The ultimate tribute
User Rating: 7.7 | Rocky PS2
I love the Rocky series, from the triple Oscar winner Rocky to the ridiculous Rocky 4 and I can’t state clearly enough that this game is a must have for any Rocky fan. Of course it’s pact with the regular characters of Stallone and Mr T. But there are also characters in the game that are only mentioned briefly in the films for example Billy Snow and Ernie Roman. In my opinion it’s worth getting for the homage it pays to the movies. Every character looks perfect especially the man himself. The graphics of the boxers are fantastic and very sharp. The crowd looks very grainy and not entirely convincing however this is just me being picky. On a plus side however there is some interaction between boxer and crowd when the odd one or two beer bottles fly onto the canvas in a violent attempt to knock out a contender (Nice Touch). When the boxers fight it’s just like the latter Rocky films. Blood and sweat fly all over the show and although it is very unconvincing just how much blood the fighters lose in every round; it has certainly captured the Rocky feel. Because this game came out before flicking the right thumb stick was all the rage in boxing games, you cant help but feel the game play has dated yet don’t let this put you off. There’s still some tactics involved especially when you’ve reach middle aged Rocky V in story mode. The story mode is very cool. But the multiplayer really steals the show. It’s very fun to play with friends and wager who will win between Ivan Drago and Clubber Lang. However you can only play so much before it begins to get repetitive. Finally sound: The matches are filled with bone shattering noises and groans from the boxers. The taunt button is fantastic as you here your player speak and the majority of voices have been captured from the films themselves, yet this is just for the famous characters- Rocky, Apollo Creed, Clubber Lang, Ivan Drago and Tommy Gunn. In conclusion, I wouldn’t get this game if all you are after is any old boxing game as there are definitely better ones out there. If like me you love the Rocky films then this is a must have. If not check out Rocky Legends. It’s got more variety but in my opinion this game is the true Rocky tribute.
