The maligned WWE 2K20 revitalized the WWE 2K franchise, returning stronger than ever with WWE 2K22 after a year-long hiatus. This trend continued with WWE 2K23, and it's safe to assume WWE 2K24 will follow suit. The next installment will strive for iteration and innovation, introducing new match types, enhancing MyRise and MyGM, and surprising players along the way. The game may also continue featuring prominent WWE superstars on its covers.
Unlike previous iterations, WWE 2K22 and WWE 2K23's Showcase Modes focused on Rey Mysterio and John Cena respectively, a successful formula that may be repeated. Developers will need to add creativity to ensure it's not just a series of matches with a single star, as seen with John Cena. Emphasizing the history and legacy of a popular WWE superstar has become crucial to the franchise. This establishes a pattern, with Rey Mysterio and John Cena being legacy picks for the WWE 2K games. With this in mind, fans can speculate on the potential cover star for WWE 2K24.
In short, Rey Mysterio and John Cena are undeniably "legacy superstars." Their extensive history of WWE matches and immense popularity set them apart. Even at present, both remain closely associated with the WWE. While Mysterio may be approaching retirement, his feuds with son Dominik, his reign as US Champion, and his involvement with the LWO ensure his ongoing relevance and popularity. As for Cena, although he may have decreased appearances due to his ventures in Hollywood, he consistently returns to thunderous applause. Cena's strong affiliation with the WWE remains intact, even during his movie career. If Visual Concepts is seeking "legacy" stars with an abundance of great matches, tremendous popularity, and a strong association with the WWE, it is highly unlikely that rising talents (even those with impressive matches) will secure a spot on the WWE 2K24 cover, at least for the time being.
WWE 2K24 May Continue the Legacy Streak
It is worth mentioning that according to the popular saying, "two's a coincidence, three's a pattern." WWE 2K24 has the opportunity to deviate from its reliance on past wrestlers, either proving that it was merely a coincidence or solidifying it as a recurring trend. While some may hope for the former, it would be remarkable for WWE 2K to feature LA Knight's rapid ascent and display him on the cover, incorporate Roman Reigns and the Bloodline, or showcase active wrestlers like Cody Rhodes, Judgment Day, and many others who consistently perform week after week. Regrettably, these individuals do not align with the potential pattern at hand.
If WWE 2K24 follows suit, it could potentially consider Stone Cold Steve Austin as a cover star, among others who align with the criteria set by Mysterio and Cena.
The Undertaker
Mick Foley
Edge
Randy Orton
Triple H
Shawn Michaels
Brock Lesnar
The popularity of these superstars cannot be underestimated. Although some are less active now, all of them are strongly associated with WWE. Among them, Brock Lesnar seems to be the most likely contender, as he shares similarities with Cena and Mysterio. While WWE 2K22 marked Rey Mysterio's debut as a solo cover star (previously appearing only as part of a group), it was the second time Cena graced the cover, the first being WWE 2K15. Similarly, Brock Lesnar also appeared on the cover of WWE 2K17. Despite his intermittent returns to the ring/WWE, Lesnar remains closely connected to the product and possesses a rich history that would create exciting matches. Even including his commentary on why he turned on Cody Rhodes would be an excellent addition to the game.
Triple H and Shawn Michaels would make excellent choices for the WWE 2K cover, considering their current roles in WWE creative and talent development. Although their current in-ring careers may not be as comparable to Cena or Mysterio, their contributions to the industry are significant. There is speculation about Randy Orton returning to WWE, potentially making him a worthy contender for the cover, much like Brock Lesnar. Edge, on the other hand, has made a recent move to AEW, which could complicate his selection. However, if his contract allows, he could be on par with Lesnar and Orton in terms of comparison to Cena and Mysterio.
Mick Foley, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and The Undertaker are also strong contenders, despite not checking all the boxes. The Undertaker's recent appearance on NXT could justify his inclusion, and it's about time he graces the WWE 2K cover as a solo star. While Stone Cold and Mick Foley may not be as active as other options, they still hold a significant association with WWE and would be compelling choices. In particular, selecting Mick Foley could offer a fun twist by allowing players to compete with different versions of him in each match, showcasing the unique gameplay characteristics of his various personas.
It is yet to be determined, but it is evident that if the WWE 2K24 cover star is seen as a "legacy character," there could be further developments to anticipate. Fans eagerly await the official announcement to unveil the truth. The confirmation of WWE 2K24 is still pending.