Steel City Interactive Needs to Bulk Up and Expand Its Team

Boxing fans have waited over a decade for a new, realistic boxing video game, and Undisputed by Steel City Interactive (SCI) has been the most promising attempt to fill that void. However, despite the initial excitement surrounding the game’s development, progress has been slow, inconsistent, and at times, frustratingly misdirected.

The reality is simple: SCI is too small of a team to handle the ambitions of a true boxing simulation. If they genuinely want Undisputed to succeed in both the short and long term, they need to scale up their workforce, bring in key talent, and restructure their development process. Otherwise, the game risks stagnation or, worse, becoming another cautionary tale of wasted potential.

The Problem with a Small Team on a Big Project

SCI is an independent studio with limited resources. While that’s commendable in the sense that they’ve come this far, they are dealing with a project that requires a AAA-level development approach. Realistic boxing isn’t easy to simulate, and the expectations from boxing fans aren’t the same as they were a decade ago. Players today demand:

• Ultra-realistic physics with precise punch animations, footwork, and defensive movements.
• Highly detailed AI behavior that mimics real-life boxers.
• A deep career mode that reflects the realities of the sport, from amateur to pro ranks.
• A well-balanced online mode that feels competitive and fair.

Each of these elements requires specialized teams to develop them properly. SCI cannot expect to create a masterpiece with the same skeleton crew that built the early versions of Undisputed. They are trying to do what larger studios like EA did with Fight Night—but with significantly fewer resources. That is a recipe for disaster.

What’s Currently Lacking in Undisputed

The current state of Undisputed highlights the gaps in SCI’s development capabilities:

1. Animations & Motion Capture Issues – The punch mechanics are inconsistent, footwork lacks weight, and many animations feel stiff or robotic.
2. Lack of Defensive Variety – The defensive mechanics are overly simplified, missing essential boxing elements like realistic clinching, nuanced blocking styles, and fluid head movement.
3. Unpolished AI – CPU-controlled fighters do not fight in a way that truly reflects their real-life counterparts, making single-player experiences feel unrealistic.
4. Online Play & Infrastructure – Lag issues and balance concerns plague online fights, making it hard to take ranked play seriously.
5. Career Mode Needs an Overhaul – Career mode lacks the depth, immersion, and strategic elements that should define a true boxing simulation.
6. Ineffective Punch Impact & Reactions – Punches lack proper variation in reactions (glancing blows, knockdowns, stumbles, etc.), making fights feel static rather than dynamic.

These aren’t minor adjustments that can be fixed with quick patches. They require dedicated departments and experts working full-time to improve them.

Key Areas Where SCI Must Expand

1. Animation Specialists

SCI needs more seasoned animators who specialize in combat sports. One of the biggest issues with Undisputed is that punching mechanics, movement, and defensive reactions feel unnatural. Every boxer should have distinct styles—punch delivery, footwork habits, defensive tendencies—all of which require extensive animation work.

Additionally, a dedicated physics team is necessary to refine how punches land, how bodies react to impact, and how fatigue affects movement. Without these specialists, Undisputed will continue to feel “off” in terms of realism.

2. AI Engineers & Gameplay Designers

The AI in Undisputed is severely lacking. Boxers don’t fight strategically, counterpunching is inconsistent, and AI-controlled fighters often spam unrealistic combinations. A larger team of AI engineers and gameplay designers is needed to:

• Develop adaptive AI behavior that adjusts to different playstyles.
• Ensure real boxers fight like their real-life counterparts, emphasizing their strengths and weaknesses.
• Improve ring IQ for the AI, making it react to real fight situations properly.

Without a dedicated AI team, Undisputed will continue to struggle in single-player depth, hurting long-term engagement.

3. Defensive Mechanics Team

Blocking, clinching, and countering need serious reworking. In real boxing, defense is just as important as offense, but Undisputed currently lacks proper defensive tools. SCI should hire designers who specialize in:

• Block variations – Peek-a-boo, Philly Shell, Cross-armed, High Guard, etc.
• Realistic clinching mechanics – Holding should be strategic, not just a spam tool.
• Better counterpunching responsiveness – Slip-and-counters should feel natural, not clunky.

Without these elements, the game will always favor reckless aggression over true ring generalship.

4. UI/UX Designers & Presentation Experts

Boxing is a sport of spectacle, and Undisputed needs to reflect that in its presentation. Hiring experienced UI/UX designers can help with:

• Better menus & career mode interfaces – Rankings, fight schedules, and training should be more immersive.
• Enhanced fight atmosphere – Dynamic commentary, fight promotions, and cinematic moments should be improved.
• Improved belt-winning celebrations & presentation – Winning titles should feel like a monumental achievement.

5. Network Engineers for Online Stability

Online play is a mess right now. Lag, balance issues, and a lack of proper matchmaking hurt the game’s competitive potential. SCI must hire more network engineers to improve online stability and ensure a fair ranking system for competitive players.

SCI Must Invest in Its Own Future

Right now, SCI seems to be operating with a “small studio mentality”, but they are making a game that requires AAA-level execution. If they don’t expand their team, Undisputed will never reach its full potential.

Expanding the team would allow them to:

✅ Speed up development – More hands on deck means features and fixes come faster.
✅ Enhance realism – Specialized teams can refine AI, animations, and physics to a higher standard.
✅ Compete with future boxing games – If EA or another major developer jumps back into boxing, SCI will need to be prepared.
✅ Win back players’ trust – The current player base is growing impatient, and a larger team can address concerns more efficiently.

Final Thoughts: The Clock is Ticking

SCI has already secured a passionate fanbase, but that support won’t last forever if they continue to underdeliver. If they fail to expand, they risk losing their position as the only serious boxing simulation on the market.

The choice is simple:
💪 Expand, improve, and build a game worthy of boxing’s legacy.
❌ Stay small, delay progress, and risk irrelevance.

Steel City Interactive has the vision, but do they have the will to truly make Undisputed the definitive boxing game?

Only time will tell.

 

Steel City Interactive Needs to Bulk Up and Expand Its Team

Boxing fans have waited over a decade for a new, realistic boxing video game, and Undisputed by Steel City Interactive (SCI) has been the most promising attempt to fill that void. However, despite the initial excitement surrounding the game’s development, progress has been slow, inconsistent, and at times, frustratingly misdirected.

