With WWE 2K19, a brand new feature is included in the game which brings in Payback abilities. This innovative new system gives each of the superstars in the game a set of icons so they can perform special payback abilities during matches. Here are descriptions of the various abilities and how to use the Payback abilities system in WWE 2K19.
How to use Payback Abilities in WWE 2K19 – Level One
In the WWE 2K19 game, each superstar has a default of two payback abilities assigned to them because there are two different levels of payback. Level one consists of minor abilities but Level Two Paybacks give even more of an advantage. Here are each of the Level One Payback abilities and how to use them.
- To use Auto-Reverse (a minor reversal against regular moves) hold RT.
- To use Fists of Fury (increased striking attributes, a speed boost, and improved strike reversals) hold RB and press LB.
- To use Speed Buff (enhanced speed and agility, improved Stamina and Reversal regeneration rates) hold RB and press LB.
- To Play Possum (play possum to catch your opponent off guard and try for a pinfall or quick attack) you’ll need to be supine, leaning against the ropes, or cornered. From there, hold RB and press LB to enter the “possum state.” Next, you can press A or B button if you’re playing possum to get a pin. Alternately, you can press X or Y to perform a surprise attack.
- To Earn a Reversal (get an extra reversal), hold RB and press LB.
- To use Instant Recovery (and get a minor speed buff), hold RB and press LB when you’re in a “downed state.”
How to Use Payback Abilities – Level Two
Level Two Paybacks can provide more of an advantage in the ring. Just like level one, a majority of these use the same controller combinations to activate them.
- To Earn a Finisher (instantly gain a stored finisher for your superstar), hold RB and press LB. Keep in mind this is only usable once per match.
- To use Resiliency (escape a pin, submission, or Elimination Mini-Game easily), press LB during the mini-game to escape it.
- To use Adrenaline Buff (gives a “modest boost” to your superstar’s Adrenaline. You can lift more weight and also will have increased Momentum for performing lifting grapples), hold RB and press LB. This may be best used against larger opponents in the ring.
- To use Tank Buff (greatly increase your superstar’s Defense, but it also reduces your overall mobility), hold RB and press LB. Keep in mind this may be best against submission-based opponents.
- To use Run-In (this will call another superstar as an ally down to ringside to help you “turn the table), hold RB and press LB when in a “downed state” inside the ring. Keep in mind, that this Payback ability only works in most of the 1v1 matches in the game.
WWE 2K19 Payback Abilities – Level Two illegal moves, special techniques
Some of the level two Paybacks are illegal (like the poisonous mist spray shown above). These paybacks can cause disqualification if the referee catches you, so keep that in mind.
- To use Low Blow (slow your opponent down with this dirty move, but watch out for disqualification). Hold RB and press LB to activate, then press Y to hit a Low Blow on your opponent.
- To use Poison Mist (spray poison in your opponent’s eyes, but watch out for a disqualification), hold RB and press LB, then press Y to spray mist in your opponent’s eyes.
- To use Power of the Punch (hit your opponent with illegal brass knuckles but watch out for a referee disqualification), hold RB and press LB, then press Y to use the brass knuckles punch.
- To use Move Thief (use your opponent’s move set to finish them off), hold RB and press LB.
- To use Blackout (teleport behind your opponent in the ring to catch them off guard), hold RB and press LB while both you and your opponent are in the ring. This is only usable in the 1v1 matches.
How to Use Payback Abilities in WWE 2K19 – Final Thoughts
You won’t be able to use Payback Abilities immediately in matches. You’ll have to be patient, waiting for enough built-up momentum before using them.
You can set up the Payback Abilities you want for your superstar on the match selection screen. Use this to make sure you’ve got the best abilities ready for your specific opponent.
Use them strategically in matches and you’ll find them helping you get out of tough spots, surprise opponents, and winning matches when it seemed almost impossible!
Check out our other how-to guides for the game such as How to unlock unlockables. See more of our information about the game by visiting VGR’s WWE 2K19 page.