Wednesday, April 9, 2025

The Fall of Undisputed: How a Promising Boxing Simulation Lost Its Way



Introduction

When Undisputed (formerly eSports Boxing Club, or ESBC) was first revealed, it was hailed as the return of boxing to the video game arena. It promised realism, a vast roster, detailed boxer tendencies, and a redefinition of boxing simulation. The early trailers and pre-alpha footage excited hardcore boxing fans and casual players alike. But now, the buzz has faded, the community is fractured, and what was once seen as boxing’s digital savior is on life support. This is the story of the fall of Undisputed.


1. The Hype Train and Its Promise

Steel City Interactive (SCI), a small independent studio, made waves by revealing ambitious goals: capturing real boxer movements, recreating real fighting styles, and delivering deep mechanics like feint systems, stamina management, and realistic punch reactions. The reveal trailers, especially those showcasing fighters like Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali in motion, set the tone.

With a growing roster of licensed boxers—many of whom were exclusive—and a presentation style closer to a live televised event than a game, the expectations were monumental. Hardcore fans believed Undisputed would finally bring back what EA Sports abandoned after Fight Night Champion.


2. Alpha Glory vs. Final Reality

The shift from ESBC to Undisputed marked more than a name change. Fans began to notice a subtle but significant alteration in tone and direction. The alpha builds shown early on—grainy yet visceral—had punch reactions that made fighters stumble, realistic movement flow, and a grounded feel.

But as development progressed, the visuals became cleaner, yet the gameplay became more arcade-like. Knockouts lost their weight. Punches stopped snapping heads back. Fighters moved with unnatural looseness. The momentum-based physics were dulled, and punches lacked variety in animation and impact.

This was not the gritty, tactical sim fans were promised. This was something else.


3. Communication Breakdown and Community Frustration

Initially, SCI kept communication steady. Dev diaries, interviews, and roadmaps were shared. But when fans began voicing concerns—especially those advocating for realism—the studio's responses became inconsistent or defensive.

Longtime supporters, including content creators who championed the game from the beginning, began questioning the studio’s choices. Many felt unheard, especially those who had helped build the early community by rallying around realism.

Worse still, SCI started marketing the game more broadly, possibly attempting to appeal to casual players—watering down the mechanics in the process. What was once a love letter to boxing purists began to resemble a generic fighting game with a boxing skin.


4. Gameplay Identity Crisis

One of the major issues that led to the downfall was Undisputed’s identity crisis. Was it a sim or was it a casual experience?

Key sim features that had been teased—like off-balance punches, realistic clinching, ring positioning advantages, and visible wear-and-tear—were either absent or underdeveloped. Instead, mechanics like "loose movement" gave every fighter unnatural mobility, and the stamina system became less punishing, leading to mindless exchanges that resembled rock 'em sock 'em robots.

Rather than anchoring boxers to their real-life tendencies and limitations, the game allowed unrealistic playstyles and wide deviations from how boxers perform in reality. Ironically, the very realism that made the game attractive was being slowly stripped away.


5. Missed Opportunities and Mishandled Feedback

There were plenty of chances to recover. The community offered thousands of ideas—from punch trajectory improvements to realistic clinch systems and AI behavior modeling. But SCI failed to act decisively.

Instead of collaborating with fans and real boxers in meaningful ways during development, they waited until after launch to collect feedback. Even then, it often felt like damage control rather than genuine course correction.

Moreover, game modes that could’ve expanded the game’s appeal—like a deep career mode, promoter mode, or fully-featured creation suite—remained unfinished or nonexistent.


6. The AI and Spectator Experience Neglected

Another glaring flaw was the game's treatment of AI and CPU-vs-CPU fights. For a game that promised realism, it delivered CPU fighters who acted with little tactical awareness or style recognition.

AI fights were dull, repetitive, and lacked the drama that real boxing matches contain. Hardcore fans, many of whom enjoy spectating fantasy matches or simulating careers, were left with broken immersion.


7. A Changing Industry and a Lost Lead

While Undisputed floundered, the gaming industry continued to evolve. Unreal Engine's capabilities grew. Fan-made boxing projects started gaining traction, especially those using Unity or Unreal with more customization and realism-driven systems.

Instead of leading the genre revival, Undisputed became a cautionary tale—a game that set expectations sky-high, only to fail in meeting its own standard.


Conclusion: A Legacy of Lessons

Undisputed was supposed to be the Fight Night successor. Instead, it’s a case study in overpromising, underdelivering, and losing touch with your core audience.

The fall of Undisputed isn’t just about bad mechanics or disappointing updates. It's about a broken bond between developer and community. It's a reminder that realism is not a trend—it’s a foundation. And when that foundation is ignored in favor of appeasing the masses, the product becomes just another forgettable entry in gaming history.

For future boxing titles, Undisputed serves as both a warning and a blueprint: Listen to your community. Define your identity. And never forget why people believed in you to begin with.


Article by:
A Voice for Realistic Boxing Games
April 2025

The Fall of Undisputed: How a Promising Boxing Simulation Lost Its Way



Introduction

When Undisputed (formerly eSports Boxing Club, or ESBC) was first revealed, it was hailed as the return of boxing to the video game arena. It promised realism, a vast roster, detailed boxer tendencies, and a redefinition of boxing simulation. The early trailers and pre-alpha footage excited hardcore boxing fans and casual players alike. But now, the buzz has faded, the community is fractured, and what was once seen as boxing’s digital savior is on life support. This is the story of the fall of Undisputed.


1. The Hype Train and Its Promise

Steel City Interactive (SCI), a small independent studio, made waves by revealing ambitious goals: capturing real boxer movements, recreating real fighting styles, and delivering deep mechanics like feint systems, stamina management, and realistic punch reactions. The reveal trailers, especially those showcasing fighters like Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali in motion, set the tone.

With a growing roster of licensed boxers—many of whom were exclusive—and a presentation style closer to a live televised event than a game, the expectations were monumental. Hardcore fans believed Undisputed would finally bring back what EA Sports abandoned after Fight Night Champion.


2. Alpha Glory vs. Final Reality

The shift from ESBC to Undisputed marked more than a name change. Fans began to notice a subtle but significant alteration in tone and direction. The alpha builds shown early on—grainy yet visceral—had punch reactions that made fighters stumble, realistic movement flow, and a grounded feel.

But as development progressed, the visuals became cleaner, yet the gameplay became more arcade-like. Knockouts lost their weight. Punches stopped snapping heads back. Fighters moved with unnatural looseness. The momentum-based physics were dulled, and punches lacked variety in animation and impact.

This was not the gritty, tactical sim fans were promised. This was something else.


