With uplifting reviews forWWE 2K22reassuring fans that the series' worst days could be in the rear-view, the likelihood of commercial success is far higher than previous iterations. The Visual Concepts-developed games have seen much criticism in the past for their bugs and lackluster game modes, but thefuture looks bright withWWE 2K22as the World Wrestling Entertainment product continues to be a gold standard for sports entertainment.
With more content by way of game modes, customizable cosmetics, and a roster that both honors the past and looks to the future,WWE 2K22should keep fans happy for the time it takes for its successor to release. But the elation will likely only go so far, as character ratings are often a point of contention. Much likeMaddenorFIFA, individual player ratings are never quite what many fans believe is right, and the debates that surround each game’s release are often a result of characters being over- or undervalued. There are a few wrestlers in theWWE 2K22roster that fall into the latter category, deserving a far higher overall rating than they’ve been given.
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Rey Mysterio (2006) - 87 Overall
Thefan-voted cover star ofWWE 2K22, Rey Mysterio, has had a decorated career in the WWE, and though his beginnings are in ECW and rival WCW, a ticket to the Hall of Fame is a formality. On his journey to the top, Mysterio has collected countless championships, including two World Heavyweight Titles, and four Tag Team Championships with the likes of Edge and Eddie Guerrero, but no year was more successful than 2006. Starting strong by winning the Royal Rumble as second entrant (a feat that only Mysterio and Vince McMahon have achieved) with a total time of one hour and two minutes, Mysterio would go on to win a triple threat match at WrestleMania 22 to capture the esteemed World Heavyweight Championship, holding it until the summer Great American Bash.
Mysterio would defend the title against all manner of competitors during a six-month period that was arguably the superstar’s best. To have his ‘06 variant inWWE 2K22be somewhat uneventful is a shame, especially as he was so beloved by the audience. The gameforgoes some of Mysterio’s highlights in the Showcase Mode, and though his presence is felt with numerous alternate costumes, his rating does not do the terrific 2006 calendar year justice.
Kane - 82 Overall
The Big Red Monster made his shocking debut in WWE at the Badd Blood: In Your House PPV event, tearing the door off the Hell in a Cell that housed a match between The Undertaker and HBK. It was one of the biggest surprises in the company at the time, and brought fans a new, hulking character.Inducted into theWWE Hall of Fame in 2021, Kane’s impact on the WWE was huge, and his career has seen success that spans over two decades.
It’s no secret that Kane’s best years are behind him, as appearances on WWE television have become increasingly rare. However, his early days in the company offered some of the most unnerving moments in the attitude era, and his overbearing physique and eerie aura carried well into the 2000s, thoroughly deserving a place alongside The Undertaker. The latter wields a 90 rating, and hasadditional attires in the Immortals Pack pre-order bonus, but giving Kane a rating some eight points lower feels like a misstep.
The Miz - 86 Overall
Though many would point to Rowdy Roddy Piper, Hollywood Hulk Hogan, or Mr. McMahon as some of the best heels in WWE history, few would mention Mike ‘The Miz’ Mizanin, whose arrogant, self-centered persona is very entertaining. From his exceptional microphone ability to an opportunistic but polished wrestling style, any show that features The Miz is a stand-out, and ateam-up with YouTube content creator Logan Paul at WrestleMania 38will surely be a must-see match.
With two variants of the performer featuring inWWE 2K22,the game does well to capture The Miz’ best year, unlike its handling of Rey Mysterio. The Miz from 2011 is appropriately given a 90 rating, likely granted because of his victory over John Cena at WrestleMania 27. However, the standard version of the character sits at a slightly underappreciated 86. This puts him directly in the middle of a roster that houses wrestlers ranging from 77 tothe highest possible rating of 95 for Roman Reigns. The Miz is anything but average, and while many have their reservations about his in-ring capability, 86 is selling the love-to-hate character short.
WWE 2K22is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
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