The gameplay involves three striking styles (Boxing, Kickboxing, Muay Thai) and three grappling styles (Wrestling, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu), with each fighter carrying one style of each category. Simulating the likeness of UFC, two fighters go head-to-head in the Octagon using their suggested striking and grappling styles as well as signature moves commonly seen respective to each fighter.
Expanding on the game's different modes, Exhibition allows players to jump straight into gameplay with their favorite fighter. Classic Fights mode offers the chance to replicate some of the most memorable fights available for play, while a montage video is unlocked showing the highlights of the respective fight if the player ends it as the real fight did. Players can also create their own fighter with Create-A-Fighter and build their own career with the ability to upload their created fighter into Career.