3. Communication Breakdown and Community Frustration

Initially, SCI kept communication steady. Dev diaries, interviews, and roadmaps were shared. But when fans began voicing concerns—especially those advocating for realism—the studio's responses became inconsistent or defensive.

Longtime supporters, including content creators who championed the game from the beginning, began questioning the studio’s choices. Many felt unheard, especially those who had helped build the early community by rallying around realism.

Worse still, SCI started marketing the game more broadly, possibly attempting to appeal to casual players—watering down the mechanics in the process. What was once a love letter to boxing purists began to resemble a generic fighting game with a boxing skin.


4. Gameplay Identity Crisis

One of the major issues that led to the downfall was Undisputed’s identity crisis. Was it a sim or was it a casual experience?

Key sim features that had been teased—like off-balance punches, realistic clinching, ring positioning advantages, and visible wear-and-tear—were either absent or underdeveloped. Instead, mechanics like "loose movement" gave every fighter unnatural mobility, and the stamina system became less punishing, leading to mindless exchanges that resembled rock 'em sock 'em robots.

Rather than anchoring boxers to their real-life tendencies and limitations, the game allowed unrealistic playstyles and wide deviations from how boxers perform in reality. Ironically, the very realism that made the game attractive was being slowly stripped away.


5. Missed Opportunities and Mishandled Feedback

There were plenty of chances to recover. The community offered thousands of ideas—from punch trajectory improvements to realistic clinch systems and AI behavior modeling. But SCI failed to act decisively.

Instead of collaborating with fans and real boxers in meaningful ways during development, they waited until after launch to collect feedback. Even then, it often felt like damage control rather than genuine course correction.

Moreover, game modes that could’ve expanded the game’s appeal—like a deep career mode, promoter mode, or fully-featured creation suite—remained unfinished or nonexistent.


6. The AI and Spectator Experience Neglected

Another glaring flaw was the game's treatment of AI and CPU-vs-CPU fights. For a game that promised realism, it delivered CPU fighters who acted with little tactical awareness or style recognition.

AI fights were dull, repetitive, and lacked the drama that real boxing matches contain. Hardcore fans, many of whom enjoy spectating fantasy matches or simulating careers, were left with broken immersion.


7. A Changing Industry and a Lost Lead

While Undisputed floundered, the gaming industry continued to evolve. Unreal Engine's capabilities grew. Fan-made boxing projects started gaining traction, especially those using Unity or Unreal with more customization and realism-driven systems.

Instead of leading the genre revival, Undisputed became a cautionary tale—a game that set expectations sky-high, only to fail in meeting its own standard.


Conclusion: A Legacy of Lessons

Undisputed was supposed to be the Fight Night successor. Instead, it’s a case study in overpromising, underdelivering, and losing touch with your core audience.

The fall of Undisputed isn’t just about bad mechanics or disappointing updates. It's about a broken bond between developer and community. It's a reminder that realism is not a trend—it’s a foundation. And when that foundation is ignored in favor of appeasing the masses, the product becomes just another forgettable entry in gaming history.

For future boxing titles, Undisputed serves as both a warning and a blueprint: Listen to your community. Define your identity. And never forget why people believed in you to begin with.


Article by:
A Voice for Realistic Boxing Games
April 2025

The Fall of Undisputed: How a Promising Boxing Simulation Lost Its Way



Introduction

When Undisputed (formerly eSports Boxing Club, or ESBC) was first revealed, it was hailed as the return of boxing to the video game arena. It promised realism, a vast roster, detailed boxer tendencies, and a redefinition of boxing simulation. The early trailers and pre-alpha footage excited hardcore boxing fans and casual players alike. But now, the buzz has faded, the community is fractured, and what was once seen as boxing’s digital savior is on life support. This is the story of the fall of Undisputed.


1. The Hype Train and Its Promise

Steel City Interactive (SCI), a small independent studio, made waves by revealing ambitious goals: capturing real boxer movements, recreating real fighting styles, and delivering deep mechanics like feint systems, stamina management, and realistic punch reactions. The reveal trailers, especially those showcasing fighters like Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali in motion, set the tone.

With a growing roster of licensed boxers—many of whom were exclusive—and a presentation style closer to a live televised event than a game, the expectations were monumental. Hardcore fans believed Undisputed would finally bring back what EA Sports abandoned after Fight Night Champion.


2. Alpha Glory vs. Final Reality

The shift from ESBC to Undisputed marked more than a name change. Fans began to notice a subtle but significant alteration in tone and direction. The alpha builds shown early on—grainy yet visceral—had punch reactions that made fighters stumble, realistic movement flow, and a grounded feel.

But as development progressed, the visuals became cleaner, yet the gameplay became more arcade-like. Knockouts lost their weight. Punches stopped snapping heads back. Fighters moved with unnatural looseness. The momentum-based physics were dulled, and punches lacked variety in animation and impact.

This was not the gritty, tactical sim fans were promised. This was something else.


3. Communication Breakdown and Community Frustration

Initially, SCI kept communication steady. Dev diaries, interviews, and roadmaps were shared. But when fans began voicing concerns—especially those advocating for realism—the studio's responses became inconsistent or defensive.

Longtime supporters, including content creators who championed the game from the beginning, began questioning the studio’s choices. Many felt unheard, especially those who had helped build the early community by rallying around realism.

Worse still, SCI started marketing the game more broadly, possibly attempting to appeal to casual players—watering down the mechanics in the process. What was once a love letter to boxing purists began to resemble a generic fighting game with a boxing skin.


4. Gameplay Identity Crisis

One of the major issues that led to the downfall was Undisputed’s identity crisis. Was it a sim or was it a casual experience?

Key sim features that had been teased—like off-balance punches, realistic clinching, ring positioning advantages, and visible wear-and-tear—were either absent or underdeveloped. Instead, mechanics like "loose movement" gave every fighter unnatural mobility, and the stamina system became less punishing, leading to mindless exchanges that resembled rock 'em sock 'em robots.

Rather than anchoring boxers to their real-life tendencies and limitations, the game allowed unrealistic playstyles and wide deviations from how boxers perform in reality. Ironically, the very realism that made the game attractive was being slowly stripped away.


5. Missed Opportunities and Mishandled Feedback

There were plenty of chances to recover. The community offered thousands of ideas—from punch trajectory improvements to realistic clinch systems and AI behavior modeling. But SCI failed to act decisively.

Instead of collaborating with fans and real boxers in meaningful ways during development, they waited until after launch to collect feedback. Even then, it often felt like damage control rather than genuine course correction.

