THQ's UFC Undisputed franchise has been the premier name in mixed-martial arts fighting videogames for its previous two iterations, so it's understandable that fans are paying very close attention to the development of the third entry, UFC Undisputed 3 . The game is the result of a longer development cycle than the second game was afforded, and will offer a ton of brand new features and tweaks, including more adaptable gameplay, a streamlined career mode, and the inclusion of the defunct (yet still widely-respected) Pride FC as a game mode. If you're still on the fence, THQ will offer you an early look at the game with a demo hitting Xbox LIVE and PSN this week.

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In the demo, players will be given two fighters from each the UFC and Pride rosters. Representing the UFC side, Light Heavyweight champ Jon Jones and legend Anderson Silva face off, while the Pride FC side gives you Quinton "Rampage" Jackson and Wanderlei Silva. Mirror matches are in for the demo, so feel free to pit each of the fighters against themselves.The demo only provides access to quick exhibition matches, so you can't check out the game's career mode, create-a-fighter features, or more of what the game will offer aside from straight-up fights. However, the demo does give you a first shot at the game's updated combat system. You're prompted to choose between Pro and Amateur controls right when you start the demo. Amateur controls allow you to perform transitions more easily with the right thumbstick, making the game less unwieldy for newcomers to the UFC fold.You'll also be able to check out the new submission system, which uses an octagonal gauge for submissions and escapes instead of simply requiring you to hammer away at the thumbsticks, new signature moves and ground positions, feinting, leg-kick TKOs, and more.Additionally, the Pride FC rule set is at the forefront of the gameplay changes you'll see in the demo; you can deliver kicks to your opponent while he's on the ground and perform head stomps, something you definitely won't be able to do in the game's UFC mode. UFC Undisputed 3's gameplay feels more polished and accessible than in the previous games. However, even though the team has taken great strides to make the game more adaptable for newcomers, there is still even more depth for hardcore fans of the previous games. Will UFC Undisputed 3 bring the series to glory when it releases next month? Download the demo when it goes live on Xbox LIVE and PlayStation Network this Tuesday and see for yourself.

Steven Hopper is the Executive Editor for IGN's Xbox channels. Check him out onand