$20 Game of the Week: EA MMA (PS3, Xbox 360)

Disclaimer: While I enjoy watching Mixed Martial Arts, I don’t keep up with it (or for that matter other sports) as frequently as I should. Thus, my knowledge of the sport extends little beyond this game.

MMA is the new Professional Wrestling. Of course unlike Pro-wrestling, MMA is very real and very brutal, and it has been increasing in popularity. So much in fact, that THQ teamed up with the UFC to bring UFC Unleashed to consoles, so it seems only natural that EA Sports wants to throw its hat into the ring (maybe that should be cage). While EA MMA isn’t perfect, it puts together a good package and manages to give THQ a run for its money.

EA MMA doesn’t commit to one style or one region or martial arts. You have the option of using different rule-sets and ring styles. EA has also forged a deal with Strikeforce, so while you may not see many UFC greats (seeing as how UFC president Dana White is ‘at war’ with EA sports and has threatened to ban any fighter who appears in this game, although he may have went back on his stance), you will see some recognizable names. For instance, WWF/E vets Ken Shamrock and Bobby Lashley (see? Told you I knew little about MMA) are part of the game’s cast, along with MMA legend Bas Ruten and current star Randy Couture. You can also create your own. Unfortunately, just like in Fight Night, you’re limited to either picking from preset head designs or using Gameface. Someone tell EA that Gameface sucks, and please bring back facial sliders. You know, just like in The Sims, Mass Effect, and Dragon Age, three games which coincidentally happen to also be published by EA.

Speaking of Fight Night, the game features a similar analog-based control scheme. The left stick is used for movement while the right is used for strikes. The top shoulder buttons are used as modifiers and grapples and clinches can be performed at the touch of a button. The system takes submissions and grappling into account. While the mounting and submission video games may seem like button mashing, the key is to keep your stamina up and use short, controlled bursts. It’s tricky at first, but thankfully there is a tutorial mode. The career mode has you taking your created fighter and leveling him up through several training minigames before taking on his opponents. You can travel to different training centers to learn new techniques. While it’s pretty bare-bones compared to Fight Night Round 4, it does a good job of drilling you though the game’s mechanics. The game also packs a robust online mode which hosts live broadcasts.

EA MMA serves as an introduction to the world of MMA, offering several different styles of the sport. Although it isn’t perfect, it gives some sizable competition to THQ. Although it didn’t sell well, EA has announced a sequel which is a good thing, as with a little fine tuning can help it blow the UFC out the water.