As the UFC grows, it looks for new ways to reach a global audience. The promotion has found a way to produce multiple events in various countries at a consistent pace. Now, it will look to have a major influence in the virtual world.
After years of patience, EA UFC 5 will be released in 2023.
With the first game released in 2014, EA Sports UFC is now one of the top mixed martial arts games. Over time, the franchise has adapted to the style of fighters and MMA in general.
"UFC 5 is the most realistic MMA experience fans can have outside of the Octagon,” said UFC President Dana White in a release. “This game is incredible and truly a next-generation UFC experience."
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Here's all you need to know about EA UFC 5, from game features, release date, roster, price, and more.
What is EA UFC 5?
The tagline on EA’s website states “From unrivaled graphics upgrades to all-new damage systems and doctor stoppages that affect gameplay in truly authentic fashion, EA SPORTS™ UFC® 5 is the next evolution of the fight game.”
Features of the game include authentic visual graphics, as if you are watching an actual fight inside the octagon. That includes damage (cuts, bruises, and over 64,000 possible combinations of facial damage), doctor checks for a swollen eye, and all-new animations for strikes, from on the feet to ground and pound elbows. It was revealed that there will be a removal of mini-games and faster animations.
The game is being developed by EA Vancouver on the Frostbite Engine, which can result in a more responsive gameplay and unique fighting experience.
🚨 UFC 5 OFFICIAL REVEAL🚨
— EA SPORTS UFC (@EASPORTSUFC) September 7, 2023
IT’S TIME! ⏰ From unrivaled Frostbite graphics to all-new damage systems #UFC5 is as real as it gets 👊
Pre-order now ⏩ https://t.co/6abKbDDD9X pic.twitter.com/qasFG4SYWS
"UFC 5 offers an intensely realistic fighting experience, harnessing Frostbite's power and technology," said Nate McDonald, EA SPORTS UFC 5's Lead Producer. “From our Real Impact System that helps maximize the power of the generational hardware leap, to the enhanced lighting, detailed characters, strand-based hair and face animation system, every aspect is upgraded. Our collaboration with UFC delivers an unparalleled and authentic MMA interactive experience."
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The game features several game modes, including:
- Participating in your own Fight Week
- Playing to earn rewards, from in-game currency and character customizations
- Athlete Alter Ego opportunities (available for the likes of Bruce Lee, Conor McGregor, Israel Adesanya, etc.)
- The first Career Mode that features custom matchmaking, division progression, and the opportunity to fight for gold
When is EA UFC 5 available?
EA UFC 5 can officially be purchased on October 24, 2023. The Deluxe Edition of the game is available on October 27.
Information for pre-orders will be available soon.
How to play EA UFC 5 video game: Available devices and consoles
Fans of the UFC can play EA UFC 5 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
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It was revealed there is no PC version of the game per MMA Junkie.
How much does the EA UFC 5 video game cost?
A pre-order of the game will cost $69.99. The Pre-order for the Deluxe Edition costs $99.99
Who is on the cover of EA UFC 5?
Former UFC flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko is one of the cover figures for the game. She's joined by UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski.
“UFC 5 captures all the sweat, blood and commitment that it takes to be successful in the Octagon," said Volkanovski. "Trust me, the level of immersion that EA SPORTS has recreated with this game is the ultimate representation of the sport.”
Who will be in the EA UFC 5 video game? Updated roster
Not only will cover stars Valentina Shevchenko and Alexander Volkanovski appear in the game, but Israel Adesanya is a part of the Deluxe Edition. Per Fightful, there's an onboarding experience for Career Mode that features Shevchenko.
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There are also fighters who have never competed in the UFC before. The legendary Fedor Emelianenko, a former PRIDE Heavyweight and RINGS Openweight champion, is in the game. Boxing legends Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson will also be playable characters. In total, over 250 fighters are expected to be in the game.
Here is a list of the fighters set to appear in the video game, with additional names to be added:
- Conor McGregor
- Jon Jones
- Valentina Shevchenko
- Amanda Nunes
- Israel Adesanya
- Alex Pereira
- Michael Chandler
- Alexander Volkanvovski
- Islam Makhachev
- Fedor Emelianenko
- Muhammad Ali
- Mike Tyson
- Bruce Lee