WWE 2K26 Replaces Traditional DLC with Battle Passes, Leaving Fans Worn Out by the Grind: “I Paid $150 for Extra Content and They Want Me to Burn Myself Out Just to Use It?”

[wasabi]

WWE 2K26 has taken the series’ monetization to a new extreme with its Ringside Pass system. Unlike previous years, where DLC simply unlocked extra wrestlers, arenas, and gear, the new battle pass requires players to grind through tiers—often by playing hours upon hours—just to access content they might have previously unlocked immediately.

Even the free track is punishing: customizing matches or using certain modes can void progress, and reaching halfway through the 40-tier pass can already demand dozens of hours. YouTube creator ThisGenGaming reported spending roughly 40 hours completing one season of content, combining Story, Showcase, Island, World Tour, and standard matches. Paying $77 per season for tier skips is an option, but it essentially monetizes access to content fans have already bought.

Reddit and community reactions are overwhelmingly negative. Many players feel forced into burnout just to unlock playable characters like Earthquake, Brian Pillman, Bam Bam Bigelow, and the Hardy Boyz—content that previously would have been straightforward DLC or included in the base game. The consensus: the gameplay is excellent, but the monetization model is unnecessarily punishing and arguably exploitative.

In short: WWE 2K26’s DLC roster is tempting, but accessing it feels like taking a full-time job.