The Island mode in WWE 2K25 has set off alarms due to its reliance on local save files, leading players to fear they might lose their cherished in-game cosmetics and upgrades. Moreover, only those playing on PS5 and Xbox Series X can access this feature, adding to its controversy.
Players are up in arms over WWE 2K25’s Island mode, which is sparking debates because it’s apparently tied to local save files. Gamers on the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S are worried they might lose their purchased or earned cosmetic items and upgrades. Even before most players get their hands on WWE 2K25 with its release slated for March 14, those with the Deadman or Bloodline Editions have dived in early on March 7. This latest installment promises the biggest wrestler roster yet, a refreshed MyGM Mode, new promo mechanics in Universe Mode, and extra backstage zones to explore.
The Island mode hasn’t had the warmest reception. It’s an online arena where players can use their custom wrestlers to navigate around and compete in various locales. Criticism arose when it was announced that character upgrades and cosmetics would be up for grabs but through microtransactions using the game’s currency. WhatsTheStatus, a popular content creator in the WWE 2K community, brought to light that each player’s journey within The Island is closely tied to a local save file, posing a risk of losing items if a save gets wiped or corrupted.
The Island has hit another snag despite Visual Concepts’ best efforts to deliver an authentic WWE simulation. WWE 2K games are notorious for bugs, leading to viral clips of glitchy, stuck wrestlers or unexpected mat clipping. The corruption of save files is, however, less amusing and makes players wary of spending money on a game mode they perceive as insecure.
Exclusivity also shrouds The Island in controversy. Only PS5 and Xbox Series X|S players can venture there, excluding PC and older console gamers from its exclusive rewards. Players familiar with 2K games have noted similarities with NBA 2K’s The City, often criticized as a monetization scheme making players shell out more money beyond the initial game purchase.
This debate continues as WWE 2K25 officially releases on March 14, 2025. With an ESRB rating of Teen, the game includes elements such as blood, strong language, and violence, making it a spectacle both on and off the virtual ring. Whether the allure of wrestling’s grandest stage outweighs these controversies remains to be seen.
