2K Games officially shut down the servers for WWE 2K23 yesterday (January 6, 2025), discontinuing all online services, including online matches and community creations. Players can still access single-player content offline.
The announcement of the shutdown was first made in September 2024, followed by the removal of the game’s base edition, virtual currency, and DLC from sale on November 1, 2024. Players were given notice that server operations would cease on January 6, 2025.
Released on March 17, 2023, WWE 2K23 was available on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S platforms. According to Steam data, the game has received 7,428 player reviews, with 78% being positive, giving it an overall “Mostly Positive” rating.
With this shutdown, WWE 2K24 remains the only title in the series with active online functionality. Players wishing to continue online play must purchase WWE 2K24.
This decision created a significant backlash from players, who criticized the short server lifespan and questioned the long-term value of games with such limited support. This dissatisfaction underscores ongoing discussions around the life cycle of online services in games and the rights of players.
The WWE 2K23 shutdown highlights a broader industry challenge: game companies must balance operational costs with players’ desire for long-term access to online content.
As server shutdowns become increasingly common, the gaming industry faces pressure to develop sustainable solutions that address both concerns.