Moreover, game modes that could’ve expanded the game’s appeal—like a deep career mode, promoter mode, or fully-featured creation suite—remained unfinished or nonexistent.


6. The AI and Spectator Experience Neglected

Another glaring flaw was the game's treatment of AI and CPU-vs-CPU fights. For a game that promised realism, it delivered CPU fighters who acted with little tactical awareness or style recognition.

AI fights were dull, repetitive, and lacked the drama that real boxing matches contain. Hardcore fans, many of whom enjoy spectating fantasy matches or simulating careers, were left with broken immersion.


7. A Changing Industry and a Lost Lead

While Undisputed floundered, the gaming industry continued to evolve. Unreal Engine's capabilities grew. Fan-made boxing projects started gaining traction, especially those using Unity or Unreal with more customization and realism-driven systems.

Instead of leading the genre revival, Undisputed became a cautionary tale—a game that set expectations sky-high, only to fail in meeting its own standard.


Conclusion: A Legacy of Lessons

Undisputed was supposed to be the Fight Night successor. Instead, it’s a case study in overpromising, underdelivering, and losing touch with your core audience.

The fall of Undisputed isn’t just about bad mechanics or disappointing updates. It's about a broken bond between developer and community. It's a reminder that realism is not a trend—it’s a foundation. And when that foundation is ignored in favor of appeasing the masses, the product becomes just another forgettable entry in gaming history.

For future boxing titles, Undisputed serves as both a warning and a blueprint: Listen to your community. Define your identity. And never forget why people believed in you to begin with.


Article by:
A Voice for Realistic Boxing Games
April 2025

SCI Is Trying to Change Boxing Fans Into Arcade Fighting Fans Instead of Respecting the Sport of Boxing

 


Introduction:

Steel City Interactive (SCI), the developers behind Undisputed, once promised boxing fans a true simulation of the Sweet Science. However, as development has progressed, many fans have noticed a troubling trend: SCI appears to be slowly transforming their once-promising project into an arcade-style fighting game. Rather than honoring the unique, strategic nature of real boxing, SCI’s decisions increasingly reflect a desire to attract a broader, less demanding arcade crowd—alienating the very fanbase they initially captivated.


1. The Original Promise: A Sim Boxing Game

SCI’s early promotion of Undisputed (formerly ESBC) revolved around realism: authentic movement, stamina management, punch accuracy, realistic damage, and fighter-specific tendencies. The footage and developer commentary created a wave of excitement among hardcore boxing fans who longed for a modern, sim-based alternative to arcade brawlers like Fight Night Champion. It wasn’t just about gameplay—it was about representing boxing in its purest form.


2. The Shift Toward Arcade: Subtle But Intentional

Over time, that vision has visibly eroded. Many features that once showcased sim-depth—like realistic punch timing, subtle footwork, and strategic pacing—have been dulled or removed entirely. In their place, we now see faster punches, exaggerated reactions, and mechanics that reward button mashing rather than thoughtful strategy.

SCI claims they are “balancing fun and realism,” but the balance seems to be tipping entirely toward spectacle and speed. Real boxing fans never asked for an arcade fighter with boxing gloves. They asked for boxing.


3. Misleading the Core Audience

What makes this shift more frustrating is that SCI still markets Undisputed as a realistic boxing game. This creates a bait-and-switch dynamic: hardcore fans purchase the game expecting authenticity, only to find an experience that increasingly caters to casual and competitive online players who prefer flashy combos over tactical ring generalship.

Instead of embracing realism as a strength, SCI appears to be treating it as a liability.


4. Mechanics That Undermine the Sport

Several gameplay elements demonstrate this shift:

  • Combo Emphasis Over Individual Punch Craft: Instead of rewarding single, meaningful punches set up by timing and footwork, the game promotes flurries and spammable sequences.

  • Unrealistic Movement and Recovery: Boxers glide, recover instantly from punishment, and exhibit movement that doesn’t reflect real physics or fatigue. The feel of real momentum is lost.

  • Simplified Damage and Stamina Systems: The complexity of real boxing—where body shots, tempo changes, and mental warfare matter—has been flattened into a more predictable system.

These decisions do not reflect boxing’s layers; they strip it down into a caricature.


5. Why This Matters to Real Boxing Fans

Boxing is not just another combat sport. It’s a science of space, rhythm, anticipation, and precision. Real boxing fans don’t just want to win; they want to see strategy unfold. When a game removes the depth that defines the sport, it doesn't evolve—it devolves.

A realistic boxing game should allow fans to express the nuances of styles like the Philly Shell, the Peek-a-Boo, the Outboxer, or the Pressure Fighter—not reduce them all to one-size-fits-all animations and arcade patterns.


6. The Bigger Issue: Redefining What Boxing Fans Want

Perhaps the most dangerous aspect of SCI’s direction is the implicit message: that real boxing isn’t fun unless it’s altered. That fans must accept watered-down mechanics, flashy visuals, and arcade features to make boxing "appealing."

But this is false. The popularity of sim-heavy games like EA UFC 4’s realism mods, Football Manager, and NBA 2K’s MyNBA mode prove that depth and authenticity attract and retain loyal audiences.

SCI doesn’t need to change boxing fans into arcade fighting fans—they need to give boxing fans the sim game they were promised.


Conclusion:

SCI must decide what kind of game Undisputed wants to be. If it continues to stray into arcade territory, it risks losing the very people who championed its development from the beginning. There is still time to return to the roots of realism—to respect boxing’s rich heritage and give fans a game that mirrors the true sport, not a stylized imitation.

The choice is clear: evolve into a landmark boxing simulation—or settle for being a flashy fighting game wearing boxing’s gloves.


SCI Is Trying to Change Boxing Fans Into Arcade Fighting Fans Instead of Respecting the Sport of Boxing

 


Introduction:

Steel City Interactive (SCI), the developers behind Undisputed, once promised boxing fans a true simulation of the Sweet Science. However, as development has progressed, many fans have noticed a troubling trend: SCI appears to be slowly transforming their once-promising project into an arcade-style fighting game. Rather than honoring the unique, strategic nature of real boxing, SCI’s decisions increasingly reflect a desire to attract a broader, less demanding arcade crowd—alienating the very fanbase they initially captivated.


1. The Original Promise: A Sim Boxing Game

SCI’s early promotion of Undisputed (formerly ESBC) revolved around realism: authentic movement, stamina management, punch accuracy, realistic damage, and fighter-specific tendencies. The footage and developer commentary created a wave of excitement among hardcore boxing fans who longed for a modern, sim-based alternative to arcade brawlers like Fight Night Champion. It wasn’t just about gameplay—it was about representing boxing in its purest form.


