Classic Game of the Month: June 2013

It certainly has been a while since I've made one of these but it's time for another Classic Game of the Month. This time around, it's the famous NES boxing game, Punch-Out!

History

Punch-Out and Super Punch-Out were originally arcade games developed by Nintendo in the early 80's. When the NES came out, Punch-Out was brought to the console in 1987. The game took elements from both arcade games and featured the story line of boxer Little Mac as he fights opponents to become champion of the World Video Boxing Association.

Punch-Out for the NES came out in 3 versions - the later two were endorsed by real boxers who would also serve as the last opponent in the game. The most famous, of course, was Mike Tyson (Pictured above).

Gameplay

You're the underdog in the game playing as the small-statured Little Mac. Using a series of left and right punches, ducks and dodges, the game requires the player to go toe-to-toe with 10 challengers. Each foe has his own strengths and weaknesses as well as a fighting pattern that must be learned.

The game is simple in design but does have a difficulty that makes it no push over. And Nintendo's favorite plumber, Mario, makes a special appearance as the game's official referee.

Sequels

Punch-Out earned a sequel a few years later entitled Super Punch-Out for the SNES. Then, nearly 10 years later, Nintendo released the most recent titled in the series for the Nintendo Wii. The Wii version was a remake of the original NES Punch-Out. The Wii game utilizes the Wii's motion controls much like the Boxing game in Wii Sports.

As always, be sure to stay tuned here for next month's Classic Game of the Month and like OWNAGE on Facebook.