With WWE 2K26 right around the corner, there has been a lot of interest in the match types, CM Punk’s Showcase mode, and the massive 400+ superstar roster. While we’ve also received some gameplay updates here and there, the latest reporting from Cloud Wrestling reveals that we can expect some major changes to the opponent AI.
For a long time, the AI in WWE games has been pretty lackluster. It would pull off a weak move, then try to pin, set up completely botched top rope maneuvers, or repeat the same moves over and over again. A Visual Concepts developer working on the game now promises the introduction of “AI Sequences,” as discussed in a roundtable conference with the press.
The John Cena example in the Twitter/X post gives us an idea of what to expect. Instead of Cena hitting a random move or pinning you after the 5-Knuckle Shuffle, he’ll hit you with an Attitude Adjustment, just like his pattern in real life. Apparently, we’ll get up to 10 customizable AI sequences per wrestler, and this also applies to create-a-wrestler slots.
Ditching Last-Gen Consoles Has Its Perks
WWE 2K26 will only be released on current-gen consoles (PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S) and PC (through Steam). The game will not be available on the PS4, Xbox One, or the original Nintendo Switch. This decision certainly has its benefits, such as double the CAW slots in Universe Mode. You can also expect improvement in terms of graphics, though time will tell on that front.
Visual Concepts stated the following about the improved AI:
“Partly due to no longer being shackled by previous-gen consoles, the devs were able to implement a lot of improvements to th game, which include AI logic that adds more realism and authenticity to the gameplay experience.”
It looks like we’re finally seeing WWE games benefit from the power and resources of current-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. And from what we’ve seen so far, it looks like the Switch 2 version won’t be signficant downgrade this time either. The OG Switch was quite underpowered, but thankfully, that’s not the case for the Switch 2. You’ll actually be getting the full next-gen experience this time if you’re a Switch 2 player, which is great.