2. The Shift Toward Arcade: Subtle But Intentional

Over time, that vision has visibly eroded. Many features that once showcased sim-depth—like realistic punch timing, subtle footwork, and strategic pacing—have been dulled or removed entirely. In their place, we now see faster punches, exaggerated reactions, and mechanics that reward button mashing rather than thoughtful strategy.

SCI claims they are “balancing fun and realism,” but the balance seems to be tipping entirely toward spectacle and speed. Real boxing fans never asked for an arcade fighter with boxing gloves. They asked for boxing.


3. Misleading the Core Audience

What makes this shift more frustrating is that SCI still markets Undisputed as a realistic boxing game. This creates a bait-and-switch dynamic: hardcore fans purchase the game expecting authenticity, only to find an experience that increasingly caters to casual and competitive online players who prefer flashy combos over tactical ring generalship.

Instead of embracing realism as a strength, SCI appears to be treating it as a liability.


4. Mechanics That Undermine the Sport

Several gameplay elements demonstrate this shift:

  • Combo Emphasis Over Individual Punch Craft: Instead of rewarding single, meaningful punches set up by timing and footwork, the game promotes flurries and spammable sequences.

  • Unrealistic Movement and Recovery: Boxers glide, recover instantly from punishment, and exhibit movement that doesn’t reflect real physics or fatigue. The feel of real momentum is lost.

  • Simplified Damage and Stamina Systems: The complexity of real boxing—where body shots, tempo changes, and mental warfare matter—has been flattened into a more predictable system.

These decisions do not reflect boxing’s layers; they strip it down into a caricature.


5. Why This Matters to Real Boxing Fans

Boxing is not just another combat sport. It’s a science of space, rhythm, anticipation, and precision. Real boxing fans don’t just want to win; they want to see strategy unfold. When a game removes the depth that defines the sport, it doesn't evolve—it devolves.

A realistic boxing game should allow fans to express the nuances of styles like the Philly Shell, the Peek-a-Boo, the Outboxer, or the Pressure Fighter—not reduce them all to one-size-fits-all animations and arcade patterns.


6. The Bigger Issue: Redefining What Boxing Fans Want

Perhaps the most dangerous aspect of SCI’s direction is the implicit message: that real boxing isn’t fun unless it’s altered. That fans must accept watered-down mechanics, flashy visuals, and arcade features to make boxing "appealing."

But this is false. The popularity of sim-heavy games like EA UFC 4’s realism mods, Football Manager, and NBA 2K’s MyNBA mode prove that depth and authenticity attract and retain loyal audiences.

SCI doesn’t need to change boxing fans into arcade fighting fans—they need to give boxing fans the sim game they were promised.


Conclusion:

SCI must decide what kind of game Undisputed wants to be. If it continues to stray into arcade territory, it risks losing the very people who championed its development from the beginning. There is still time to return to the roots of realism—to respect boxing’s rich heritage and give fans a game that mirrors the true sport, not a stylized imitation.

The choice is clear: evolve into a landmark boxing simulation—or settle for being a flashy fighting game wearing boxing’s gloves.


SCI Is Trying to Change Boxing Fans Into Arcade Fighting Fans Instead of Respecting the Sport of Boxing

 


Introduction:

Steel City Interactive (SCI), the developers behind Undisputed, once promised boxing fans a true simulation of the Sweet Science. However, as development has progressed, many fans have noticed a troubling trend: SCI appears to be slowly transforming their once-promising project into an arcade-style fighting game. Rather than honoring the unique, strategic nature of real boxing, SCI’s decisions increasingly reflect a desire to attract a broader, less demanding arcade crowd—alienating the very fanbase they initially captivated.


1. The Original Promise: A Sim Boxing Game

SCI’s early promotion of Undisputed (formerly ESBC) revolved around realism: authentic movement, stamina management, punch accuracy, realistic damage, and fighter-specific tendencies. The footage and developer commentary created a wave of excitement among hardcore boxing fans who longed for a modern, sim-based alternative to arcade brawlers like Fight Night Champion. It wasn’t just about gameplay—it was about representing boxing in its purest form.


2. The Shift Toward Arcade: Subtle But Intentional

Over time, that vision has visibly eroded. Many features that once showcased sim-depth—like realistic punch timing, subtle footwork, and strategic pacing—have been dulled or removed entirely. In their place, we now see faster punches, exaggerated reactions, and mechanics that reward button mashing rather than thoughtful strategy.

SCI claims they are “balancing fun and realism,” but the balance seems to be tipping entirely toward spectacle and speed. Real boxing fans never asked for an arcade fighter with boxing gloves. They asked for boxing.


3. Misleading the Core Audience

What makes this shift more frustrating is that SCI still markets Undisputed as a realistic boxing game. This creates a bait-and-switch dynamic: hardcore fans purchase the game expecting authenticity, only to find an experience that increasingly caters to casual and competitive online players who prefer flashy combos over tactical ring generalship.

Instead of embracing realism as a strength, SCI appears to be treating it as a liability.


4. Mechanics That Undermine the Sport

Several gameplay elements demonstrate this shift:

  • Combo Emphasis Over Individual Punch Craft: Instead of rewarding single, meaningful punches set up by timing and footwork, the game promotes flurries and spammable sequences.

  • Unrealistic Movement and Recovery: Boxers glide, recover instantly from punishment, and exhibit movement that doesn’t reflect real physics or fatigue. The feel of real momentum is lost.

  • Simplified Damage and Stamina Systems: The complexity of real boxing—where body shots, tempo changes, and mental warfare matter—has been flattened into a more predictable system.

These decisions do not reflect boxing’s layers; they strip it down into a caricature.


5. Why This Matters to Real Boxing Fans

Boxing is not just another combat sport. It’s a science of space, rhythm, anticipation, and precision. Real boxing fans don’t just want to win; they want to see strategy unfold. When a game removes the depth that defines the sport, it doesn't evolve—it devolves.

A realistic boxing game should allow fans to express the nuances of styles like the Philly Shell, the Peek-a-Boo, the Outboxer, or the Pressure Fighter—not reduce them all to one-size-fits-all animations and arcade patterns.


6. The Bigger Issue: Redefining What Boxing Fans Want

Perhaps the most dangerous aspect of SCI’s direction is the implicit message: that real boxing isn’t fun unless it’s altered. That fans must accept watered-down mechanics, flashy visuals, and arcade features to make boxing "appealing."

But this is false. The popularity of sim-heavy games like EA UFC 4’s realism mods, Football Manager, and NBA 2K’s MyNBA mode prove that depth and authenticity attract and retain loyal audiences.

