WWE 2K23 Early Reviews: 10 Major Details We Learned
8. Certain Moves Have New Reversal Animations
The reversal system within WWE video games has long been in need of a mass overhaul and while that doesn't ostensibly transcend in WWE 2K23, noticeable changes - desirable changes at that - have been implemented.
Chief amongst them is the addition of new reversal animations. Animations such as this delayed suplex counter have dominated reversal sequences for years so in WWE 2K23, you'll be glad to know there are other, better ways to counter the offensive.
As shown in this clip from @itsbrandonde, a match between Bron Breakker and Xavier Woods sees Bron clothesline Woods over the ropes but clings onto the ropes, shoulders Breakker in the stomach, and reenters the ring. Such intricate animations had been vital to Royal Rumble matches; an entrant would perform a similar reversal if they were still fresh, but this is new for regular contests.
Meanwhile, in a video from Smacktalks breaking down the various gameplay changes, Bron Breakker is again the victim of a new reversal, as his gorilla press is countered into a Seth Rollins-executed DDT.
It's unlikely that every single move will have a new unique reversal animation because, quite honestly, 2K and developers Visual Concepts have the time for such a demanding task. There won't be anyone canceling their pre-order over the lack of a new Back Suplex 8 counter.