UFC 5 Review
UFC 5 is the latest installment in the popular Ultimate Fighting Championship video game series, and it has managed to elevate the franchise to new heights. Since there is a big lack of boxing games I was eager to give this a try to help quench that thirst. And let me tell you, UFC 5 does not disappoint.
From the moment you boot up the game, you’ll be greeted with stunning visuals that capture the essence of the UFC perfectly. The fighters’ character models are incredibly detailed, and their movements are impressively lifelike. The arenas are faithfully recreated, and the crowd reactions add to the overall atmosphere of the game. UFC 5 truly shines in this department, setting a new standard for sports simulation games.
The gameplay in UFC 5 is the best in the series, with an emphasis on realism and strategy. The controls are intuitive, allowing both newcomers and veterans to jump into the action with ease. The striking and grappling mechanics are deep, offering a wide range of techniques and strategies to master. The submission system is improved, and the ground game feels more dynamic and engaging. However, some players might find the learning curve a bit steep, and it can be frustrating at times, especially if you’re new to the series.
UFC 5 offers a variety of game modes to keep players entertained. Career mode allows you to create your own fighter and guide them through their MMA journey. The Ultimate Team mode lets you build and customize a team of fighters, and the Online mode allows you to compete with players from around the world. While these modes offer plenty of content, there’s still room for improvement, especially in terms of storytelling in the career mode and the overall depth of the Ultimate Team mode.
The game features a vast roster of fighters from different weight classes, including legends and current UFC stars. The customization options for creating your fighter are extensive, allowing for a high degree of personalization. However, I would have liked to see even more options for creating unique fighters and more flexibility in terms of their appearance. Less Tattoo options more actual physical features and gear options.
The sound design in UFC 5 is top-notch. The impact of punches and kicks, the crowd’s reactions, and the commentary all add to the immersive experience. The commentary, provided by real UFC commentators, is informative and enhances the atmosphere of the fights. However, it can get repetitive over time, which is a common issue in sports games. There is a rather big soundtrack as well although there is a lack of diversity there. 99.9% obscure rap songs, and for some random reason a Men at Work song (I come from the land down-under)
Overall UFC 5 is a remarkable addition to the UFC video game series. It impresses with its stunning graphics, realistic gameplay, and diverse game modes. While it may have a few minor flaws, like a steep learning curve and some repetitive commentary, it captures the essence of the UFC and offers a truly immersive experience for MMA fans and gamers alike. Whether you’re a die-hard MMA enthusiast or a casual gamer looking for an exciting combat experience, UFC 5 is a title that will keep you engaged for hours on end.