A game that will change the way boxing games are played
The game-play features a new total punch control system. Instead of traditional "button mashing" the player throws a punch by swinging the right thumbstick on the controller. The player can throw different kinds of punches with each arm, based on how the thumbstick is moved. Also, the right thumbstick is used to block incoming punches, just by moving the thumbstick to the appropriate area, the player can guard in multiple directions. The left thumbstick is used to move around the ring, and lean out of the way of incoming punches, or to lean into a punch for a devastating effect. Once the player is knocked out, they will collapse in a rag-doll like fashion, and then the player will have to align the images of a referee within a 10 second time limit. Based on the player's heart rating, this may take longer than 10 seconds depending on how many times the player has hit the mat.
The graphics are modeled with great detail, as sweat sprays off the face of a boxer as he takes a powerful left hook. If the boxer is hit enough times, he may start swelling, and if hit even more, he will eventually get cut and start bleeding. There are only 2 cut man models, though, so it makes the game feel a bit repetitive.
The menu music is not all that great. Mainly it is just a compilation of some rap songs. It's not the greatest sound track of any game, but it's good.
Fight Night takes awhile to beat, if the player chooses to play a career with every weight class. There is also a Play Now mode, which lets up to 2 people go against each other as any boxer of their choice.
Overall, this is a great game. It could use some slight adjustments to make it even better, but it is still a great game. The total punch control system is a revolutionary idea and will surely be included in many boxing games to come.