Who Develops WWE Video Games?

By Ali Hammad February 29, 2024 06:35

Photo by WWE 2K

When it comes to the development of WWE video games, there have been several key players involved over the years. The evolution of these games can be traced through various series, each with its own unique features and advancements. Let's delve into the details of who develops WWE video games, the key developers, and the evolution of these games over the years.

Evolution of WWE Video Games

The WWE video game series has undergone significant evolution, starting from its early versions to the latest installments. The series, which was originally published by THQ until 2013, saw a change in development when Take-Two Interactive's 2K Sports took over. Initially exclusive to Sony's PlayStation consoles, the series expanded to all seventh generation consoles by 2008. Over the years, the series has featured annual updates to gameplay and graphics, new game modes, exclusive Superstars, and downloadable content, making it a highly anticipated release each year.

Developers Involved

Yuke's:

Yuke's played a significant role in the development of WWE video games, being the primary developer from 2000 to 2018. They were responsible for the original game engine, which was based on the one used by Yuke's Toukon Retsuden and Rumble Roses series. Yuke's also published the WWE series in Japan, initially under the title of Exciting Pro Wrestling.

Visual Concepts:

Since 2019, Visual Concepts has been the lead developer of the WWE video games. Their involvement marked a new phase in the series, bringing a fresh perspective to the development process.

Key WWE Video Game Series

WWE 2K Series:

The WWE 2K series, which began with WWE 2K14, has seen a new generation for WWE video games with updated gameplay, graphics, and new game modes. The series has also expanded and improved the Creation Suite, giving players full control of their own customizable WWE Universe. Each year, the roster of WWE and NXT Superstars, as well as WWE Legends and Hall of Famers, gets bigger and better. The latest installments have also featured different Superstars on the cover, setting the tone for the game.

Notable WWE Video Games

WrestleMania Series:

The WrestleMania series has been a significant part of WWE video games. With titles like WrestleMania (1989), WrestleMania (1991), and Legends, these games have captured the essence of the grandeur and excitement of WWE's flagship event, WrestleMania.

Programming-based Titles:

The WWE video game library also includes programming-based titles such as Superstars (1989), Royal Rumble (1993), and Survivor Series, offering fans a unique gaming experience based on WWE programming.

Other Titles and Collaborations:

Other notable titles like WWF Superstars, WWF WrestleFest, and WWF Royal Rumble have contributed to the diverse range of WWE video games. Collaborations with developers like Technōs Japan and distribution by companies such as Tecmo have also added unique elements to the WWE video game portfolio.

The development of WWE video games has seen a remarkable journey, with key developers like Yuke's and Visual Concepts playing pivotal roles in shaping the series. From the early days of exclusive releases to the expansive roster and advanced gameplay features of the WWE 2K series, each installment has brought new dimensions to the virtual world of WWE. With a rich history of titles based on WrestleMania, programming, and collaborations with various developers, the WWE video game library continues to offer fans an immersive and engaging experience, capturing the essence of the WWE universe.

The development of WWE video games has been a collaborative effort involving dedicated developers, each contributing to the evolution and success of the series. The ongoing advancements and innovations in gameplay, graphics, and features have solidified the position of WWE video games as an integral part of the gaming industry, captivating wrestling fans and gamers alike.