'WWE 2K17' release date news update: Game confirmed for October release, smaller roster expected?

Maria Bernadette Castro Tuesday, May 24, 2016

News about the release of several World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) superstars have many worried that "WWE 2K17" will not feature a bigger roster than "WWE 2K16," which boasted the largest number of playable characters in the history of the franchise.

Stardust, whose "WWE 2K16" version is seen here, might not be in "WWE 2K17." | Twitter/WWEgames

Cody Rhodes, better known as Stardust, recently parted ways from WWE due to creative differences. In a lengthy post acquired by a fan and shared on Twitter, he explained the reason behind his exit.

Stardust appeared on "WWE 2K16," but now that he is off WWE, it remains a mystery if he will be included in the new installment of the popular wrestling simulation. The odds are he might not be, since by the time "WWE 2K17" comes out, his exit would have been rock-solid already.

Hulk Hogan, who was dropped by WWE after racial comments last year, was cut from "WWE 2K16" even though his character in the title was already in place. Although Stardust's exit was different from Hogan's, it is likely they have the same fate in the game.

Scans for "WWE 2K17" have already started with superstars like Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose allegedly re-scanned. Even if Stardust has been scanned for the game, he might be cut from it anyway.

Stardust is the latest among the bunch of WWE stars that left the industry. The others before him are Wade Barrett, Damien Sandow and Cameron. Their exits likely mean they won't be in "WWE 2K17."

Although this could affect the number of wrestlers in the upcoming title, developer 2K Games can always compensate this with the stars who are yet to be included in the game.

Some of these wrestlers are AJ Styles, Sasha Banks, American Alpha, Asuka, Shinsuke Nakamura, Austin Aries, the Four Horsewomen and Braun Strowman. All of them are expected to debut in "WWE 2K17."

When it comes to the cover star, rumor has it that Goldberg is 2K Games' choice for "WWE 2K17." Last year's cover featured Stone Cold Steve Austin.

"WWE 2K17" is expected to be released on Oct. 6.