Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: Amiga, Arcade, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, FM Towns, Sega Mega Drive/Genesis
- Developers: Taito
- Publishers: Storm, Taito, Ving Co., Ltd.
Final Blow: The Knockout King of Arcade Boxing
Released in 1989 by Taito, Final Blow is a side-scrolling boxing arcade game that quickly became a hit with fans of the genre. The game’s simple but addictive gameplay, combined with its impressive graphics and sound, made it a standout title in the crowded arcade market.
Gameplay
Final Blow is played from a side-scrolling perspective, with the player controlling a boxer who moves left and right across the screen. The player’s goal is to knock out their opponent by landing a variety of punches, including jabs, hooks, and uppercuts.
The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn, but mastering the timing and spacing of your punches is essential to success. Players must also be aware of their opponent’s movements and patterns, as well as their own boxer’s strengths and weaknesses.
One of the unique features of Final Blow is the “final blow” punch. This powerful punch can be unleashed when the player’s boxer is close to their opponent and has built up enough energy. If the final blow connects, it will often knock out the opponent in a single hit.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Final Blow’s graphics were some of the best in the arcade industry. The boxers are large and well-animated, and the backgrounds are detailed and colorful. The game’s sound is also top-notch, with realistic sound effects and a catchy soundtrack.
Home Versions
Final Blow was ported to a number of home platforms, including the NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and Amiga. The home versions of the game are generally faithful to the arcade original, but they do have some notable differences.
For example, the home versions include a spectator mode, which allows players to watch their favorite boxers compete. The home versions also feature a number of new boxers, as well as some additional gameplay modes.
Legacy
Final Blow is considered to be one of the greatest boxing arcade games of all time. The game’s simple but addictive gameplay, combined with its impressive graphics and sound, made it a hit with fans of the genre. Final Blow also helped to popularize the side-scrolling boxing game genre, which would go on to produce a number of other classic titles, such as Street Fighter II and Mortal Kombat.
Tips for Playing Final Blow
- Learn the timing and spacing of your punches. This is essential to success in Final Blow.
- Be aware of your opponent’s movements and patterns. This will help you to anticipate their attacks and counter accordingly.
- Use the final blow punch wisely. This powerful punch can be a game-changer, but it can also be risky if it is not used at the right time.
- Take advantage of the spectator mode in the home versions of the game. This can be a great way to learn from the best boxers in the game.
Conclusion
Final Blow is a classic arcade boxing game that still holds up today. The game’s simple but addictive gameplay, combined with its impressive graphics and sound, make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the world of boxing games, Final Blow is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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