WWE 2K26 Unveils Attitude Era Edition, CM Punk Showcase Ahead of March Launch

NEW YORK (Azat TV) – 2K Sports has officially announced WWE 2K26, the latest installment in its acclaimed wrestling video game series, with pre-orders set to open on January 30, 2026, ahead of an anticipated early March 2026 release. The announcement, which included the reveal of a special ‘Attitude Era Edition’ on WWE SmackDown, signals significant upgrades and new features, aiming to deliver one of the most comprehensive experiences in the franchise’s history.

The upcoming title is expected to build upon its predecessor, WWE 2K25, by introducing an array of new gameplay mechanics and expanding its roster. While an exact release date remains unconfirmed by 2K Sports, the game is scheduled to launch within Take-Two Interactive’s fiscal year, which concludes on March 31, 2026, aligning with previous releases that typically coincide with the road to WrestleMania.

Attitude Era Edition Unveiled

A major highlight of the WWE 2K26 announcement is the introduction of the ‘Attitude Era Edition,’ a special release designed to celebrate one of professional wrestling’s most iconic periods. The edition’s official cover was dramatically revealed during the January 23 edition of WWE SmackDown, featuring an all-star lineup of legends who defined the late 1990s and early 2000s.

This nostalgia-driven collector’s item showcases wrestling icons such as ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, The Rock, Triple H, Kane, The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Kurt Angle, Trish Stratus, and Lita. According to Sescoops, the edition is specifically aimed at long-time fans looking to relive the boom years of WWE, promising to capitalize on the enduring popularity of the Attitude Era.

CM Punk Headlines Showcase Mode

For current fans, WWE 2K26 will feature a dedicated ‘CM Punk Showcase’ mode, chronicling the polarizing superstar’s career. This immersive mode will cover key moments from his early rise in WWE through his highly anticipated return in 2023, offering players the chance to relive significant matches and experience documentary-style cutscenes. PWTorch confirmed that this mode will focus on Punk’s journey, making his return a central narrative point for the game.

In addition to the Showcase mode, new match types are expected to be introduced or to make a return, including fan favorites like I Quit, Inferno, 3 Stages of Hell, and Dumpster Match. The ‘Inferno Match,’ for instance, will be making its first appearance since WWE 2K14, as reported by Sescoops. Furthermore, intergender matches are expected to see expanded availability across various game modes, including MyFaction, signaling a broader and more inclusive gameplay experience.

Anticipated Features and Roster

Beyond the special editions and showcase modes, WWE 2K26 promises a robust general gameplay experience. The ‘Island mode’ is reportedly making a comeback with a fresh storyline, where Roman Reigns has been dethroned, leading to three factions vying for control of the ‘Island of Relevancy.’ This narrative-driven mode aims to provide a compelling single-player experience.

The game’s roster is set to feature an up-to-date lineup of current WWE superstars, including prominent figures like Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, Becky Lynch, Rhea Ripley, Liv Morgan, Bianca Belair, and the aforementioned CM Punk. There are also rumors of an expanding NXT roster, bringing new and fresh faces from WWE’s developmental brand into the virtual squared circle. While official platforms have not been explicitly confirmed, the game is widely expected to be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, following the pattern of its predecessor. There is also speculation regarding a potential release on the Nintendo Switch 2, though official confirmation is pending.

The dual focus of WWE 2K26 on both the nostalgic appeal of the Attitude Era and the contemporary relevance of a superstar like CM Punk highlights 2K Sports’ strategy to engage a broad spectrum of wrestling fans, from long-time enthusiasts to those drawn by recent developments in WWE. This approach aims to provide a comprehensive and appealing package that bridges different generations of the sport’s followers.