16 BEST UFC Games In 2023

Play these UFC or MMA games that if you love this professional boxing genre!

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) serves as the inspiration for a successful mixed martial arts (MMA) video game series known as UFC Games. The very first UFC video game was launched in the year 2000 for the Dreamcast family of gaming platforms. We have seen UFC games released every few years which is why we have curated the best UFC Games guide and entailed the top-tier UFC games you should play if you love this professional MMA sports genre. 

Key Highlights
  • The UFC, aka Ultimate Fighting Championship, is one of the most popular sports in today’s era. As it showcases many different fighters who adopt their own unique fighting styles.
  • The UFC games are a way for players to dive into the experience of playing as a UFC fighter. It is one of the most popular genres for players who love watching UFC.
  • There are plenty of Best UFC games that are available to play in 2023. 
  • EA Sports UFC: This game provides so many mind-blowing visuals and animations that it almost feels identical to the UFC we watch in real life. With its amazing gameplay, this is definitely one of the Best UFC games
  • EA Sports UFC 3: This gaming title is also considered one of the best UFC titles of all time. The Graphics, Gameplay, and everything about this game are exactly like the real thing. What makes this game stand out is that you will have to plan out different ways to defeat your opponent.
  • UFC Throwdown: The game allows players to fight each other while keeping in mind the different tactics that they need to follow.
  • Some other games that fighting enthusiasts can check out are; UFC Sudden Impact, Fire Pro Wrestling Returns, UFC Tapout 2, UFC Undisputed 2009, EA Sports UFC 2, Pride FC: Fighting Championships, EA MMA, and Fire Pro Wrestling World.

Here is a quick look at the 16 Best UFC Games:

GameAwardRelease DateDeveloperPlatform
UFC: ThrowdownNoneJune 3, 2002Capcom, Genki, OpusPlayStation 2 and GameCube
UFC: TapoutNoneFebruary 17, 2002Dream FactoryXbox
UFC: Tapout 2NoneMarch 20, 2003Dream FactoryXbox
Fire Pro Wrestling ReturnsNoneSeptember 15, 2005Spike, S-NEO Co., Ltd., Y'sK Inc.PlayStation 2
UFC: Sudden ImpactNoneApril 21, 2004OpusPlayStation 2
EA Sports UFCNoneJune 17, 2014EA Vancouver, Electronic Arts, SkyBox LabsXbox Series X and Series S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Android, and iOS
UFC Undisputed 2009Won the VGX Award for Best Individual Sports Game in 2009May 19, 2009Yuke'sPlayStation 3 and Xbox 360
EA Sports UFC 2Nominated for Fighting Game of the Year and also Won the Best Individual Sports Game AwardMarch 15, 2016EA VancouverPlayStation 4, Android, and Xbox One
Pride FC: Fighting ChampionshipsNominated for the Best Fighting Game VGX AwardJanuary 11, 2003Anchor Inc.PlayStation 2
EA’s MMANominated for the Best Individual Sports Game VGX Award and Fighting Game of the Year Interactive Achievement AwardOctober 19, 2010EA TiburoniOS, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360
Fire Pro Wrestling WorldNoneJuly 10, 2017Spike Chunsoft, ZEX corporationPlayStation 4 and Microsoft Windows
EA Sports UFC 3Nominated for Game, Franchise Fighting and Performance in a Sports Game AwardJanuary 30, 2018 EA Vancouver, EA CanadaPlayStation 4 and Xbox One
UFC Undisputed 2010Nominated for the Best Individual Sports Game VGX AwardMay 25, 2010Yuke'siOS, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360
UFC Personal TrainerNoneJune 28, 2011Heavy Iron Studios, THQPlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii
EA’s UFC 4Nominated for Game, Franchise Fighting at the NAVGTR Awards in 2021August 14, 2020EA Vancouver, EA CanadaPlayStation 4 and Xbox One
UFC Undisputed 3NoneFebruary 14, 2012Yuke'sXbox 360 and PlayStation 3

UFC: Throwdown

UFC Throwdown

The fighting in UFC Throwdown is played using a four-button system similar to that seen in Tekken, along with the life gauges and replenishing health found in combat sports games. You have to be concerned regarding your endurance or stamina meter, which decreases whenever you carry out an action but eventually returns to its previous level when you are still.

It’s the equivalent of losing your life if you run out of endurance; therefore, throwing a bunch of punches puts you up for a loss in the manner of a knockout from a single strike. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the time to pull back.

Although the bouts are brief enough that this seldom becomes a concern with professional fighters, early battles in the career mode demand you to think a great deal about your endurance, which adds an intriguing strategic edge to the gameplay.

The overall presentation of UFC Throwdown appears really excellent, but it most definitely should have been improved. The textures are passable, and the animation is satisfactory for the most part. The ring appears to be fine as well.

The videogame, on the other hand, has very few noticeable visual effects and, in general, gives off an impression of being spare and devoid of content. Even the menus give the impression of being incomplete in some way. The score drags the total aesthetic down a few degrees, which is unfortunate.

