WWE 2K23 is making improvements in all of its game modes, be it big or small, and WWE 2K23's universe mode is no different. Many WWE 2K22 reviews pointed to how it set up future games, providing a strong foundation for developer Visual Concepts to continue iterating on the franchise, and it seems intent on doing just that.
Part of this process, Visual Concepts said during a decent deep-dive presentation, is listening to fan feedback. For WWE 2K23's Universe Mode, which sees players inventing their own storylines and rivals by various bookings across the WWE universe, many fans want to see strong narrative features, improved cutscenes and actions, and better rival systems. While it remains to be seen how much this fan feedback has been implemented into this iteration of the franchise, the rivalry system is getting a key change.
It appears that the new WWE 2K23 Universe rival system gives players more options to invigorate the rivalry, more on-the-fly options that live up to the spontaneity of it, and interesting set-ups. All of this is delivered via a new resource called momentum. As players build momentum, they can select options like attacking someone before a premium live event. There are a plethora of options and ways to use this momentum as the rivalry builds, but depending on how someone manages their Heel/Face-based superstars, one of the biggest options tied to the momentum resource is outcomes. Players are able to decide the outcome of a WWE rivalry by cashing in their built-up momentum.
It'll be interesting to see how this feature works out, but it's one of many improvements coming to the game. WWE 2K23's MyGM Mode, for example, will have unlimited seasons, new GMs, new brands, new titles, and more to play around with. MyRise features a more focused throughline for its stories, MyFACTION features stronger online elements, and much more. It seems WWE 2K23 is embracing its marketing of "#EvenStronger" to the fullest.
Of course, WWE 2K23's release date is right around the corner, and there will be many fans who want to decide how much stronger the game is for themselves. Luckily, that wait isn't long, and fans will be introduced to a plethora of new content once they dive in.
WWE 2K23 launches on March 17 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.