SCI doesn’t need to change boxing fans into arcade fighting fans—they need to give boxing fans the sim game they were promised.


Conclusion:

SCI must decide what kind of game Undisputed wants to be. If it continues to stray into arcade territory, it risks losing the very people who championed its development from the beginning. There is still time to return to the roots of realism—to respect boxing’s rich heritage and give fans a game that mirrors the true sport, not a stylized imitation.

The choice is clear: evolve into a landmark boxing simulation—or settle for being a flashy fighting game wearing boxing’s gloves.


Fans and Players Are Annoyed with SCI and Undisputed — It’s Like the Team Doesn’t Want the Game to Be a Massive Success



Introduction

In the world of sports gaming, nothing stings more than missed potential. Undisputed, formerly known as ESBC (eSports Boxing Club), began as a beacon of hope for boxing fans starved for a true simulation experience. Promising innovation, realism, and a level of authenticity never seen before in a boxing game, it quickly gained momentum and the support of an enthusiastic fanbase. But fast forward to today, and that same fanbase is showing signs of fatigue, frustration, and growing resentment. Many now believe Steel City Interactive (SCI) isn’t doing enough — or worse, is actively standing in the way — of the game's potential to become the gold standard in the genre.


The Momentum That Once Was

When ESBC was first announced, it felt revolutionary. The game wasn’t just talking the talk; it showcased early footage filled with authentic animations, tactical pacing, stunning visuals, and subtle mechanics that screamed realism. It was raw and incomplete, but it captured the spirit of the sport in a way that hadn’t been done since Fight Night Champion. The community responded with overwhelming support, praising the direction and pouring out wishlists, feedback, and gameplay ideas with the hope that SCI would mold Undisputed into something legendary.

But somewhere along the line, things changed.


The Disappearing Act of Realism

One of the biggest gripes from longtime supporters is how SCI seems to have strayed away from its original promise of realism. What once felt like a boxing sim now feels like it’s being pulled into a hybrid space between arcade and sim — a space many fans never wanted. Movements became floaty, footwork overly loose, punch reactions cartoonish, and fighters began looking less like themselves and more like generic models. Even the once-touted attention to detail in punch trajectories and fight pacing has been overshadowed by balance patches that favor casual play over simulation integrity.

Supporters aren't just angry because things changed — they’re angry because they weren’t supposed to. SCI built its fanbase on the promise that Undisputed would be different, and many feel betrayed watching it inch closer to the mainstream mold instead of standing its ground.


A Communication Breakdown

Another key frustration lies in SCI’s communication. Developers initially welcomed community input with open arms, hosting Q&As, interacting on forums, and asking fans to be part of the process. Now, fans describe the feedback loop as one-sided, unclear, and often ignored. Community suggestions pile up with little acknowledgment, and when changes are made, they often reflect what fans didn’t ask for.

Even when criticism is constructive — from content creators, hardcore boxing fans, and former supporters — it’s often met with silence or brushed off. It feels, to many, like SCI no longer values the very community that helped build Undisputed’s early momentum.


The Refusal to Embrace the Full Scope

There’s also the growing belief that SCI is reluctant to make Undisputed a full-spectrum boxing experience. Despite being in early access for a long time, basic and essential features like a deep career mode, tournament functionality, customization tools, and AI vs. AI logic are still missing or barebones. Fans have begged for features like more realistic fighter styles, a functional Creation Suite, improved punch physics, better crowd reactions, enhanced presentation — yet the updates feel cosmetic or balance-driven, not foundational.

For a game that wants to "be the most authentic boxing game ever made," it still doesn’t capture the heart of the sport in a meaningful, sustainable way.


A Game That Looks Like It’s Being Held Back

What’s most puzzling to many is how Undisputed appears to be held back — not by hardware, budget, or talent — but by direction. The talent is clearly there; the early footage proved that. The community is eager to help. The market is desperate for a boxing game. Yet, it seems like SCI is content with mediocrity. Updates are slow. Features are half-baked. Communication is vague. And realism, the core foundation that attracted most players in the first place, continues to be diluted.

It has fans questioning: Does SCI really want this game to be a massive success? Or are they just trying to get it out the door and move on?


Conclusion

There’s still time to right the ship, but it’s clear that SCI is running out of goodwill. Undisputed was once seen as the savior of the boxing game genre, a passion project fueled by community and love for the sport. Now, it feels like a title caught between identities, being steered by a team that doesn’t seem to realize what they had — or worse, doesn’t care to preserve it.

For Undisputed to truly succeed, SCI must return to its roots: listening to the community, doubling down on realism, and delivering the immersive, detailed boxing simulation fans were promised. Anything less, and the game may go down as one of the most disappointing missed opportunities in sports gaming history.

Fans and Players Are Annoyed with SCI and Undisputed — It’s Like the Team Doesn’t Want the Game to Be a Massive Success



Introduction

In the world of sports gaming, nothing stings more than missed potential. Undisputed, formerly known as ESBC (eSports Boxing Club), began as a beacon of hope for boxing fans starved for a true simulation experience. Promising innovation, realism, and a level of authenticity never seen before in a boxing game, it quickly gained momentum and the support of an enthusiastic fanbase. But fast forward to today, and that same fanbase is showing signs of fatigue, frustration, and growing resentment. Many now believe Steel City Interactive (SCI) isn’t doing enough — or worse, is actively standing in the way — of the game's potential to become the gold standard in the genre.


The Momentum That Once Was

When ESBC was first announced, it felt revolutionary. The game wasn’t just talking the talk; it showcased early footage filled with authentic animations, tactical pacing, stunning visuals, and subtle mechanics that screamed realism. It was raw and incomplete, but it captured the spirit of the sport in a way that hadn’t been done since Fight Night Champion. The community responded with overwhelming support, praising the direction and pouring out wishlists, feedback, and gameplay ideas with the hope that SCI would mold Undisputed into something legendary.

But somewhere along the line, things changed.


The Disappearing Act of Realism

One of the biggest gripes from longtime supporters is how SCI seems to have strayed away from its original promise of realism. What once felt like a boxing sim now feels like it’s being pulled into a hybrid space between arcade and sim — a space many fans never wanted. Movements became floaty, footwork overly loose, punch reactions cartoonish, and fighters began looking less like themselves and more like generic models. Even the once-touted attention to detail in punch trajectories and fight pacing has been overshadowed by balance patches that favor casual play over simulation integrity.

Supporters aren't just angry because things changed — they’re angry because they weren’t supposed to. SCI built its fanbase on the promise that Undisputed would be different, and many feel betrayed watching it inch closer to the mainstream mold instead of standing its ground.