The combat is entertaining, but there are certain issues with the presentation that detract from the overall experience to the point that it becomes problematic. If you’ve never experienced previous versions of UFC and you believe you can get over the controller difficulty and the other flaws, then UFC Throwdown offers a decent lot of online fun that you can enjoy.

However, this only applies if you haven’t experienced previous games of UFC. Also, for the time when UFC Throwdown was released, we think they’re all the above-mentioned features were good enough reason to list this game in the best UFC Games of all time.

Pros

  • UFC: Throwdown offers solid and accurate controls that are fairly simple and easy to use.
  • In terms of visuals, the game is great with stunning character animations and facial expressions.
  • You have access to a ton of fighters and each one of them has a different fighting style.
  • The gameplay mechanics are very simple and easy to grasp, making the game widely accessible.
  • The audio design is well-executed with great announcers and a bunch of nicknames for each character.
  • In the training mode, you can hone your fighting skills by sparring against an adjustable foe.

Cons

  • There is little to no music during matches which makes them quite a dull experience.
  • The gameplay is a bit too simple and gets repetitive very fast, making the game loop tedious.
  • UFC: Throwdown has a very plain character creation mode which does not thrill you in any way.
  • The game has little to no replay value as the game modes get duplicative after a while.
  • The matches are very short which might leave some players unsatisfied in UFC: Throwdown.

UFC: Tapout

UFC Tapout

The authentic martial artists featured in UFC: Tapout includes some of the best fighters who have ever competed inside the Octagon. The extensive lineup features 27 fighters right from the beginning, and in the arcade mode, you may also acquire all of the game’s secret characters.

Sadly, UFC: Tapout is missing a handful of the game modes while having an amazing array of competitors to choose from.

The human designs in UFC: Tapout is astonishingly lifelike, and the game’s visual effects are top-notch. The game has a fantastic visual presentation. Several video games that feature characters that are inspired by real figures are unable to make such characters appear like their actual versions.

This is due to a variety of factors, including the usage of plain graphics, clunky movement, and some other issues. When the battle is about to begin, the video zooms in to focus intensely on the massive figures. Because of the excellent animation, the fighting characters seem even better while they are moving.

During the battle, both on their feet and when wrestling on the ground, the combatants respond to each other in a manner that is consistent with reality, and their actions are rarely unnatural looking.

Although it may be entertaining to watch, another of the game’s major flaws is how badly the viewpoint adapts to the rapidly changing action on the screen. It is a big issue with the title. As a result of the frequency with which battles transition from standing to ground combat, the camera frequently shifts to an angle that is intended to offer a nice view of the in-close wrestling battle, and then it frequently becomes an annoyance.

The control system in UFC: Tapout is surprisingly straightforward, and it is virtually identical to that of the Tekken series. The four face buttons correlate to every one of the fighter’s attacking limbs, and the control system is almost identical to that of Tekken.

Pros

  • The visual presentation is on top of the shelf and the character animations are detailed.
  • UFC: Tapout offers a well-mapped control scheme that is very simple and similar to the Tekken series.
  • You can duke it out with a friend in the two-player mode and have a ton of fun.
  • The create-a-fighter mode lets you select from a nice variety of fighting styles for your custom character.
  • If you are acquainted with UFC fighting and the fighters, you will relish the intricate characters.
  • The matches are quite realistic and stimulating which adds a level of authenticity to the game.

Cons

  • There are not enough game modes available to play in UFC: Tapout which is a major turnoff.
  • The sound design is barebones and has some polishing issues and the crowd noises during matches can be vexing.
  • The customization options are lacking as the facial options are finite in UFC: Tapout.
  • The AI opponent is very dull and easy to exploit even on the highest difficulty in UFC: Tapout.

UFC: Tapout 2

UFC Tapout 2

A significant number of actual UFC fighters have competed in UFC: Tapout 2. Because there are many different fighting techniques, and because each boxer has their own set of abilities, every competitor is distinctive, both to compete with and against.

However, DreamFactory did a great job with this the year before and didn’t really bring much new other than additional fighters. UFC Tapout 2 improved a ton of deal from its predecessor, which already was an excellent UFC game. Considering all these things, UFC Tapout 2 is without a doubt the best UFC Games in old-gen graphics.

There have unquestionably been enhancements made to the combat system, although these changes aren’t really noteworthy. When moving from the first Tapout game to the second one, the difficulty level of the game is still appropriately challenging.

Fights are still over in the blink of an eye, and they rarely go the distance. There is a significant amount of repetition in the maneuvers as well. To tell you the truth, there is not sufficient of a difference to truly be noticed from a cursory glance, and it is not important enough to either benefit or detract from the gameplay.

That, on the bright side, indicates that Tapout 2 has all of the fascinating strategic components that were in the previous game and that it is still a lot of fun to play. It’s a breath of fresh air to have such a very unique experience in comparison to other Xbox fighting or wrestling games.

However, after that, it resembles a single Xbox game especially, and that game is the original UFC: Tapout. This game by DreamFactory does not appear to inspire a great deal of enthusiasm among its players. If there were, there would be an additional jolt of vitality in the place.

The graphics of the sequel, UFC: Tapout 2, have been improved over those of the first game in several ways, along with more fluid movements, more dynamic highlights, and an overall more finished appearance.

