WWE 2K14 Beginner’s Tips

Wrestling fans, rejoice. No longer do you have to sit on the sidelines and let Triple H decide what’s “best for business.” With 2K Sports’ WWE 2K14, which is now available in stores, you can wrestle however you please, setting up pay-per-views, making dream matches and even taking on – or defending – the Undertaker’s undefeated streak.

We’ve got some tips that will help get you started on the Road To Wrestlemania. Enjoy!

How do I Create Dream Match-Ups?

With WWE 2K14, there are over 50 wrestlers available, with more coming via downloadable content. This cast of characters spans across multiple eras, including the early WWF days with Hulk Hogan and The Ultimate Warrior; the WCW/WWE crossover era with Goldberg and Eddie Guerrero; and the current roster, featuring super-bearded Daniel Bryan and John Cena. Divas are also available, with a number of lovely ladies to pit against one another. (They can’t be pitted against guys, though.)

You can criss-cross these superstars any way you prefer in matches, which is excellent if you’ve always wanted to see how Goldberg would fare against Ryback, or maybe “Stone Cold” Steve Austin versus C.M. Punk. That said, you’ll want to keep sizing in mind.

If you’re using a smaller wrestler like Daniel Bryan, you may be tempted to “bring down a mountain” with bigger guys like Andre the Giant or The Big Show, but keep in mind that’s no easy feat. You’ve got a lot of work to do before you even remotely wear down their energy, and even then, you’re not always guaranteed a pinfall.

Don’t be afraid to be creative. Maybe use a match type to your advantage with these guys, as listed below. Don’t forget to use momentum and try to avoid big strikes.

Finally, have fun. Create an ideal pay-per-view and see just how Hulk Hogan would do against Triple H. Who knows? He just might be able to take him. Might.

What are the Match Types in WWE 2K14?

As with previous games, WWE 2K14 features a variety of matches that you can choose from. Some of the classics make a return, including Extreme Rules, where you can use weapons; Inferno, where the ring has fire surrounding it; and Hell In a Cell, where all rules are off as you fight in a 30-foot high steel cage.

There are other matches worth checking out as well. Ambulance is a fun brawling match where one opponent has to wheel the other into an ambulance to win. Casket and Stretcher matches have similar rules, where you have to put your opponent into one in order to win.

Other matches worth noting include the Parking Lot Brawl, which gives you a lot more room to run around backstage and do damage to your opponent; the Lumberjack (or “Lumberjill” if you’re using Divas) match, where wrestlers surround the ring to prevent you from escaping too often to the outside; and the Match For the Money In the Bank briefcase is quite thrilling, as you have to use a ladder to claim a case hanging high above the ring – which sets up opportunities to ambush opponents.

Play around with all of these, and see which matches work best for you. We’re always a sucker for a good Hell In a Cell match ourselves…

How do I use reversals and Pin My Opponent in WWE 2K14?

The reversal system from prior WWE games makes a return in 2K14, but it’s been a bit smoothed out so it’s more responsive this time around. Essentially, a counter allows you to stop an incoming attack from an opponent and create your own – it’s a small window of opportunity, but one that can turn the tide of a match.

To set up a counter, you need to hit the button at just the right time. If you hit it too soon or too late, you’ll miss the chance to turn the tables on your foe. Learn to master the timing of this, and you can turn over everything from a Ric Flair-inspired chop (“WHOO!”) to an attempted choke slam. It’s a terrific defensive tactic once you get the hang of it.

With pinfalls, rather than tapping a button to escape, you need to hold it down and release it in a highlighted window, in the middle of a lighted bar. Release it at the right time and you’ll break the pin; screw up and your opponent will get the three count. It gets smaller as you wear down on energy, so make sure you master the timing-and-release of this as well.

Both systems work great, but only after a little bit of practice. Take the time to learn them with singles match-ups before entering the more elaborate 30 Years of Wrestlemania mode.

Which Wrestler Should I Choose in WWE 2K14?

Probably the most common question anyone can ask is, “Which wrestler should I begin with?” If you’re a fan of a particular superstar, like Dolph Ziggler or Chris Jericho, you should have no problem hopping in with them. If you’re just getting started – or you’re not used to knowing who WWE superstars are – here’s some quick advice.

Try to stick to a good middle man to begin with. Smaller wrestlers are quick but can be short on strength, while bigger wrestlers are limited in movement. Mid-range guys, like The Rock and “Macho Man” Randy Savage, are a great way to get dialed in with the gameplay, before you start playing with other superstars.

It also doesn’t hurt to get used to the play style of the Divas, as they offer their own techniques. A.J. Lee is a splendid wrestler to spend some time with – and strikingly beautiful, to boot – and others like Lita, the Bella Twins and Kaitlyn, provide some great options as well. Hop in the ring with them whenever you can, even if you prefer more aggressive male types.

Good luck – now hit the ring!

WWE 2K14 is available now for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.