WWE 2K17: Unleash Chaos & Customize Your Superstar!
Hey wrestling fans! Ready to dive headfirst into the wild world of WWE 2K17? This game isn't just about replicating what you see on TV; it's about creating your own mayhem and taking control like never before. We're talking deep customization, bone-crunching action, and a roster that'll make your jaw drop. So, lace up your virtual boots and let's get ready to rumble!
Diving Deep into WWE 2K17's Gameplay
Let's talk gameplay, guys. WWE 2K17 aimed to deliver a more realistic and strategic wrestling experience. This meant slowing down the pace a bit and putting a bigger emphasis on stamina and strategy. No more just spamming the same moves over and over! You actually had to think about your approach, manage your energy, and pick your spots to strike. The grappling system was revamped, offering more control and options for chain wrestling. You could work holds, wear down your opponent, and set up for those devastating finishers. It was all about building the drama and telling a story in the ring. They also introduced a new promo engine which allows you to cut promos. This can affect your relationships with other superstars, leading to alliances and rivalries.
One of the biggest changes was the focus on realism. The developers worked hard to capture the look and feel of WWE programming, from the authentic arenas to the detailed character models. They also brought in a new commentary team, featuring Michael Cole, Jerry Lawler, and JBL, to provide a more dynamic and engaging audio experience. However, some fans missed the presence of Jim Ross, whose voice was synonymous with WWE for many years. The game also featured a more extensive career mode, allowing players to create their own superstar and guide them through the ranks of WWE. You'd start out in NXT, work your way up the ladder, and eventually compete for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania. The career mode was designed to be more immersive and story-driven, with branching storylines and choices that affected your character's development.
In addition to the career mode, WWE 2K17 also offered a variety of other game modes, including exhibition matches, tournament modes, and the popular WWE Universe mode. Universe mode allowed you to take control of the entire WWE landscape, booking matches, managing rosters, and creating your own storylines. It was a sandbox mode that gave you the freedom to play out your own wrestling fantasies. The creation suite was also expanded, allowing you to create your own superstars, arenas, championships, and more. The level of customization was truly impressive, allowing you to bring your own unique creations to life. Overall, WWE 2K17's gameplay was a significant step forward for the series. It offered a more realistic, strategic, and customizable wrestling experience that appealed to both casual and hardcore fans.
Customization: Where WWE 2K17 Truly Shines
Okay, guys, this is where WWE 2K17 REALLY stood out. The customization options were insane! We're talking about creating the most bizarre, hilarious, or downright intimidating superstars the WWE universe has ever seen. Seriously, the level of detail you could go into was mind-blowing. From tweaking facial features and body types to designing intricate tattoos and logos, the possibilities were endless.
But it wasn't just about creating superstars. You could also design your own arenas, complete with custom lighting, ring aprons, and crowd signs. Want to create a backyard wrestling promotion? Go for it! Want to build a futuristic battleground on the moon? Well, maybe not the moon, but you get the idea. The championship creation was another highlight. You could craft your own titles, emblazoned with your personal logos and designs. Imagine holding up your custom-made championship after a grueling match – talk about bragging rights!
The depth of the customization extended to move sets as well. You could assign your superstar a unique arsenal of moves, choosing from hundreds of different strikes, grapples, submissions, and finishers. Want to create a high-flying luchador? Load them up with aerial attacks! Want to build a powerhouse brawler? Give them the strongest slams and powerbombs in the game! The customization options weren't just cosmetic; they allowed you to create a character that truly reflected your play style. And let's not forget about the entrance creation! You could choreograph your superstar's entrance, choosing their music, pyrotechnics, and stage animations. Want to come out riding a motorcycle while shooting flames? You could probably make that happen (virtually, of course!). The creation suite was so robust that many players spent more time creating than actually playing the game. It was a testament to the developers' commitment to giving players the tools to express their creativity and bring their wrestling fantasies to life. The WWE 2K series has always been known for its customization options, but WWE 2K17 took it to a whole new level. It empowered players to become the ultimate WWE creators, shaping the game to their own vision. This level of freedom and control is what made WWE 2K17 such a memorable and beloved entry in the series.
The Roster: A Who's Who of WWE Legends and Modern Superstars
Alright, let's talk about the roster. WWE 2K17 boasted a massive lineup of WWE Superstars and Legends, spanning across different eras of wrestling. From the iconic Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock to the modern-day heroes like John Cena and AJ Styles, the game had something for every wrestling fan. You could recreate classic matchups or create dream encounters that never happened in real life.
The inclusion of NXT talent was also a big deal. Guys like Shinsuke Nakamura, Bayley, and Samoa Joe, who were tearing it up in NXT at the time, were finally available to play as in a WWE game. This was a great way to introduce these up-and-coming stars to a wider audience and showcase their skills. Of course, no WWE game would be complete without the Divas (now Women's) division. The game featured a strong lineup of female wrestlers, including Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, and Becky Lynch, who were revolutionizing women's wrestling at the time. You could create your own women's division rivalries and compete for the Women's Championship.
Beyond the active roster, WWE 2K17 also included a plethora of WWE Legends. These were the Hall of Famers and iconic figures who helped shape the landscape of wrestling. Guys like Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, and Andre the Giant were all available to play as, allowing you to relive the glory days of WWE. The sheer size and variety of the roster was one of the game's biggest selling points. It gave you endless possibilities for creating matches and storylines. Want to see The Undertaker take on Finn Balor? You could make it happen! Want to pit Hulk Hogan against Roman Reigns? The choice was yours! The roster was a celebration of WWE's rich history and a showcase of its current talent. It was a dream come true for wrestling fans who wanted to step into the ring with their favorite Superstars and Legends. The game's diverse roster allowed for endless hours of entertainment and replayability. You could spend countless hours experimenting with different matchups and creating your own unique WWE universe. This is why WWE 2K17 remains a fan favorite to this day. The game's roster was a testament to the enduring appeal of WWE and its ability to connect with fans across generations.
Final Thoughts: Is WWE 2K17 Still Worth Playing Today?
So, is WWE 2K17 still worth playing today? Absolutely! While newer WWE games have come out since, 2K17 holds a special place in many fans' hearts. The deep customization, the massive roster, and the focus on gameplay strategy make it a standout title. Sure, the graphics might not be as cutting-edge as the latest games, but the core gameplay experience is still incredibly fun and engaging.
If you're a wrestling fan looking for a game with tons of customization options and a huge roster, WWE 2K17 is definitely worth checking out. You can usually find it for a good price these days, and it'll provide you with hours of entertainment. Just be prepared to lose yourself in the creation suite for hours on end! Whether you're a seasoned wrestling game veteran or a newcomer to the genre, WWE 2K17 has something to offer. So, grab a controller, step into the virtual ring, and unleash your inner WWE Superstar!