The weak/strong grapple system from the past games has been removed. Characters now perform different moves based on their opponent's current physical state. Players now have a window of opportunity to attack while still in a downed state and can also interrupt moves and Royal Rumble eliminations with attacks. Similarly, the pinning meter from the past games has been reworked to make it more difficult to kick out as a wrestler takes more damage. The game's artificial intelligence has also been tweaked to prevent players from overusing the same move. In addition, the ability to store finishing moves has returned. A new feature called "Dynamic Comebacks" will give players on the verge of losing, the opportunity to successfully hit a combination of moves to gain two finishing moves. New "wake up taunts" bring a downed opponent to their feet for a finishing move (such as Randy Orton pounding on the ground before his RKO finishing maneuver).[1] Players also have the ability to target specific limbs during matches and perform submissions through a new "Breaking Point" submission minigame.

"WWE Universe" mode will return, featuring new and more unpredictable events based on player decisions. The "Road to WrestleMania" Mode will also return with new storylines and gameplay improvements. Creation modes will return for superstars, entrances, finishing moves, storylines and highlight reels, as well as the ability to share creations online.