The reality is simple: SCI is too small of a team to handle the ambitions of a true boxing simulation. If they genuinely want Undisputed to succeed in both the short and long term, they need to scale up their workforce, bring in key talent, and restructure their development process. Otherwise, the game risks stagnation or, worse, becoming another cautionary tale of wasted potential.

The Problem with a Small Team on a Big Project

SCI is an independent studio with limited resources. While that’s commendable in the sense that they’ve come this far, they are dealing with a project that requires a AAA-level development approach. Realistic boxing isn’t easy to simulate, and the expectations from boxing fans aren’t the same as they were a decade ago. Players today demand:

• Ultra-realistic physics with precise punch animations, footwork, and defensive movements.
• Highly detailed AI behavior that mimics real-life boxers.
• A deep career mode that reflects the realities of the sport, from amateur to pro ranks.
• A well-balanced online mode that feels competitive and fair.

Each of these elements requires specialized teams to develop them properly. SCI cannot expect to create a masterpiece with the same skeleton crew that built the early versions of Undisputed. They are trying to do what larger studios like EA did with Fight Night—but with significantly fewer resources. That is a recipe for disaster.

What’s Currently Lacking in Undisputed

The current state of Undisputed highlights the gaps in SCI’s development capabilities:

1. Animations & Motion Capture Issues – The punch mechanics are inconsistent, footwork lacks weight, and many animations feel stiff or robotic.
2. Lack of Defensive Variety – The defensive mechanics are overly simplified, missing essential boxing elements like realistic clinching, nuanced blocking styles, and fluid head movement.
3. Unpolished AI – CPU-controlled fighters do not fight in a way that truly reflects their real-life counterparts, making single-player experiences feel unrealistic.
4. Online Play & Infrastructure – Lag issues and balance concerns plague online fights, making it hard to take ranked play seriously.
5. Career Mode Needs an Overhaul – Career mode lacks the depth, immersion, and strategic elements that should define a true boxing simulation.
6. Ineffective Punch Impact & Reactions – Punches lack proper variation in reactions (glancing blows, knockdowns, stumbles, etc.), making fights feel static rather than dynamic.

These aren’t minor adjustments that can be fixed with quick patches. They require dedicated departments and experts working full-time to improve them.

Key Areas Where SCI Must Expand

1. Animation Specialists

SCI needs more seasoned animators who specialize in combat sports. One of the biggest issues with Undisputed is that punching mechanics, movement, and defensive reactions feel unnatural. Every boxer should have distinct styles—punch delivery, footwork habits, defensive tendencies—all of which require extensive animation work.

Additionally, a dedicated physics team is necessary to refine how punches land, how bodies react to impact, and how fatigue affects movement. Without these specialists, Undisputed will continue to feel “off” in terms of realism.

2. AI Engineers & Gameplay Designers

The AI in Undisputed is severely lacking. Boxers don’t fight strategically, counterpunching is inconsistent, and AI-controlled fighters often spam unrealistic combinations. A larger team of AI engineers and gameplay designers is needed to:

• Develop adaptive AI behavior that adjusts to different playstyles.
• Ensure real boxers fight like their real-life counterparts, emphasizing their strengths and weaknesses.
• Improve ring IQ for the AI, making it react to real fight situations properly.

Without a dedicated AI team, Undisputed will continue to struggle in single-player depth, hurting long-term engagement.

3. Defensive Mechanics Team

Blocking, clinching, and countering need serious reworking. In real boxing, defense is just as important as offense, but Undisputed currently lacks proper defensive tools. SCI should hire designers who specialize in:

• Block variations – Peek-a-boo, Philly Shell, Cross-armed, High Guard, etc.
• Realistic clinching mechanics – Holding should be strategic, not just a spam tool.
• Better counterpunching responsiveness – Slip-and-counters should feel natural, not clunky.

Without these elements, the game will always favor reckless aggression over true ring generalship.

4. UI/UX Designers & Presentation Experts

Boxing is a sport of spectacle, and Undisputed needs to reflect that in its presentation. Hiring experienced UI/UX designers can help with:

• Better menus & career mode interfaces – Rankings, fight schedules, and training should be more immersive.
• Enhanced fight atmosphere – Dynamic commentary, fight promotions, and cinematic moments should be improved.
• Improved belt-winning celebrations & presentation – Winning titles should feel like a monumental achievement.

5. Network Engineers for Online Stability

Online play is a mess right now. Lag, balance issues, and a lack of proper matchmaking hurt the game’s competitive potential. SCI must hire more network engineers to improve online stability and ensure a fair ranking system for competitive players.

SCI Must Invest in Its Own Future

Right now, SCI seems to be operating with a “small studio mentality”, but they are making a game that requires AAA-level execution. If they don’t expand their team, Undisputed will never reach its full potential.

Expanding the team would allow them to:

✅ Speed up development – More hands on deck means features and fixes come faster.
✅ Enhance realism – Specialized teams can refine AI, animations, and physics to a higher standard.
✅ Compete with future boxing games – If EA or another major developer jumps back into boxing, SCI will need to be prepared.
✅ Win back players’ trust – The current player base is growing impatient, and a larger team can address concerns more efficiently.

Final Thoughts: The Clock is Ticking

SCI has already secured a passionate fanbase, but that support won’t last forever if they continue to underdeliver. If they fail to expand, they risk losing their position as the only serious boxing simulation on the market.

The choice is simple:
💪 Expand, improve, and build a game worthy of boxing’s legacy.
❌ Stay small, delay progress, and risk irrelevance.

Steel City Interactive has the vision, but do they have the will to truly make Undisputed the definitive boxing game?

Only time will tell.

 

The Pressure Is On: Steel City Interactive's Long Road to a Complete Boxing Video Game

Steel City Interactive (SCI) is in the hot seat. Nearly five years into the development of Undisputed, their highly anticipated boxing video game, the game still feels incomplete. Fans who have been waiting for a truly realistic boxing sim are growing restless, and the pressure is mounting for SCI to deliver a polished, feature-rich experience.