A Communication Breakdown

Another key frustration lies in SCI’s communication. Developers initially welcomed community input with open arms, hosting Q&As, interacting on forums, and asking fans to be part of the process. Now, fans describe the feedback loop as one-sided, unclear, and often ignored. Community suggestions pile up with little acknowledgment, and when changes are made, they often reflect what fans didn’t ask for.

Even when criticism is constructive — from content creators, hardcore boxing fans, and former supporters — it’s often met with silence or brushed off. It feels, to many, like SCI no longer values the very community that helped build Undisputed’s early momentum.


The Refusal to Embrace the Full Scope

There’s also the growing belief that SCI is reluctant to make Undisputed a full-spectrum boxing experience. Despite being in early access for a long time, basic and essential features like a deep career mode, tournament functionality, customization tools, and AI vs. AI logic are still missing or barebones. Fans have begged for features like more realistic fighter styles, a functional Creation Suite, improved punch physics, better crowd reactions, enhanced presentation — yet the updates feel cosmetic or balance-driven, not foundational.

For a game that wants to "be the most authentic boxing game ever made," it still doesn’t capture the heart of the sport in a meaningful, sustainable way.


A Game That Looks Like It’s Being Held Back

What’s most puzzling to many is how Undisputed appears to be held back — not by hardware, budget, or talent — but by direction. The talent is clearly there; the early footage proved that. The community is eager to help. The market is desperate for a boxing game. Yet, it seems like SCI is content with mediocrity. Updates are slow. Features are half-baked. Communication is vague. And realism, the core foundation that attracted most players in the first place, continues to be diluted.

It has fans questioning: Does SCI really want this game to be a massive success? Or are they just trying to get it out the door and move on?


Conclusion

There’s still time to right the ship, but it’s clear that SCI is running out of goodwill. Undisputed was once seen as the savior of the boxing game genre, a passion project fueled by community and love for the sport. Now, it feels like a title caught between identities, being steered by a team that doesn’t seem to realize what they had — or worse, doesn’t care to preserve it.

For Undisputed to truly succeed, SCI must return to its roots: listening to the community, doubling down on realism, and delivering the immersive, detailed boxing simulation fans were promised. Anything less, and the game may go down as one of the most disappointing missed opportunities in sports gaming history.

Fans and Players Are Annoyed with SCI and Undisputed — It’s Like the Team Doesn’t Want the Game to Be a Massive Success



Introduction

In the world of sports gaming, nothing stings more than missed potential. Undisputed, formerly known as ESBC (eSports Boxing Club), began as a beacon of hope for boxing fans starved for a true simulation experience. Promising innovation, realism, and a level of authenticity never seen before in a boxing game, it quickly gained momentum and the support of an enthusiastic fanbase. But fast forward to today, and that same fanbase is showing signs of fatigue, frustration, and growing resentment. Many now believe Steel City Interactive (SCI) isn’t doing enough — or worse, is actively standing in the way — of the game's potential to become the gold standard in the genre.


The Momentum That Once Was

When ESBC was first announced, it felt revolutionary. The game wasn’t just talking the talk; it showcased early footage filled with authentic animations, tactical pacing, stunning visuals, and subtle mechanics that screamed realism. It was raw and incomplete, but it captured the spirit of the sport in a way that hadn’t been done since Fight Night Champion. The community responded with overwhelming support, praising the direction and pouring out wishlists, feedback, and gameplay ideas with the hope that SCI would mold Undisputed into something legendary.

But somewhere along the line, things changed.


The Disappearing Act of Realism

One of the biggest gripes from longtime supporters is how SCI seems to have strayed away from its original promise of realism. What once felt like a boxing sim now feels like it’s being pulled into a hybrid space between arcade and sim — a space many fans never wanted. Movements became floaty, footwork overly loose, punch reactions cartoonish, and fighters began looking less like themselves and more like generic models. Even the once-touted attention to detail in punch trajectories and fight pacing has been overshadowed by balance patches that favor casual play over simulation integrity.

Supporters aren't just angry because things changed — they’re angry because they weren’t supposed to. SCI built its fanbase on the promise that Undisputed would be different, and many feel betrayed watching it inch closer to the mainstream mold instead of standing its ground.


A Communication Breakdown

Another key frustration lies in SCI’s communication. Developers initially welcomed community input with open arms, hosting Q&As, interacting on forums, and asking fans to be part of the process. Now, fans describe the feedback loop as one-sided, unclear, and often ignored. Community suggestions pile up with little acknowledgment, and when changes are made, they often reflect what fans didn’t ask for.

Even when criticism is constructive — from content creators, hardcore boxing fans, and former supporters — it’s often met with silence or brushed off. It feels, to many, like SCI no longer values the very community that helped build Undisputed’s early momentum.


The Refusal to Embrace the Full Scope

There’s also the growing belief that SCI is reluctant to make Undisputed a full-spectrum boxing experience. Despite being in early access for a long time, basic and essential features like a deep career mode, tournament functionality, customization tools, and AI vs. AI logic are still missing or barebones. Fans have begged for features like more realistic fighter styles, a functional Creation Suite, improved punch physics, better crowd reactions, enhanced presentation — yet the updates feel cosmetic or balance-driven, not foundational.

For a game that wants to "be the most authentic boxing game ever made," it still doesn’t capture the heart of the sport in a meaningful, sustainable way.


A Game That Looks Like It’s Being Held Back

What’s most puzzling to many is how Undisputed appears to be held back — not by hardware, budget, or talent — but by direction. The talent is clearly there; the early footage proved that. The community is eager to help. The market is desperate for a boxing game. Yet, it seems like SCI is content with mediocrity. Updates are slow. Features are half-baked. Communication is vague. And realism, the core foundation that attracted most players in the first place, continues to be diluted.

It has fans questioning: Does SCI really want this game to be a massive success? Or are they just trying to get it out the door and move on?


Conclusion

There’s still time to right the ship, but it’s clear that SCI is running out of goodwill. Undisputed was once seen as the savior of the boxing game genre, a passion project fueled by community and love for the sport. Now, it feels like a title caught between identities, being steered by a team that doesn’t seem to realize what they had — or worse, doesn’t care to preserve it.

For Undisputed to truly succeed, SCI must return to its roots: listening to the community, doubling down on realism, and delivering the immersive, detailed boxing simulation fans were promised. Anything less, and the game may go down as one of the most disappointing missed opportunities in sports gaming history.

