WWE 2K24 early access is live and players can finally enter the ring and experience the most immersive wrestling game ever!
This year's release builds on the strong foundations set out by WWE 2K23 and introduces some new features that take the game to the next level.
With that in mind, we did manage to get our hands on the game before the full release, testing out a host of new features.
One such feature is the new Trading Blows mechanic, and we've got all the details covered below.
Trading Blows
2K Games introduced a host of new gameplay features into WWE 2K24, with one of the headline additions being the new Trading Blows mechanic.
This new gameplay addition is designed to add an extra dimension to gameplay, offering yet another mini-game to diversify your experience.
Working in similar ways to submission and pinfall mechanics, the new trading blows system does exactly what it says on the tin.
Usually occurring near the start of the match, but also returning in a break in combat, the trading blows mini-game will instigate without any real prompt.
Two circles will appear on your screen, one for you and one for your opponent.
Taking it in turns, you will need to hold down X (Xbox) or Square (PlayStation) to fill the circle until you reach the highlighted area.
Upon reaching the highlighted area, you let go of the button and your superstar will land a blow.
Your opponent will then get a chance to answer back. This will occur until one player misses the highlighted area, or stamina depletes.
As further blows are traded, the highlighted area will get smaller and smaller, making it more difficult to perfect.
On occasion, an even smaller gold area will appear, which will result in an instant mini-game victory.
A refreshing new feature
As mentioned above, we got our hands on an early version of the game, enabling us to experience some of the new gameplay elements added.
The Trading Blows mechanic is a really solid addition to gameplay as it adds another layer of skill to matches.
Combat is now far more varied and the addition of mini-games like this only helps to develop the franchise.
A necessary addition that is tough to master, we think the Trading Blows mechanic will quickly become a key part of everyone's WWE 2K24 experience.
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