Sunday, March 16, 2025

The Importance of Freedom and Strategy in Realistic Boxing Video Games

In the world of sports video games, particularly those focused on boxing, a growing concern has emerged about the direction some titles are taking. A narrative is being promoted that realistic boxing is inherently boring or difficult to enjoy. However, this is a misconception that undermines the very essence of what makes a boxing video game exciting, especially for those who appreciate authenticity. A boxing game should empower players with control over the outcome, enabling them to utilize their skills, tactics, and strategy to achieve victory, rather than imposing a pre-determined path or artificially simplifying the experience.

The Power of Player Choice

One of the most compelling aspects of a truly realistic boxing game is the freedom it provides to players. Just like in real life, no two boxing matches play out the same way. Each boxer brings their own unique style, strengths, and weaknesses to the ring. A realistic boxing video game should offer the same level of variability, forcing players to adapt to different opponents, whether they are aggressive, defensive, or unpredictable. The player should never be boxed into a set way of fighting—each match should be an open canvas where strategy and skill lead the way to victory.

The beauty of boxing lies in the endless variations of styles and approaches that emerge in each fight. Whether it’s a slick counter-puncher with superb defensive skills or a heavy-handed brawler with an aggressive mindset, a game should mirror this diversity and allow players to find the tactics that work best for them. For instance, a boxer who prefers a tactical, calculated style should not be forced to fight like a brawler simply because the game offers no alternative. Similarly, players who enjoy high-intensity action should be rewarded for pursuing that path—whether through quick combinations or relentless pressure.

Instead of enforcing a singular method of play, a boxing game should reward the player’s ability to navigate through diverse scenarios and adjust accordingly. The game should offer the tools, mechanics, and flexibility to approach each fight in a way that reflects real-life boxing. If an opponent isn’t fighting the way a player expects, it should not be a cause for frustration or a flaw in the game’s design. Instead, it should be an opportunity for the player to adapt, learn, and find a way to overcome the challenge. Boxing is a sport of adjustment—learning to adapt to different styles, finding weaknesses, and exploiting them. A realistic boxing game should reflect this, placing the responsibility on the player to figure out how to succeed, rather than dumbing down the experience to suit a single approach.

Dumbing Down the Experience: A False Path

A common pitfall that some boxing games fall into is the temptation to simplify gameplay mechanics in the name of accessibility. While it’s important for a game to be accessible to a broad audience, simplifying the experience too much can rob the game of its depth and authenticity. When players are forced into a "one-size-fits-all" style of boxing or when the game’s mechanics make it too easy to win, it undermines the challenge and the beauty of the sport itself.

For example, if a game forces players into a predictable rhythm or rewards button-mashing, it betrays the fundamentals of boxing, where timing, footwork, defensive skills, and ring IQ are key components. A player should not feel like they are constantly in control of the outcome simply because the game is designed to make things easy. In real-life boxing, fights are won or lost based on a variety of factors—speed, stamina, strategy, and the ability to think on your feet. A realistic boxing video game should offer these same complexities, allowing players to experience the full spectrum of the sport.

One of the dangers of simplifying boxing video games is the potential to lose the essence of what makes boxing so dynamic. In reality, boxing is rarely about simply throwing punches—it’s about timing, range, distance, and finding the right moment to strike. A “dumbed down” version of boxing that reduces the game to mere button-mashing or predictable routines takes away from the rich, tactical nature of the sport. Boxing isn’t about winning easily or in a formulaic manner—it's about overcoming challenges and adapting to your opponent’s movements. Simplifying that experience removes the chance for players to engage with the sport’s true depth.

The Challenge of Authenticity

Realism in a boxing game can be daunting, especially for those accustomed to arcade-style experiences that reward flashy moves over technical skill. However, the beauty of a true-to-life boxing game lies in the challenge it presents. Boxing, as a sport, isn't just about throwing punches—it's about making calculated decisions, reading your opponent, adjusting to their movements, and finding creative ways to break through their defenses.