Meanwhile, history paints a different picture. Electronic Arts (EA) once developed five boxing video games in just five years when they entered the genre. Between Knockout Kings 99 (1998) and Fight Night Round 2 (2005), EA built a smooth development process that churned out game after game, each iteration improving upon the last. Given that precedent, it begs the question: Why is it taking SCI so long?

The Weight of Expectations

SCI set out with an ambitious goal: to create the most realistic boxing video game ever. Their early promotional materials showcased Undisputed (then known as eSports Boxing Club) as a game that would redefine the genre. The problem is, five years later, the game still lacks key components necessary for a true simulation experience.

Some of the biggest concerns from the community include:

• Lack of career mode – Despite promises of a deep, immersive experience, a true career mode still hasn’t materialized.
• Incomplete roster – While Undisputed boasts an impressive list of licensed fighters, the number of boxers still doesn’t feel sufficient for a game marketed as the definitive boxing experience.
• Unfinished mechanics – Features like punch animations, footwork fluidity, and defensive mechanics still need refinement. Many fans argue the gameplay took a step back from its earlier iterations.
• Missing offline content – Career mode isn’t the only thing absent; other offline modes, like a full-fledged tournament system, promoter mode, and a robust training system, are either missing or not fully fleshed out.

For a game that has been in development for this long, these missing features only add to the frustration.

EA Set the Blueprint—So Why the Delay?

Back in the late 90s and early 2000s, EA had a rapid development cycle that saw Knockout Kings and Fight Night titles released in quick succession. Each new game built on the previous one, refining mechanics, adding boxers, and implementing new features without missing a beat. By Fight Night Round 2, EA had already introduced advanced mechanics like impact punches and deeper career modes.

SCI, on the other hand, has been developing Undisputed for nearly the same amount of time it took EA to release five full boxing games. With modern technology, game engines, and developer tools more advanced than ever, many wonder why the development process for Undisputed has been so slow.

Some speculate that SCI may be struggling with resources or mismanaging development priorities. Others believe they may have underestimated the complexity of making a boxing simulation. Either way, the result is a game that still doesn’t feel complete, leaving boxing fans with an experience that is far from the definitive simulation they were promised.

The Clock is Ticking

SCI can’t afford to keep dragging their feet. The boxing gaming community has been starving for a high-quality title for over a decade. With Undisputed still in early access and many features still absent, the patience of fans is wearing thin. If SCI doesn’t deliver soon, they risk losing the trust of their audience, and their opportunity to become the gold standard in boxing games could slip away.

The pressure is on, and the clock is ticking. Can SCI finally complete the game they've been working on for nearly five years, or will Undisputed go down as a project that never lived up to its potential? Time will tell, but boxing fans are hoping for a knockout finish rather than another round of delays.

 

The Pressure Is On: Steel City Interactive's Long Road to a Complete Boxing Video Game

Steel City Interactive (SCI) is in the hot seat. Nearly five years into the development of Undisputed, their highly anticipated boxing video game, the game still feels incomplete. Fans who have been waiting for a truly realistic boxing sim are growing restless, and the pressure is mounting for SCI to deliver a polished, feature-rich experience.

Meanwhile, history paints a different picture. Electronic Arts (EA) once developed five boxing video games in just five years when they entered the genre. Between Knockout Kings 99 (1998) and Fight Night Round 2 (2005), EA built a smooth development process that churned out game after game, each iteration improving upon the last. Given that precedent, it begs the question: Why is it taking SCI so long?

The Weight of Expectations

SCI set out with an ambitious goal: to create the most realistic boxing video game ever. Their early promotional materials showcased Undisputed (then known as eSports Boxing Club) as a game that would redefine the genre. The problem is, five years later, the game still lacks key components necessary for a true simulation experience.

Some of the biggest concerns from the community include:

• Lack of career mode – Despite promises of a deep, immersive experience, a true career mode still hasn’t materialized.
• Incomplete roster – While Undisputed boasts an impressive list of licensed fighters, the number of boxers still doesn’t feel sufficient for a game marketed as the definitive boxing experience.
• Unfinished mechanics – Features like punch animations, footwork fluidity, and defensive mechanics still need refinement. Many fans argue the gameplay took a step back from its earlier iterations.
• Missing offline content – Career mode isn’t the only thing absent; other offline modes, like a full-fledged tournament system, promoter mode, and a robust training system, are either missing or not fully fleshed out.

For a game that has been in development for this long, these missing features only add to the frustration.

EA Set the Blueprint—So Why the Delay?

Back in the late 90s and early 2000s, EA had a rapid development cycle that saw Knockout Kings and Fight Night titles released in quick succession. Each new game built on the previous one, refining mechanics, adding boxers, and implementing new features without missing a beat. By Fight Night Round 2, EA had already introduced advanced mechanics like impact punches and deeper career modes.

SCI, on the other hand, has been developing Undisputed for nearly the same amount of time it took EA to release five full boxing games. With modern technology, game engines, and developer tools more advanced than ever, many wonder why the development process for Undisputed has been so slow.

Some speculate that SCI may be struggling with resources or mismanaging development priorities. Others believe they may have underestimated the complexity of making a boxing simulation. Either way, the result is a game that still doesn’t feel complete, leaving boxing fans with an experience that is far from the definitive simulation they were promised.

The Clock is Ticking

SCI can’t afford to keep dragging their feet. The boxing gaming community has been starving for a high-quality title for over a decade. With Undisputed still in early access and many features still absent, the patience of fans is wearing thin. If SCI doesn’t deliver soon, they risk losing the trust of their audience, and their opportunity to become the gold standard in boxing games could slip away.

The pressure is on, and the clock is ticking. Can SCI finally complete the game they've been working on for nearly five years, or will Undisputed go down as a project that never lived up to its potential? Time will tell, but boxing fans are hoping for a knockout finish rather than another round of delays.

How Undisputed Should Have Been Marketed: A Passionate, Structured, and Engaging Approach

 

The marketing for Undisputed should have been handled with a much more strategic and passionate approach, emphasizing realism, innovation, and the desire to push boxing games forward. Here’s how it should have gone:

1. Clear, Transparent Vision from Day One

• Instead of vague statements, the developers should have clearly defined the game’s identity—is it a full sim, hybrid, or casual-friendly?
• Openly state what will be in the game at launch and what will be added later, rather than making fans feel misled.
• A dedicated roadmap should have been released early, showing the long-term goals for the game (roster updates, weight classes, online improvements, career mode depth, etc.).

