"Undisputed is not a heavyweight, but it still has a significant impact."

The interest in boxing video games has fluctuated over the years, starting with classics like Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!! on NES and staying alive thanks to franchises like Ready 2 Rumble Boxing and EA's Fight Night. However, from the 2010s onward, most of these series have been knocked out, leaving the field open to MMA and wrestling games. Despite this, the situation seems to be changing with the release of Undisputed. This title, marking Steel City Interactive's first foray, is set to exit early access on October 11 and aims to become the new leader in the boxing genre, albeit in a landscape with scant competition.

Undisputed is a carefully designed simulation by developers who show a clear passion for the sport. While it shows a strong start, its limited scope reveals an experience that can often feel somewhat light. However, it could be the beginning of a new legend, provided it can recover from a stumble.

In terms of gameplay, Steel City Interactive has managed to establish a solid strategy. Each button is assigned to a different type of punch, such as jab or uppercut, and it’s also possible to throw punches using the right joystick. Additionally, powerful attacks are executed by holding the R1 button, while L1 allows for body shots. Defense is managed through the right trigger, which is crucial for success, much like in a real fight. After a brief tutorial, I quickly familiarized myself with the system. This accessible design is complemented by nuances that arise through techniques like counter-punching and dodging.

The experience in the ring feels exhilarating, as each fight reflects the dynamics between boxers, forcing players to find a balance between offense and defense. In a hypothetical match, I faced Muhammad Ali while assuming the role of Tyson Fury. I started confidently, throwing powerful punches that landed with a satisfying sound, but soon lost track of my stamina and got knocked down by Ali after a quick attack. In contrast, against Daniel Jacobs, I utilized a more agile style, achieving a unanimous victory after eight rounds. Each bout reinforces my appreciation for the differences between the power and speed of punches.

The gameplay is enriched with moments that capture the thrill of boxing. A defensive style might seem boring, but when a well-executed hook lands, the euphoria of the fight is palpable. However, Undisputed's issues lie in its limited variety. Although it boasts important licenses and several options for fighters and venues, the range of modes is minimal. The career mode, in particular, stands out for its poor presentation; off-ring activities are limited to menus and text, which detracts from the overall experience.

There are areas where Undisputed shows its inexperience, such as in the sound design, which is minimalist, and the boxers' entrances, which feel underwhelming. While it’s unreasonable to expect a debut studio to compete directly with giants like 2K or EA, the comparison is inevitable. Despite these limitations, Steel City Interactive has built a solid foundation during its year in early access, managing to create a simulation with the potential to thrive. If the series stays afloat and grows over time, it could eventually position itself as a strong contender in the genre.

Undisputed will officially launch on October 11 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, while Deluxe Edition owners will have early access starting October 8.