EA Sports UFC 3 Reviews
Even beyond its merits as a faithful video game recreation of the combat sport, it's just a darn good video game that is hugely satisfying in its own right- and that, I think, is EA Sports UFC 3's greatest achievement.
The game is a real step forward for the series, adding new elements and refining the already good combat system into something really quite special. There is something here for fans of fighting games, and UFC fans alike.
Even with the shortcomings in the grappling and submission systems, UFC 3 has so many positives that it's hard to deny the fact that it's the best MMA game ever created.
It's about as complete an experience as it can be, and MMA fans will love what EA has done with UFC 3.
_________________________ “UFC 3 is an EA Sports title that is made to attract more than just a niche, hardcore fan base of MMA enthusiasts and it's all the better for it.
EA went back to the gym with UFC 3 to work on many of the weaknesses that had the previous two games struggling to find their footing. A fantastic new striking system and a much-improved career mode lead the charge, but UFC 3 is still hamstrung by a cumbersome ground game, weird collision issues, and the straight-up terrible Ultimate Team Mode. It's still not a knockout, but Round 3 is UFC's best yet.
At the start of this review I questioned whether UFC 3 was the best entry in the series so far, and without a shadow of a doubt I can say the answer is yes. Not only does the game feel more authentic than ever with its improved visuals and striking, but it also features a career mode that’s genuinely exciting and a whole host of brand new features that improve the game ten-fold. It still has its flaws here and there, with the ground and grappling game a little underwhelming and some aspects of the Ultimate Team mode a little uninspired (for me anyway), but this really is the best MMA game that EA have ever released and one that embraces the excitement of the sport both in and out of the octagon. Whether you’re a casual fan, a hardcore mixed martial arts enthusiast, or even if you just love Conor McGregor – you won’t regret giving UFC 3 a purchase.
All that has to be said about UFC 3, is that it is the grandiose, and robust MMA sim, which most were waiting for, since the release of UFC 2009 Undisputed. It features intuitive and explosive stand-up gameplay, which beautifully coexists with all the ground-game mechanics. And while some armchair pundits, may still moan about how simple ground and clinch based manoeuvres and holds are. Then it has to be underlined that the so-called simplicity, ultimately allows the title to reach wider audience, which won’t feel intimidated by unnecessarily confusing submissions or takedowns. And while the highly anticipated Ultimate Team, may be a Stockton slap in the face of many, it can ultimately be overlooked, and those who skip it, will not be missing out on anything significant.
The heart of the game is in its fighting and that's as good as it's ever been.
Brimming with modes, UFC 3 is a massive game. It might only be an incremental improvement over its predecessor, but the gameplay remains stellar and the action is accessible and fun. As far as MMA games go, EA Sports UFC 3 is the G.O.A.T.
EA Sports UFC 3 feels like one step forward and two steps back. Striking is more realistic than ever, but submissions and the ground game remain convoluted. The new G.O.A.T. Career mode has flashes of brilliance, but bogs you down in menus while losing the human side of fights. As well, Ultimate Team just feels like yet another cash grab. There is a decent core in UFC 3, but it needs a lot more time in the gym to become champion material.
With an exceptional career mode and improved gameplay on top of its predecessor's already-strong offerings, UFC 3 is the best MMA game ever released
EA Sports UFC 3 provides a staggering amount of improvements in nearly every area. EA Canada could have played it safe and iterated, but instead they overhauled major systems, addressing almost every complaint I had about its predecessors. Better striking mechanics, movement, and animations are joined by a fantastic career mode, and a whole host of additional attractions. I've still got a few axes to grind on submissions and AI balance, but the rest of the game is an embarrassment of riches.
Fans of the sport will get a kick out of EA Sports UFC 3.
EA Sports UFC 3 is a solid title that comes highly recommended for both die-hard UFC fans and those wanting to get into the series. Even with some fighters occupying several different weight classes, the roster count is huge, and it complements the improved striking system. The modes contain some depth and some twists that work well, while the presentation remains as good as it was before. The knocks against the submission system make it a little tougher for grapplers to deal some damage, and while the loot box system doesn't hurt the game as badly as the publisher's other titles, the additions to the economy seem extraneous. Overall, the combination of good and bad changes makes UFC3 a sideways upgrade rather than an essential one, especially if you're still deeply entrenched in the second title.
After the disappointing UFC 2, this new entry is a significant and welcome step forward. It's not perfect, but in this form, the future's bright.
UFC 3 is proof that a championship run for the franchise is attainable.
UFC 3 is a step in the right direction for the EA Sports MMA game. Subtle but important adjustments in combat combined with a deeper career mode result in the best entry of the series.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
With a focus on depth and functionality, the EA UFC 3 development team has created the strongest version in their series. A few minor missteps and the reluctance to embrace or include a true-sim component keeps it from GOAT status. However, there's no question it's a titleholder.
Tactical martial arts simulation with an authentic atmosphere and great presentation, which has small weaknesses in balancing and ground combat.
Review in German | Read full review