On the contrary, there is just as much trimming as there was the year before last so that you may see the knee of one competitor meld into the thigh of another competitor.

Pros

  • The art style for UFC: Tapout 2 is quite incredible and has a distinct look with all the characters and fighting grounds nicely rendered.
  • The game features a number of notable fighters including Josh Barnett, Tito Ortiz, and many more that keep your attention.
  • You can unlock these characters by fighting foes in the arcade mode in UFC: Tapout 2.
  • The gameplay has been tweaked with the inclusion of some new positions and positions.
  • The music is decent and the game gives you the ability to add your own soundtrack in case you don’t prefer the game’s theme which is a nice touch.

Cons

  • UFC: Tapout 2 does not add anything major to the formula and feels like the first title.
  • The opponent AI is still dull and predictable, making it very easy to beat in UFC: Tapout 2.
  • UFC: Tapout 2 has poor main menu music and the sound effects are not compelling in any way.
  • Despite the graphics getting an overhaul, the animations are not appealing which is vexing.
  • The gameplay mechanics are identical to the first game and have not been enhanced in UFC: Tapout 2.

Fire Pro Wrestling Returns

Fire Pro Wrestling Returns

Fire Pro is an attempt to recreate the type of fighting that is popular in Japan; the emphasis is placed on brutal matches, technical mastery, and outrageous maneuvers. Returns expand upon this concept by allowing your play session to include up to 18 lineups and 325 sportsmen, increasing the likelihood that you will discover the right team for you.

The simulation-like experience extends to the other sorts of games that you may compete in as well. I’ll say it once again: this is not WWE. There won’t be any silly theatrics like a stretcher fight or a massive fine hanging from a pole during the competition. It is a style of boxing popular in Japan.

When you include armaments like wire mesh baseball clubs, fluorescent light bulbs, and metal seats, as well as a number of construct modes that let you to design arenas from the start (including apron kinds, turnbuckle coverings, and more), you have a videogame that the proper fan might get absorbed in for ages.

However, despite the fact that I have praised Fire Pro Wrestling Returns for having an exceptionally rich gameplay experience, I must admit that the sheer volume of information results in one of the most confusing and complex menu interfaces I have ever had to navigate. 

Nevertheless, with that being said, I do not like that grapple mechanism, but it is really a matter of personal choice. It is effective and elevates the execution of maneuvers to the level of a skill, which is something I can appreciate. 

The remaining aspects of the plan are what really appeal to the mind. The sloppy system also makes it difficult to posture oneself in the appropriate area to execute techniques, which means that you frequently discover that your attacks miss and mess things up.

If you want to take a trip down to memory lane of earlier SEGA mega drives days and play a nice UFC-themed game, then Fire Pro Wrestling will make your day. This is why we don’t hesitate to put this game on the list of best UFC Games.

Pros

  • The roster is immense with a total of 327 pre-rendered wrestlers to play with along with the extra 500 edit slots lets you dish out plenty of fun.
  • The Edit system has plenty of depth and gives you an infinite amount of options as you can create a ton of stuff.
  • Even though the game is 2D, the sprites are big and the attention to detail is quite intriguing.
  • A plethora of match types keep you intrigued for some time in Fire Pro Wrestling Returns.
  • The AI opponent is tricky and fun to fight with as it demands a strategic approach.

Cons

  • While the Edit system is intricate, it might swamp some players in Fire Pro Wrestling Returns.
  • The soundtrack can get banal very quickly which can lead to a dull experience.
  • The grappling system is not very easy to master as the time window for it is very strict which may not sit with casual players.
  • The camera perspective is not the best in Fire Pro Wrestling Returns which is sub-par.

UFC: Sudden Impact

UFC Sudden Impact

Sudden Impact is quite similar to other games in the UFC series, so if you’ve previously experienced some of the other UFC games, you’ve already played it. Every one of your boxer’s limbs may be controlled individually by pressing one of the four face buttons on the controller.

By simultaneously pressing two buttons, you can execute a takedown, a grapple move, a surrender move, or another skill of a similar kind, based on the fighting style of the character you are controlling.

Basic game types, such as the linear championship and arcade modes, as well as the standard versus mode, are all included in UFC: Sudden Impact. These gameplay modes are what players have learned to believe from a UFC video game.

There are around forty combatants competing in this game, and almost all of them have participated in other UFC games in the past. In spite of the fact that previous UFC games have consistently been able to showcase animations that are generally appealing, the aesthetics in Sudden Impact are very unimpressive.

The majority of the fighters’ primary character designs appear to be approximately the very same as they have in the past; however, the faces appear to be slightly lower pixel density when compared to other aspects of the game, and the body types appear to be somewhat overblown and far less true to expand than in games of the series’s past.

UFC: Sudden Impact is, when it all ultimately boils down to it, yet another lethargic rendition of the very identical videogame that you have been experiencing since the early time of the Dreamcast.

If you have already bought some other game in the UFC series of video games, you would not need to purchase Sudden Impact. This is due to the fact that the few new combat stances and the unbelievably unimpressive career mode are the only significant inclusions to the game, neither of which contribute in any way to the development of the UFC brand in any manner that makes sense.