2. Engaging the Boxing Community Properly

• Instead of relying on influencers who don't even play boxing games, they should have involved hardcore boxing fans, content creators, and real fighters who actually understand the sport.
• Hosting community Q&A sessions with developers every few months would keep fans in the loop.
• Organizing official tournaments and showcases featuring skilled players, not just influencers.

3. A Focus on the Realism and Unmatched Depth

• Marketing should have doubled down on realism rather than trying to please the casual crowd.
• Showcase:
  • Unique punch animations (angle, arc, trajectory, delivery, impact)
  • Footwork realism (demonstrating the effectiveness of movement, pivots, and weight shifting)
  • Different defensive styles (peekaboo, Philly shell, high guard, cross-arm)
  • How boxers feel different from each other, showing how a slick counterpuncher moves compared to a pressure fighter.
• Instead of basic trailers, they should have released deep dive gameplay breakdowns—similar to how sports games like NBA 2K do their "Courtside Reports."

4. Better Showcasing of Career Mode & Offline Features

• Career mode should have been fully explained before Early Access. Instead, they barely talked about it.
• The marketing should have made it clear if legacy-building, rankings, belts, gyms, rivalries, and AI realism were the focus.
• A broadcast presentation should have been marketed as a way to immerse players, similar to NFL 2K5’s halftime show.
• Offline players were largely ignored in marketing; the devs should have highlighted CPU tendencies, realistic AI behavior, and detailed fighter stats.

5. A Roster Reveal Done Right

• Instead of randomly dropping roster announcements with zero personality, the reveals should have been more structured:
  • Legends Spotlight – Highlighting past greats with historical clips and in-game comparisons.
  • Rising Stars – Showcasing the next generation of boxers to bring new fans into the sport.
  • Custom Fighters & Creation Suite – Hyping up the depth of creation and customization.

6. Making Player Feedback Matter

• Instead of making players feel ignored, the devs should have had a public tracker for requested features and fixes.
• More betas should have been done to fine-tune gameplay before launch, and feedback should have been incorporated quickly, rather than taking months with minimal communication.

7. Marketing the Esports Potential

• If Undisputed was going to have competitive online play, it needed strong ranked mode marketing with:
  • Skill-based matchmaking
  • A structured online ranking system
  • Seasonal events
• Esports tournaments with real cash prizes could have drawn serious competitive players.

8. Capturing the Feel of Boxing Culture

• The marketing failed to emphasize the drama, storytelling, and history of boxing.
• Trailers should have focused on:
  • The grind of becoming a champion
  • Classic rivalries (Ali vs. Frazier, Canelo vs. GGG)
  • Behind-the-scenes gym footage with real fighters discussing the game

Final Thought

Undisputed’s marketing lacked passion, structure, and depth, and it ultimately left fans more confused than hyped. Instead of feeling like a groundbreaking boxing game, the messaging was all over the place. If they had marketed it like a revolution in boxing gaming, showcased the realism properly, and truly engaged with the community, it could have built the momentum it deserved.

How Undisputed Should Have Been Marketed: A Passionate, Structured, and Engaging Approach

 

The marketing for Undisputed should have been handled with a much more strategic and passionate approach, emphasizing realism, innovation, and the desire to push boxing games forward. Here’s how it should have gone:

1. Clear, Transparent Vision from Day One

• Instead of vague statements, the developers should have clearly defined the game’s identity—is it a full sim, hybrid, or casual-friendly?
• Openly state what will be in the game at launch and what will be added later, rather than making fans feel misled.
• A dedicated roadmap should have been released early, showing the long-term goals for the game (roster updates, weight classes, online improvements, career mode depth, etc.).

2. Engaging the Boxing Community Properly

• Instead of relying on influencers who don't even play boxing games, they should have involved hardcore boxing fans, content creators, and real fighters who actually understand the sport.
• Hosting community Q&A sessions with developers every few months would keep fans in the loop.
• Organizing official tournaments and showcases featuring skilled players, not just influencers.

3. A Focus on the Realism and Unmatched Depth

• Marketing should have doubled down on realism rather than trying to please the casual crowd.
• Showcase:
  • Unique punch animations (angle, arc, trajectory, delivery, impact)
  • Footwork realism (demonstrating the effectiveness of movement, pivots, and weight shifting)
  • Different defensive styles (peekaboo, Philly shell, high guard, cross-arm)
  • How boxers feel different from each other, showing how a slick counterpuncher moves compared to a pressure fighter.
• Instead of basic trailers, they should have released deep dive gameplay breakdowns—similar to how sports games like NBA 2K do their "Courtside Reports."

4. Better Showcasing of Career Mode & Offline Features

• Career mode should have been fully explained before Early Access. Instead, they barely talked about it.
• The marketing should have made it clear if legacy-building, rankings, belts, gyms, rivalries, and AI realism were the focus.
• A broadcast presentation should have been marketed as a way to immerse players, similar to NFL 2K5’s halftime show.
• Offline players were largely ignored in marketing; the devs should have highlighted CPU tendencies, realistic AI behavior, and detailed fighter stats.

5. A Roster Reveal Done Right

• Instead of randomly dropping roster announcements with zero personality, the reveals should have been more structured:
  • Legends Spotlight – Highlighting past greats with historical clips and in-game comparisons.
  • Rising Stars – Showcasing the next generation of boxers to bring new fans into the sport.
  • Custom Fighters & Creation Suite – Hyping up the depth of creation and customization.

6. Making Player Feedback Matter

• Instead of making players feel ignored, the devs should have had a public tracker for requested features and fixes.
• More betas should have been done to fine-tune gameplay before launch, and feedback should have been incorporated quickly, rather than taking months with minimal communication.

7. Marketing the Esports Potential

• If Undisputed was going to have competitive online play, it needed strong ranked mode marketing with:
  • Skill-based matchmaking
  • A structured online ranking system
  • Seasonal events
• Esports tournaments with real cash prizes could have drawn serious competitive players.

