Review Excerpt: UFC Undisputed 3

In my career I’ve had the privilege of working with the fine folks at WorthPlaying.com for a number of years. I’ve reviewed numerous games for the site and continue to do as much as possible to help them out. In return, they’ve graciously allowed me to post excerpts of my reviews on the blog. So, enjoy this snippet from my review of UFC Undisputed 3, and click here to see the full review.

“Even though THQ has been through a bit of turmoil recently, perhaps one of the smartest things the company did was snap up an exclusive UFC license just as the mixed martial arts (MMA) league was beginning to explode in popularity. Over the last few years, THQ has been hard at work trying to bring the excitement and unpredictability of the Octagon to consoles, and with Undisputed 3, it’s provided the closest recreation yet. While the game isn’t a huge leap forward in any particular area, it does represent baby steps of improvement for the series.

“The most significant addition to Undisputed 3 is the inclusion of the PRIDE Fighting Championships. Japan’s dominant kickboxing league was bought out by the UFC fairly recently, but until now, it has never appeared in a game. That’s all changed, as Undisputed 3 showcases PRIDE in all its glory, complete with the full fighter roster, outrageous entrances, original announcers and, of course, special rule sets. Fighting purists will cheer the inclusion of PRIDE’s more brutal rules, including series first such as face stomps, soccer kicks and knees to the head of a downed opponent. Also, whereas UFC fights often focus on grappling, wrestling and submissions, PRIDE has always primarily been a stand-up fighting organization, so punches and kicks come as the order of the day. Kudos to the development team for so thoroughly and seamlessly implementing an entire second league into this year’s game.”

 

Right this way to the full review!