Punch Out Review

Multiplayer isn't the game's strongest feature

Punch variety is also painfully limited. Learning how to achieve star punches against each boxer requires practice, but tactical fighting is more or less non-existent. This shows itself quite clearly in the two-player split-screen mode, which pales in comparison to playing alone against AI. Without the attack patterns and counter opportunities to work out, fights against fellow players feel basic and rather flat. If you're after a fun two-player boxing game Wii Sports Boxing is still your best option. Punch-Out!! is most definitely primarily a single-player game, so if you think you're going to tire of the trial and error fights, think again about picking this up.

The classic control method, which uses just a horizontal Wii Remote, will probably be the favourite option for long-time Punch-Out fans. This maps punches to 1 and 2, star punches to A and dodges and block to the d-pad. - pressing up on the d-pad while punching performs jabs. Alternatively you can use the Wii Remote and Nunchuck to throw gesture punches, or even use the Wii Balance Board to dodge. This more Wii-centric control system works fine, and will be ideal for gamers groomed on the Wii, but the classic option provides tighter, more responsive controls that will be the only option for hardcore gamers.

While the gameplay hasn't really changed the presentation has been spruced up while retaining the feel of the originals. Boxers are now 3D, but the cel-shaded exaggerated designs mean fans will feel right at home. Newcomers will appreciate the character that's been pumped into each fighter, despite some fairly obvious cultural stereotypes, and the audio is suitably upbeat throughout. It's a slight shame that developer Next Level only opted to create one new boxer, with 12 of the 13 being found in the original two games. A few more new faces would have added a greater sense of discovery, but hardcore fans will be pleased that the old favourites have returned.

If you've been waiting most of your life for a visually upgraded Punch-Out!! that plays just as you remember it from the NES and SNES, your dreams have been answered. This is exactly that, and packed full of the kind of charm you'd expect from a Nintendo product. If you like your sports games to be faithful to the real-life experience Punch-Out!! may well leave you quite cold and wondering what the fuss is about. Punch-Out!! on Wii has been made almost exclusively for gamers who long for the glory days before Nintendo was most well known for Wii Fit. In that sense it can be classed as a job well done.