8. Capturing the Feel of Boxing Culture

• The marketing failed to emphasize the drama, storytelling, and history of boxing.
• Trailers should have focused on:
  • The grind of becoming a champion
  • Classic rivalries (Ali vs. Frazier, Canelo vs. GGG)
  • Behind-the-scenes gym footage with real fighters discussing the game

Final Thought

Undisputed’s marketing lacked passion, structure, and depth, and it ultimately left fans more confused than hyped. Instead of feeling like a groundbreaking boxing game, the messaging was all over the place. If they had marketed it like a revolution in boxing gaming, showcased the realism properly, and truly engaged with the community, it could have built the momentum it deserved.

The Misplaced Priorities of Undisputed Fans: Boxers Over Gameplay Fixes and Tendencies

 

The Misplaced Priorities of Undisputed Fans: Boxers Over Gameplay Fixes and Tendencies

The Undisputed boxing game had potential. It was once known as ESBC, and many players preferred that version because it felt more like a true simulation of the sport. However, as time passed, the developers at Steel City Interactive (SCI) began shifting their focus, and unfortunately, so did the fanbase. Instead of demanding critical gameplay fixes, improvements to AI behavior, and the addition of tendencies or sliders, many Undisputed fans are more concerned with getting more real-life boxers into the game.

This is a fundamental issue. A game can have a roster filled with legends, but if the gameplay lacks depth, realism, and proper mechanics, those boxers will feel hollow—mere skins over a flawed system. It’s frustrating to see the community prioritize roster expansions over core gameplay elements that would make Undisputed a true boxing simulation.

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Why Gameplay Fixes Should Come First

Boxing video games should be about how the boxers fight, not just who is available to play. Right now, Undisputed suffers from issues that take away from the realism that fans have been hoping for since the project was first revealed.

1. Lack of Authentic Boxer Tendencies

   • Undisputed currently does not represent real-life boxer styles accurately. A fighter like Muhammad Ali should float around the ring, using speed and reflexes, while someone like Joe Frazier should pressure opponents with relentless aggression. Instead, most boxers in the game feel the same, with minor stat differences.
   • Without tendencies or sliders that dictate AI behavior, even well-known fighters don’t truly stand out.

2. Sliders Would Give Players Control

   • Sliders are essential in any sports simulation. They allow players to tweak AI behavior, adjust difficulty beyond generic settings, and customize the game to their preferred level of realism.
   • If Undisputed had sliders for aggression, punch accuracy, defensive reactions, stamina management, and other boxing-specific attributes, it could provide a tailored experience for both casual and hardcore fans.

3. CPU Boxers Need Realistic AI

   • A major problem with Undisputed is that the AI doesn’t fight like real boxers. Fighters should approach each match differently based on their real-life tendencies. Some should be counter-punchers, some should be volume punchers, and others should be defensive specialists.
   • This is something that tendencies/sliders could fix, but SCI has not prioritized it—and neither has a large portion of the fanbase.

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The Obsession with More Boxers Is a Distraction

A large number of Undisputed fans are constantly asking for more licensed fighters instead of pushing SCI to fix core gameplay mechanics. The problem with this is simple: more boxers won’t make the game better if they don’t fight like themselves.

• If the AI doesn’t replicate a fighter’s real-life style, adding more boxers just means more characters who don’t behave like they should.
• This obsession with names on the roster instead of how they fight is one reason why boxing games have struggled in the past.
• SCI could add every legendary boxer in history, but if the mechanics remain flawed, it won’t matter.

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SCI’s Responsibility and the Community’s Role

SCI should be listening to its community, but it seems that much of the fanbase isn’t demanding what actually matters.

• Instead of pushing for gameplay depth, sliders, and AI improvements, fans are allowing SCI to focus on marketing new fighter reveals.
• If the community doesn’t shift its priorities, Undisputed will likely remain a shallow experience with a roster of names that don't feel unique in the ring.
• The best boxing games weren’t great because of a huge roster; they were great because of how they played.

The community needs to hold SCI accountable and demand tendencies, sliders, and proper AI behavior before worrying about more fighters being added.

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Conclusion: Fix the Game First, Add Boxers Later

Boxing video games should live and die by their mechanics, not their rosters. Right now, Undisputed fans need to push for the gameplay to be fixed before celebrating new fighter additions. Sliders and tendencies should be at the top of the wishlist—not just more boxers who end up feeling the same.

SCI has the potential to turn Undisputed into a true simulation of the sweet science, but only if the fanbase demands it. If people continue prioritizing boxers over gameplay, we’ll just end up with another shallow boxing game that fails to capture the sport’s depth.

It’s time to demand more than just names. It’s time to demand real boxing mechanics.

The Misplaced Priorities of Undisputed Fans: Boxers Over Gameplay Fixes and Tendencies

 

The Misplaced Priorities of Undisputed Fans: Boxers Over Gameplay Fixes and Tendencies

The Undisputed boxing game had potential. It was once known as ESBC, and many players preferred that version because it felt more like a true simulation of the sport. However, as time passed, the developers at Steel City Interactive (SCI) began shifting their focus, and unfortunately, so did the fanbase. Instead of demanding critical gameplay fixes, improvements to AI behavior, and the addition of tendencies or sliders, many Undisputed fans are more concerned with getting more real-life boxers into the game.

This is a fundamental issue. A game can have a roster filled with legends, but if the gameplay lacks depth, realism, and proper mechanics, those boxers will feel hollow—mere skins over a flawed system. It’s frustrating to see the community prioritize roster expansions over core gameplay elements that would make Undisputed a true boxing simulation.

---

Why Gameplay Fixes Should Come First

Boxing video games should be about how the boxers fight, not just who is available to play. Right now, Undisputed suffers from issues that take away from the realism that fans have been hoping for since the project was first revealed.

1. Lack of Authentic Boxer Tendencies

   • Undisputed currently does not represent real-life boxer styles accurately. A fighter like Muhammad Ali should float around the ring, using speed and reflexes, while someone like Joe Frazier should pressure opponents with relentless aggression. Instead, most boxers in the game feel the same, with minor stat differences.
   • Without tendencies or sliders that dictate AI behavior, even well-known fighters don’t truly stand out.

