A Deep Dive into the Long-Awaited Boxing Simulator
Fight fans, rejoice! After a long drought, a true contender has entered the ring. Undisputed, developed by Steel City Interactive, aims to deliver the authentic boxing experience we’ve been craving since the days of Fight Night Champion. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s lace up our gloves and delve into the details.
Undisputed (PS5)
A Roster of Legends (and Some Missing Faces)
Undisputed boasts an impressive lineup of boxing stars, including iconic figures like Muhammad Ali and modern-day champions like Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder. The inclusion of women’s boxing is a welcome addition, showcasing the growing prominence of female fighters in the sport.
However, the roster isn’t without its minor gaps. Nostalgia-driven fans might be disappointed by the absence of some legendary names like Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, and Lennox Lewis. While the in-game creation tools offer a degree of customization, they lack the depth and finesse of other sports games like the WWE 2K series. Recreating your favorite missing boxer can be a challenge, and even then, the results might not fully capture their likeness.
Gameplay: A New Spin on Classic Mechanics
Undisputed delivers a satisfyingly realistic boxing experience, though it departs from the complex analog stick controls of Fight Night Round 3. Instead, it opts for a more accessible button-based system for punches, making it easier for newcomers to pick up and play. Veterans might miss the nuanced control of Fight Night, but the simplified approach allows for more fluid combinations and strategic use of different punch types.
The defensive mechanics, however, remain familiar. Blocking and evading punches rely on the trigger buttons, requiring precise timing and awareness to avoid taking damage. The stamina system adds another layer of strategy, forcing players to manage their boxer’s energy levels and avoid exhausting themselves with excessive aggression.
Presentation: A Solid Showing with Room for Improvement
Undisputed captures the atmosphere of a professional boxing match with its presentation. The commentary, provided by Todd Grisham and Johnny Nelson, adds to the authenticity, though it lacks the iconic energy and excitement of Joe Tessitore’s voice work in the Fight Night series.
The visual presentation is generally strong, with detailed character models and a variety of atmospheric venues. The replays, while showcasing the impact of punches, lack the visceral punch (pun intended) of Fight Night Round 3’s over-the-top sound effects.
Game Modes: From Career Mode to Online Battles
Undisputed offers a range of game modes to keep players engaged. The Career Mode allows you to create your own boxer or choose a professional fighter and guide them through the ranks to championship glory. The journey is lengthy and challenging, requiring careful management of your boxer’s training, weight, and finances. However, the absence of training mini-games makes the process feel somewhat repetitive and lacking in interactivity.
Other modes include Quick Fight for instant action, Online for competitive matches against other players, and Prize Fights, which offer a series of challenging bouts based on real-life rivalries.
The Verdict: A Strong Contender with Potential for Greatness
Undisputed is a welcome return for boxing games, delivering a realistic and engaging experience that captures the essence of the sport. While it may not surpass the legendary status of Fight Night in every aspect, it offers a solid foundation for future installments. With some refinements to the roster, presentation, and game modes, Undisputed could become a true champion in the gaming world.