When a player faces a tough opponent, whether they are dealing with a counter-puncher or a relentless brawler, it should not be the player’s responsibility to ‘dumb down’ their approach. Instead, they should be able to dig deep and adjust, employing smarter tactics to win the fight. In other words, the game shouldn’t just hand out victories. The player’s ability to think and act like a boxer should be tested, making success feel earned rather than guaranteed.

Think about how legendary boxers like Floyd Mayweather or Muhammad Ali would approach each fight differently. Mayweather is known for his defensive genius and ability to adapt to nearly any style, while Ali’s combination of quick footwork and unpredictable movement made him a unique puzzle for anyone stepping into the ring. A boxing game should challenge players to figure out how to handle these different styles and find the most effective way to defeat them. Instead of reducing the game to a set number of “acceptable” strategies, players should feel like they are truly in a living, breathing fight.

Adapting, Learning, and Overcoming

In real boxing, if a fighter enters the ring with a rigid mindset, they are likely to be defeated. Adaptability is key. The same should apply in a realistic boxing game. If a player struggles against a particular opponent, it is on them to adjust their strategy—whether that means switching up their punch selection, maintaining better distance, using feints, or closing the gap with quick footwork. The game's design should foster this mindset and encourage players to evolve with every fight.

In boxing, no opponent is ever the same. Each boxer has a unique set of strengths and weaknesses. This means that players must learn how to approach different fighters, whether it’s dealing with an elusive defensive fighter or an aggressive knockout artist. Instead of forcing players into a fixed playstyle, the game should encourage them to adapt. For example, if a player faces an aggressive fighter, they may need to use a more counter-punching style to create openings. On the other hand, facing a more cautious boxer might require the player to be the aggressor, pressuring them to open up.

This adaptability is what makes boxing so captivating—both in real life and in video games. Each fight is a dynamic puzzle, where the outcome isn’t determined by pre-set patterns or easy solutions. The player must analyze, adjust, and fight intelligently, just like the best boxers do in the ring. A great boxing video game should capture that essence, offering depth, complexity, and, most importantly, the freedom to control your own destiny.

Building a True-to-Life Experience: Player-Centered Design

A true-to-life boxing video game should place the player at the heart of every match, offering the tools and mechanics to not just fight but to master the art of boxing. The beauty of boxing isn’t in winning easily, but in the challenge of overcoming an opponent’s strengths, learning their patterns, and then applying your own strategies to break through. The game design should reflect this by encouraging players to constantly learn, adapt, and refine their skills—just like a real boxer.

This approach requires developers to resist the temptation to “dumb down” the gameplay for the sake of mass appeal. Instead, the game should reward those who put in the time and effort to master its mechanics. Whether it’s the rhythm of punches, the subtle shifts in footwork, or the ways boxers move and react in the ring, every detail should contribute to a highly dynamic and engaging experience.

Conclusion

In the end, a boxing video game shouldn’t try to convince players that realistic boxing is boring or too hard to enjoy. On the contrary, it should celebrate the complexities and strategies that make boxing such a thrilling sport. The narrative should never be one of forced simplicity or predictable outcomes. Instead, it should emphasize player control and adaptability. If a boxer is not fighting the way you expect, it’s not the game’s fault—it’s an opportunity for you to step up your skills, adjust your strategy, and ultimately control your outcome. That’s the true spirit of boxing—and it should be the core of every realistic boxing game.

The Importance of Freedom and Strategy in Realistic Boxing Video Games

The Power of Player Choice

Dumbing Down the Experience: A False Path

The Challenge of Authenticity

Adapting, Learning, and Overcoming

Building a True-to-Life Experience: Player-Centered Design

Conclusion

Too Many Content Creators Are Giving Fighting Game Feedback for Undisputed Boxing Videogame: This Is Why Undisputed Is In a Bad Place!

Too Many Content Creators Are Giving Fighting Game Feedback for Undisputed Boxing Videogame: This Is Why Undisputed Is In a Bad Place!

