In what can only be described as a shocking revelation, 2K Games has announced that WWE 2K26 will feature “even more microtransactions” than ever before, with all characters being locked behind the elusive DLC paywall. Gone are the days of unlocking your favorite wrestlers through gameplay or hard work—now, you’ll need to cough up some cash if you want to see your favorite Superstars in action.

The New Era of Wrestling Gaming (aka Wallet Wrestling)

“We heard the fans loud and clear,” said 2K Games’ lead producer, Dave ‘Cashflow’ Thompson. “They want more, and we’re here to deliver. In WWE 2K26, we’re taking the microtransaction experience to the next level. Every wrestler, every move, and every entrance will now be available as DLC. But don’t worry, it’s not about charging you for the bare minimum—it’s about giving you endless opportunities to unlock content… for a price.”

This marks a bold new direction for the franchise. Gone are the days when WWE games were seen as a fun, accessible experience for fans of all ages. Now, you’ll need a credit card that’s as stacked as John Cena’s muscles to get the full roster.

The DLC Dream: Everyone’s A Premium

In WWE 2K26, it’s not just the classic Superstars you’ll have to pay for—no, 2K is taking it a step further. Not only will all past wrestlers be available as separate downloadable content, but future updates will also add “brand-new” characters, each locked behind individual DLC packs.

“We’ve got big plans,” Thompson continued. “We’re planning DLC for wrestlers who aren’t even in the game. Ever wonder what it would be like to control a ‘What If?’ version of The Rock, who never left wrestling? It’ll be yours for the low, low price of $9.99. It’s a revolutionary approach to storytelling, and we’re proud to lead the charge.”

Every Superstar is Special—For a Price

And what about the roster? Don’t expect to unlock a thing without reaching into your pocket. Even some of the most beloved legends, like Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock, won’t be available unless you purchase them through the “Legends Pack.” Of course, there’s an “Ultimate Legends” version for an extra $10, which unlocks more than just characters—it grants you special, exclusive “what-if” alternate attire like Stone Cold in his “Texas Rattlesnake” biker jacket or The Rock’s “Hollywood” persona.

“Sure, we could’ve made these characters available to all players from the start, but where’s the fun in that?” said 2K’s chief marketing officer, Sarah ‘Dollar Sign’ Ripley. “Why not let players feel the joy of paying for a digital version of the characters they already know and love? It’s like a new, modernized version of wrestling where every match is a paid partnership.”

What Does This Mean for the Future of WWE 2K?

While some fans are cautiously optimistic about the future of the series, many are left shaking their heads. What’s next, you ask? Perhaps the ability to buy “extra stamina” for your wrestler, or a VIP pass to skip loading screens for a mere $4.99? Only time will tell.

“It’s all about choice,” said Thompson. “We’re giving players the freedom to decide how they want to play, and if they’re willing to pay to make the experience more fun and exciting, then who are we to judge?”

The announcement of WWE 2K26 has left the gaming world buzzing—some with excitement, others with a sense of dread. But one thing’s for sure: no matter how many times you win a match, you’ll be shelling out cash to enjoy it. It’s all part of the game now.

Stay tuned for more updates or don’t, as we count down the days to the most monetized WWE game ever made.