UFC 2009 Undisputed Review for PlayStation 3 (PS3)

System: PS3, X360	Review Rating Legend
Dev: Yuke's Media	1.0 - 1.9 = Avoid	4.0 - 4.4 = Great
Pub: THQ	2.0 - 2.4 = Poor	4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
Release: May 19, 2009	2.5 - 2.9 = Average	5.0 = The Best
Players: 1-2	3.0 - 3.4 = Fair
ESRB Rating: Teen	3.5 - 3.9 = Good

Technically, this game is awesome. The visuals in UFC 2009 Undisputed are unmatched in the fighting genre, and even though it might sound cheesy, watching this game from afar looks like watching the real thing. Character models are very nicely detailed, from their muscle definition to their individual tattoos and body markings.

UFC 2009 Undisputed screenshot

One thing that was particularly impressive was the way that damage is handled. As each fighter gets pummeled, you will start to see bruising, and eventually cuts on areas that have been frequently hit. These injuries don’t just appear randomly; they gradually become visible as a fight wears on.

Sound in this title is also very impressive, mainly because of the commentary track. I was continually surprised at how accurate the commentary was during fights, and I rarely heard repeated phrases during my first few hours of gameplay. Although the music in the game is sort of generic, the commentary really pumps up the sound quality, and it adds to the deep immersion value of this game.

As far as control is concerned, UFC 2009 Undisputed is definitely not a title for beginners. Although the face buttons are tied to left/right kicks and left/right punches, in order to perform grappling and submission moves, you will have to perform some complex actions. Although the tutorial mode takes about a half hour to go through, it is definitely worth it, as the matches require quite a bit of strategy and advanced moves for success.

I am not a big fan of the UFC. Sure, I’ve seen a few matches here and there, but I don’t really follow the sport devoutly. I guess wrestling is more my cup of tea. Now, that said, I have to admit I love this game. UFC 2009 Undisputed takes all the things that makes the UFC sport electrifying for fans, and puts it into a cohesive and realistic game experience. Even if you are not a follower of the UFC, if you like sports games or even just fighting games, UFC 2009 Undisputed is an extraordinary title that won’t disappoint! With plenty of modes and lengthy career and classic modes, you may find yourself drawn to the octagon more than you expected!

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Staff Contributor

RATING OUT OF 5

RATING DESCRIPTION

4.9

Graphics
The level of realism in both the fighter models and the animations is staggering. It is truly an amazing game to watch, and easily the best-looking fighting game so far this year.

3.9

Control
Basic controls are easy to use and responsive, but for advanced moves, you may need to practice a bit on the tutorial.

4.5

Music / Sound FX / Voice Acting
Music is generic, but the commentary track is amazing. Announcers talk about your moves in real-time with little to no lag, and really help to immerse you in the experience.

4.7

Play Value
The career mode is very lengthy, and the 80+ roster in exhibition mode allows for plenty of replay value.

4.5

Overall Rating - Must Buy
Not an average. See Rating legend above for a final score breakdown.

Game Features:

Authentic UFC Personalities: Explore a deep roster of more than 80 top names in UFC competition across five weight classes and enter the Octagon surrounded by the sport's popular commentators, announcers, referees, trainers, Octagon girls and more.

Photorealistic Models and Effects: Experience the world of UFC as it appears on television with photorealistic fighters who breathe, sweat and move like their real-life counterparts. Players will also view amazing ripple effects across the faces and bodies of their fighters from the impact of devastating punches and kicks.

Constant Control: Gain the upper hand in matchups with a brand new fighting game engine designed specifically for next generation systems. Emphasis on innovative, responsive and easy-to-play controls will give players unparalleled command of their fighters in the Octagon.

Fighting Disciplines: Take down opponents and get the submission with a variety of mixed martial arts disciplines, including Judo, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Kickboxing, Boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Create-a-Fighter: Jump-start the career of a future champion by customizing your fighter's physical appearance, learning new fighting techniques to use in the Octagon and managing the training process through attributes such as strength and cardiovascular health.

Career Mode: Develop attributes, perfect moves and fight for entry into the UFC Hall of Fame.