Sports games are a thriving industry, with annual releases for various sports like baseball, football, mixed martial arts, and more attracting millions of players worldwide. However, boxing, a sport with global appeal, has been largely absent from the gaming scene for over a decade. Enter Undisputed, a game poised to fill the gap left by popular titles like EA’s Fight Night series. With a vast roster of legendary boxers, realistic graphics, and authentic gameplay, this indie studio is making waves with its ambitious approach.
To gain a deeper insight into the meticulous attention to detail in Undisputed, I had the opportunity to meet with Ash Habib, the founder and CEO of Steel City Interactive, the developer behind the game. As we attended a night of championship fights, we delved into the game’s mechanics and design. It was an unforgettable experience filled with boxing action and interactions with prominent figures in the sport and sports broadcasting who shared their thoughts on the significance of Undisputed.
The anticipation builds
Leading up to fight night in Los Angeles, the atmosphere was electric as fans and fighters gathered to witness the showdown between Undisputed Welterweight champion, Terrance Crawford, and Super Welterweight champ, Israil Madrimov. Amidst the buzz at the JW Marriott’s bar, excitement was palpable as everyone prepared to head to the BMO arena for the event.
Sitting with Habib at the bar, I couldn’t help but be amazed by the recognition and support he received from boxers, coaches, and managers eager to discuss the game’s development. The journey of Undisputed from a passion project of boxing-loving brothers to a fully-fledged studio making waves in the gaming industry was truly inspiring.
I don’t want to compromise, I want to go further.
From humble beginnings of learning game development through online tutorials, Habib and his team transformed their vision into a detailed boxing simulation that has garnered attention and praise from within the boxing community. What started as a side project has now become a full-fledged endeavor with a dedicated team working towards the game’s official release.
Mastering the Art of Boxing
As we observed the undercard fights at the arena, the nuances of boxing styles came to the forefront. Undisputed emphasizes the importance of movement in boxing, meticulously tracking weight transfer and integrating it seamlessly with punching mechanics.
The game features various boxing archetypes, each represented with unique attributes and styles. The attention to detail in recreating fighters visually and capturing their signature moves sets Undisputed apart as a true-to-life boxing experience. With insights from boxing legends like Sergio Mora, the game’s authenticity shines through in its gameplay.
Unique characteristics of fighters, motion capture sessions with boxing icons like Roy Jones Jr., and a system that factors in punch velocity, impact, and fighter fatigue contribute to a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience.
Immersing in the Fight Night Experience
As we approached the main event, the spectacle of boxing unfolded with grandeur. The intense atmosphere, amplified by lights, music, and player introductions, encapsulated the essence of a high-profile boxing match. Todd Grisham’s perspective on the electrifying aura of a big fight further emphasized the immersion Undisputed aims to provide.
Grisham’s involvement in the project brought a unique insight into capturing the essence of boxing commentary and the essence of a real match. The collaborative approach to voiceovers and gameplay added a layer of authenticity to Undisputed, elevating the gaming experience for fans and players alike.
A Ring of Realism
In the final fight of the night, the realism of Undisputed took center stage as Canelo Alvarez faced off against Terrance Crawford. The lifelike visuals, intricate fighting mechanics, and dynamic damage system created a gripping and authentic boxing encounter.
From accurate fighter representations to detailed damage modeling based on punch impact and fighter traits, Undisputed immerses players in the intensity of a championship bout. The gameplay experience, coupled with strategic decision-making and realistic fight outcomes, showcases the dedication and innovation of Steel City Interactive.
With a diverse roster of fighters, personalized career modes, and a commitment to pushing boundaries in indie game development, Undisputed stands as a promising addition to the boxing gaming genre. As the game approaches its full release, the anticipation for its debut on various platforms continues to grow.
Undisputed is currently available in early access on PC, with its official release scheduled for October 3 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
