Update:

EA has provided IGN with details about the use of microtransactions included in UFC 3 as noted via the game's beta, which the publisher has also now made available to everyone on PS4 and Xbox One through Dec. 4.

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IGN incorrectly stated the scope and use of microtransactions in a previous version of this article. IGN regrets the error and has updated the story with accurate details and statements from EA.Electronic Arts has invited select players to try out the EA Sports UFC 3 Reports ahead of the beta going open from sites like Astute Gaming reported the use of purchasable rare boosters, which are found in loot crates that allow players to improve fundamental moves like submissions and grappling. All of the techniques, fighters, and abilities are said to be acquired and upgraded through UFC 3's loot box system, according to the report.EA has informed IGN the purchasable item packs are only available in the game's Ultimate Team mode. "There are no purchasable fighter upgrades that affect any other mode," a representative for EA told IGN, noting there are no options whatsoever to actually make purchases during the beta.As for why these purchasable items are included in the mode, EA explained that the goal of them "is to prevent uneven matchups as much as possible.""Our matchmaking logic takes fighter attributes, moves, boosts, and perks into account and prioritizes matching players with similarly upgraded fighters in addition to player skill," an EA representative told IGN. "The goal is to prevent uneven matchups as much as possible. Furthermore, the game features Online Ranked Championships and unranked Online Quick Match for competitive and casual head-to-head online play."Ultimate Team also features Single Player Championships and Solo Challenges so players can fight AI opponents, complete objectives, and earn in-game currency with no cool-down timers or limits.Perks and boosts are acquired through card packs in Ultimate Team, which, as EA noted, can be acquired via in-game currency or purchase in UT. Perks, which include everything from low-level stamina enhancements to major hit point increases during key health events, serve as helpful abilities than can be used for a limited number of fights. Meanwhile, boosts, which also are provide temporary enhancements, provide endurance increases and durability bonuses.While some have players have expressed reservations about the inclusion of microtransactions, particularly following the inclusion and then temporary removal of them in Star Wars Battlefront II , EA told IGN the company is taking "constructive feedback" from players' response to the beta."The beta is very helpful in tuning all aspects of our game, including Ultimate Team. We welcome constructive feedback, and thank everyone playing the beta for providing us with vital information to make the game as fun and engaging as possible for our fans," the EA rep said.UFC 3 will be available worldwide on February 2, 2018 for Xbox One and PS4.

Editor's note: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated the scope of UFC 3's microtransactions and the details of how and where they're included in. These purchasable card packs are only available in the game's Ultimate Team mode and not in the other aspects of the game. The story has been updated to reflect these changes as well as more of EA's details regarding the specific use of these purchasable elements. IGN sincerely regrets the error.Alex Osborn is a freelance writer for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @alexcosborn