“Undisputed” Is Becoming Everything We Didn’t Ask For – A Breakdown of Why Fans Feel Let Down

 “Undisputed” Is Becoming Everything We Didn’t Ask For – A Breakdown of Why Fans Feel Let Down

Intro

It’s becoming clearer every update, every patch, and every vague roadmap: Undisputed is no longer the game it set out to be. What started as a movement—an ambitious, community-backed project promising a true-to-life boxing sim—has slowly turned into a product that ignores the very foundation that built its hype.

This isn’t just frustration. It’s the collective disappointment of fans who actually want to see this game win.


1. The Sim Realism That Hooked Us Has Been Abandoned

When ESBC first hit the scene, it promised something boxing fans have been starved for: realism. Not flashy arcade knockouts, not button-mashing speed wars, but the science of boxing:

  • Footwork with weight shifting.

  • Punch reactions that varied in severity and realism.

  • Defensive nuance and tactical pacing.

  • AI that mimicked real fighters.

Now? We get wide looping punches with no balance loss, canned animations, and AI that often walks into shots with no awareness of who they’re supposed to represent.


2. Ignoring the Sim Community’s Wishlist

There are hundreds of well-thought-out suggestions across Reddit, Discord, YouTube, and blogs like The Boxing Videogame Wishlist Site and The Boxing Blueprint. But instead of leaning into the simboxing vision, SCI keeps leaning away from it.

What fans wanted:

  • Realistic stamina and punch mechanics.

  • Full weight classes for men and women.

  • AI vs AI with full presentation.

  • Customizable tendencies and Creation Suite depth.

What we got:

  • Twitchy animations.

  • Mirror matches.

  • Shallow customization.

  • Updates that keep moving away from realism.

It’s like they’re chasing a casual e-sports-friendly version of boxing when the core fan base is crying out for authenticity.


3. Developers Are Quiet Where It Matters Most

We’re not asking for weekly updates. But if you're going to change the vision of the game so drastically, communicate why. Fans want to believe there's a plan. Instead:

  • Patch notes are vague or misleading.

  • Realism-focused feedback gets dismissed or watered down.

  • Fundamental issues go unaddressed.

When you stop speaking directly to the people who backed your project from the start, you’re showing them that they’re no longer your priority.


4. It's Not Too Late—But Time Is Running Out

This game still has potential. The skeleton of a great sim boxing experience is here—but only if SCI recommits to the vision that built their audience in the first place. That means:

  • Stop chasing flashy fixes and start building a foundation.

  • Bring in real boxing minds before the design stage—not after.

  • Start treating AI logic, punch variety, footwork, presentation, and customization as core features—not wishlist items.


Closing Thoughts

Fans aren’t being negative for the sake of it. We’re passionate because we care. We wanted this game to succeed. But if SCI keeps moving away from what made ESBC special, they'll lose the very fanbase that gave them a fighting chance.

Sim fans are still here. Still waiting. Still hoping. But we’re not blind.



Part 2


Perfect. Here's the next version of the post—solution-focused, meant to complement the frustrations in the first one. After that, I’ll give you an open letter version that invites collaboration and signatures for community use.


Title: “How to Save Undisputed Before It’s Too Late – A Realistic Path Forward”

Intro

The community has spoken—repeatedly. Hardcore boxing fans didn’t ask for a flashy, fast-paced slugfest. We asked for a boxing simulation that respects the sport’s depth, strategy, and history.

This isn’t a hit piece. This is a roadmap, from the people who care most, on how SCI can salvage Undisputed and reclaim the trust of its core audience.


1. Recommit to Simulation First – Let Realism Be the Foundation

Problem: The gameplay feels caught between sim and arcade, pleasing no one.

Solution:

  • Rebuild the punch system around realism—trajectory, rhythm, recovery, balance, stamina, and physical reaction.

  • Stop allowing all fighters to move the same. Create class-based or individual animations based on real movement styles.

  • Bring back the heavy, intentional feel from early ESBC footage.


2. Make AI Matter – It’s a Core Experience, Not a Side Feature

Problem: CPU opponents are lifeless. AI vs AI is an afterthought.

Solution:

  • Let boxers fight like themselves: AI tendencies, habits, styles, and adjustments should reflect real-life data or personality types.

  • AI vs AI fights should have full commentary, broadcast overlays, camera control, and realistic pacing.

  • Allow custom AI profiles for created boxers and legends.


3. Treat the Creation Suite as a Central Pillar

Problem: Shallow customization limits immersion and replay value.

Solution:

  • Introduce a full Creation & Customization Suite inspired by WWE 2K and Saint’s Row—nicknames, ring gear, walkouts, styles, animations, AI tendencies, entrances, promoters, gyms, etc.

  • Add an offline Career Mode + Promoter Mode with full editing tools, belt creation, ranking systems, and era selection.

  • Expand boxer slots and allow fans to build out entire universes.


4. Stop Patching the Soul Out of the Game

Problem: Every update feels like it moves away from boxing.

Solution:

  • Stop balancing for short-term online satisfaction. Build mechanics around boxing logic first, then balance.

  • Don’t flatten boxers into generic models. Keep unique traits.

  • Provide a Sim Gameplay Default setting for offline and online—let fans opt into realism.


5. Talk to the Right People and Communicate More Transparently

Problem: Lack of transparency and poor prioritization erode trust.

Solution:

  • Involve real trainers, boxers, and respected sim minds in design—not just QA testers.

  • Do devlogs or deep dives where you explain your vision and decisions.

  • Show roadmap transparency: What’s short-term? What’s long-term? What’s being scrapped?


Closing

This isn’t just a wishlist. It’s what Undisputed promised from the start. We aren’t asking for miracles. We’re asking for direction. There’s still time—but not if you keep ignoring the people who believed in you from day one.


Now here’s the collaborative open letter version you can share in forums or Discords to collect feedback or signatures:


Open Letter to Steel City Interactive – From the Boxing Sim Community

To the developers of Undisputed:

We, the undersigned boxing and gaming fans, supported Undisputed because we believed in your original vision—a true-to-life boxing simulation.

But with each passing update, we feel the game drifting further from the foundation that built your community. We understand development is hard. We respect your ambition. But when feedback is ignored and realism is compromised, trust is lost.

What We’re Asking For:

  • A clear recommitment to simulation gameplay.

  • AI that behaves and fights like real boxers, including in AI vs AI matches.

  • A deep, meaningful Creation Suite.

  • Realistic punch mechanics, footwork, and boxer individuality.

  • Transparent communication and community-involved planning.

We are not here to tear the game down—we are here to help build it up.