The world of video game development is always buzzing with feedback, ideas, and criticism. For a title like Undisputed, which promises to deliver a realistic boxing experience, feedback is incredibly crucial. However, the reality is that many content creators, particularly those from the fighting game community, are offering input that might not necessarily align with the vision for a true-to-life boxing simulation. This influx of fighting game-centric feedback could be a major reason why Undisputed is struggling to live up to its full potential.

The Problem: Fighting Game Feedback Does Not Always Translate to Boxing

Fighting games and boxing simulations may share some superficial similarities—punches, combos, and defensive maneuvers—but they operate fundamentally differently. Fighting games, with their roots in arcade-style gameplay, emphasize fluidity, fast-paced action, and, often, exaggerated, unrealistic movements. Players expect to perform combo strings, pull off flashy attacks, and rely on over-the-top mechanics that prioritize entertainment over authenticity.

Boxing, on the other hand, is a nuanced sport built on strategy, timing, and tactics. In real life, boxers aren’t simply throwing a flurry of punches hoping to land one. Instead, they’re constantly managing stamina, precision, angles, footwork, and timing. The level of discipline required for successful boxing is far greater than most fighting games require. Unfortunately, this distinction is often lost when content creators with fighting game backgrounds provide feedback on Undisputed.

The Impact on Undisputed’s Realism

Undisputed has always touted its desire to be a realistic boxing simulation, and for good reason. There’s a deep community of boxing fans and hardcore gamers who long for a more immersive experience, one that captures the true essence of the sport. However, as feedback pours in from creators who are used to fighting games, it often pushes the game toward an arcade-style experience.

Combo Heavy Playstyle: Fighting games are known for their emphasis on combos—stringing together attacks in rapid succession. This approach isn’t representative of boxing, where each punch has purpose, and rapid-fire combinations are rare outside of specific tactics. Feedback that encourages more combo-driven gameplay undermines the slower, tactical pace that makes boxing so captivating.
Exaggerated Movements and Speed: In many fighting games, characters are expected to move at high speeds and perform exaggerated maneuvers. Boxers in Undisputed should be grounded in reality, meaning their movements should reflect the limitations of the human body. Fast, elastic punches and overly agile footwork detract from the authenticity of the sport and pull Undisputed away from its simulation aspirations.
Lack of Tactical Depth: Boxing is a game of strategy, not mindless button pressing. The key to success is in how you manage distance, how you set up punches, and how you read your opponent. When feedback pushes for features like easy countering or automatic ways to string punches together, it dilutes the strategic depth that real boxing requires.
Simplified Controls: In an attempt to make Undisputed more approachable, some feedback suggests simplifying the controls or adopting a “button-mashing” style. In boxing, however, each movement, each punch, and each defensive maneuver is deliberate. Reducing the complexity of controls could result in a watered-down experience that ignores the intricacies of real boxing.

The Disconnect with Hardcore Boxing Fans

The problem with fighting game feedback is that it comes from individuals who are often not familiar with the finer details of boxing itself. Content creators in the fighting game sphere are typically more focused on fluid, flashy gameplay that appeals to a broader audience, not necessarily the simulation-focused player base that longs for a boxing game grounded in authenticity.

Hardcore boxing fans have specific expectations when it comes to game mechanics—things like the subtlety of body movement, realistic punch trajectories, and stamina management. They don’t want to see a game where every fighter can throw rapid combinations without consequence or where players are simply rewarded for spamming the same punch patterns. Instead, they want a game that requires skill, precision, and an understanding of boxing fundamentals.

Unfortunately, the more feedback Undisputed takes from those entrenched in fighting games, the more the game drifts away from those realistic expectations. The balance between accessibility and realism is hard to achieve, but with the wrong kind of feedback pushing the game further toward arcade-style mechanics, it’s becoming evident that Undisputed might not be delivering the experience fans were hoping for.

