The Attitude Era was a golden age in professional wrestling, marked by intense rivalries, larger-than-life superstars, and boundary-pushing storytelling. WWE 2K Universe Mode gives players the tools to relive this chaotic, adrenaline-fueled period by customizing their rosters, shows, and rivalries. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to this legendary era, bringing back the magic of Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, and DX requires careful planning and creativity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to accurately recreate the Attitude Era in WWE 2K Universe Mode, from assembling the perfect roster to setting up explosive feuds and classic match stipulations. Follow these steps to ensure that your Universe Mode feels like a trip back to wrestling’s most unforgettable time.
1. Assemble the Perfect Attitude Era Roster
One of the most crucial steps in recreating the Attitude Era is building an authentic roster. WWE 2K games usually feature several legends from this time, but you may need to download community creations to complete the lineup.
- Key Superstars: Ensure that icons like Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, Triple H, The Undertaker, Kane, and Mick Foley are included. Don’t forget legends like Kurt Angle, Chris Jericho, and the New Age Outlaws.
- Diva Representation: Women’s wrestling was different in this era, with stars like Trish Stratus, Lita, and Chyna standing out. Make sure they are included for authenticity.
- Faction Power: The Attitude Era was driven by factions like D-Generation X, The Corporation, and The Ministry of Darkness. Add or create these stables to capture the era’s chaotic faction warfare.
- Attires and Gimmicks: Modify superstars’ looks to reflect their classic Attitude Era appearances, including Stone Cold’s vest, The Rock’s flashy shirts, and The Undertaker’s Ministry look.
With the right roster, you’ll set the stage for an authentic Attitude Era experience in Universe Mode.
2. Design the Perfect Attitude Era Show
To make your Universe Mode feel like the Attitude Era, you need to replicate its gritty and unpredictable presentation.
- Show Branding: Rename RAW to RAW is WAR and SmackDown to SmackDown! to match the era’s aesthetics. Use the correct logos and graphics from community downloads.
- Arenas and Stages: Download or create Attitude Era arenas with classic stage designs, such as the RAW is WAR set with the red ropes and titantron.
- Match Presentation: Keep entrances short and to the point, just like in the actual era. Use grainy filters and darker lighting effects to add an old-school feel.
- Theme Music: Modify the show intros and superstar themes to match their Attitude Era versions. Hearing “If you smell…” or the glass shatter before Stone Cold’s entrance adds to the immersion.
A properly set-up show will make every match and rivalry feel like a true throwback to wrestling’s wildest period.

3. Create Authentic Attitude Era Storylines
The Attitude Era thrived on intense rivalries, edgy storylines, and unscripted chaos. Your Universe Mode should reflect that with gripping feuds and unpredictable moments.
- Classic Rivalries: Reignite legendary feuds like Austin vs. McMahon, The Rock vs. Triple H, and Undertaker vs. Kane. Use promos and cutscenes to fuel the drama.
- Faction Warfare: Book DX against The Corporation, or The Ministry of Darkness clashing with the likes of Stone Cold and The Rock.
- Edgy Promos: While WWE 2K lacks full promo customization, you can simulate it by choosing aggressive promo options and manually scripting segments in story mode.
- Betrayals & Surprising Twists: The Attitude Era was famous for surprising heel turns and betrayals. Keep your Universe Mode unpredictable by switching alliances and throwing unexpected swerves into storylines.
By crafting rivalries with attitude and unpredictability, you’ll bring back the electric energy of the era.

4. Utilize Classic Match Types & Rules
The Attitude Era was defined by hardcore matches, Surprising moments, and anything-goes chaos. Ensure your Universe Mode delivers the same level of intensity by using the right match types and stipulations.
- Hardcore Matches: Regularly book Hardcore, Falls Count Anywhere, and No Holds Barred matches to mimic the brutal, weapon-filled battles of the era.
- Hell in a Cell & Cage Matches: Undertaker vs. Mankind at King of the Ring 1998 is legendary—recreate these types of intense battles to stay true to the Attitude Era.
- 24/7 Hardcore Title: If the game allows it, create a Hardcore Championship with 24/7 rules, having surprise title changes in backstage brawls.
- Special Referee Matches: Set up Austin as a biased referee in a McMahon feud, or have The Rock officiate a heated DX match to add classic chaos.
- Intergender Matches: While WWE’s modern era avoids intergender wrestling, the Attitude Era frequently featured male vs. female bouts. If available, use this option for authenticity.
These match types and stipulations will make every event feel as wild and unpredictable as the real Attitude Era.