WWE 2K17: Release Date, Roster Analysis and More

When it comes to the release of WWE 2K17, the shortest stretch before the October 11 release might feel the longest.

By now, diehard fans of wrestling and the game itself know all about the new features the team at 2K Sports have implemented in an effort to one-up itself after last year's strong release.

This year's edition has a Brock Lesnar-infused story mode, giving users the option of teaming with Paul Heyman or going against him and having to deal with The Beast Incarnate himself. Outside of gameplay and graphical improvements, a deeper wave of customization hits all modes, including Universe Mode, where fans will now be able to create their own shows in the extensive creation suite.

Then there is the roster.

The roster is the most-hyped aspect of any sports game release. In other realms the attention mostly goes to overall numbers. Funnily enough, WWE gets to turn this hype factor up to 10, if not more.

The game's official Twitter account shared a look at the roster and provided a link to the entire list:

With WWE games there is so much more to look forward to when it comes to a roster. Overall numbers are as important as any game, but each character also needs to have updated move sets, entrances, attire and a logical fit within the universe depicting what happens on the screen on a weekly basis.

On all accounts, WWE 2K17 has what fans want and need.

YouTube user THE101 provided a look at the overall ratings:

As one can see from the slick new character-selection screen, most models are as up-to-date and realistic as possible.

Some wrestlers such as Zack Ryder and Emma haven't been shy about sharing their likenesses:

Entrances seem like another strong point for the roster this year, with the team showing off the entrance for one Asuka recently:

Given how closely the above mimics real life, it's safe to say the majority of the roster will have authentic entrances to give the game a bigger broadcast feel than ever before.

Even better, it seems like almost everyone is accounted for—from legends to NXT stars.

Current stars such as Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins of course make the cut. New arrivals such as Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows unlock via the Future Stars Pack, and one of the biggest names in history, Eddie Guerrero, makes his way into the fray via the Legends Pack. 

Speaking of legends, the roster hits on the necessary names, from Brian Pillman to Andre The Giant and beyond.

JP Yim/Getty Images

Looking at the roster, fans will notice some notable omissions. CM Punk and Ryback didn't leave the company on the greatest terms. Batista isn't around. Kurt Angle hasn't put ink to paper with the company, at least as far as anyone can tell.

But it's a small list of complaints, and given the circumstances surrounding the omitted, it makes plenty of sense. Besides, a deep creation suite means those who put the time in can come up with as many missing faces as they desire on top of custom creations.

Given the expansive roster and creation suite, it's not a stretch to compare WWE 2K17 to something like the WWE Network itself, as both reach far into the company's past and leave the rest at a user's fingertips.

The roster, paired with other mentioned updates and features, means this is more than a typical annual sporting release. WWE 2K17 doesn't pull any punches in aiming to keep its status as one of the best sports franchises around.

Users can get their hands on the final product and the Universe itself starting Tuesday.

Follow Chris Roling (@Chris_Roling) on Twitter.