Punch-Out!! (Wii Virtual Console) Review
Posted by Cory Moore on 05.18.2007
The classic NES boxing game gets the Virtual Console treatment. Is Mr. Dream still champion two decades later, or has Father Time taken its toll on his illustrious career?
First released in the arcades in 1984 by Nintendo, Punch-Out!! is an early boxing game following a competitor climbing through the ranks of the squared circle. In this 1990 port for the NES, you fight as Little Mac, challenging 13 fighters in an attempt to make a name for yourself. Your goal is to fight and defeat the big dog, Mr. Dream, in the World Heavyweight Championship match.
In terms of graphics, Punch-Out!! holds up remarkably well for an NES title. The character designs are simple but effective. The engine does a tremendous job of rendering facial expressions, from the cocky grins to the pain suffered in defeat. Your character isn’t especially impressive, but he is responsive, so for what more can you ask? Mario as a referee is a recognizable, bonus touch that will make any Nintendo fan boy feel at home immediately. As far as the sound goes…Well, this is an NES title. While special at the time, the garbled expressions of “fight!” and the tolling of the ring bell haven’t aged well. The same fighting tune plays throughout the game. It is pretty catchy, so there isn’t too much to complain about in that department.
Punch-Out!!’s controls resemble that of its arcade counterpart: easy to grasp and execute. The layout is simple: tapping left and right on the D-Pad executes your dodging. Holding down on the D-Pad blocks your opponent’s hits, and tapping up ensures you’re on your toes as well as serving as the catalyst for an uppercut when executed with a punch. 1 and 2 on the Wii remote (otherwise A and B) control your left and right punches, respectively. To obtain the original feel, it’s best if you use the Wii Remote, which doubles as an NES game pad on the Virtual Console. Other controllers work fine, but the simplest method is the most authentic of the bunch.
Punch-Out!! is an easy game to pick up, but can be a challenge to master. The opening stages are predictable after a few tries, but later bosses throw out some daunting maneuvers that will keep you on your toes for much of the match. Memorizing patterns is the best way to master the game, though many gamers still have yet to figure out a tried-and-true formula. Punch-Out!! is not as enthralling as Wii Sports’ Boxing mode (then again, what is?), but it is a nice compliment that will satisfy any gamer looking for a good time.
The only real downside here is that the Virtual Console port is the 1990 version, featuring Mr. Dream in the place of original cover boy, Mike Tyson. It’s safe to say the Tyson version will never see the light of day as a re-release thanks to licensing issues. It’s a minor adjustment, though, since the bosses are identical besides their name and graphical differences.
The 411 Punch-Out!! has aged well over its 20-year existence. It is an easy title to pick up, even if you aren’t a boxing fanatic. The presentation looks simple, but learning combinations, quick reflexes and a keen eye are the keys to success. Nintendo has delivered the single-player goods once again. For an old-school sports title, Punch-Out!! has defended its title for years and hasn’t shown signs of slowing down. For just 500 Wii points, this selection is highly recommended.
Graphics
6.5
For an NES game, the graphics are vibrant, expressive, and well-designed.
Gameplay
8.0
The experience is simple, straightforward and responsive. The Wii Remote held horizontally provides an authentic NES control scheme.
Sound
4.0
The game’s digitized sounds show their age.
Lasting Appeal
8.0
Conquering 13 fighters may not seem like a lot to keep you interested, but you’d be surprised how often you’ll be coming back to refine your skills.
Fun Factor
7.5
Elementary yet challenging, Punch-Out!! is the pinnacle of a fast-paced, single-player sports game.
