WWE 2K’s Most Innovative Features That Were Removed

The WWE 2K series has had a rollercoaster journey, delivering some of the best wrestling simulation experiences while also frustrating fans with questionable design choices. Over the years, developers have introduced groundbreaking features that elevated gameplay, only to remove them in later installments. These decisions often leave fans wondering why some of the most beloved innovations were scrapped.

Let’s explore five of WWE 2K’s most innovative features that were removed despite their positive reception. If you’re a long-time fan of the franchise, you’ll likely remember these features fondly.

1. GM Mode – The Ultimate Wrestling Management Experience

GM (General Manager) Mode was a fan-favorite feature that debuted in SmackDown vs. Raw 2006 and allowed players to take control of a WWE brand. It offered deep strategy elements, requiring users to manage rosters, rivalries, and finances while competing against AI or another player to create the best wrestling show.

Despite its immense popularity, GM Mode was removed after SmackDown vs. Raw 2008, leaving fans disappointed. Although WWE 2K22 and WWE 2K23 introduced MyGM as a spiritual successor, it lacks many of the original mode’s complexities, such as mid-card titles, full-length drafts, and deeper rivalry mechanics.

2. Create-a-Story – A Customization Goldmine

The Create-a-Story mode allowed players to craft their own WWE narratives, complete with cutscenes, dialogue, and branching storylines. This feature provided unlimited creative freedom, enabling fans to replicate real-life WWE angles or create entirely new sagas.

Despite being a highlight in games like WWE 2K14, the mode was removed in later entries, leaving a void in custom storytelling. Fans have since relied on Universe Mode to fill this gap, but it lacks the scripted storytelling elements that made Create-a-Story so engaging.

3. Advanced Entrance Creation – Personalized Superstar Entrances

For years, WWE 2K games allowed players to craft intricate superstar entrances, complete with custom animations, pyrotechnics, and unique camera angles. This feature was perfect for making CAWs (Create-a-Wrestler) feel like legitimate WWE superstars.

However, WWE 2K20 drastically scaled back entrance customization, and later entries limited certain creative options. While entrance creation still exists, the advanced tools that once allowed complete control over presentation have been diluted, making custom entrances feel less unique and immersive.

4. Custom Soundtracks – The Ultimate Personalization Feature

One of the most immersive features in early WWE 2K games was the ability to import custom music for superstar entrances. This allowed players to give their CAWs and real-life wrestlers the correct theme songs, enhancing the authenticity of matches.

Unfortunately, this feature was removed due to licensing and technical constraints on modern consoles. Without custom soundtracks, players are forced to use in-game music selections, which significantly limits personalization. This removal remains one of the most requested returns by fans.

5. Road to WrestleMania – Story-Driven Career Mode

The Road to WrestleMania mode was a narrative-driven campaign that followed WWE superstars on their journey to the biggest event of the year. With unique storylines, voice acting, and branching choices, this mode was a highlight in older titles like SmackDown vs. Raw 2011.

Despite its popularity, it was removed in favor of MyCareer and later MyRise, which focus on a single CAW instead of multiple superstars. While MyRise has storytelling elements, it lacks the depth and multiple perspectives that made Road to WrestleMania so engaging.