The upcoming WWE 2K25 is generating buzz, but not all of it is positive.  The new game mode, The Island, exclusive to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, has sparked concern among fans due to its resemblance to NBA 2K's The City.

The City, introduced in NBA 2K21, allows players to explore a virtual environment and enhance their basketball careers. However, it has faced criticism for its heavy reliance on Virtual Currency (VC), often acquired through microtransactions, for cosmetic items. These purchases don't carry over to future games, adding to player frustration.

WWE 2K25's The Island mode shares a similar structure, tasking players with impressing Roman Reigns and unlocking customization options.  This has some fans, like Reddit user Regents-k-i-d26, worried about the potential for a pay-to-win scenario and a negative impact on the overall gameplay experience, even weeks before the game's March 14 release.

One key concern revolves around WWE 2K25's Create-a-Superstar mode. While boasting the largest roster in series history and extensive customization options, fans fear that locking cosmetic items behind a paywall will diminish the value of this beloved feature.

The existing MyFACTION mode has already drawn criticism for its reliance on randomized card packs and in-game currency to unlock wrestlers and items.  This system often pushes players towards microtransactions to complete their rosters.  The confirmation of MyFACTION's return in WWE 2K25 has further amplified these concerns.