WWE 2K Universe Mode offers players the ability to shape their own wrestling stories, creating dramatic rivalries, alliances, and championship pursuits. One of the most exciting angles in professional wrestling is the underdog story—a journey where a lesser-known or less physically imposing wrestler rises to the top against all odds. Booking such a story in WWE 2K Universe Mode can provide the thrill of crafting an emotionally charged and satisfying narrative. If you’re eager to book a compelling underdog journey in your WWE 2K universe, we’ve got you covered with these four tips to help create a memorable and engaging underdog saga.
1. Pick the Right Underdog Character
To start your underdog story, selecting the right character is crucial. While WWE has many superstars to choose from, the key is to find someone who naturally fits the mold of an underdog. Think about wrestlers who are often underestimated or have a storyline history of struggles. These characters might not have the size or prestige of a typical WWE champion, but they possess determination and heart.
You can use any lower-tier superstar or create a custom character from scratch. Some of the best choices might include an underdeveloped rookie or a wrestler who has consistently failed to win big matches. Choosing a character with a clear, relatable backstory can make the audience rally behind them, adding emotional weight to their journey. Once you’ve selected the right character, focus on their growth and development throughout the Universe Mode.
2. Start Small with Feuds and Rivalries
A great underdog story doesn’t begin with a championship match; it starts with smaller challenges and personal feuds. Start by booking your underdog in mid-card matches, where they’ll face opponents who are more experienced, powerful, or popular. These early rivalries should highlight the obstacles your underdog must overcome, showing their resilience and determination to rise through the ranks.
Set up compelling matchups that force your underdog to struggle, such as facing tag teams or being placed in multi-man matches. The key is to create tension through rivalries that feel personal. For example, have the opponent taunt your underdog in promos or sabotage their matches to make them feel even more vulnerable. These small challenges will build the foundation for a larger, more dramatic story as your character works their way up.
WWE 2K Universe Mode (Image via 2K Sports)3. Create Key Victory Moments to Build Momentum
As your underdog character faces increasingly difficult opponents, be sure to book key victory moments that build momentum. These should be surprise victories that make the audience believe in their potential. A great way to do this is to book matches where your underdog pulls off a surprising win, whether by a fluke or a hard-fought battle. These moments should come after a series of struggles, making the win feel earned and meaningful.
Be strategic with the timing of these victories. Booking them against tough opponents in high-stakes matches, like number-one contender bouts or pay-per-view events, will make them feel even more impactful. As the wins start to pile up, your underdog will gain recognition and start moving up the ranks, building anticipation for their eventual title shot.
WWE 2K Universe Mode (Image via 2K Sports)4. Book the Ultimate Payoff: A Championship Victory
The climax of any great underdog story is the ultimate payoff: the championship victory. To make this moment truly special, build up the tension by having your underdog face their biggest challenge yet—perhaps a reigning champion who has dominated for a long time or a final, high-profile match against their rival. The match should feel like a culmination of everything your character has gone through, from their early struggles to the hard-fought victories.
In the build-up, consider adding drama to your matches, such as interference from other characters, heel turns, or unexpected twists. The final match should have the crowd on the edge of their seat, with your underdog pulling off the win in an exciting and satisfying way. After the victory, give your character a chance to bask in the glory, whether it’s through a post-match celebration or a promo that solidifies their triumph. This final moment will give the underdog the recognition they’ve earned and offer a rewarding conclusion to their journey.