Since the start of gaming’s eighth generation, EA Sports UFC games have seen four iterations with each being a mixed bag of rewarding action against real and AI opponents and underwhelming offline modes. “UFC 3” changed a lot about the stand-up presentation compared to its predecessors; setting the stage for a direct sequel that both improved on the gameplay and added some flair to everything from modes to microtransactions. But with series’ fifth entry comes to the embracing of how brutal MMA can be at any given time. Get those stitches ready, throw some haymakers, and enjoy these first impressions of “EA Sports UFC 5”.