Pros

  • The addition of a focus on the fence positioning mechanic is decent as it adds variety to the overall gameplay of UFC: Sudden Impact.
  • Like the previous UFC games, there are a total of 40 fighters to pick from and all have a set of unique skills that you can utilize.
  • You can design your own fighter and train him to become a UFC fighter in UFC: Sudden Impact.
  • The versus mode is likable and well-designed where you can have many hours of sheer fun, given you have a friend to play with.

Cons

  • The audio design is barebones and the music only includes some tunes that play during the fighter’s entrance.
  • In terms of visuals, UFC: Sudden Impact is outdated and not on par with other fighting games.
  • The gameplay does not add anything major to the UFC formula and lacks innovation.
  • The character animations are not that great and the models for fighters look stale in UFC: Sudden Impact.
  • There is not much variety when it comes to the overall gameplay and fighting arenas in UFC: Sudden Impact.

EA Sports UFC

EA Sports UFC

The PlayStation 4 and Xbox One were the only platforms on which UFC was developed, and it reflects. When it comes to textures and animations, the videogame contains some of the stunning ones I’ve seen yet in a UFC video game.

EA jumped the gun and created a rather less controversial and little more successful UFC game when they debuted EA Sports UFC. This video game became a hallmark of success for the successors that released years after, and that is why we think the title deserves a take to be the best UFC Games EA Games ever produced.

Even when observed in action and from a near range, they provide the impression of being real and convincing. These digital boxers clearly radiate the personality of their actual versions, particularly throughout pre-match briefings, which is an important element of the contest.

Although it is unfortunate that the majority of the grappling movements are identical from match to match, nice transitional motions and hit responses maintain everything appearing smooth and genuine even when punches continue to fly around.

The sport of mixed martial arts is tremendously complicated, and I am relieved that Electronic Arts did not attempt to simplify it in any way. There are a large number of alternatives for offense, defense, standing work, and groundwork; yet, the control system is unable to accommodate all of these solutions easily.

Because you can take what feels like an infinite amount of punishment and have an infinite amount of time to squirm your way out of attempts to submit you, I always felt secure no matter what the circumstances were.

The UFC has very nothing to deliver besides the arena in terms of worth. There is a tutorial that you are forced to go through when you first start the game, but there is also a sequence of tasks that show you stuff that really ought to have been in the tutorial.

The online play is playable, but the career mode is really just an unending loop of menus that are dull and uninteresting. The in-game graphics of EA Sports UFC are spot-on, and the game’s comprehensive number of maneuvers and methods does a good job of capturing the intricate nature of the game.

Pros

  • Character creation in EA Sports UFC is top-notch and offers endless possibilities for the player.
  • The game features a huge roster of 97 fighters and all are extremely diverse in terms of skills.
  • There are also two DLC characters that are presented; Bruce Lee and Royce Gracie which many players will like.
  • EA Sports UFC really excels in the graphics department.
  • Online play in EA Sports UFC is solid as it provides a smooth and engrossing experience.
  • The versus mode is well-designed and you can battle against your friends, which is welcoming for MMA aficionados.

Cons

  • The sense of risk and thrill is not there in most matches which can take away the high-stakes element and lead to a bland experience.
  • The career mode is not that interesting and lacks the spark as it is simply an endless cycle of boring menus.
  • As soon as you get into EA Sports UFC, it forces you to go through a lengthy tutorial mode.
  • A large number of grappling movements are quite similar which can lead to repetition.

UFC Undisputed 2009

UFC Undisputed 2009

The intricacy of the control system will be the very initial thing that strikes you when you start playing UFC 2009 Undisputed for the first time. THQ has genuinely performed an excellent job, despite the fact that it is likely to be intimidating for any individual who takes up the controller for the first time.

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is not what sets it apart from other sports like boxing games. It is, however, the delicate and nuanced ground combat and placement that is the issue. A mix of face and analog sticks may be used to perform standard blows, which include high and low kicks and punches, as well as defending.

Standard strikes can be performed with relative ease. The right analog stick is the optimal choice for controlling the ground game. You may go spontaneously to any of the ground orientations, as well as reverse them by going through a sequence of transitions that range from minor to significant in difficulty.

The lightning-quick knockouts occur much too frequently. In the actual UFC, if you ever get hit with a blow at just the best angle when your bodyweight is flowing forward into the blow, you’re going to get knocked out. However, in Undisputed, you’ll be knocking out dudes like a piece of cake.

The game is made to seem more realistic by the addition of subtle details such as wounds that bleed onto your adversary and gradual scarring that appears in particular spots.

Pros

  • UFC Undisputed 2009 features fluid and responsive controls that offer a great balance between simple and intricate gameplay.
  • The career mode offers a decent amount of depth and keeps your attention as you progress through it.
  • Visually, UFC Undisputed 2009 does a good job of presenting you with a detail-oriented atmosphere.
  • The multiplayer is robust and allows you to dish out a ton of fun when playing with friends.
  • The core combat is extremely diverse with each character having different positions and stances.
  • The audio is well-executed.

