Virtual MMA: The Three Best Video Games in MMA History

Mixed martial arts (MMA) numbers among the fastest-growing sports in the world, so it’s no surprise that its ever-increasing popularity has earmarked it as a source of inspiration for a multitude of video games. Now ranking among the most highly anticipated releases, titles that fall into this niche have earned themselves a huge fan base – one that continues to grow at a phenomenal rate.

A must-have addition to any serious player’s sports video game selection, MMA offerings typically provide top quality graphics, an array of game mode options, and plenty of excitement – all key factors in explaining their exceptional popularity. Despite the overall quality of the genre, however, some nonetheless stand head and shoulders above the rest, and it’s these that you really do need to play. If you’re planning your next purchase, here are three that we’d recommend.

Pride FC for PS2

Most of the titles on this list would be best classified as next-gen games, but one MMA offering from the early days retains its status among the best of the best. We’re talking about Pride FC, which continues to offer some of the highest quality presentation of any game in the genre. Delivering a sterling combination of great gameplay, a top-quality roster, and an authentic aesthetic, it provides an exquisitely enjoyable player experience from start to finish. Requiring real tactics to master, it undoubtedly ranks among MMA’s most intense and immersive offerings.

EA MMA for PS3 and Xbox 360

In the real world, there are lots of ways to experience the wonderful energy of MMA for yourself, from participating to spectating to sports betting. The latter, in particular, has grown ever more popular in recent years, with providers like NetBet offering attractive odds on everything from UFC matches through to Bellator games. For those who prefer to enjoy the action from behind a screen, there is EA MMA. Joining the portfolio of one of the most highly renowned sports video game makers upon its release, its striking is a particular strength and has made it very popular with fans of the genre. Another big draw is its career mode, with figures like Bas Rutten to set you on the road to becoming a top promotion champion and legendary trainers like Randy Couture and Pat Miletich on hand to refine your skills. The overall result is, quite simply, sublime.

UFC Undisputed 3 for PS3 and Xbox 360

Released on Valentine’s Day 2012, fans of the MMA genre instantly fell in love with UFC Undisputed 3. Combining fabulous gameplay with an authentic sense of adrenaline and excitement, it went above and beyond to create the feel of a real-world UFC event. It is – to put it mildly – impossible to understand what criticism anyone could level against it, for the player experience is spectacularly good. Stand-up is an especial strength, with each fighter boasting their own technique and footwork attributes, which play a defining role in battles. The assortment of divisions is another plus point, with both featherweights and bantams included. In short, UFC Undisputed 3 offers all you could expect from this fantastically enjoyable genre.

Which of these three fantastic games are you going to try first?