The WWE 2K series has allowed fans to craft their dream matches, giving them the freedom to create custom stipulations and challenges. While this customization feature adds a lot of excitement to the gameplay, some match types appear to be unfair and heavily tilted in favor of one side. Whether it’s due to game mechanics, extreme difficulty, or one-sided conditions, these custom stipulations often frustrate players who just want to enjoy the game on equal footing. In this, we’ll explore the five most unfair custom match stipulations in WWE 2K that can leave players feeling like they’re always fighting an uphill battle.
1. Iron Man Match with Extreme Rules
An Iron Man match, where the goal is to score the most pinfalls or submissions within a time limit, is already challenging enough. But when players add extreme rules to the equation, the match becomes an absolute nightmare. Extreme rules introduce weapons, allowing players to use chairs, tables, and other tools to cause mayhem. The problem is that the AI-controlled opponent often seems far more skilled at utilizing these weapons effectively, while the player may struggle to perform the same moves efficiently. Coupled with the pressure of the time limit, this stipulation can feel downright unfair, especially when you’re facing an AI opponent that knows how to maximize every weapon’s impact.
Why It’s Unfair: The combination of time pressure and weapon chaos gives the AI an advantage, as it can wear down the player much quicker while the player is left fumbling with the weapon mechanics.
2. Ladder Match with Multiple Opponents
Ladder matches are thrilling in WWE 2K because they bring an extra level of chaos with ladders scattered around the ring. However, when you add multiple opponents into the mix, this match type can become frustratingly unfair. The issue arises when you realize that, while you’re trying to climb the ladder to retrieve the object, the other competitors will relentlessly target you and disrupt your climb. On top of that, the AI players seem to have a sixth sense when it comes to timing and targeting the player. Despite your best efforts to defend yourself, it often feels like the odds are stacked against you.
Why It’s Unfair: The sheer number of opponents and their relentless attacks on the player while they climb the ladder make it nearly impossible to win unless you’re lucky or exceptionally skilled at avoiding hits.
WWE 2K Ladder Matches (image via Getty)3. Hell in a Cell Match with No Escape
Hell in a Cell matches are already one of the most brutal match types in WWE 2K, but adding a stipulation where there’s no way to escape the structure just amplifies the unfairness. In these matches, the goal is often to either pin or submit your opponent inside the cell, but when there’s no way out, you’re trapped in a confined space with no escape route. The issue here is that the AI opponent often uses the environment better than the player, luring them into corners and taking advantage of every opportunity to attack with minimal resistance.
Why It’s Unfair: With nowhere to run or escape to, players are forced to engage in an all-out brawl inside the cell, where the AI seems to always be one step ahead.
4. TLC Match with Tornado Tag Rules
Tag Team TLC (Tables, Ladders, and Chairs) matches are chaotic by nature, but adding tornado tag rules—where both partners are legal at all times—turns things into pure madness. While the idea of a two-on-two match with tables, ladders, and chairs may seem fun, the reality is that when all four participants are constantly involved in the action, it becomes nearly impossible to plan any strategy. The player is often bombarded by attacks from all angles, while the AI seems to coordinate better and take advantage of every distraction to set up devastating spots.
Why It’s Unfair: The tornado tag stipulation means you can’t focus on a single opponent, and the AI partners frequently work together in ways that feel almost scripted, leaving the player overwhelmed and outmatched.
TLC Match with Tornado Tag Rules (Image via 2K Sports)5. Elimination Chamber with Heavyweight Opponents
The Elimination Chamber match is one of the most iconic stipulations in WWE 2K, with its brutal structure and the ever-changing environment. However, when you add heavyweight opponents into the mix, the game’s difficulty spikes significantly. Heavyweight wrestlers are often stronger, harder to take down, and can absorb a lot more punishment. In a high-stakes elimination chamber, facing off against these opponents often feels like you’re fighting a losing battle. They can hit harder and move faster than you’d expect, and the chances of scoring an elimination without being interrupted are slim.
Why It’s Unfair: The sheer physical advantage of heavyweight wrestlers makes it much harder for players, especially if they’re using a smaller or faster character. The constant damage inflicted by these powerful opponents can wear you down quickly.