Aside from the way the character models move and look - and they are by far some of the best I've ever seen - it's the numerous small touches EA has worked in that shifts this out of the realm of what we expect, and into a world that's only possible on 'new' consoles. Lights reflect off fighters' eyes (much as they do in the real world), you can see individual bones moving in their feet, limbs contort as they smack against an opponent's flesh. It all comes together for an incredibly realistic-looking experience.
Aesthetics aside, the core game itself also adheres to this standard of realism. As with any game that tries to convert the art of MMA to a video game though, the sport's complicated nature must be addressed intelligently. There's an instant accessibility where two people are just duking it out, but there are numerous other facets that have to be taken into account: guards, clinches, submissions, the ground game. If it all doesn't seamlessly fit together, one of the sport's major selling points is ripped away.
Currently, EA is handling most of it well. With two fighters standing toe-to-toe, you get the kind of setup you'd expect. Punches and kicks with are assigned to the face buttons, with modifiers and the ability to enter a clinch or take your rival down being assigned to the triggers and/or the right analogue stick. There's still a learning curve here, and anyone wanting to explore the game's depths is going to have to put in some time. Thankfully the logic of the control setup is sound - changing guard when you have managed to ground someone, for example, is done by moving the stick as if you were actually in control of a fighter's body; it makes more sense the more time you spend with it.
It's enjoyable to play, too. If you do decide to just slug it out the bruises and blows are satisfying and, if you time it right, as devastating as they should be. Allow yourself to be taken in further and the potentially available tactics - and your satisfaction in making them work - opens up immensely. On the other hand, you'll need a working knowledge of the sport to get the most out of it, and whether the game can be structured to the point where 'anyone' can enjoy EA Sports UFC remains questionable. The longevity comes from understanding how the entire thing works. This isn't the same as a Fight Night where you can get a lot out of it just by hurling haymakers and hooks.
