WWE 2K26 reveals the first gameplay improvements coming to the game
2K have released the first Ringside Report for WWE 2K26, which dives into the many gameplay enhancements that are being made for this years release, they have it video form and text form, for those who like to read. You can watch the video below.
This first report takes a look at core gameplay improvements including new match types, interactive environments and objects, surprise attacks, start-of-match actions, new A.I. sequences, rivalries, a new commentary team, and interactive entrances. We knew that there were new modes coming to the game and now we have our first details:
The Dumpster Match is a no-holds-barred brawl in which a competitor must throw their opponent into a dumpster and close the lid before they can escape. The match is demonstrated by footage of Je’Von Evans taking on Ethan Page in a parking lot environment, slamming him into a car before tossing him into the dumpster.
The I Quit Match is a brutal contest in which the first combatant to make their opponent verbally submit claims victory. Competitors can use steel chairs and other objects to apply limb-crushing pressure and physical punishment, wearing down an opponent’s will until they are forced to utter “I quit” into the referee’s outstretched microphone. In this case, Bron Breakker pins Seth Rollins’ arm between the seat and back of a steel chair in an attempt to force the submission.
In Three Stages of Hell, competitors must face off in up to three, back-to-back matches, with the first opponent to claim two-out-of-three falls securing the victory. Three Stages of Hell match types include normal rules, Extreme Rules, Inferno, I Quit, Dumpster, Hell in a Cell, Steel Cage, Table, Ladder, TLC, Casket, and Ambulance matches. WWE Legends “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and Triple H are shown doing battle in a normal match, followed by Extreme Rules and finally, a Steel Cage match.
The Inferno Match is a unique and sinister match type, wherein the ring is surrounded by a wall of flame, which burns higher and brighter as opponents slam one another onto the mat. Big impacts cause the flames to rise, adding to the risk and intensity as the match progresses. A classic matchup of Ministry of Darkness-era Undertaker vs Kane ‘98 (available as part of the Attitude Era Edition Pack) is shown in a match type the two know all too well. Undertaker claims the victory, as the referee rushes to douse the defeated Kane with a fire extinguisher.
There have also been quite a number of upgrades to the games presentation, which include an updated commentary team of Michael Cole, Wade Barrett, Corey Graves, and Booker T. Interactive entrances now allow players to control taunts, trigger pyro and play to the crowd. New referees and a new broadcast mode also add to the realism and immersion.
The game will release on March 13 for Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, but those who are willing to pay more can get access as early as March 6. You can learn all about the various editions here.
