Season Mode in HCTP is genuinely fun. The storyline where you betray your tag partner or chase the WWE Championship is part of the game's charm. Skipping it means you miss the interactive journey.
Finding a reliable save file depends on your region and platform (original PS2 hardware or the PCSX2 emulator). smackdown here comes the pain save file
One warning to the wise: Using a 100% save file sometimes breaks the narrative of Season mode. Because the game tracks "who is champion" based on the save, you might start Season mode with a weird title lineage (e.g., Scott Steiner as WWE Champion). If you want the authentic Season story, look for a save file titled "" – this keeps story flags clean while giving you the wrestlers. Season Mode in HCTP is genuinely fun