Cons

  • UFC Undisputed 2009 has notoriously long loading screens that you have to sit through which can be a tedious process.
  • The game lacks sufficient unlockable content such as some extra fighters would have been nice.
  • The presentation needs a bit more polishing in UFC Undisputed 2009.
  • If you are not a UFC fan, then UFC Undisputed 2009 might not be the game for you.

EA Sports UFC 2

EA Sports UFC 2

UFC 2 is too bland, overly restrictive, but also too repetitive to ever seem like an authentic portrayal of the sport of mixed martial arts, which has created a devoted fanbase in great part due to the fact that anything may happen at any given time.

Similar to its predecessor, EA Sports UFC 2 was a miles better game than the first one, and it was a fresh take and a rather improved version of the first game. You can’t call yourself the pro player of the best UFC Games if you never played EA Sports UFC 2.  

UFC 2 may have the right look for the job, but it doesn’t have the right vibe. The fighting is jagged, the kicks are enjoyably hard, and each and every boxer is brilliantly stylized and reimagined; however, each and every aspect is too monotonous and strict to reconstruct the fluidity and uncertainty that pulls other players to real UFC fights and us.

The battles in EA Sports UFC 2 are typically won by identifying the gaps between the boundaries that the enemy hasn’t considered defending, but there aren’t any such gaps in this arena at all. It is up to your standards if you are looking for something other than the typical selections because it is a combat game, but as a reproduction of the UFC, it fails to impress the masses more than its prequel.

Pros

  • The attention to detail is remarkable and keeps the player engaged throughout the game.
  • A large roster with more than a hundred fighters is presented in EA Sports UFC 2 and all of them are rendered well.
  • The game features a plethora of modes to play in which will hold your interest for some time.
  • Knocking down your opponents during intense battles is a great feeling in EA Sports UFC 2.
  • Ground holds are nicely implemented and provide you with some frenetic action sequences.
  • The skirmishes are fast-paced and intense, and the inclusion of the knockout mode offers a decent local multiplayer experience.

Cons

  • The major flaw of this game is its sub-par career mode which severely lacks substance.
  • Some of the punches don’t feel like they have enough force behind them which can take away the immersion from the fights in EA Sports UFC 2.
  • The commentary is not the best and does not feel compelling in any way which is lackluster.

Pride FC: Fighting Championships

Pride FC Fighting Championships

If you haven’t played Tekken previously or the Pride demo that’s been going around, the simplest way to explain it is as a more realistic take on the classic fighting game Tekken. For those who struggle with the mechanics, the strikes may be customized to elaborate on certain techniques or button sequences, and grappling can be accomplished by pressing the left and right triggers simultaneously. Tekken fans will recognize the feature.

The engine in Pride FC: Fighting Championships is stunning in its own right, but what truly sets it apart is the degree to which it is adaptable, independent of your stance. Even though each fight will start in the stand-up format with two fighters confronting one another, the rest of the fights can flow in either direction.

In an unexpected wrestling bout and struggle of clutches, the combatants can make either leap on top of one another to knock each other out, and sling blows into their rear opponent with horizontal blows and smashes, or they can climb on top of one another to engage in an improvised wrestling contest.

The majority of the game is played from this stance, and just like the real-world Pride events that are hosted in Japan, it may go on for a number of rounds and hours, or it can be finished in a matter of only a few seconds.

Timing is an extremely important factor in the videogame, which, in all honesty, is really finicky. If you press the buttons excessively rapidly or not soon enough, your opponent’s grapple could most easily break you out of the match more quickly.

In spite of the fact that the engine is quite responsive and effective, I cannot help but question why it hasn’t implemented the functionality that boxing video games have had for many ages.

Even after all these years, Pride FC remains an extremely engaging and pleasant videogame. It is especially exciting when competing against other human players without the use of their health bars.

Pros

  • A number of new positions and situations including standing sprawl and clinch animations are featured in Pride FC: Fighting Championships.
  • The submission-move mechanics are tuned which makes the gameplay authentic and fluid.
  • The create-a-fighter mode allows you to set up all the moves and combos for your fighter according to your liking.
  • There are plenty of single-player options available to tinker with, which will keep your attention.
  • In terms of visuals, the game is top-notch with some great character animations and well-designed fighter models.

Cons

  • Commentary is sorely lacking which can be a turnoff to some players in Pride FC: Fighting Championships.
  • A few more single-player options could have made the game longer in terms of overall gameplay.
  • The ground game is not the best and is rather appalling along with the striking element which is lacking variety.
  • The unbalanced difficulty of Pride FC: Fighting Championships might not sit with some players.

EA’s MMA

EA’s MMA

EA Sports MMA is a video game that seeks to include the international scope of the sport into the entire package it provides while also demonstrating that mixed martial arts (MMA) are among the most physically demanding sports in the world.

EA’s UFC series was already a benchmark for this type of fighting sports game genre. However, the EA MMA video game even took things up a notch and created something that gave competitors a run for raising their standards. Considering all that, we believe EA’s MMA deserves a sweet spot in the list of BEST UFC Games created till today.  