2. Sliders Would Give Players Control

   • Sliders are essential in any sports simulation. They allow players to tweak AI behavior, adjust difficulty beyond generic settings, and customize the game to their preferred level of realism.
   • If Undisputed had sliders for aggression, punch accuracy, defensive reactions, stamina management, and other boxing-specific attributes, it could provide a tailored experience for both casual and hardcore fans.

3. CPU Boxers Need Realistic AI

   • A major problem with Undisputed is that the AI doesn’t fight like real boxers. Fighters should approach each match differently based on their real-life tendencies. Some should be counter-punchers, some should be volume punchers, and others should be defensive specialists.
   • This is something that tendencies/sliders could fix, but SCI has not prioritized it—and neither has a large portion of the fanbase.

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The Obsession with More Boxers Is a Distraction

A large number of Undisputed fans are constantly asking for more licensed fighters instead of pushing SCI to fix core gameplay mechanics. The problem with this is simple: more boxers won’t make the game better if they don’t fight like themselves.

• If the AI doesn’t replicate a fighter’s real-life style, adding more boxers just means more characters who don’t behave like they should.
• This obsession with names on the roster instead of how they fight is one reason why boxing games have struggled in the past.
• SCI could add every legendary boxer in history, but if the mechanics remain flawed, it won’t matter.

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SCI’s Responsibility and the Community’s Role

SCI should be listening to its community, but it seems that much of the fanbase isn’t demanding what actually matters.

• Instead of pushing for gameplay depth, sliders, and AI improvements, fans are allowing SCI to focus on marketing new fighter reveals.
• If the community doesn’t shift its priorities, Undisputed will likely remain a shallow experience with a roster of names that don't feel unique in the ring.
• The best boxing games weren’t great because of a huge roster; they were great because of how they played.

The community needs to hold SCI accountable and demand tendencies, sliders, and proper AI behavior before worrying about more fighters being added.

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Conclusion: Fix the Game First, Add Boxers Later

Boxing video games should live and die by their mechanics, not their rosters. Right now, Undisputed fans need to push for the gameplay to be fixed before celebrating new fighter additions. Sliders and tendencies should be at the top of the wishlist—not just more boxers who end up feeling the same.

SCI has the potential to turn Undisputed into a true simulation of the sweet science, but only if the fanbase demands it. If people continue prioritizing boxers over gameplay, we’ll just end up with another shallow boxing game that fails to capture the sport’s depth.

It’s time to demand more than just names. It’s time to demand real boxing mechanics.

Fans Should Stop Making Excuses for Boxing Video Game Developers—Especially the Veterans in the Era of Newer Technology

 

Fans Should Stop Making Excuses for Boxing Video Game Developers—Especially the Veterans in the Era of Newer Technology

For over a decade, boxing video game fans have been waiting for a truly great, realistic boxing simulation. With modern technology and advancements in game development, there are no valid excuses for the lack of innovation, depth, and realism in recent or upcoming boxing games. Yet, some fans continue to defend developers, making excuses for missing features, lackluster mechanics, and overall poor execution.

The reality is this: gaming has evolved. Sports games—whether it’s FIFA (now EA Sports FC), NBA 2K, or MLB The Show—have seen leaps in realism, presentation, and customization. Meanwhile, boxing games continue to lag behind, often riddled with half-baked mechanics, limited modes, and an overall lack of depth. With the rise of more powerful game engines, motion capture technology, and AI advancements, there's no reason why boxing video games should be stuck in the past.

The Veteran Developers Should Know Better

Some developers working on modern boxing games have experience from past titles like Fight Night or other combat sports games. These veterans should understand the intricacies of boxing and the expectations of fans, yet many of them seem to be making the same mistakes—or worse, ignoring crucial elements that once made past games great.

In an era where game developers have access to more resources, better technology, and deeper community engagement, the idea that boxing games should remain shallow or incomplete is unacceptable. The sport itself hasn't changed—real-world boxing still operates with rankings, weight divisions, promotional structures, and different fighting styles. So why do developers struggle to reflect these elements accurately in a game?

Excuses Fans Need to Stop Making

Too many fans are willing to give developers a pass when they fail to deliver on expectations. Here are some of the most common excuses, and why they don’t hold up:

1. "Boxing Isn’t Popular Enough to Justify a Good Game"

This argument falls apart when you look at other niche sports that have successful games. Games like F1 23, MotoGP, and PGA Tour 2K cater to smaller audiences yet manage to be deep, engaging, and well-received. The issue isn’t boxing’s popularity—it’s the execution of the game itself. A well-made boxing game will attract fans, just like any well-made sports game does.

2. "They’re Just a Small Team, Give Them Time"

While indie developers deserve patience, this excuse is often applied to larger teams who have the experience and resources to do better. Even smaller teams have shown they can create polished and detailed sports games—so why should boxing be any different? Developers should be transparent about their limitations and not overpromise features they can't deliver.

3. "We Should Be Grateful We’re Even Getting a Boxing Game"

Gratitude shouldn’t come at the cost of quality. Fans shouldn’t have to accept a subpar experience just because it’s the only option. Settling for mediocrity only encourages developers to cut corners and avoid pushing the genre forward.

4. "It’s Hard to Get Real Boxers in the Game"

While licensing real fighters is a challenge, a great boxing game doesn’t need a full roster of real-world boxers to be successful. Games like UFC 4 thrive on strong gameplay mechanics, not just the roster. A game with deep customization, a strong career mode, and realistic boxing mechanics would thrive even without every real fighter.

5. "Realism Isn’t Fun, It Needs to Be More Arcadey"

This is one of the worst excuses. Realism and fun are not mutually exclusive—sports fans love simulation-style games when done correctly. If realism were truly boring, franchises like NBA 2K or Madden NFL wouldn’t dominate the market. A realistic boxing game can still be exciting, dynamic, and accessible.