The Solution: Listening to the Right Voices

Undisputed needs to start listening to those with a deeper understanding of boxing—both in terms of real-life fighters and boxing fans who crave a true simulation. Feedback should come from those who understand the technicalities of the sport—individuals who know how difficult it is to throw a jab, manage your breathing, or maintain proper stance throughout a grueling fight. It’s important for the development team to discern the difference between advice that will enhance the boxing experience and feedback that could inadvertently lead the game down the wrong path.

Instead of focusing too much on broad accessibility or arcade elements, the developers should focus on refining the game’s tactical and strategic depth. This would include improving the AI’s ability to simulate real-life boxing behavior, enhancing the realism of punch physics, and introducing a more robust stamina system.

Conclusion

In an ideal world, Undisputed would cater to both boxing enthusiasts and a wider audience. However, the game risks alienating its most dedicated fans if it continues to prioritize feedback from fighting game content creators whose input is too far removed from the reality of boxing. By refocusing on what makes boxing unique and listening to voices that understand the sport’s complexities, Undisputed can still deliver the authentic experience fans are craving. Until then, the game will likely remain in a state of flux—caught between the demands of the arcade crowd and the expectations of those who want a true boxing simulation.

Too Many Content Creators Are Giving Fighting Game Feedback for Undisputed Boxing Videogame: This Is Why Undisputed Is In a Bad Place!

Too Many Content Creators Are Giving Fighting Game Feedback for Undisputed Boxing Videogame: This Is Why Undisputed Is In a Bad Place!

The Problem: Fighting Game Feedback Does Not Always Translate to Boxing

The Impact on Undisputed’s Realism

Combo Heavy Playstyle: Fighting games are known for their emphasis on combos—stringing together attacks in rapid succession. This approach isn’t representative of boxing, where each punch has purpose, and rapid-fire combinations are rare outside of specific tactics. Feedback that encourages more combo-driven gameplay undermines the slower, tactical pace that makes boxing so captivating.
Exaggerated Movements and Speed: In many fighting games, characters are expected to move at high speeds and perform exaggerated maneuvers. Boxers in Undisputed should be grounded in reality, meaning their movements should reflect the limitations of the human body. Fast, elastic punches and overly agile footwork detract from the authenticity of the sport and pull Undisputed away from its simulation aspirations.
Lack of Tactical Depth: Boxing is a game of strategy, not mindless button pressing. The key to success is in how you manage distance, how you set up punches, and how you read your opponent. When feedback pushes for features like easy countering or automatic ways to string punches together, it dilutes the strategic depth that real boxing requires.
Simplified Controls: In an attempt to make Undisputed more approachable, some feedback suggests simplifying the controls or adopting a “button-mashing” style. In boxing, however, each movement, each punch, and each defensive maneuver is deliberate. Reducing the complexity of controls could result in a watered-down experience that ignores the intricacies of real boxing.

The Disconnect with Hardcore Boxing Fans

The Solution: Listening to the Right Voices

Conclusion

The Silencing of Criticism: Why Undisputed Hired Content Creators but Ignored Their Input

The purpose of Undisputed hiring content creators to their team, on the surface, seemed to be about engaging the boxing gaming community, promoting the game, and having so-called "hardcore fans" provide input to make the game better. However, based on how things have played out, it appears that their involvement was more about controlling the narrative, limiting criticism, and ensuring that these creators wouldn't speak out against issues with the game.

Many of these creators were vocal critics before they were hired or brought on as ambassadors, yet once they joined, their criticism either softened significantly or stopped altogether. This has led to speculation that they were either explicitly told not to criticize the game publicly or felt pressure to stay positive to maintain their role with the team.

It's a classic case of "community management" disguised as fan involvement. Rather than allowing these creators to have a genuine impact on gameplay mechanics, realism, or development priorities, they were seemingly used as marketing tools to generate hype and push the studio’s messaging. Meanwhile, their actual influence on improving the realism of the game (which many of them originally advocated for) appears to have been minimal.

