Dear Reader:
Nintendo Power - Punch-Out!! review summary
We’ve already told you that Nintendo Power game Punch-Out!! Wii an 8.5, but here are some details from that review.
+ A “by the books” Punch Out installment that any PO fan can immediately enjoy.
- A “by the books” Punch Out retread that serves more as a reboot than a true sequel or evolution of the franchise.
+ Not a “modern” fighting/boxing game by any measure. More of a reflex-based / memorization-heavy arcade puzzle game, just like the original PO.
+ Excellent graphics and overall presentation.
+ Nice variety of controls options that mostly work well, save…
- for the balance board dodging which is too slow and clunky to be viable.
+ Main arcade mode has a higher difficulty remix which is almost as good as having a whole new set of fighters to challenge, as far as new patterns go.
+ Additionally, an exhibition mode challenges you to finish opponents while meeting certain criteria (such as finishing Von Kaiser within 5 hits).
- Two player mode is a cheap, shallow novelty that doesn’t come close to approaching the fun and satisfaction of the single player modes.
+ All-in-all, it’s a very true-to-its-roots refresh with additions that, while not really contribute a whole lot to the overall package, are welcome nonetheless.