UFC Undisputed 3 – Demo Impressions
Platforms: Xbox 360, PS3
Publisher: THQ
Developer: Yuke's
Genre: Fighting
This Is The Moment UFC Fans Have Been Waiting For…IIIIIIIIIT’S TIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIME!
“Hi everyone, I’m Adam Vjestica and WELCOME to the preview of UFC Undisputed 3. Releasing on February the 17th, and riding off the success of the last two games in the series, UFC Undisputed 3 is determined to deliver a masterclass in mixed martial arts. The question is, has the hard work paid off? I’m joined by my partner as always, my brain. How do you see this preview turning out brain?”
“Thanks Adam, I’m really looking forward to this one. There’s plenty to get excited about in the latest installment of the UFC Undisputed series with an all new look, improved accessibility for UFC newcomers and of course, the brutal, unrivalled intense combat that defines the ultimate fighting franchise.”
“There sure is brain. But let’s not forget about the all new submission system, developed in conjunction with the loyal UFC fans that span across the globe. What can we expect to see from this re-imagined, difficult to master submission system?”
“Well Adam, you can forget the old, controller breaking technique which involved shining your right analog stick into a fit of submission. Players will use a new system which involves a cat and mouse like chase game, with fighter energy, submission skill and position adding variables to the mini-game. It should result in more realistic and lifelike confrontations when it comes to hitting the mat and attempting to make your opponent tap.”
"Smell it…Now take it!"
“That’s good to hear, I’m sure we’ve all succumbed to a couple of frustrated submission losses due to the slip of a sweat soaked palm. Now brain, it will probably come as no surprise that what the UFC faithful will want to know is, how does it feel to step into the Octagon.”
“One word Adam, and that’s IMPACT. Every punch, spinning back fist, high kick, body blow and take down is delivered with bone-breaking impact. Its a genuinely satisfying sensation, enhanced by the stunning presentation values and fluid animations of the fighters.”
“Ouch brain, sounds painful.”
“Well that’s why we’re here on the controller Adam and not in there.”
“What, you mean inside the game?”
“You’re the one having a conversation with your brain in the style of Mike Goldberg and Joe Rogan, who knows what I mean.”
“You’re right brain. Back to the action. It’s fair to say that newcomers have generally found it hard to pick up and play a UFC Undisputed game. Do you think UFC Undisputed 3 will fare any better this time around?”
“Yeah I do Adam, and there’s a couple of reasons for this. Generally, the slow rock ‘em sock ‘em robot mechanics have gradually disappeared, allowing more free-flowing, pick up and play action in comparison to the rigid, transition to transition gameplay which existed in the first two games. However, the main reason has to be down to the new control schemes: ‘pro control’ and ‘amateur control.’ The amateur control scheme removes the difficult half circles and quarter rotations needed to transition between positions and instead replaces them with a simple flick of the right stick either up or down for minor and major transitions respectively.”
“That sounds like a good idea. But the customisation doesn’t end there does it brain?”
“You’re absolutely right Adam. Players have the ability to tailor a match to their fighting preference in UFC Undisputed 3. In the demo build we can choose from either an exhibition match in the UFC or the now defunct but illustrious and historic PRIDE fighting championship. Players can change the game rules from the default setting to competition (removes flash knock outs) or equalised stats (balances the fighters statistics). Energy settings can also be tweaked from the default to simulation (each action expends a lot more energy). Players can even choose their favourite arena and referee.”
“Sounds like everyone will be pleased with that brain.”
“Definitely.”
The human cheese grater.
“You know, the thing that really stands out for me when I look at a UFC Undisputed game is the incredibly detailed, television rivaling coverage, and it looks like UFC Undisputed 3 is no different.”
“Totally agree Adam, though I’d go as far to say that UFC Undisputed 3 is the best we’ve seen to date. From the new entrance themes, replica apparel, visible damage, brilliant audio and interactive crowds, there’s only positives when it comes to the presentation.”
“And what about those ringside girls!? Wow are they hot! Am I right brain!?”
“I think that’s a conversation you should be having with another organ don’t you?”
“Yeah, perhaps you’re right. Sorry about that. So, can you tell fans a bit more about PRIDE, I mean is it just another arena or what?”
“Not at all Adam. In fact, PRIDE brings in a new set of gameplay options thanks to the differing rules in comparison to the UFC.”
“Go on.”
“Yeah, you see in PRIDE, players can stomp or kick a downed opponent in the head for example, something which is strictly illegal in the UFC. So, fights will play out a lot differently, not to mention the different round times: the first being 10 minutes and the next two rounds lasting 5 minutes in duration.”
This game of footsie got out of hand.
“I’ll admit it brain, one thing that truly shocked me about PRIDE wasn’t necessarily the increased level of violence, but the bizarre and quite frankly hilarious co-announcer’s excitable shrill voice! I mean, I’ve never heard anything like it!”
“Only in Japan Adam.”
“Ha ha. I suppose so. Ok brain, let’s talk about the ‘rocked state,’ its something that we witness a lot during our UFC coverage, and it can be a turning or ending point for the fighter concerned. ”
“That’s right Adam. Before when you were rocked, it was basically game over bar a mishap from your opponent. Now, if the rocked player effectively covers up or manages to tie up with their opponent, they will have a chance to recover from an impending knockout.”
“So there’s an opportunity to recreate the spectacle of Frankie Edgar vs Gray Maynard at UFC 125?”
“What a fight that was Adam, Frankie Edgar’s recovery was simply astonishing to watch.”
“Indeed it was brain. So, after our hands on with the demo, what are your final thoughts?”
“In all honesty Adam I’m extremely impressed with this year’s offering. UFC Undisputed 3 looks fantastic, it plays brilliantly and the accessibility options will be a big bonus to anyone getting into the sport.”
“Completely agree. The fighting mechanics feel terrific, I mean come on, its a total dream for any UFC fan and a enjoyable experience for any gamer who enjoys a good fighter.”
“We’ll have to hope that the career mode provides enough entertainment for the single player fans, though the computer AI has been consistently challenging in the difficulties we tried.”
“That’s true. I mean we can’t play exhibition matches all the time can we? Even if they are extremely fun.”
“That’s right, fans will want more than just the traditional fighting face-off to keep them happy.”
“I’m confident that THQ will provide enough content to please each UFC fan come release. Well, I guess that sums it up brain. We’ve had a great time with the UFC Undisputed 3 demo and we hope you do to. To all you fighting fans across the world, I’m Adam Vjestica.”
“And I’m Adam’s brain.”
“Goodnight, and good fight!”
Adam was later admitted to hospital to check whether any significant damage was done after a recent blow to the head. Sadly, the doctor said he was fine. Very worrying news indeed.
About the Author
Adam Vjestica is the Editor-in-Chief at Awesome Games. Adam decided to use his love of writing to talk about all things gaming, with the greater vision of creating a community and fan base with which he could share his passion.
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