This strategy isn't uncommon in gaming. Companies often hire or work closely with content creators to build goodwill with the community while simultaneously preventing them from being too outspoken about flaws. In Undisputed's case, it backfired with the hardcore boxing sim crowd, as the game moved further away from its ESBC-era promise of realism, and many of its former biggest supporters began questioning its direction.

What do you think? Do you feel this move hurt Undisputed’s credibility?

The Silencing of Criticism: Why Undisputed Hired Content Creators but Ignored Their Input

What do you think? Do you feel this move hurt Undisputed’s credibility?

Friday, March 14, 2025

Adding New Boxers or Features to Undisputed Will Do Nothing for the Player Base If the Game Isn't Fixed and Substantially Upgraded

**Adding New Boxers or Features to Undisputed Will Do Nothing for the Player Base If the Game Isn't Fixed and Substantially Upgraded**

The Undisputed boxing game has had a rollercoaster of a development cycle, initially capturing the excitement of boxing fans who craved a realistic, simulation-style experience. However, as time has passed, frustration has built within the player base due to fundamental issues that persist. While the developers continue to introduce new boxers and features, these additions will do little to maintain or grow the player base if the game itself remains riddled with gameplay flaws, mechanical inconsistencies, and a lack of necessary improvements.

New Content Without Fundamental Fixes Is Just a Distraction

Adding new fighters or flashy features can be exciting at face value, but it does nothing to address core gameplay mechanics that remain problematic. A boxing game isn’t just about who is on the roster—it’s about how the game plays, how realistic the physics are, and how immersive the experience is for players who want a true-to-life simulation. If the core mechanics are broken or underwhelming, then no amount of DLC fighters or cosmetic add-ons will make the game feel complete.

Many players already feel that Undisputed has lost its initial spark because of glaring issues that have been ignored or inadequately addressed. Rather than prioritizing roster expansion, the development team needs to focus on refining the gameplay experience so that it feels smooth, balanced, and true to the sport.

What Needs to Be Fixed?

The issues plaguing Undisputed aren’t minor inconveniences; they are fundamental flaws that impact the overall gameplay experience. Here are some of the most pressing concerns:

Punch Variety and Realism – The game still lacks a deep selection of punch animations, with many punches feeling robotic or generic rather than tailored to different boxing styles. Fighters don’t always throw punches as they do in real life, making for an inconsistent and unrealistic experience.
Defensive Mechanics and Blocking – The defensive side of boxing is just as important as offense, yet the blocking mechanics in Undisputed feel limited and unrefined. The game lacks a diverse selection of block styles and hybrids that would allow fighters to defend realistically based on their tendencies.
Movement and Footwork – Loose foot movement, which should be a defining feature for certain boxers, is still too accessible to fighters who shouldn’t have it. Additionally, movement often feels floaty rather than grounded, which takes away from the realism.
AI Behavior and CPU Fights – AI-controlled fighters should exhibit realistic tendencies based on their actual fighting styles. Instead, many boxers in the game behave similarly, making CPU fights feel repetitive and uninspired.
Clinch System – Clinching is a vital part of boxing strategy, used for defense, recovery, and tactical advantages. However, Undisputed has yet to implement a proper clinch system, which is a glaring omission for a game that strives for realism.
Stamina and Fatigue Management – Stamina should be a bigger factor in gameplay, with boxers tiring realistically based on their activity level and fighting style. Right now, the stamina system feels too forgiving or inconsistent.
Tactical Depth and Fight Strategy – Undisputed does not always encourage strategic boxing. Instead, players can often get away with spamming punches or relying on unbalanced mechanics rather than approaching fights with real-world boxing tactics.

New Features Should Enhance Gameplay, Not Cover Up Problems

Instead of focusing on adding fighters, the development team should be prioritizing updates that enhance core gameplay depth. Features such as an improved training system, a robust ranking structure, a deeper career mode, and better fight presentations would add to the realism of the game. However, these elements would be meaningless if the fundamental mechanics aren’t solid.

