UFC 5 has taken a significant leap in delivering a more authentic Mixed Martial Arts experience, especially when it comes to grappling. The game developers have shifted their focus from arcade-like mini-games to a more realistic approach that emphasizes stamina management, transitions, and strategic gameplay.
The introduction of the new Submission Resilience meter has added another layer of depth to the grappling mechanics. This meter depletes based on character stats and needs to be drained for a successful submission. Stamina plays a critical role, and managing it wisely can be the difference between victory and defeat.
Transitions have also been revamped, allowing players to chain positions and submissions, mirroring Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
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What is UFC Grappling?
In UFC 5, grappling is a strategic element that can make or break a match. The game has moved away from the arcade-like mechanics of its predecessors, focusing instead on a more realistic experience.
One of the most notable changes is the new Submission Resilience meter. This meter depletes based on your character’s stats, and you’ll need to drain it completely to pull off a successful submission.
The game also emphasizes stamina management. If you spam transitions, your stamina will drain quickly, leaving you vulnerable to submissions and strikes.
Why Grapple in UFC 5?
Mastering the art of grappling in UFC 5 offers a strategic advantage that can’t be overlooked. The new grappling mechanics are designed to be as close to real-life MMA fighting as possible. Stamina management is crucial. If you don’t manage it wisely, you’ll find yourself at a significant disadvantage.
The game allows for chaining positions and submissions, which is a feature that reflects the reality of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. This means that you can use submissions not just to force a tap but also to advance to a more dominant position.
The new mechanics also allow for more advanced button combinations for actions like takedowns and strikes, making the gameplay feel more natural and engaging.
Full UFC Grappling Controls on PS5 and Xbox
Understanding the controls is the first step to mastering UFC 5’s grappling mechanics. The table below offers a comprehensive guide to the grappling controls for both PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. It includes controls for stand-up, clinch, and ground grappling, as well as defensive actions.
Basic Grapple controls
| Function | PS5 Controls | Xbox Series X|S Controls |
| Elbows | R2 + SquareR2 + Triangle | RT + XRT + Y |
| Post defense | LB + right stick on the right or left | LB + right stick on the right or left |
| Body hooks | L2 + L1 + SquareL2 + L1 + Triangle | LT + LB + XLT + LB + Y |
| Submissions | LT + RB + X or LT + RB + Y | L2 + R1 + Square or L2 + R1 + Triangle |
| Trip or Throw | RB + ARB + B | R1 + XR1 + Circle |
| Body straights | L2 + TriangleL2 + Square | LT + Y or LT + X |
| Advance Position | RB + XRB + Y | R1 + Square R1 + Triangle |
| Hooks | L1 + SquareL1 + Triangle | LB + XLB + Y |
| Wrestling Single Leg Takedown | LT + X + A | L2 + Square + X |
| Head movement | Right stick on the right or left | Right stick on the right or left |
| Single/Double Leg Modifier | Left stick in any direction | Left stick in any direction |
| Power Single Leg Takedown | LT + X + A | L2 + Square + X |
| Wrestling Double Leg Takedown | LT + Y + B | L2 + Triangle + Circle |
Stand-up Grapple controls (Offense and defense)
| Function | Xbox Series X|S Controls | PS5 Controls |
| Clinch Escape | Left stick to the opposite side of the opponent | Left stick to the opposite side of the opponent |
| Single/Double Leg Defense Modifier | Left stick in any direction | Left stick in any direction |
| Defend Takedown or Throw | LT + RT | L2 + R2 |
| Defend Submission | RT | R2 |
| Wrestling Single Leg | LT + X + A | L2 + Square + X |
| Single Collar Clinch | X + A | Square + X |
| Wrestling Double Leg | LT + Y + B | L2 + Triangle + Circle |
| Power Single Leg Takedown | LT + X + A | L2 + Square + Hold X |
| Power Double Leg Takedown | LT + Y + B | L2 + Triangle + Hold Circle |
Clinch Grapple Defense Controls
| Function | PS5 Controls | Xbox Series X|S Controls |
| Clinch Escape | Left stick to the opposite side of the opponent | Left stick to the opposite side of the opponent |
| Defend Submission | R2 | RT |
| Single/Double Leg Defense Modifier | Left stick in any direction | Left stick in any direction |
| Defend Takedown/Throw | L2 + R2 | LT + RT |
These controls require precise timing and strategic thinking. For example, the Power Single Leg Takedown requires holding down the X button on PS5, adding a layer of complexity to the move.
The game also offers advanced controls for clinch and ground grappling, emphasizing the importance of mastering the basic controls first.
UFC 5 Grappling Tips and Tricks
Stamina management
Stamina plays a critical role in grappling. Managing it wisely can be the difference between victory and defeat. For instance, spamming transitions can quickly drain your stamina, leaving you vulnerable to submissions and strikes.
Transitions
Transitions are crucial for gaining an advantage in a grappling situation. The game allows for chaining positions and submissions, reflecting the reality of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. For example, you can use a submission attempt to transition into a more dominant position.
Submissions
The new Submission Resilience meter has added depth to the submission game. This meter depletes based on your character’s stats, and you’ll need to drain it completely to pull off a successful submission.
Defensive techniques
Countering grappling moves requires timing and the right button combinations. Physical cues on character models indicate which direction to move the right thumbstick for transitions and stuffing them.
Who Are the Best Grapplers in UFC 5?
Knowing the controls and tips is one thing, but choosing the right character can also make a significant difference.
While the game offers a range of fighters with varying skills, some excel in grappling.
| Fighter Name | Weight class |
| Charles Oliveira | Lightweight |
| Kamaru Usman | Welterweight |
| Islam Makhachev | Lightweight |
| Kamaru Usman | Welterweight |
| Khamzat Chimaev | Welterweight |
| Jon Jones | Light Heavyweight / Heavyweight |
| Henry Cejudo | Flyweight / Bantamweight |
Final thoughts
Mastering the grappling techniques in UFC 5 is more than just a skill – it’s an art form that can give you a significant edge in the game. Whether you’re playing on PS5 or Xbox One, understanding the controls is the first step to becoming a grappling guru.
From there, it’s all about strategy and timing, knowing when to initiate a grapple and when to defend. Also, choosing a top-tier grappler can make all the difference in those intense, down-to-the-wire matches.
Go ahead, dive into the game and start practicing your grappling moves. You’ll be a pro in no time.
