Since the inception of the WWE 2K series, cover stars have been an essential part of the game’s marketing, representing the biggest and most influential wrestlers of their respective eras. Over the years, WWE 2K has featured legends, current superstars, and even dual-cover athletes to reflect the evolving nature of professional wrestling. Here’s a look at some of the best WWE 2K cover stars of all time and why they stood out.
1. Stone Cold Steve Austin (WWE 2K16)
One of the most beloved wrestlers in history, Stone Cold Steve Austin graced the cover of WWE 2K16. The Texas Rattlesnake was a perfect choice, as his impact on WWE during the Attitude Era was undeniable. This edition also marked a turning point for the franchise, featuring a robust roster and improvements in gameplay. Austin’s legacy was further cemented with the inclusion of a special Stone Cold Steve Austin Showcase Mode, allowing fans to relive some of his most iconic moments.
2. The Rock (WWE 2K14)
WWE 2K14 was a landmark entry in the series, and The Rock as the cover star was a fitting choice. By 2013, The Rock had solidified his place as both a Hollywood megastar and a WWE legend. His return to WWE to headline WrestleMania 28 and 29 against John Cena made him a relevant choice for the cover. The game itself was widely praised for its 30 Years of WrestleMania mode, celebrating historic matches, many of which featured The Rock himself.
3. Brock Lesnar (WWE 2K17)
Brock Lesnar’s cover on WWE 2K17 represented pure dominance. By this time, Lesnar had already conquered the Undertaker’s legendary WrestleMania streak and was one of the most feared competitors in the industry. His MMA background and suplex-heavy wrestling style made him a perfect face for the game. This installment also introduced a more refined version of the backstage brawling feature, aligning with Lesnar’s raw, aggressive persona.
WWE 2K17 (image via Getty)4. John Cena (WWE 2K15 & WWE 2K23 Special Edition)
John Cena’s role as a cover athlete on WWE 2K15 made perfect sense, given his dominance in the PG Era and his role as WWE’s poster boy for over a decade. This game was also significant as it marked the franchise’s debut on the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One consoles. In WWE 2K23, Cena made a return as the special edition cover star, reflecting his enduring influence in WWE even after transitioning to Hollywood. The “Never Give Up” Showcase Mode in 2K23 allowed players to relive Cena’s most challenging career moments.
5. Rey Mysterio (WWE 2K22)
Rey Mysterio was the perfect choice for WWE 2K22, which revitalized the series after the poorly received WWE 2K20. His underdog story, high-flying lucha libre style, and longevity in WWE made him a fan favorite. The game’s showcase mode focused on Mysterio’s legendary career, making his presence as the cover star even more meaningful.
6. Roman Reigns & Becky Lynch (WWE 2K20)
Though WWE 2K20 was infamous for its bugs, the cover stars were significant. Roman Reigns and Becky Lynch were the faces of WWE at the time, representing the evolution of the industry. Becky Lynch, as the first female superstar to be featured on a WWE 2K cover, was a historic choice, celebrating her groundbreaking WrestleMania 35 main event victory.
7. CM Punk (WWE 2K13)
Before WWE 2K took over the franchise, WWE 2K13 was released under the WWE branding by THQ, but it still deserves mention. CM Punk, known for his rebellious attitude and phenomenal in-ring ability, was the perfect fit for this game, which focused on the Attitude Era. His presence as the cover star reflected his peak in WWE as the longest-reigning champion of the modern era.