Series two introduces three realms of combat commonly used in the video game world: mixed martial arts, self-defence and special operations, exploring techniques, training and the physiology of fighters who practise these types of combat. In typical National Geographic style, there is interesting trivia scattered throughout, while researchers use high-speed cameras to let viewers watch techniques unfold in slow-motion detail. Adding depth to the production are 3-D digital avatars produced through motioncapture technology to demonstrate the internal effects of bodily impact and joint manipulation. Bear in mind, though, that the series is targeted squarely at the newbie channel-surfer, so if you’re a pro, you might grind your teeth in frustration as it occasionally skims the details and reinforces stereotypes, like muay thai knee strikes being the most powerful move of all, despite other styles having the same move.

National Geographic, Channel 11