For example:

If a fighter’s punches don’t look or feel right, then adding more fighters won’t solve anything.
If movement and defense remain underdeveloped, then it won’t matter how many new features are introduced.
If AI fighters don’t behave realistically, then career mode and CPU vs. CPU matches won’t be engaging.

The Long-Term Impact on Player Retention

Boxing fans and gamers are willing to invest in a game that delivers on its promise of realism and authenticity. However, the longer Undisputed ignores critical gameplay fixes in favor of adding content, the more players will lose interest. A boxing game should be a long-term experience, where players feel like they can improve, adapt, and compete in a realistic simulation of the sport.

Right now, the concern is that Undisputed is prioritizing the wrong aspects of development. Rather than delivering substantial upgrades, the focus has been on introducing fighters and features that don’t meaningfully improve gameplay. This is a dangerous path, as it risks alienating the very fanbase that once championed the game.

Conclusion

A boxing game should be built on a strong foundation of realistic gameplay, strategic depth, and immersive mechanics. Undisputed had the potential to set a new standard for boxing games, but without addressing its core flaws, it will struggle to maintain its player base.

New boxers and flashy features are fine, but they mean nothing if the game remains fundamentally flawed. The developers need to shift their focus to gameplay improvements, realism upgrades, and mechanical refinements—only then will Undisputed truly live up to its promise.

Adding New Boxers or Features to Undisputed Will Do Nothing for the Player Base If the Game Isn't Fixed and Substantially Upgraded

**Adding New Boxers or Features to Undisputed Will Do Nothing for the Player Base If the Game Isn't Fixed and Substantially Upgraded**

New Content Without Fundamental Fixes Is Just a Distraction

What Needs to Be Fixed?

The issues plaguing Undisputed aren’t minor inconveniences; they are fundamental flaws that impact the overall gameplay experience. Here are some of the most pressing concerns:

Punch Variety and Realism – The game still lacks a deep selection of punch animations, with many punches feeling robotic or generic rather than tailored to different boxing styles. Fighters don’t always throw punches as they do in real life, making for an inconsistent and unrealistic experience.
Defensive Mechanics and Blocking – The defensive side of boxing is just as important as offense, yet the blocking mechanics in Undisputed feel limited and unrefined. The game lacks a diverse selection of block styles and hybrids that would allow fighters to defend realistically based on their tendencies.
Movement and Footwork – Loose foot movement, which should be a defining feature for certain boxers, is still too accessible to fighters who shouldn’t have it. Additionally, movement often feels floaty rather than grounded, which takes away from the realism.
AI Behavior and CPU Fights – AI-controlled fighters should exhibit realistic tendencies based on their actual fighting styles. Instead, many boxers in the game behave similarly, making CPU fights feel repetitive and uninspired.
Clinch System – Clinching is a vital part of boxing strategy, used for defense, recovery, and tactical advantages. However, Undisputed has yet to implement a proper clinch system, which is a glaring omission for a game that strives for realism.
Stamina and Fatigue Management – Stamina should be a bigger factor in gameplay, with boxers tiring realistically based on their activity level and fighting style. Right now, the stamina system feels too forgiving or inconsistent.
Tactical Depth and Fight Strategy – Undisputed does not always encourage strategic boxing. Instead, players can often get away with spamming punches or relying on unbalanced mechanics rather than approaching fights with real-world boxing tactics.

New Features Should Enhance Gameplay, Not Cover Up Problems

For example:

If a fighter’s punches don’t look or feel right, then adding more fighters won’t solve anything.
If movement and defense remain underdeveloped, then it won’t matter how many new features are introduced.
If AI fighters don’t behave realistically, then career mode and CPU vs. CPU matches won’t be engaging.

