Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: ZX Spectrum
Barry McGuigan World Championship Boxing: A Knockout on the Commodore 64
Released in 1985, Barry McGuigan World Championship Boxing was a groundbreaking boxing game for the Commodore 64 and 128 home computers. Developed by Mirrorsoft and published by Elite Systems, the game was named after the then-undefeated WBA featherweight champion Barry McGuigan, who served as a consultant on the project.
Gameplay
Barry McGuigan World Championship Boxing is a boxing simulation game that allows players to take control of either Barry McGuigan himself or a custom-created boxer. The game features a variety of gameplay modes, including:
- Exhibition mode: A single match against a computer-controlled opponent.
- Tournament mode: A series of matches against increasingly difficult opponents, culminating in a championship fight against Barry McGuigan himself.
- Training mode: A mode where players can practice their boxing skills and improve their boxer’s attributes.
The game’s controls are simple and intuitive. Players use the joystick to move their boxer around the ring and the fire button to punch. Different button combinations can be used to throw different types of punches, including jabs, hooks, and uppercuts.
Create-a-boxer feature
One of the most unique features of Barry McGuigan World Championship Boxing is its create-a-boxer feature. This allows players to create their own custom boxer, complete with their own name, appearance, and fighting style. Players can choose from a variety of different attributes for their boxer, including strength, speed, stamina, and punching power.
Training minigames
In addition to the main boxing gameplay, Barry McGuigan World Championship Boxing also features a number of training minigames. These minigames can be used to improve the player’s boxer’s attributes and prepare them for upcoming fights. The minigames include:
- Punching bag: A minigame where players practice their punching accuracy and power.
- Speed bag: A minigame where players practice their hand-eye coordination and reflexes.
- Skipping rope: A minigame where players practice their footwork and stamina.
Graphics and sound
For its time, Barry McGuigan World Championship Boxing had impressive graphics and sound. The boxers are well-animated and the backgrounds are detailed and colorful. The game’s sound effects are also realistic and add to the overall atmosphere.
Reception
Barry McGuigan World Championship Boxing was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its realistic gameplay, create-a-boxer feature, and training minigames. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.
Legacy
Barry McGuigan World Championship Boxing is considered to be one of the best boxing games ever made for the Commodore 64. It was one of the first games to feature a create-a-boxer feature and training minigames, and it set a new standard for boxing simulations on home computers. The game is still enjoyed by retro gaming enthusiasts today.
Conclusion
Barry McGuigan World Championship Boxing is a classic boxing game that offers a deep and rewarding experience. With its realistic gameplay, create-a-boxer feature, and training minigames, the game is still one of the best boxing games ever made. If you’re a fan of boxing games or retro gaming, then you owe it to yourself to check out Barry McGuigan World Championship Boxing.
Review Score
7.5/10
