WWE 2K22 (2022) was a major reboot for the struggling franchise after the disastrous launch of WWE 2K20. Skipping 2021, 2K rebuilt the game with a new engine, improved graphics, and reworked gameplay that emphasized accessibility and fun while maintaining depth. The tagline “It Hits Different” reflected its fresh approach.

The Showcase mode highlighted Rey Mysterio’s career, letting players relive iconic matches with cinematic presentation and match objectives. The new “MyGM” mode allowed players to run a WWE brand, draft rosters, and compete for ratings, a fan-requested feature returning after many years. MyRISE replaced Career Mode, offering branching storylines for created wrestlers.

Praised for its improvements, smoother mechanics, and extensive customization, WWE 2K22 was widely seen as a successful comeback that restored faith in the series.