Even though it misses some richness in its functionality, there is little question that THQ will need to raise its efforts with the forthcoming UFC if they want to take the championship belt away from what EA has published.

The action inside the arena is perhaps the most crucial aspect that EA Sports MMA gets right. It’s also one of the best things about the game. When it comes to hitting, EA Sports is content to rely on the right analog stick techniques found in Fight Night.

EA Sports MMA’s Career Mode is, without a doubt, the game’s most compelling feature. When you go to a new gym, you are paired with a new instructor, and the type of martial art that you are learning allows you to choose from a variety of unique special moves.

Pros

  • The career mode is quite long and provides plenty of challenges to complete that can be rewarding.
  • EA’s MMA features solid and intuitive controls that are well-mapped and enhance the overall gameplay experience.
  • There are some nice options that you can try out in order to get a lag-free online experience.
  • All of the fighters look and feel incredible and are chaperoned with catchy entrance music.
  • Playing through local and online multiplayer games can be a blast in EA’s MMA.
  • The battles in EA’s MMA provide a great balance between offense and defense for the player.

Cons

  • On some occasions, strikes are lacking impact, and feel underpowered in EA’s MMA.
  • The opponent AI can be quite predictable at times which can take away the challenging factor.
  • The camera can get clunky in some situations which can mire the overall fighting experience.
  • EA’s MMA has notably long loading times that are even lengthier than the actual battles.

Fire Pro Wrestling World

Fire Pro Wrestling World

The Fire Pro Wrestling World may be a brutal game at times. There is virtually no useful display of stamina, aside from a countdown, which means that just about everything, from your wrestler’s stamina to their vitality, needs to be estimated based on visual clues.

You have control over your wrestler, and you can have them inhale to restore their endurance. Although the lack of manual controls may first seem a little unsettling, you will eventually grow to love the challenge it adds to the Fire Pro Wrestling World.

Techniques and the button configurations you have been using to trigger them vary from wrestler to wrestler and are loosely grouped into light, medium, and heavy strikes on the joystick. There are no dedicated buttons for particular techniques such as pummels or surrender attempts or even signatures and finishes.

The story mode consists of typical wrestling material, such as working your way up the rankings and coaching your wrestler in an attempt to optimize their statistics, despite the fact that the interactive novel-style storyline is neither especially intriguing nor enjoyable to go forward.

The limitless customization choices and in-depth narrative mode give excellent value, while the game’s peculiar character is endearing in its own quirky way.

Pros

  • Fire Pro Wrestling World features in-depth editing options that give you endless possibilities in character creation.
  • A plethora of match types to play in Fire Pro Wrestling World and the pacing for all matches is excellent.
  • The online play is on top of the shelf and provides a smooth and engrossing experience.
  • Fire Pro Wrestling World offers a massive roster of wrestlers.
  • You can even import your own music files that you can use as background and wrestler entrance themes.
  • The inclusion of the steam workshop is great as it allows you to share your creation with others.

Cons

  • The AI interface is a bit incoherent and crowded, making menu navigation a pain in Fire Pro Wrestling World.
  • A number of moves and edit points are locked behind the grindy mission mode.
  • Fire Pro Wrestling World does not support cross-play with the console version.
  • Several DLCs are not part of the main game which might irritate some players.

EA Sports UFC 3

EA Sports UFC 3

Because of the excellent rework of the punching system and the significantly better achievement career mode, UFC 3 is without a doubt the best boxing sports game in the UFC series to have been released up to this point.

It is a fighting sports game that actually embodies the adrenaline and intensity of an MMA bout, and it does so in some of its finest performances. When EA Games released EA Sports UFC 3, fans couldn’t believe the realistic title offered. From graphics to punchy animations and snappy controls, this video game has got it all. These are a few reasons we have ranked this title higher in our BEST UFC Games guide.

On the other hand, the shady and microtransaction-filled Ultimate Team feature puts a shade over its glory that makes the game a little less appealing.

UFC 3 is among the finest games in the professional boxing genre since it demands a lot of planning and management of your endurance, as well as the deft usage of your fighter’s combinations and the delicate balancing of offensive and defense.

Knockout Mode and Stand and Bang Mode are also included in UFC 3, but all of these modes eliminate the ability to send your opponent to the ground.

Once you have a gym, you will receive one hundred training points to invest for each week that you use the exercise. In addition, each activity will cost you a specific number of points.

The infamous Ultimate Team Mode comes returning in UFC 3; however, it is crucial to remember that just about everything regarding loot boxes and microtransactions is practically sealed off to this mode. The mode is the only one in the game that allows for loot boxes.

It is acceptable, given that many individuals would wish to avoid it due to its negative connotations.

Pros

  • The graphics are utterly charming along with the enticing animations that add a level of realism to EA Sports UFC 3.
  • The striking facet of the game is overhauled quite a lot and works really well which is great.
  • EA Sports UFC 3 features a huge roster of fighters that is intricate and welcoming for UFC fans.
  • The game mechanics are well-designed and boast tactical gameplay, allowing for better immersion.
  • Many renowned fighters are presented in the game including Khabib Nurmagomedov, Conor McGregor, Tony Ferguson, and many more.
  • A robust number of modes and options are available other than fighting inside the octagon.

