WWE 2K26 Announced With CM Punk on the Cover, New Match Types, and the Biggest Roster Ever
Today, 2K officially revealed WWE 2K26, the latest entry in its flagship wrestling franchise. Developed by Visual Concepts, the game launches beginning March 6, 2026, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam.
This year’s theme is ambition, legacy, and control inside the ring, and that message is front and center with CM Punk returning as the Standard Edition cover star.
CM Punk Returns to the Cover and Takes Over 2K Showcase
The current World Heavyweight Champion strikes a defiant pose on the cover, fitting for one of the most celebrated and controversial figures in WWE history. CM Punk previously appeared on the cover of WWE 13, and now headlines 2K Showcase: Punked, the most personal Showcase mode to date.
Narrated by Punk himself, the mode jumps through time to relive defining moments from his career, including iconic matches, rivalries, and fantasy warfare against WWE Legends. A new Showcase Gauntlet pushes players to their limits, while Punk’s rise, rebellion, and return shape the most intimate Showcase the series has delivered.
As Punk put it:
“Players will get to step into my boots, relive some of my proudest WWE moments, and take on challenges I never had the opportunity to face.”
Multiple Premium Editions Celebrate WWE History
Beyond the Standard Edition, WWE 2K26 leans heavily into legacy with several premium versions.
King of Kings Edition
This edition celebrates the in-ring career and executive legacy of Triple H, also known as Paul Levesque, WWE Chief Content Officer.
Attitude Era Edition
A nostalgia-driven edition honouring one of the most influential eras in wrestling history, featuring legends like Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, Shawn Michaels, Undertaker, Chyna, and more.
Monday Night War Edition
A new super-premium edition that expands into WCW territory, including Hulk Hogan, Kevin Nash, Scott Hall, Goldberg, Booker T, and Eric Bischoff.
All premium editions launch March 6, 2026, seven days before the Standard Edition on March 13, 2026.
The Biggest Roster in Franchise History
WWE 2K26 features a roster of over 400 playable characters, the largest the series has ever seen. It spans RAW, SmackDown, NXT, Legends, and Hall of Famers.
Notable names include John Cena, Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, Rhea Ripley, Iyo Sky, Andre the Giant, Bret Hart, Eddie Guerrero, plus returning and new additions such as Rey Fenix, Rusev, and Blake Monroe.
New Match Types and Gameplay Refinements
WWE 2K26 introduces four new match types:
- I Quit
- Inferno
- Three Stages of Hell
- Dumpster
Additional upgrades include stackable tables, new usable objects like shopping carts and thumbtacks, larger interactive environments, and intergender matches across core modes.
The Reversal and Stamina systems have been reworked to add strategic depth, while upgraded physics interactions make every slam and impact feel heavier. Interactive entrances return, and Booker T and Wade Barrett join the commentary team.
Expanded Modes Across the Board
Every major mode sees meaningful upgrades:
- Creation Suite doubles Create-A-Superstar slots to 200 and expands image storage to 2,000, with deeper body morphing and two-tone hair blending.
- MyGM adds more match types, intergender matches, and expanded season complexity.
- MyRISE introduces division-based storylines, increasing replay value.
- Universe Mode adds the WWE Draft, Watch Show mode, and improved Money in the Bank cash-ins.
- The Island expands with new factions, environments, progression, and is now available on PC.
- MyFACTION adds Chemistry systems, Quick Swap matches, and regular seasonal updates.
- Ringside Pass replaces traditional DLC with six seasonal progression tracks across the year.
Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive Features
On Nintendo Switch 2, WWE 2K26 introduces touchscreen and mouse support, GameShare and GameChat, single Joy-Con play, mouse-based Creation Suite tools, Image Uploader support, and full cross-platform Community Creations.
Editions and Pricing Overview
- Standard Edition: $69.99
- King of Kings Edition: $99.99
- Attitude Era Edition: $129.99
- Monday Night War Edition: $149.99
Pre-orders include the Joe Hendry Pack, and select editions offer Early Access, VC bonuses, and the Ringside Pass seasonal progression system.
A Statement Year for WWE Games
WWE 2K26 is shaping up to be the most ambitious entry in the franchise. With CM Punk’s career front and center, the largest roster to date, long-requested gameplay upgrades, and a new content model built for the long term, this is a confident step forward for the series.
Whether you are chasing nostalgia from the Attitude Era or carving out your own legacy, WWE 2K26 looks ready to put control firmly back in players’ hands.