playstyles. ‘Powerhouses’ are larger, well-rounded damage dealers, perfect for players who want extra oomph to their attacks. Meanwhile, ‘Technicians’ specialise in using more calculated tactics, exploiting submissions and holds to wear opponents down – perfect for players who prefer a more strategic approach.

But these are just two of the available fighter classes in 2K23, so make sure to experiment to find your ideal playstyle.

C-C-C-Combo breaker!

Building on the overhauled control scheme introduced in 2K22, light and heavy attacks, as well as grabs, will be the main way you dish out damage. Though, you also have defensive options, such as the reversal system. By timing a reversal correctly you can parry your opponent's first attack in a combo. Failing that, you can also break your opponent's combo by matching their button input when they attack – if they’re going for a heavy attack you counter with the same.

For your last line of defence, 2K23 introduces a new timing-based mechanic to kick out of a pin. The more damage you’ve taken the harder it’ll be to escape. If you’re more of a fan of the ‘rapid-press' pin-escape from 2K22, it’s still an option to use in 2K23.

The limb target system has also been finely tuned, making it easier to damage the head, torso, arms and legs of a knocked-down opponent. Do enough damage to specific body parts you can force a submission. If you’re a technician, you’ll definitely want to take advantage of this mechanic.

And of course, special abilities are back; build up your special meter and you can use it to unleash moves like devastating signature attacks, or defensive ones like Quickly Recovery. Knowing when to use your special meter can quickly turn the tide in your favour at critical moments.

Showcase

Once you’ve got a good grasp of the basics, you’ll want to experience 2K23’s Showcase mode. This year the focus is on the legendary John Cena and his spectacular 20-year spanning career in WWE.

However, you won't be playing as John Cena. Instead, you’ll play as some of Cena’s most fearsome rivals, where you’ll be tasked with reenacting many of the most pivotal, jaw-dropping moments from matches throughout Cena’s career. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn 2K23’s expansive move list, as you need to match the exact moves that that Cena himself recounts as he breaks down the fight. Get it right and you’ll watch a glorious transition into footage of the actual fight.

So if you think you’re ready to improve your wrestling skills by taking on the man who’ll “Never give up”, then you won't want to skip Showcase mode.

Wargames

After you’ve proven yourself in Showcase you’ll be ready for the Wargames. First introduced in 1987 by WWE hall of fame legend Dusty Rhodes, Wargames is finally making its in-game debut after years of requests from fans.

Featuring a double ring and double-steel cage, Wargames allows up to two teams of 3 or 4 to duke it out for supremacy. The rules are simple, each team starts with one player, with more members from each team entering the ring in timed intervals. If any member gets pinned or submits, that team loses.

Using weapons will give you a huge advantage in Wargames. For starters, each fighter released into the ring can also choose a weapon to enter with – this can help get your team out of a sticky situation. More tools are also hidden throughout both rings, such as the chairs or tables. If you get your hands on a table, try lighting it on fire before slamming your rival through it for massive damage!

Now you’re armed with everything you need to know, we’ll see you in the ring!

WWE 2K23 launches on March 17, 2023, for PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X & S, and PC.