WWE2K18 Character Creation: The Low Down

This year’s game has completely impressed myself, and many others, with the many changes that 2K has brought to the table with its additions to the character, entrance, and venue creation suites. This is by far the most immersive experience that I have had with any of the WWE iterations put out by 2K to date. This will be a generalized look into creation suite and will not look into the individual choices associated with MyCareer/Road to Glory modes. So, without any further ramblings about my own perceptions lets get into the nitty gritty.

This year the developers have added more base faces to reflect a broader spectrum of races and ethnicities. This is not a limiting factor as with the previous games. You still have access to a multitude of deformation, skinning with uploaded faces, and a whole lot more options for hair: both facial and head related.

They also have done away with the four quadrant system for a more user friendly slider with two body types that allows for a more simplistic method of getting a baseline for any created superstar. The simple method can then be further changed area by area through specific skin models that allow for any combination to truly give you a character that you can be proud of.

As mentioned previously, the hair system has more styles in the base options and these can be altered through dyeing as before as well as the ability to add pattern effects to any style that has the scalp exposed. So go on and carve those sides up and look phenomenal. Speaking about carving it up, you will have access to all the blemishes, scars, and makeup as last year with one bonus: movable scars.

They have even upped the dental game this year. The included versions of teeth have been given the option of material as well as removal of teeth for that true, fighter feel. Now everyone, don’t get your panties in a bunch and get all Cesaro on us, but if that is your thing you have the option.

Speaking about materials, this year’s game includes three new types that are a nice addition: carbon fiber, black light, glow, and glitter. So if you want to change Bo Dallas into his fabulous Miztourage jacket you can. I actually believe a user has done it and uploaded the alternate attire to the user upload area.

My personal favorite additions this year begin with cylindrical mapping for image application. I know many, including myself, have had issues with the faded edges, especially on body art, due to the kayfabe look. What the mapping does is allow you to bend the image around a body part or attire piece. I am also impressed with the change to the stitch component that was also very lackluster and clunky at times. This year you will actually create your stitch pattern before applying it. It doesn’t stop there. Once the pattern is applied you will have the same options as with any other image type and the pattern itself will be saved for you to use again as you see fit.

Another favorite of mine is menu screen poses and manipulation. Not only can you choose from a pre-selected positioning but you can create a unique pose by choosing body position, hand gestures, and facial expressions. The best part of all the aforementioned components, you can wear that entrance attire you spend time creating as well.

Now for a few of the things that I believe should be included but are not in this year’s iteration. Some are throwbacks to games past. Personally, the component I miss the most is being able to select my own theme music from saved files either through One Drive or accessible from my hard drive. I know this may seem a little petty but, let’s face it, with all the other additions this could have easily been included. The other option that I would love to have is the option to create a unique finisher. I know this was a THQ thing from way back, but it would be a great inclusion for a future game.

That’s all I have for you guys and gals at the moment. Stay tuned as I promise to bring you all some more coverage in the weeks to come. And remember, this game is a Slobber-Knocker!