Fans are reacting negatively to the new content model planned for WWE 2K26.
The upcoming release of WWE 2K26, scheduled for March 12, or March 6 for early access editions, is set to feature more than 400 playable characters, new match types, and several gameplay additions. However, recent details about the game’s downloadable content structure have sparked criticism from players.
Publisher 2K Games has announced that this year’s post-launch content will be delivered through a battle pass-style system called the “Ringside Pass“. The system will run across six seasons and include both free and premium reward tracks.
According to 2K, players will earn Ringside XP by competing in most game modes, with wins and challenges granting additional progress. The first season will launch alongside early access on March 6.
The change has drawn backlash because some content that players previously unlocked through in-game tokens or the SuperCharger will now be tied to the pass. That means players may have to grind through the system to access characters they have effectively already paid for.
“The WWE Legends that would typically be added to the in-game store and unlocked via Tokens or with the SuperCharger have now been added to the free track of Ringside Pass Season 1,” the company stated.
Some fans have taken to social media to criticise the model. One Reddit user wrote:
“If you paid for it, it should be unlocked. Grinding or paying again is pure greed.” Another added, “Having to play dozens of hours to unlock DLC I paid for is very stupid.”
How Much Could All The WWE2K26 DLC Characters Cost?
Estimates shared by fans on Reddit suggest that, depending on tier skip pricing, completionists could face costs approaching $675 if they choose to bypass the grind entirely, based on figures of the similar system used for the NBA 2K video game series.
In NBA 2K, players can skip an entire season of the battle pass for around $80 to unlock all content instantly. If that same pricing model is applied to WWE 2K26, six seasons of tier skips would cost $480. Adding the $70 base game, the $60 season pass for all six seasons, and around $65 in additional content packs would bring the estimated total to an eye-watering $675 for players who want everything unlocked.
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