The Best Grappling Techniques to Use in WWE 2K

Grappling in WWE 2K games is an essential component of the gameplay, allowing players to execute powerful moves, control the pace of a match, and ultimately secure victories. Whether you’re playing competitively or casually, mastering the best grappling techniques can give you a significant advantage over your opponents. Let’s explore the most effective grappling techniques in WWE 2K, providing tips on when and how to use them effectively.

1. Chain Wrestling and Collar-and-Elbow Tie-Up

In WWE 2K, most matches begin with a collar-and-elbow tie-up, particularly in simulation-style gameplay. This mechanic allows players to engage in a mini-game to gain the upper hand early on. By successfully transitioning between headlocks, wrist locks, and other holds, you can establish control over your opponent. Winning the chain wrestling exchange can also help build momentum, giving you the opportunity to land early damage and dictate the pace of the match.

Tips for Success:

• Quickly rotate the right stick to transition between holds.
• Anticipate your opponent’s next move to counter effectively.
• Use chain wrestling to drain your opponent’s stamina early.

2. Ground Grappling for Stamina Management

Ground grappling is an underrated but powerful technique in WWE 2K. By keeping your opponent on the mat with submissions, holds, and stomps, you can slow them down and deplete their stamina. This is particularly useful against high-flying superstars who rely on quick movements and reversals.

Best Ground Grappling Moves:

• Side Headlock Takedown – Keeps your opponent grounded and allows for follow-up attacks.
• Arm Bar – Weakens your opponent’s limb, making them more susceptible to submissions.
• Mounted Punches – Drains stamina and builds momentum for your finisher.

3. Strong Grapples and Signature Moves

Strong grapples allow you to inflict heavy damage and set up finishing moves. In WWE 2K, executing these powerful grapples at the right time can turn the tide of a match in your favor.

Key Strategies:

• Perform strong grapples when your opponent’s health is low to maximize damage.
• Use a variety of strong grapples to avoid reversals.
• Set up signature moves by wearing down specific body parts.

Some of the best strong grapples include:

• Powerbomb Variations – Great for heavyweights and power wrestlers.
• DDT Variations – Useful for weakening an opponent’s head.
• Suplex Chains – Helps wear down an opponent’s entire body.

4. Irish Whip and Rebound Grappling

The Irish Whip is a fundamental technique that allows players to send their opponent into the ropes or turnbuckles, setting up various high-impact maneuvers. Rebound grapples, which are executed when an opponent bounces off the ropes, provide an excellent way to catch an opponent off guard.

Recommended Moves:

• Spinebuster – A devastating counter to a rebound attack.
• Flapjack – Takes advantage of an opponent’s momentum for extra damage.
• Sling Blade – Great for agile and high-flying wrestlers.

5. Corner and Apron Grappling for Maximum Impact

Corner and apron grapples offer some of the most brutal and visually impressive moves in WWE 2K. These moves are useful for weakening an opponent before executing a high-impact finisher.

Best Corner and Apron Grapples:

• Superplex from the Top Rope – Devastating for both competitors but delivers high damage.
• Turnbuckle Powerbomb – Great for weakening an opponent’s back.
• Apron DDT – One of the most dangerous moves, targeting the opponent’s head.

6. Reversal Grappling to Counter Opponents

A strong defense is just as important as an aggressive offense. Reversal grappling allows you to counter your opponent’s attacks and shift the momentum in your favor. WWE 2K provides a limited number of reversal slots, so using them wisely is crucial.

Countering Techniques:

• Anticipate Moves – Pay attention to your opponent’s patterns to predict when to reverse.
• Use Mid-Move Reversals – Some moves have mid-animation reversal points that allow for more dramatic counters.
• Save Reversals for Key Moments – Don’t waste reversals on minor moves; save them for finishers and high-impact attacks.

7. Submission Grappling for Technical Superstars

For players who prefer a technical wrestling style, submission grappling is a crucial skill. WWE 2K features an improved submission system that allows players to wear down specific body parts and force their opponent to tap out.

Best Submission Moves:

• Sharpshooter – Targets the legs, limiting the opponent’s mobility.
• Crossface – A devastating head-targeting submission.
• Guillotine Choke – Drains an opponent’s stamina quickly.

To increase your chances of success with submissions, focus on weakening the targeted body part before locking in the hold. Additionally, using submission finishers in the later stages of a match increases their effectiveness.