The Technological Advancements That Developers Should Be Using

With the tools available today, boxing game developers have no reason to deliver a lackluster experience. Here are just a few examples of how modern technology could elevate boxing games:

• Advanced AI: AI should allow for realistic boxer tendencies, styles, and fight strategies. Every boxer should feel unique, not like a generic template.
• Motion Capture & Physics-Based Animations: Animations should look and feel organic, not robotic or overly scripted. Punch reactions, footwork, and defensive movements should all reflect real boxing.
• Dynamic Weight Classes & Rankings: A proper ranking system, weight management, and boxing politics (like mandatory challengers, promotional disputes, and tournament brackets) should be in the game.
• True Career Mode Integration: Career mode should be deep, allowing for long-term progression, training camp adjustments, and evolving rivalries.
• Custom Boxer & Trainer Systems: The ability to create fighters with customizable styles, stances, and strategies would add depth to both single-player and online modes.

Fans Deserve More, and It’s Time to Demand It

The only way boxing video games will improve is if fans stop settling for mediocrity. Other sports game communities push for improvements—boxing fans need to do the same. Instead of making excuses, demand better AI, better physics, and deeper modes. Developers have the technology at their fingertips; they just need to use it properly.

In the end, if developers can’t deliver a truly immersive boxing experience in the modern gaming landscape, maybe they’re not the right people to make the game in the first place.

Fans Should Stop Making Excuses for Boxing Video Game Developers—Especially the Veterans in the Era of Newer Technology

 

Fans Should Stop Making Excuses for Boxing Video Game Developers—Especially the Veterans in the Era of Newer Technology

For over a decade, boxing video game fans have been waiting for a truly great, realistic boxing simulation. With modern technology and advancements in game development, there are no valid excuses for the lack of innovation, depth, and realism in recent or upcoming boxing games. Yet, some fans continue to defend developers, making excuses for missing features, lackluster mechanics, and overall poor execution.

The reality is this: gaming has evolved. Sports games—whether it’s FIFA (now EA Sports FC), NBA 2K, or MLB The Show—have seen leaps in realism, presentation, and customization. Meanwhile, boxing games continue to lag behind, often riddled with half-baked mechanics, limited modes, and an overall lack of depth. With the rise of more powerful game engines, motion capture technology, and AI advancements, there's no reason why boxing video games should be stuck in the past.

The Veteran Developers Should Know Better

Some developers working on modern boxing games have experience from past titles like Fight Night or other combat sports games. These veterans should understand the intricacies of boxing and the expectations of fans, yet many of them seem to be making the same mistakes—or worse, ignoring crucial elements that once made past games great.

In an era where game developers have access to more resources, better technology, and deeper community engagement, the idea that boxing games should remain shallow or incomplete is unacceptable. The sport itself hasn't changed—real-world boxing still operates with rankings, weight divisions, promotional structures, and different fighting styles. So why do developers struggle to reflect these elements accurately in a game?

Excuses Fans Need to Stop Making

Too many fans are willing to give developers a pass when they fail to deliver on expectations. Here are some of the most common excuses, and why they don’t hold up:

1. "Boxing Isn’t Popular Enough to Justify a Good Game"

This argument falls apart when you look at other niche sports that have successful games. Games like F1 23, MotoGP, and PGA Tour 2K cater to smaller audiences yet manage to be deep, engaging, and well-received. The issue isn’t boxing’s popularity—it’s the execution of the game itself. A well-made boxing game will attract fans, just like any well-made sports game does.

2. "They’re Just a Small Team, Give Them Time"

While indie developers deserve patience, this excuse is often applied to larger teams who have the experience and resources to do better. Even smaller teams have shown they can create polished and detailed sports games—so why should boxing be any different? Developers should be transparent about their limitations and not overpromise features they can't deliver.

3. "We Should Be Grateful We’re Even Getting a Boxing Game"

Gratitude shouldn’t come at the cost of quality. Fans shouldn’t have to accept a subpar experience just because it’s the only option. Settling for mediocrity only encourages developers to cut corners and avoid pushing the genre forward.

4. "It’s Hard to Get Real Boxers in the Game"

While licensing real fighters is a challenge, a great boxing game doesn’t need a full roster of real-world boxers to be successful. Games like UFC 4 thrive on strong gameplay mechanics, not just the roster. A game with deep customization, a strong career mode, and realistic boxing mechanics would thrive even without every real fighter.

5. "Realism Isn’t Fun, It Needs to Be More Arcadey"

This is one of the worst excuses. Realism and fun are not mutually exclusive—sports fans love simulation-style games when done correctly. If realism were truly boring, franchises like NBA 2K or Madden NFL wouldn’t dominate the market. A realistic boxing game can still be exciting, dynamic, and accessible.

The Technological Advancements That Developers Should Be Using

With the tools available today, boxing game developers have no reason to deliver a lackluster experience. Here are just a few examples of how modern technology could elevate boxing games:

• Advanced AI: AI should allow for realistic boxer tendencies, styles, and fight strategies. Every boxer should feel unique, not like a generic template.
• Motion Capture & Physics-Based Animations: Animations should look and feel organic, not robotic or overly scripted. Punch reactions, footwork, and defensive movements should all reflect real boxing.
• Dynamic Weight Classes & Rankings: A proper ranking system, weight management, and boxing politics (like mandatory challengers, promotional disputes, and tournament brackets) should be in the game.
• True Career Mode Integration: Career mode should be deep, allowing for long-term progression, training camp adjustments, and evolving rivalries.
• Custom Boxer & Trainer Systems: The ability to create fighters with customizable styles, stances, and strategies would add depth to both single-player and online modes.

Fans Deserve More, and It’s Time to Demand It

The only way boxing video games will improve is if fans stop settling for mediocrity. Other sports game communities push for improvements—boxing fans need to do the same. Instead of making excuses, demand better AI, better physics, and deeper modes. Developers have the technology at their fingertips; they just need to use it properly.

In the end, if developers can’t deliver a truly immersive boxing experience in the modern gaming landscape, maybe they’re not the right people to make the game in the first place.

 

Fans Need to Stop Being Delusional: Fight Night Champion Was Not a Realistic Boxing Game

For years, boxing game fans have put Fight Night Champion (FNC) on a pedestal, claiming it was the most realistic boxing game ever made. Many still demand EA Sports to bring back the Fight Night series, believing FNC was a near-perfect simulation of the sweet science.