The Long-Term Impact on Player Retention

Conclusion

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Undisputed Boxing Game: Fans Frustrated with Slow Updates and Lack of Meaningful Improvements

a lot of fans have been vocal about their disappointment with Undisputed's updates. The frustration seems to stem from a few key issues:

1. Slow Update Rollouts

The game has been in early access for over a year, and while updates have been released, they’ve been infrequent and underwhelming. Fans expected more frequent improvements, especially given how long the game has been in development.

2. Ignoring Core Issues

Major gameplay problems like unrealistic movement, weak punch reactions, lackluster physics, and the overall lack of fluidity in animations have not been properly addressed.
Instead of fixing fundamental gameplay mechanics, updates have focused more on adding new fighters or minor visual improvements.

3. Career Mode Feels Unfinished

The recent update introduced weight class movement, but many fans feel it lacks depth. The AI still doesn’t fight realistically, and the career progression system is barebones.
No real improvements to rankings, contract negotiations, or how fighters evolve over time.

4. Lack of Realistic Boxing Mechanics

Undisputed was marketed as a sim boxing game, but many fans believe it has shifted toward a more arcade-like experience. The footwork system, lack of true inside fighting, and missing real-world boxing strategies are still unresolved.

5. Poor Communication from Developers

Steel City Interactive has been inconsistent with updates and hasn’t directly addressed a lot of community concerns. They drop a patch and then go silent for months, which leaves fans feeling ignored.
Their recent development update video in January 2025 didn’t offer any major fixes or features that hardcore boxing fans have been asking for.

6. Unrealistic Fighter Styles

Many real-life boxers in the game don’t fight like their real-life counterparts. Instead of using unique animations or AI behavior, fighters often feel generic and robotic.
The promised improvements to tendencies and styles haven’t been implemented properly.

7. No Meaningful Improvements to Online Play

Online gameplay is still plagued by lag, matchmaking issues, and unrealistic fights where players exploit the same moves.
No proper ranked mode or serious attempt to balance online mechanics for competitive play.

What Fans Expected But Didn't Get

Better punch animations & physics
More realistic footwork (loose movement for all is a problem)
True boxer tendencies (AI fights too robotic)
Expanded career mode features (more customization, deeper progression)
More frequent and meaningful updates
More transparency from developers

It’s clear that fans want Undisputed to be the ultimate realistic boxing sim, but right now, it feels like the developers are missing the mark. Do you think there’s still hope for them to turn things around, or do you feel like they're stuck in the wrong direction?

Undisputed Boxing Game: Fans Frustrated with Slow Updates and Lack of Meaningful Improvements

a lot of fans have been vocal about their disappointment with Undisputed's updates. The frustration seems to stem from a few key issues:

1. Slow Update Rollouts

The game has been in early access for over a year, and while updates have been released, they’ve been infrequent and underwhelming. Fans expected more frequent improvements, especially given how long the game has been in development.

2. Ignoring Core Issues

Major gameplay problems like unrealistic movement, weak punch reactions, lackluster physics, and the overall lack of fluidity in animations have not been properly addressed.
Instead of fixing fundamental gameplay mechanics, updates have focused more on adding new fighters or minor visual improvements.

3. Career Mode Feels Unfinished

The recent update introduced weight class movement, but many fans feel it lacks depth. The AI still doesn’t fight realistically, and the career progression system is barebones.
No real improvements to rankings, contract negotiations, or how fighters evolve over time.

4. Lack of Realistic Boxing Mechanics

Undisputed was marketed as a sim boxing game, but many fans believe it has shifted toward a more arcade-like experience. The footwork system, lack of true inside fighting, and missing real-world boxing strategies are still unresolved.

5. Poor Communication from Developers

Steel City Interactive has been inconsistent with updates and hasn’t directly addressed a lot of community concerns. They drop a patch and then go silent for months, which leaves fans feeling ignored.
Their recent development update video in January 2025 didn’t offer any major fixes or features that hardcore boxing fans have been asking for.

6. Unrealistic Fighter Styles

Many real-life boxers in the game don’t fight like their real-life counterparts. Instead of using unique animations or AI behavior, fighters often feel generic and robotic.
The promised improvements to tendencies and styles haven’t been implemented properly.