Cons

  • Some technical issues such as bugs and odd physics on some occasions can detract from the experience.
  • The GOAT mode requires a lot of grinding and does not have much authentic drama to it.
  • The grappling system is cumbersome and not intriguing enough which is lackluster.
  • Submissions rely too much on tedious mini-games rather than tactics.

UFC Undisputed 2010

UFC Undisputed 2010

The overly convoluted control mechanism from the previous year is carried over into UFC Undisputed 2010. If you’re a former player, all you’ll do to feel comfortable in the Octagon is learn some new drifts, movements, and techniques for pressing opponents up against the cage.

If you’re not an expert, you’ve got a long road ahead of you. You can throw punches with the face buttons, and there are height factors to help you go down, reversing mechanisms for both the ground game and the standing game as well.

There is a tutorial in UFC Undisputed 2010, but it is so clumsy and lacking in common sense that I didn’t actually understand what needed to be told in any type of serious way from it. The game first instructs you that the left stick controls movement then displays a video of another player moving, and then lets you move.

On the other hand, it doesn’t explain what each ground stance is, when you should utilize it, or how to get out of it in a strategic way. One of the game’s main problems is that it does not have a clear direction.

You may compete in tournaments with up to sixteen players, travel through a horde of opponents in a mode called Title, and enter into traditional battles that come with a variety of objectives in the Ultimate Fights mode.

UFC Undisputed 2010 is a solid fighting game, but it isn’t quite as amazing as it might be because of some minor flaws. The knockouts are fantastic; there’s a lot to accomplish in the career mode, and the instances when Joe Rogan freaks out add to the genuine adrenaline of battling in the Octagon.

I really enjoy this game. Despite it, there is a lot of speech that is repeated, the controls are difficult to understand, and there are many different game types that are all basically the same.

Pros

  • UFC Undisputed 2010 has a gigantic roster of prominent fighters which is welcoming for veterans of the series.
  • The mixed martial arts combat has been tremendously revamped and quite immersive in UFC Undisputed 2010.
  • Career mode is a step up compared to the previous title and is much more functional.
  • The grappling system is now very simple and easy to master, making it less intricate for beginners.
  • Other than the single-player mode, there are a ton of modes to tinker with that are far more engaging and less tedious.

Cons

  • You have to constantly train between fights in career mode which is not intriguing.
  • Some of the issues are still not fixed from the previous game which is disappointing.
  • The commentary can get quite duplicative during matches as they repeat the same line over and over again.
  • Finishing moves wear thin pretty quickly in UFC Undisputed 2010.

UFC Personal Trailer

UFC Personal Trailer

From the very beginning, UFC Personal Trainer presents a challenging and merciless environment. It begins with a grueling fitness test, and when you’ve completed it, you’re given a ranking depending on how well you did.

However, even at the easiest difficulty setting, the game will give you really difficult exercises, and then it will force you to go beyond the objective and complete additional repetitions.

UFC Personal Trainer is a unique take on the UFC series of video games. What the rest of the games did, this title did the opposite of it. Here, you come and become a fighter by training, and this unique take makes the video game a true gem, something that deserves to be ranked at the top in the BEST UFC Games list.

The most important aspect of the game is the programs, which are designed to help you lose weight or tone your body and last either longer than 30 days based on how dedicated you are to the process.

A further significant difficulty is the length of time that it can take to complete these activities. The exercise periods each take 7 to 8 minutes, and throughout the most efficient workouts, this may equal up to half of the total time spent working out.

UFC Personal Trainer is among the most impressive video games available in the fitness & sports genre. You are going to really have to endure a lot of bothersome difficulties on your journey to a healthier physique, however. These issues range from the monotonous language of trainers devoid of character to some significant glitches and crashes.

Pros

  • UFC Personal Trainer offers a nice workout with some taxing but great exercises that are myriad.
  • The fitness aspect of this game is top-notch as it constantly drives you which is encouraging.
  • The game provides a checklist of content that can be unlocked as you progress.
  • The inclusion of actual UFC trainers is incredible as they motivate you with some inspiring lines.

Cons

  • After some time, the dialogue can get pretty duplicative which can be annoying.
  • UFC Personal Trainer is haunted by a number of bugs and crashes which can mar the experience.
  • Some tutorials and stretches are way too long and feel repetitive after a while in UFC Personal Trainer.

EA’s UFC 4

EA’s UFC 4

Instead of making significant structural shifts, the focus of UFC 4 is on implementing a number of minor but essential changes. The clinching game no more appears to be a stand-up replica of the action that occurs on the ground; that is the most notable change brought about by the iteration.

To gain the freedom of a clinch, all you are required to do is break away from your adversary. It eliminates the need to maneuver across multiple clinch stances before reaching a point from which you can free yourself.

The second significant alteration that has been implemented this time around concerns the submissions that have been separated into two distinct sorts of minigames: one for single submissions and one for collaborative submissions.

Both of the side games consist primarily of a competition to see who can be the first person to either complete the submission meter or the escape meter.