Let’s be clear: Fight Night Champion was not a true boxing simulation. It was a glorified arcade fighter with a boxing theme. While it looked visually impressive for its time and had a gritty presentation, it failed to capture the depth, nuance, and strategy that define real boxing.

The time has come for fans to stop deluding themselves. FNC was not the peak of boxing realism—it was just the only major boxing game available at the time.

Why Fight Night Champion Was More Arcade Than Sim

1. Poor Representation of Boxing Fundamentals

Boxing is an art. It’s about strategy, patience, footwork, defense, and tactical offense. However, Fight Night Champion completely disregarded these elements in favor of an arcade-friendly approach.

• Footwork Was Neglected: True boxing relies on angles, positioning, and lateral movement. FNC had sluggish, clunky movement that barely allowed for effective footwork. Fighters couldn't pivot smoothly or use advanced movement techniques like bouncing in and out of range.
• Defense Was an Afterthought: Instead of a refined defensive system, FNC relied on basic blocking and a parry system that felt more like a fighting game mechanic than actual boxing defense. Shoulder rolls, proper head movement, and the ability to create space with footwork were all underdeveloped.
• Clinch Game Was Nonexistent: Clinching is an essential part of boxing—used to break up exchanges, recover, or disrupt an opponent’s rhythm. FNC ignored this completely, making inside fighting feel like a wild slugfest rather than a controlled battle.

Simply put, the game failed to emphasize the technical aspects that separate boxing from other combat sports.

2. Exaggerated Knockdowns and Over-the-Top Damage

One of FNC’s biggest flaws was how it handled knockdowns and damage. The game prioritized dramatic moments over realism, leading to excessive knockdowns, exaggerated facial injuries, and an overuse of slow-motion knockout sequences.

• Fighters could take dozens of clean power shots without real consequences, which is unrealistic at the highest level of boxing.
• Flash knockdowns happened too frequently, even from weak punches, which made fights feel more like a Hollywood movie than an actual boxing match.
• Damage was inconsistent—sometimes fighters looked perfectly fine after absorbing brutal shots, while other times they looked like they’d been through a war after a couple of rounds.

Real boxing isn't just about knockouts—it's about tactics, adjustments, and setting traps. FNC ignored this in favor of arcade-style exchanges that led to dramatic moments rather than realistic fights.

3. Broken Stamina System Encouraged Unrealistic Fighting

Stamina is everything in boxing. Fighters must manage their output, control their breathing, and avoid wasting energy. However, Fight Night Champion had one of the worst stamina systems in any sports game.

• Boxers could throw an insane volume of punches without suffering real fatigue. This led to non-stop slugfests instead of realistic pacing.
• Fighters barely slowed down even in the later rounds, which meant that strategy and endurance management were mostly irrelevant.
• Recovery was inconsistent—some fighters would regain stamina way too quickly between rounds, allowing them to fight at an unrealistic pace for an entire fight.

This completely undermined the realism that a true boxing game should have. There was no incentive to fight smart or conserve energy because the game rewarded high-output, aggressive styles.

4. Flawed Counterpunching System

The counterpunching system in FNC was one of its most broken mechanics. Instead of rewarding proper timing and skill, the game made counterpunching feel scripted and overpowered.

• The counter-window was too forgiving, allowing players to land devastating shots even when the timing wasn’t perfect.
• Fighters who weren’t known for counterpunching in real life could still abuse the system to dominate fights unrealistically.
• Instead of simulating real boxing counterpunching—where feints, movement, and setups matter—FNC turned it into an arcade-like mechanic that could be easily exploited.

True counterpunchers, like Floyd Mayweather or Juan Manuel Marquez, should feel different from pressure fighters, but FNC made it so that any fighter could use the counter system effectively, ruining the distinction between styles.

5. All Fighters Felt Too Similar

One of the biggest sins Fight Night Champion committed was failing to differentiate between boxing styles. In real life, boxers have unique tendencies, skill sets, and strengths. However, in FNC, every fighter felt like a slightly altered version of the same template.

• Pressure fighters didn’t apply realistic pressure—there was no way to cut off the ring effectively.
• Slick counterpunchers didn’t rely on actual defensive skills, just the arcade-style counter system.
• Inside fighting was a joke—there were no real mechanics for controlling the inside game, which made inside fighting feel more like a chaotic mess than a strategic battle.

In a real boxing simulation, fighters should have distinct styles that are accurately represented. FNC failed in this regard, making every fighter feel too similar and limiting the depth of gameplay.

Why Fans Had Unrealistic Expectations for FNC

The main reason fans praise Fight Night Champion is that it was the last major boxing game released. With no competition, fans convinced themselves it was better than it actually was.

At the time, expectations were sky-high because EA had built a reputation with the Fight Night series. Fans hoped FNC would deliver a truly realistic experience, but in the end, they got an arcade boxing game dressed up with realistic visuals and a darker storyline.

FNC felt “real” only in the sense that it looked good and had real fighters, but its mechanics were nowhere near as deep as they should have been. The game was built for casual players rather than hardcore boxing fans, which is why it played more like a slugfest than a true simulation.

Boxing Fans Deserve Better

It’s time for boxing fans to wake up and demand a true simulation, not a glorified arcade game. If a new boxing game is made, it cannot follow the Fight Night Champion model—it must be built from the ground up to prioritize realism, strategy, and authenticity.

A real boxing game should feature:
✅ True-to-life footwork – including pivots, lateral movement, and positioning.
✅ A deep defensive system – incorporating realistic blocking, slipping, and rolling.
✅ Proper stamina management – forcing players to fight smart and conserve energy.
✅ Accurate representation of styles – making each boxer feel unique.
✅ A functional clinch system – allowing players to use clinching as a real strategy.

If a boxing game is ever going to evolve past FNC, fans need to stop treating it like the ultimate boxing sim. It wasn’t. It was a fun game, but fun doesn’t equal realistic.

Boxing deserves a true simulation. Fans should demand more, not settle for an outdated arcade-style experience.

Because real boxing isn’t about throwing 100 punches per round and spamming counters. It’s about intelligence, strategy, and skill.

And the next great boxing game should reflect that.