Sincerely,

[POE]


[SIGN IF YOU ARE FRUSTRATED AND TIRED OF SCI]



“Undisputed” Is Becoming Everything We Didn’t Ask For – A Breakdown of Why Fans Feel Let Down

 “Undisputed” Is Becoming Everything We Didn’t Ask For – A Breakdown of Why Fans Feel Let Down

Intro

It’s becoming clearer every update, every patch, and every vague roadmap: Undisputed is no longer the game it set out to be. What started as a movement—an ambitious, community-backed project promising a true-to-life boxing sim—has slowly turned into a product that ignores the very foundation that built its hype.

This isn’t just frustration. It’s the collective disappointment of fans who actually want to see this game win.


1. The Sim Realism That Hooked Us Has Been Abandoned

When ESBC first hit the scene, it promised something boxing fans have been starved for: realism. Not flashy arcade knockouts, not button-mashing speed wars, but the science of boxing:

  • Footwork with weight shifting.

  • Punch reactions that varied in severity and realism.

  • Defensive nuance and tactical pacing.

  • AI that mimicked real fighters.

Now? We get wide looping punches with no balance loss, canned animations, and AI that often walks into shots with no awareness of who they’re supposed to represent.


2. Ignoring the Sim Community’s Wishlist

There are hundreds of well-thought-out suggestions across Reddit, Discord, YouTube, and blogs like The Boxing Videogame Wishlist Site and The Boxing Blueprint. But instead of leaning into the simboxing vision, SCI keeps leaning away from it.

What fans wanted:

  • Realistic stamina and punch mechanics.

  • Full weight classes for men and women.

  • AI vs AI with full presentation.

  • Customizable tendencies and Creation Suite depth.

What we got:

  • Twitchy animations.

  • Mirror matches.

  • Shallow customization.

  • Updates that keep moving away from realism.

It’s like they’re chasing a casual e-sports-friendly version of boxing when the core fan base is crying out for authenticity.


3. Developers Are Quiet Where It Matters Most

We’re not asking for weekly updates. But if you're going to change the vision of the game so drastically, communicate why. Fans want to believe there's a plan. Instead:

  • Patch notes are vague or misleading.

  • Realism-focused feedback gets dismissed or watered down.

  • Fundamental issues go unaddressed.

When you stop speaking directly to the people who backed your project from the start, you’re showing them that they’re no longer your priority.


4. It's Not Too Late—But Time Is Running Out

This game still has potential. The skeleton of a great sim boxing experience is here—but only if SCI recommits to the vision that built their audience in the first place. That means:

  • Stop chasing flashy fixes and start building a foundation.

  • Bring in real boxing minds before the design stage—not after.

  • Start treating AI logic, punch variety, footwork, presentation, and customization as core features—not wishlist items.


Closing Thoughts

Fans aren’t being negative for the sake of it. We’re passionate because we care. We wanted this game to succeed. But if SCI keeps moving away from what made ESBC special, they'll lose the very fanbase that gave them a fighting chance.

Sim fans are still here. Still waiting. Still hoping. But we’re not blind.



Part 2


Perfect. Here's the next version of the post—solution-focused, meant to complement the frustrations in the first one. After that, I’ll give you an open letter version that invites collaboration and signatures for community use.


Title: “How to Save Undisputed Before It’s Too Late – A Realistic Path Forward”

Intro

The community has spoken—repeatedly. Hardcore boxing fans didn’t ask for a flashy, fast-paced slugfest. We asked for a boxing simulation that respects the sport’s depth, strategy, and history.

This isn’t a hit piece. This is a roadmap, from the people who care most, on how SCI can salvage Undisputed and reclaim the trust of its core audience.


1. Recommit to Simulation First – Let Realism Be the Foundation

Problem: The gameplay feels caught between sim and arcade, pleasing no one.

Solution:

  • Rebuild the punch system around realism—trajectory, rhythm, recovery, balance, stamina, and physical reaction.

  • Stop allowing all fighters to move the same. Create class-based or individual animations based on real movement styles.

  • Bring back the heavy, intentional feel from early ESBC footage.


2. Make AI Matter – It’s a Core Experience, Not a Side Feature

Problem: CPU opponents are lifeless. AI vs AI is an afterthought.

Solution:

  • Let boxers fight like themselves: AI tendencies, habits, styles, and adjustments should reflect real-life data or personality types.

  • AI vs AI fights should have full commentary, broadcast overlays, camera control, and realistic pacing.

  • Allow custom AI profiles for created boxers and legends.


3. Treat the Creation Suite as a Central Pillar

Problem: Shallow customization limits immersion and replay value.

Solution:

  • Introduce a full Creation & Customization Suite inspired by WWE 2K and Saint’s Row—nicknames, ring gear, walkouts, styles, animations, AI tendencies, entrances, promoters, gyms, etc.

  • Add an offline Career Mode + Promoter Mode with full editing tools, belt creation, ranking systems, and era selection.

  • Expand boxer slots and allow fans to build out entire universes.


4. Stop Patching the Soul Out of the Game

Problem: Every update feels like it moves away from boxing.

Solution:

  • Stop balancing for short-term online satisfaction. Build mechanics around boxing logic first, then balance.

  • Don’t flatten boxers into generic models. Keep unique traits.

  • Provide a Sim Gameplay Default setting for offline and online—let fans opt into realism.


5. Talk to the Right People and Communicate More Transparently

Problem: Lack of transparency and poor prioritization erode trust.

Solution:

  • Involve real trainers, boxers, and respected sim minds in design—not just QA testers.

  • Do devlogs or deep dives where you explain your vision and decisions.

  • Show roadmap transparency: What’s short-term? What’s long-term? What’s being scrapped?


Closing

This isn’t just a wishlist. It’s what Undisputed promised from the start. We aren’t asking for miracles. We’re asking for direction. There’s still time—but not if you keep ignoring the people who believed in you from day one.


Now here’s the collaborative open letter version you can share in forums or Discords to collect feedback or signatures:


Open Letter to Steel City Interactive – From the Boxing Sim Community

To the developers of Undisputed:

We, the undersigned boxing and gaming fans, supported Undisputed because we believed in your original vision—a true-to-life boxing simulation.

But with each passing update, we feel the game drifting further from the foundation that built your community. We understand development is hard. We respect your ambition. But when feedback is ignored and realism is compromised, trust is lost.

What We’re Asking For:

  • A clear recommitment to simulation gameplay.

  • AI that behaves and fights like real boxers, including in AI vs AI matches.

  • A deep, meaningful Creation Suite.

  • Realistic punch mechanics, footwork, and boxer individuality.

  • Transparent communication and community-involved planning.

We are not here to tear the game down—we are here to help build it up.

Sincerely,

[POE]


[SIGN IF YOU ARE FRUSTRATED AND TIRED OF SCI]



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