UFC 2009 Undisputed
Description
UFC 2009 Undisputed is a mixed martial arts video game developed for the PS3 by Yuke’s Osaka and published by THQ. The game was released in the US on May 19, 2009 and features Ultimate Fighting Championship properties and fighters. It has been touted as a realistic mixed martial arts simulator. The game features over 100 UFC personalities spanning five weight classes.
Six major primary fighting styles have been included for the fighters in the game. These include boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, judo, kickboxing, muay thai and wrestling, which are divided into two categories (Standup and Grappling-style) which allows gamers to have both of these abilities. The Standup style category consists of boxing, muay thai or kickboxing, and the grappling-style consist of Brazilian jiu jitsu, wrestling or judo. The game features single-player, multiplayer and online multiplayer gameplay mode. It has a BBFC: 15 and ESRB: T rating.
Review
The control scheme in the game can prove to be difficult to master at first, but with an in-depth tutorial and training mode, gamers should be able to get their hand in honing their skills in the ring. What sets it apart from the other sport games is the intricate and complex ground fighting and positioning feature, and THQ does to an extent, an admirable job in making this game. The mechanics of the game does however, make you feel like you’ve landed a hit by luck, rather than by skill. Two main problems with the games, are submissions and game play speed. When you play against the AI, you’re left fighting really hard to drain the AI fighter’s stamina in order to procure a submission. The lack of speed in game play makes the game less organic and more mechanical than what the real UFC is.
The developers however, have successfully rendered the fighters well, incorporating their moves just like they would for real. The interface on the game however, leaves much to be desired. From plain looking menus to irritating presentation elements that pop up throughout the career mode, even the non-playable characters such as the crowd, trainers etc, would need a little bit more work on to help with the realism of the game.
The game does stay true to moving a player from a nobody to a somebody in UFC 2009 Undisputed’s career mode. Gamers start as a nobody and are required to train themselves and climb up to the ladder in order to succeed in the UFC. This is done by participating in training events that has gamers working on strength, cardio and speed attributes; as well as sparring in the ring; or attend UFC Camp. Gamers are even called in for promotional events for sponsors.
UFC 2009 Undisputed has its share of ups and downs as the headline game for a new franchise, and the game does provide some fun once players can get pass the complexities. If the developers can fix the quirks and hike up gameplay speed a little, they would have themselves one hell kicker of a game.
