Since the inception of the WWE 2K series, fans have eagerly awaited the inclusion of new superstars in each installment. Some of the most celebrated names in professional wrestling made their video game debuts in the franchise, marking the beginning of their digital dominance alongside their real-life success. This highlights four of the most iconic superstars who debuted in WWE 2K games and left a lasting impact on both the gaming and wrestling worlds.
1. AJ Styles – WWE 2K17
The Phenomenal One’s Electrifying Arrival
When AJ Styles made his surprise WWE debut at the 2016 Royal Rumble, fans worldwide were ecstatic. His arrival in WWE 2K17 was equally monumental, as it marked the first time “The Phenomenal One” was featured in a WWE video game.
Styles’ character model, entrance, and move set were meticulously crafted to reflect his high-flying, technical wrestling style. Gamers relished the opportunity to execute his signature Phenomenal Forearm and Calf Crusher, making him one of the most enjoyable characters to play.
His presence in WWE 2K17 also cemented his status as a top-tier superstar, as he went on to capture multiple world championships in WWE. To this day, Styles remains one of the most beloved characters in the franchise.
2. The Shield (Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, Dean Ambrose) – WWE 2K14
The Hounds of Justice Take Over
Before becoming main event megastars, Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and Dean Ambrose stormed onto the WWE scene as The Shield in late 2012. Their first WWE 2K appearance came in WWE 2K14, allowing fans to finally take control of the dominant trio.
Each member of The Shield had a unique in-ring style, and their in-game animations perfectly captured their distinct personas. Reigns’ powerhouse moves, Rollins’ high-flying offense, and Ambrose’s unhinged brawling made them a formidable team in any match.
The Shield’s debut in WWE 2K14 was a defining moment for the faction, as they quickly became one of the most popular groups in wrestling history. All three members later achieved massive individual success, with multiple WWE Championship reigns and Hall of Fame-worthy careers.
Ronda Rousey – WWE 2K19 (Image via 2K Sports)3. Ronda Rousey – WWE 2K19
The Baddest Woman on the Planet Enters the Virtual Ring
Former UFC champion and Olympic medalist Ronda Rousey made an explosive entrance into WWE in 2018, and her WWE 2K debut in WWE 2K19 was just as impactful. As one of the pre-order bonus characters, Rousey was an instant favorite among fans who wanted to experience her dominance firsthand.
WWE 2K19 captured her judo-based offense, including her signature armbar submission and devastating throws. Her entrance, complete with her signature “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey gear inspired by Roddy Piper, added authenticity to her character.
Rousey’s transition from MMA to professional wrestling was seamless, and her presence in WWE 2K19 helped solidify her as one of the most dominant female superstars in WWE history. She went on to headline WrestleMania and redefine women’s wrestling in WWE.
Sting – WWE 2K15 (Image via 2K Sports)4. Sting – WWE 2K15
The Vigilante Finally Comes to WWE
For decades, fans dreamed of seeing Sting in a WWE ring. That dream became reality in 2014 when he made his surprise WWE debut, and WWE 2K15 marked his first appearance in a WWE video game.
Sting was introduced as a pre-order exclusive, featuring both his classic WCW “Surfer” Sting persona and his legendary “Crow” Sting gimmick. His in-game move set, complete with the Scorpion Death Lock and Scorpion Death Drop, perfectly captured his legendary in-ring style.
The anticipation surrounding Sting’s WWE 2K debut was immense, and his inclusion brought nostalgia and excitement to longtime wrestling fans. His addition to the game coincided with his eventual WWE debut, making WWE 2K15 a historic entry in the series.