Cert: 15+
Platform(s): Wii, XBOX360, DS
Genre: Sports, Boxing
Ah, boxing. The gentleman's sport, where two men in the prime of their health beat the living snot out of each other, with the goal of making their opponent's brain touch the inside of the skull, causing them to fall unconscious. You know, a contact sport!
Don King is probably the most influential sports mogul the world has ever seen - not only one of the most famous boxing promoters, but his iconic barnet and over-the-top brogue have made him a household name. I have to admit, I was dubious of this game. Its creators, 2K, have come out of the starting blocks fast and strong, releasing games in nearly all sporting categories. Of late, however, they have been increasingly hit-and-miss. Well they have a hit on their hands with this one - in fact, in my opinion, they have sunk the battleship.
The graphics are great, with each boxer's face showing the punishment they receive in real time. The button mapping is intuitive, making matches fun. Cut-scenes are live action videos, with boxing stars, coaches and promoters and they play well in the story mode, making the repetitive nature of the game fade.
A must for boxing fans.
Rent or Buy: Buy
Graphics: 4/5
Gameplay: 4/5
Replay Value: 4/5
Overall rating: 4/5
Review by Eamonn Cleary