One other very great innovation is that some boxers who are particularly good on the ground may also have chances to counterattack certain submissions using either a smash or perhaps a counter-submission. This is an incredibly cool new feature that adds a lot of variety to EA’s UFC 4.

The combat system in UFC 4 is largely unchanged, aside from those significant additions, as well as a handful of other minor alterations to the control scheme, which itself is, in the majority part, satisfactory.

Although UFC 3 did a fantastic job of reworking striking, the ground game in UFC 4 is still generally disappointing and seems like it needs more work.

Pros

  • EA’s UFC 4 features a fast-paced and hybrid combat system that gets extremely delightful as you learn additional aptitudes.
  • The game mechanics are easy to grasp and very beginner-friendly which makes EA’s UFC 4 accessible to novice players.
  • The career mode is engrossing and entails a great UFC journey, keeping the player hooked.
  • EA’s UFC 4 provides an incredible sense of progression throughout the gameplay.
  • The game adds a number of enhancements to the formula in contrast to the early titles.
  • The inclusion of costumes and lively arenas enhances the overall experience and amplify the personality.

Cons

  • Although the career mode is well-implemented, it still feels a bit undercooked on some occasions.
  • The character creator is not the best and lacks variety in EA’s UFC 4.
  • Some mechanics serve as mini-games which makes them feel separated from the main game.
  • In terms of visuals, EA’s UFC 4 is not on par with modern fighting games as the graphics seem a tad outdated and boring.

UFC Undisputed 3

UFC Undisputed 3

UFC Undisputed 3 is a mixed martial arts video game that feels so much better and seems more realistic than any UFC game in the genre. Besides a plethora of new features, fan-favorite game types such as Title Mode, Title Defense, and Ultimate Fights have been brought back.

The huge quantity of complexity and features included in this installment is mind-boggling, despite the fact that significant progress has been made to make the game simpler to pick up and play in comparison to other entries in the Undisputed series.

In terms of the adjustments made in Undisputed 3, they are as follows: The appearance and atmosphere of the long-gone Pride league are faithfully reproduced in the video game down to the last detail, from the wacky arena commentators and screaming electronic entrances for boxers to the list of Pride superstars.

In addition to that, the career mode in Undisputed 3 has been given a significant overhaul. You may now go through the career mode with a fighter who is already on the roster. This means that you can select any fighter from the UFC roster or the Pride roster and progress them through the ranks to become an MMA superstar.

On the other hand, in addition to the possibility of utilizing roster fighters, the whole atmosphere of the career mode has been significantly improved. You will have to juggle fewer metrics and explore fewer menus than in past games in order to build up your career since the process has been much simplified in this game.

The sheer volume of brand new material that has been added to UFC Undisputed 3 is incredible. The developers have found a way to mix features that make the experience less scary while at the same time providing a ton of new features that will keep diehard fans interested.

Pros

  • The pride mode is on top of the shelf as it keeps the player engaged throughout in UFC Undisputed 3.
  • The addition of the new submission system is great and offers a breath of fresh air for the veterans.
  • UFC Undisputed has an intriguing combat system that provides you with fast UFC action.
  • For grappling and ground game, there is an uncomplicated control setting that does not require various stick swirls.
  • The tutorial modes are wide and explain everything very well, making the game accessible.
  • The ability to share online highlights is a nice add-on in UFC Undisputed 3.
  • The career mode has been completely revamped, allowing you to pick any fighter and play with them.

Cons

  • The lack of a save option in the title defense mode is frustrating as it is quite long.
  • UFC Undisputed 3 has lengthy loading screens that you have to sit through which can be boring.
  • The implementation of pride is somewhat dubious and requires some refining.

Summary

Even though the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) video game genre isn’t as prevalent as, say, 2K Sports, the finest UFC games are head and shoulders above most other conventional mixed martial arts video games. Some of the sports that is growing at the quickest rate all around the globe are mixed martial arts and the Ultimate Fighting Championships especially.

They integrate several fighting styles, including boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, and Karate, within one refined form of competition. Regardless of the fact that there is a limitless number of fighting games available on the market, it is a lot more challenging for developers to modify the sport for video games than it might appear at first.

The game plan, which includes transitions, submissions, and grappling, has to be as closest as possible to the thrill of a major fight. In addition, developers ought to make sure the stand-up succeeds, but they also need to make that it functions properly.

If this is the case, it should not come as a surprise that the number of bad UFC and MMA video games is roughly proportional to the number of excellent ones.

That is pretty much everything you need to know about BEST UFC Games. Which is your favorite game so far, and why? Let us know more of your thoughts in the comments box below.

Next: BEST Rec Room Games

Was this article helpful?

Thanks! Do share your feedback with us. ⚡

How could we improve this post? Please Help us. ✍

Irfan Ansari


Irfan Ansari is a Senior Editor and Guides Writer on eXputer. He has seven years of Video Game Journalism experience and a tremendous love for gaming. Over his editorial career, he has gained experience at multiple sites. Along with his bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering Irfan has also earned a degree in Writing and Editing from the University of Michigan. Experience: 7+ Years || Education: Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering || Worked for TheGamer and VeryAli Gaming || Published 1000+ Guides

Related Articles