Unleash Chaos: WWE 2K25 Underground Mode and the Samoan Werewolf Experience!

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When Visual Concepts and 2K unveiled WWE 2K25, I was shocked to find Solo Sikoa’s Bloodline included in the game. Given that they all made their debut in late spring/early summer of 2024, it’s understandable, but characters like Jacob Fatu alone would have been enough for me (and many others) to purchase DLC. In fact, the WWE debut of Jacob Fatu is one of the most exciting things to emerge from the post-WrestleMania 40 era and Solo’s Bloodline. It’s no surprise that WWE has a unique gem in the Samoan Werewolf, particularly with the prospect of a dream match between him and Roman Reigns. This addition makes WWE 2K25 even more appealing.

In order for a Bloodline-centric WWE 2K game to be authentic, it’s essential that the latest storyline developments are incorporated. Taking this concept a step further, WWE 2K25 delves into earlier members of the family tree, such as the Wild Samoans. During my visit to Indianapolis, Indiana to play WWE 2K25, I was excited to find that Jacob Fatu was indeed playable in the demo build. The demo also featured Afa, Sika, Roman Reigns, Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, The Rock, and Solo Sikoa. This meant that Sami Zayn, Tonga Loa, and Tama Tonga were the only modern Bloodline representatives missing from the build. As I tested the Underground match, I chose to tackle the Bloodline “challenge” with Jacob Fatu.

WWE 2K25 Underground: The Bloodline Gauntlet

I went through the list, completing the following Underground matches in alphabetical order:

  • Jacob Fatu vs. Afa
  • Jacob Fatu vs. Jey Uso
  • Jacob Fatu vs. Jimmy Uso
  • Jacob Fatu vs. The Rock
  • Jacob Fatu vs. Roman Reigns
  • Jacob Fatu vs. Sika
  • Jacob Fatu vs. Solo

How Underground Matches Work in WWE 2K25

In this reimagined setting, subterranean fights eliminate the ropes typically found in a wrestling ring, with non-playable characters (NPCs) stationed around the perimeter instead. This arrangement generates intriguing scenarios near the edge of the ring as there is no protective apron, allowing participants to precariously teeter on the brink. During crucial stages of the match, these surrounding NPC spectators will vigorously clap their hands against the outer ring. When positioned ringside, these NPCs will clear a path for the players and seemingly pass through their models as if they were phantoms.

In the game WWE 2K25, victory in an Underground match can only be achieved by either knockout or submission. When players reach a critical state close to being knocked out, usually due to finishers or unique moves, the stamina gauge transforms to display “DANGER”. This alteration may seem basic compared to other changes, but it adds excitement and variety to the gameplay of recent WWE 2K series.

Taking the Werewolf Underground

In my initial clash with Afa, I needed a moment to adapt to the altered surroundings within the ring. Although the modifications seem straightforward, they significantly influence playing strategies. High-fliers and WWE 2K characters relying on ropes for their moves find themselves at a distinct disadvantage right off the bat. Even though I was aware of this before the match, it still felt disappointing that I couldn’t utilize Jacob’s moonsault. However, the Underground match excels in making an otherwise conventional bout appear more perilous than usual. Since falls can occur anywhere, getting Jacob outside the ring becomes advantageous for opponents. The match setup doesn’t necessarily increase the challenge of a regular match, but it effectively draws players into the danger and intensity of the experience.

For instance, an Irish whip leaves opponents precariously close to falling out of the ring, offering a perfect opportunity to knock them out of the arena. Leaping off the platform to strike the adversary is swift, agile, and lethal as required. Jacob Fatu certainly fits the mold of such a risk-taker, making it an effective maneuver in showcasing the power of the Samoan Werewolf. Throughout our encounters, we discovered that Jacob Fatu possesses a taunt where he prays with his hands, and “I love you, Solo!” can be heard. That’s distinctly Jacob, but it certainly gave the impression that the Samoan Werewolf was in full force.

In Underground matches, fights can occur anywhere, including the ramp and an almost empty stage. While more decorations would have enhanced the atmosphere, the match was still thrilling when Roman Reigns was taken out there for a fierce battle later on. Since this type of match is repeated often, strategies to win it became clear over time. On easier settings, the optimal way to win is by utilizing a signature move to weaken the opponent and push them into a vulnerable state called Danger. Subsequently, just one finisher move is necessary to conclude the fight. To summarize, Underground matches are a new addition in WWE 2K25, but they’re not meant to be the game’s main draw. Instead, they serve as an enjoyable extra feature at the end of the day.

In our Underground matches, only one encounter fell short of expectations. Jacob possesses an exhilarating move where he leaps forward, grabbing his opponent before flinging them carelessly into the air. This move is thrilling to execute, but in reality, if performed close to the ring’s edge, it could cause severe injury to the opponent. In a game setting, it would have been exciting to see this move send the opponent tumbling over the edge. However, despite the absence of ropes, the edge of the ring still acts as an unyielding barrier. Regardless of our repeated attempts, we found that performing this move near the edge consistently resulted in the opponent being launched into the air and landing awkwardly at the edge, rather than being flung out. Although the ropes are missing, their effect in terms of gameplay restrictions remains, except for a few innovative interactions.

In summary, Underground matches in WWE 2K25 are a delightful extra feature, but they’re not the main event. They were enjoyable, especially with Jacob Fatu’s impressive performance in gameplay. As soon as we switched to a standard match to execute his moonsault, our attention turned to Sami and the Tongans. When WWE 2K25 launches, we plan to complete our Bloodline gauntlet and dream of the day when Jacob Fatu might become the Tribal Chief (or War Chief).

Game Rant was provided travel and lodging for the purposes of this preview.

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2025-02-08 20:05