EA has released the official gameplay trailer for UFC 4, showcasing improved mechanics and graphics. They’ve overhauled the grappling and striking system to be more responsive and player-friendly. There’s also a new emphasis on highlighting big-time blows and knocks downs within each fight.The trailer debuts all-new high impact moment presentations that ensure players “see, hear, and feel every sensational turning point in the fight.” This is supplemented by another new feature called stun moments that indicate a devastating hit and signals to the aggressor that it’s time to go for the finish. Casual players can achieve these moments more easily with an updated control scheme for dynamic striking inputs. The new mechanic makes it easier to throw more advanced strikes by requiring less simultaneous button inputs. The trailer offers an example of these changes, with button taps performing fast basic strikes, and button holds now being reserved for fancier attacks with higher damage.
Takedown mechanics have also been revised, with newly integrated takedown defense and offense sequences. The success of a takedown was previously decided in an instant; now users can back their opponents up onto the cage or use footwork to defend against their takedown attempt. Once on the ground, UFC fans love to make use of the ground and pound features, which are a trademark of the world’s best fighters. Changes to the ground and pound mechanics include expanding control in postured up positions so players have more tools to finish the fight. The defender also has more options, with the ability to use head movement or well-times counter transitions to regain the upper hand.
Users in the comment section of the trailer were vocally disappointed that TKO’s don’t appear to be apart of the game just yet. Others voiced their displeasure in what they described as EA “dumbing down” the controls for casual players. Regardless of these gripes, the response appears mostly positive and the game looks promising.