“Punch Out!!” for the Nintendo Wii brings the legendary Little Mac out of retirement and back to the ring to face off against some new and familiar opponents in the first 3-D rendition of the beloved boxing series. Although the mechanics will be familiar to veterans, there is enough new and revamped content to bring veterans back to “Punch Out!!,” and new players will be in for a treat.
Players assume the role of Little Mac, a young up and coming boxer looking to prove himself by taking down the best boxers in the business. Standing in players' way are three circuits full of big, mean and hilarious cartoon drawn opponents looking to end Little Mac's winning streak. After beating the best opponents, Mac has to defend his belt against all of his former opponents, plus a surprise guest.
The three circuits, along with a few twist to defending Mac's title, add to the replay value in “Punch Out!!” These twist range from something covering the opponents weak points' to a new haircut coupled with more punishing attacks. These tweaks force players to rethink their strategy and memorize new patterns. Defending Mac's title will unlock the “last man standing” mode followed by “champion” mode to really test player's skills. Exhibition mode allow players to practice and prepare to fight stubborn opponents.
There are a few ways to play “Punch Out!!” this time around. Players can use the Wii Remote and Nunchuck to throw punches, or they can go retro by turning the Wii Remote sideways and use the numbered buttons. Players who own the “Wii Fit” balance board can use the balance board for dodging side to side and ducking. However, I found this control method quirky and I do not recommend it. For me, throwing the punches with the Wii Remote never got old, but the game did become harder as I progressed. It’s not impossible to progress on harder difficulties using the motion control, but using the Wii Remote like an old Nintendo controller is more precise.
The presentation is excellent. “Punch Out!!” has substituted its old 2-D look for a new cel-shaded 3-D style that is a perfect fit for the ridiculous, cartoon like boxers. Each opponent has their own unique personality and nationality, which is accompanied by each boxer speaking their native language. Little Mac's voice actor gives each of your opponents thei
r fair share of witty commentary, but the crowd reactions and other audio effects are nothing special.
“Punch Out!!” is not for players seeking a fighting simulation title like “UFC Undisputed 2009” or “Fight Night: Round 4,” but for Wii owners looking for an addictive boxing experience, Little Mac is back and better than ever. Combined with a fun “one on one” multiplayer mode and additional replay value, “Punch Out!!” is a great buy for Wii owners.
Rating: B+
Platforms: Nintendo Wii
Price: $49.99
ESRB: E 10+
Pub: Nintendo
Dev: Nintendo IRD, Next Level Games
Players: 1-2
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