When Did 2K Get WWE?
The question on every wrestling fan’s mind: when did 2K acquire the rights to develop WWE video games? The answer is a significant one, as it marked a major shift in the world of professional wrestling video games. In this article, we’ll dive into the history of WWE video games and explore the acquisition of 2K’s rights to develop WWE games.
Early Days: THQ and WWE
The first WWE video game was released in 1989, titled WWF WrestleMania: The Arcade Game. The game was developed by Electronic Arts (EA) and published by Acclaim Entertainment. However, in the late 1990s, THQ (THQ Inc.) acquired the rights to develop WWE video games. THQ released several successful games, including WWE Raw (2002), WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain (2003), and WWE Day of Reckoning (2004).
The Acquisition
On March 22, 2013, 2K Games announced that it had acquired the exclusive worldwide rights to develop and publish WWE video games. The acquisition was a result of a long-term partnership between 2K Games and WWE, with the goal of creating the best WWE video games possible.
The First 2K WWE Game
The first WWE game developed by 2K was WWE 2K14, released in 2013 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. The game featured a new graphics engine, improved gameplay mechanics, and a robust roster of WWE Superstars. WWE 2K14 was a critical and commercial success, setting the stage for future 2K WWE games.
WWE 2K Games Timeline
Here’s a list of WWE games developed by 2K:
| Game | Release Year | Platforms | |
|---|---|---|---|
| WWE 2K14 | 2013 | PS3, Xbox 360 | |
| WWE 2K15 | 2014 | PS3, Xbox 360 | |
| WWE 2K16 | 2015 | PS3, Xbox 360, PS4, Xbox One | |
| WWE 2K17 | 2016 | PS3, Xbox 360, PS4, Xbox One | |
| WWE 2K18 | 2017 | PS3, Xbox 360, PS4, Xbox One | |
| WWE 2K19 | 2018 | PS4, Xbox One | |
| WWE 2K20 | 2019 | PS4, Xbox One | |
| WWE 2K22 | 2022 | PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X | S |
Benefits of the Acquisition
The acquisition of WWE by 2K Games has brought several benefits to the franchise:
- Improved Graphics and Gameplay: 2K’s experience in developing sports games has led to improved graphics and gameplay mechanics, making the WWE games more realistic and engaging.
- Increased Focus on Authenticity: 2K has worked closely with WWE to ensure that the games are as authentic as possible, featuring real WWE storylines, characters, and arenas.
- Wider Platform Support: The acquisition has allowed WWE games to be released on more platforms, including the Nintendo Switch and PC.
- Enhanced Online Features: 2K has implemented robust online features, including online multiplayer and a more comprehensive online community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 2K Games acquired the rights to develop WWE video games in 2013, marking a significant shift in the world of professional wrestling video games. The acquisition has led to improved graphics and gameplay mechanics, increased focus on authenticity, wider platform support, and enhanced online features. As the WWE and 2K continue to collaborate, fans can expect even more exciting and realistic WWE video games in the future.
References
- WWE.com
- 2K.com
- Wikipedia.org
- SEScoops.com
- Variety.com