WWE 2K20: A New Era of Development and Fantasy Expansions
WWE 2K20 marked a significant shift in the production of the long-running wrestling simulation series. For the first time, the title was developed solely by Visual Concepts, moving away from the previous co-development partnership with the Japanese studio Yuke's. While early reports suggested that rapper Eminem would curate the game's soundtrack, those negotiations ultimately fell through after the news leaked prematurely.
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The Big Reveal and Cover Stars
Announced on August 5, 2019, WWE 2K20 introduced a bold new direction with its marketing. The reveal trailer featured a high-energy scene where various WWE Superstars and Legends gathered at a massive mansion, only for the party to be interrupted by Becky Lynch crashing through the glass ceiling. After a brief interaction with the mansion's owner, Hulk Hogan, Lynch was joined by Roman Reigns, who praised her entrance and revealed them both as the game's cover stars under the tagline "Step Inside".
This selection was historic for the franchise, as Becky Lynch became the first female cover star in the WWE 2K series. While Torrie Wilson had appeared on the NTSC cover of THQ's WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007, Lynch's presence marked a new milestone. Additionally, this was the first game since WWE All Stars to feature more than one cover star.
Collector's Edition Highlights
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of WWE SmackDown, a special collector's edition was released. This premium package included a signed card featuring a plaque from either Edge, Kurt Angle, or Rey Mysterio, as well as a commemorative plaque containing a piece of the original SmackDown ring mat used between 2002 and 2008.
WWE 2K Originals: Post-Release Expansions
Following its launch, the game expanded through a series of downloadable content (DLC) packs known as WWE 2K Originals. These expansions moved away from traditional wrestling simulations, introducing fantasy settings, unique character skins, and specialized Story Towers. Most of these were available via a season pass, which was bundled with the deluxe and collector's editions.
The Four Major Expansions
- Bump in the Night: A horror-themed expansion centered on Bray Wyatt's "The Fiend" persona. It featured a Showcase where Finn Bálor, as the "Demon King," fought against "The Swampfather" Bray Wyatt. Story Towers included characters like Twisted Nikki Cross, Fed-Up Sheamus, and Zombie Sasha Banks.
- Wasteland Wanderers: A dystopian-themed world where "Seth the Wanderer" sought to overthrow the overlord, Samoa Joe. This expansion included Story Towers featuring survivors such as Rhea Ripley, Pete Dunne, and Roman Reigns.
- Southpaw Regional Wrestling: A parody of 1980s local wrestling promotions. The plot followed a hostile takeover by Mr. Mackelroy (Tyler Breeze), with the Southpaw crew fighting to win back ownership in a best-of-five series.
- Empire of Tomorrow: A futuristic setting focused on female characters. The story followed Hacker Asuka in Neo-Osaka as she fought against the Authority Megacorp, led by chairwoman Alexa Bliss.
Across all four DLC showcases, members of The New Day—Xavier Woods, Kofi Kingston, and Big E—appeared in the opening and ending cutscenes.
Key Facts
- Sole Developer: Visual Concepts (first time without Yuke's).
- Cover Stars: Becky Lynch and Roman Reigns.
- Historic First: First female cover star in the WWE 2K series.
- DLC Theme: "WWE 2K Originals" focused on fantasy and alternate realities.
- Special Edition: Collector's edition celebrated 20 years of WWE SmackDown.
| Expansion Name | Theme | Primary Antagonist/Focus | Key Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bump in the Night | Horror | The Fiend / The Swampfather | Horror Realm |
| Wasteland Wanderers | Dystopian | Samoa Joe | Wasteland |
| Southpaw Regional Wrestling | 80s Parody | Mr. Mackelroy (Tyler Breeze) | Local Promotions |
| Empire of Tomorrow | Futuristic | Alexa Bliss / Authority Megacorp | Neo-Osaka |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who developed WWE 2K20?
WWE 2K20 was developed solely by Visual Concepts, marking the first time the series did not involve co-development by Yuke's.
Who are the cover stars of WWE 2K20?
The cover stars are Becky Lynch and Roman Reigns. Becky Lynch is the first woman to be a cover star for the WWE 2K series.
What was included in the Collector's Edition?
The Collector's Edition celebrated the 20th anniversary of WWE SmackDown and included a signed plaque from either Kurt Angle, Edge, or Rey Mysterio, and a piece of a 2002–2008 SmackDown ring mat.
What are WWE 2K Originals?
WWE 2K Originals are four DLC expansions that feature fantasy-themed storylines, including horror, dystopian, 1980s parody, and futuristic settings.
Did Eminem contribute to the game?
Although it was reported that Eminem would curate the soundtrack, the deal fell through after the news leaked before it was officially announced.