Shinsuke Nakamura in WWE 2K17: All the Details You Need
When WWE 2K17 launched in 2016, the roster was a snapshot of the current WWE landscape. Among the standout additions was Shinsuke Nakamura, the charismatic Japanese powerhouse who had just made a high‑profile return to the WWE main roster. Fans were eager to see how his in‑ring style would translate to the game’s simulation engine.
In this guide, we walk through every aspect of Nakamura in WWE 2K17—from unlock methods and move lists to tips that will help you dominate in any mode. Whether you’re a longtime follower of the King of Strong Style or a newcomer looking to build a roster, the information below covers everything you need to know.
Shinsuke Nakamura in WWE 2K17
Nakamura is available as a playable legend in the Legends roster, which means you can pull him out of the game’s legendary collection to use in Classic, MyCareer, or Online. His character model and audio capture the real‑life version with striking attention to detail, from his signature mustache to his gravelly promos. In addition, the game gives him a custom entrance that mirrors his “King of Strong Style” persona.
Character and Move Set
Shinsuke’s move list in 2K17 includes classic strikes like the Crossface Crunch and the Rainmaker, along with a variety of foot stomps, suplexes, and a devastating “Shinsuke Bomb” finisher. The AI also assigns him a high damage multiplier on high‑impact moves, which reflects his in‑ring reputation for brutal strikes. Players who prefer a mid‑range wrestler will find his stamina and endurance to be balanced, allowing for sustained offense.
Game Versions and Availability
The character appears in the base WWE 2K17 edition and in the 2K17 Rebellion expansion. The Rebellion add‑on also offers a slightly updated version of Nakamura with a new signature pose and a new entrance theme. If you bought the game in 2017, you should have both versions automatically included.
How to Unlock Shinsuke Nakamura in WWE 2K17
Unlocking Nakamura varies by mode, so the method you choose depends on what you want to do with the character. The following sections break down the primary paths you can take to add him to your roster.
Standard Playthrough
In Classic mode, you can unlock Nakamura as part of a storyline where you play through a WWE pay‑per‑view. After defeating a series of opponents, a cutscene will offer Nakamura as a bonus legend. This method requires you to reach the final match of the Classic mode.
MyCareer Mode
If you’re building a wrestler from scratch, the MyCareer mode gives you a unique opportunity. After reaching the 500‑point milestone in the in‑game economy, you can purchase Nakamura’s full package, which includes his signature moves and entrance. The purchase price is 6000 in‑game credits.
Online Events
Online Play also rewards players with Nakamura as a “Legendary Gift” during special events. These are usually tied to real‑world WWE milestones, such as WrestleMania or the Royal Rumble. Participation requires a stable internet connection and a WWE 2K Play account.
Tips for Playing Shinsuke Nakamura
Mastering Nakamura isn’t just about hitting a few high‑damage moves; it’s about understanding his unique play style. Below are some practical strategies to get the most out of him in any match.
Signature Moves to Master
- Rainmaker: The classic spine‑bending move that works best on opponents with a high body weight rating.
- Shinsuke Bomb: A high‑impact finisher that requires precise timing; use it after a well‑placed body slam.
- Foot Stomps: These crowd‑pleasing moves are great for racking up damage while keeping opponents at bay.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Nakamura’s high damage output is paired with moderate agility, making him less effective against high‑speed, technical wrestlers. However, his stamina is above average, allowing him to sustain offense for longer bouts. The key to success is to keep opponents at a distance and use his power moves when they’re off‑balance.
Build a Winning Roster
To complement Nakamura, pair him with a high‑mobility tag team partner. A fast finisher can set up Nakamura’s Rainmaker, creating a combo that’s hard for the AI to anticipate. Additionally, selecting a manager with a “Coach” boost can enhance your wrestler’s damage output by up to 10 %.
Trivia and Behind the Scenes
Did you know that the developers consulted with Nakamura’s real‑life coach to fine‑tune his in‑game finishing move? The Rainmaker animation was tweaked to match the exact cadence of the signature spot from the WWE Performance Center. Fans often point out that the voice lines feel eerily authentic because they were recorded directly from his recent promo sessions.
Another interesting fact is that the character’s “King of Strong Style” entrance theme was a remix of a traditional Japanese folk melody, blended with modern rock elements to give it an international feel. This musical choice reflects Nakamura’s own blending of Japanese wrestling tradition with global superstar appeal.
FAQ
Is Shinsuke Nakamura a Legend in WWE 2K17?
Yes, he is part of the Legends roster, which means he can be used in Classic, MyCareer, and Online modes.
How much does it cost to unlock him in MyCareer?
You need 6000 in‑game credits to purchase Nakamura’s full package after reaching 500 points.
Can I use Nakamura in the 2K17 Rebellion add‑on?
Absolutely, the Re