7. No Meaningful Improvements to Online Play

Online gameplay is still plagued by lag, matchmaking issues, and unrealistic fights where players exploit the same moves.
No proper ranked mode or serious attempt to balance online mechanics for competitive play.

What Fans Expected But Didn't Get

Better punch animations & physics
More realistic footwork (loose movement for all is a problem)
True boxer tendencies (AI fights too robotic)
Expanded career mode features (more customization, deeper progression)
More frequent and meaningful updates
More transparency from developers

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Is Turki Alal Shikh Using Takashi Nishiyama to Make a Boxing Game? Would It Be a Conflict of Interest If He Is Partnered With SCI?

Introduction

The gaming and combat sports communities have been buzzing with speculation about whether Turki Alal Shikh, the influential Saudi Arabian sports and gaming investor, is backing a boxing video game separate from Undisputed. Adding fuel to the discussion is the rumored involvement of Takashi Nishiyama, the legendary game developer known for his work on Street Fighter and Fatal Fury. If true, this raises a significant question—would Turki Alal Shikh’s alleged investment in a separate boxing game pose a conflict of interest if he is also tied to Steel City Interactive (SCI), the developers of Undisputed?

Turki Alal Shikh’s Gaming Investments

Turki Alal Shikh is widely recognized for his deep involvement in combat sports and gaming. His backing of The Arena Esports and various fighting game tournaments has positioned him as a key player in interactive entertainment. His influence extends beyond esports, with Saudi Arabia actively investing in the video game industry through the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Given his track record, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to assume he might want to back a boxing game project—especially if Undisputed is struggling to meet expectations.

Takashi Nishiyama’s Role in a Potential Boxing Game

Takashi Nishiyama is a pioneer in the fighting game genre. His expertise in designing combat-based mechanics could be instrumental in creating a new boxing game that challenges the current direction of Undisputed. If he is indeed working on a new boxing title, it could indicate a shift towards a different approach—perhaps one that blends arcade-style accessibility with realistic elements.

However, boxing fans who have long clamored for a true-to-life simulation may wonder: Is this new game intended to be a competitor to Undisputed, or will it take a different, more stylized approach akin to Fight Night Champion?

The Conflict of Interest Question

If Turki Alal Shikh is still financially or strategically partnered with SCI while also funding a rival boxing game, this would present an apparent conflict of interest. Some questions that arise include:

Does SCI still have financial backing or partnership agreements with Turki Alal Shikh?
If Turki is funding a competing boxing game, does it mean he has lost confidence in Undisputed?
Could this new project pressure SCI to accelerate development or change direction?

If Turki Alal Shikh is supporting another boxing title while remaining tied to SCI in any capacity, it could be seen as a strategic hedge—ensuring that he has a stake in whichever game ultimately succeeds.

What This Means for the Future of Boxing Games

The boxing video game market has been underserved for over a decade, with Undisputed carrying the burden of being the first major simulation boxing game in years. If a new boxing title emerges—particularly one led by a respected name like Nishiyama—it could intensify competition and drive innovation.

If Turki Alal Shikh is funding another game, it could mean:

SCI may no longer have his full backing, signaling potential financial instability.
A new boxing game could challenge Undisputed directly, especially if it provides features or mechanics that fans feel Undisputed lacks.
The landscape of boxing games could change drastically, with multiple companies vying for dominance.

Conclusion

At this point, the involvement of Turki Alal Shikh in a new boxing game remains speculative, but if true, it would be a significant development. His connection to SCI and Undisputed would make such a move highly controversial, particularly if it signals waning confidence in the game's future. Meanwhile, Takashi Nishiyama’s potential involvement suggests that another major boxing title could be on the horizon.

For boxing game fans, competition is ultimately a good thing—so long as at least one title delivers the deep, realistic experience they’ve been waiting for. The question now is: Will it be Undisputed, or will another game rise to take its place?