In the humble beginnings of boxing games in the consol world, Electronic Arts released a boxing title, that replaced the old and presented the new face of this game genre.
Fight Night was born.
This title has proved realistic and precise when it comes to the actual rules of the game, making the experience more serious and realistic. Just like its previous instalments, Round 3 provides a full package of speed, stamina and power. And of course, let`s not forget the lovely ring ladies.
Apart from the huge step-up in terms of the gameplay and features, Round 3 has extremely well designed player models which are almost photographic - a feature becoming something of an EA trademark.
The "create a champ" mode is equipped with a mini fighter factory, where one can create and design a fighter from head to toe. All that`s required is a little bit of inspiration.
Complimenting the realistic look is a well compiled list of legendary fighters. This includes the likes of Joe Frazier, Muhammad Ali and George Foreman. Although the idea of being able to fight the all time greats in a powerful quick match is flattering, it doesn`t feel right featuring them in the "career" mode, where the up and coming boxers get to fight them for the title.
Noticeable changes in the movement of fighter models are hard to miss. No longer differing only when it comes to power punches (aka haymakers), each of the fighters has a different style.
Turning it up a notch is the overwhelming graphic depth and fine touches, like cuts, sweat drops on the fighter`s forehead, interesting footwork and sound effects. This is great attention to detail, yet a pixelated crowd snapshot is not rare.
Perhaps the most interesting feature is the multiple camera angle selection - the match can be viewed from a ring side, top, or audience perspective.
The game has numerous new and interesting features, navigated by nicely designed and user friendly menus.
Gameplay, controls
Single player mode is no walk in the park. Unlike last year`s release, this version requires players to complete an entire career as an amateur before being able to go pro. This makes it a very long road to winning the title. It does however provide plenty of time for training the fighter and working on skills.
When total punch control was introduced in the first Fight Night release, it kicked out the somewhat blunt, button mashing trend which unfortunately still has strong roots in the console fighting game space, and proved to be a unique new way of performing those delicate but deadly combos.
For those nostalgic, the old system is available for some good old "who can tap the game-pad faster" action.
Regardless of controller configuration, the moves are not hard to master if one has the basic knowledge of the sport of boxing. Jabs, hooks, upper cuts, haymakers, low blows, head butts and an occasional elbow, are still here to stay. Some of these could, however, lead to disqualification.
First featured in Round 2 (2005) is the fighter`s ability to hold onto the opponent, regaining strength and avoiding that fatal encounter with the floor. In addition to this feature, Round 3 has a more effective blocking system which doesn`t always work for those power punches but is handy for wearing out the opponent.
Tunes
Keeping with tradition, EA has topped up the already fresh look and feel with a strong mix of hip-hop to keep one`s head bopping, even if the fighter is taking a hard beating.
Once again, EA Sports has lived up to its name, managing to raise the bar even higher. Round 3 is an example of what sports games should be.
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