I was surprised by how extensive the career mode was. Both yield different rewards and risks - moving up the UFC allows players to earn some real money with a contract, but smaller fights help build a reputation among fighters. For example, players can choose to participate in an early fight attended by the president of the UFC, or to keep fighting in smaller matches. As players work their way up the ranks, they’re presented with options on how they want their career to pan out. It kept things interesting and enjoyable, but I focused most of my time in the expansive career mode.Ĭareer mode isn’t just about beating up guys in an octagon - it’s about choice. The latest attraction, Blitz Battles, sees players competing in fights that change rules each round. Servers were working at launch and jumping into a match was quick and painless, though I was getting my ass handed to me. That fighting translates well into the abundance of modes present, specifically the online multiplayer. Landing punches is satisfying as hell, and every devastating kick felt like a mini victory. Right off the bat, the fighting feels damn good.

I chose the last one and went with a 22-year old heavyweight from Miami, Florida nicknamed Ghost Dog (because, of course) and a few short tutorials took me through the basics.Įach of the face buttons controls a different limb, and the triggers/bumpers modify the attacks. On my journey to be the champ, I was given the option of four basic fighting disciplines to master - boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, jiu jitsu and a balanced mode that encompasses a bit of everything. He sees the potential in a rookie he claims has a “lot of heart.” This is the player’s custom-created character. One awful injury later, he’s now scouting for talent in his own gym.

A former MMA fighter-turned-coach recounts his glory days at the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Thankfully, the biannual schedule for EA’s UFC series seems to be doing it some favors, if the the quality of this new entry is any indication. This treadmill of iterations is taxing, both on the studios who need to crank them out and on the patience of fans.

Sports fans are bombarded with EA’s annual releases year after year, some featuring less-than-stellar quality or a lack of innovation. WTF I’ve injured my training partner way too many times. HIGH Fighting is satisfying, as are choices in career mode.

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