Review: Super K.O Boxing 2 for the iPhone

Super K.O Boxing 2
System: iPhone/iPod Touch
MSRP: $4.99
Release Date: October 1, 2009

Super K.O Boxing 2 is like Punchout, except with more flair. But, has Glu Games created an interesting boxing game that isn't just shiny?

Graphics

The first thing you will notice in Super K.O Boxing 2 is that the graphics are very crisp and cartoon-like. The boxers will dish out various punches and jabs, along with flaming punches and one-tow combos. Surprisingly, with everything that can go on in a round, I never once noticed any lag or distortion. And for the record, I have an older 1st Gen iPhone (i.e. weaker processor).

- 19/20

Sound

The sound in this game is pretty good, too. You'll hear the crowd roar as you pummel your opponent and you'll hear other sound effects like: say you're fighting a pugilist with electric orbs as hands; you'll hear electricity sparking if he hits you or if you lay a good hit on him. My favorite thing about the sound, however, is the soundtrack. You can listen to your own music as you fight.

- 18/20

Story

There's really no story in the game. Basically you just move through three tournaments featuring a total of 17 bouts where you will fight your way to the top and become the Champion of the world.

- N/A

Gameplay

This game plays out like Punchout. The camera is fixed behind your boxer and you try to hit your opponent or sway away from his punches. There are number of different ways to set up the controls: touch pad, touch regions, touch pad with tilt, and touch regions with tilt. The controls are very responsive with zero lag. You have to use your head with this game. You can't just button mash and win. You'll need to study your opponent and look for an opening to win.

- 18/20

Replayability

Super K.O. 2 Boxing offers a great amount of replay value! After you complete all three tournaments, you will notice that you have unlocked all 12 fighters to compete against in versus mode, challenge mode, and endurance mode. Like I briefly mentioned earlier, there are some crazy boxers in this game. They are all very unique and have different ways of fighting. Also, Glu Games has said that they are working on adding more opponents and game modes for free in the future. My only complaint is that although all of the characters in this game are very unique, you never get to fight as any of them.

- 17/20

Conclusion

Glu Games has developed a great boxing game for the iPhone/iPod Touch. At only $5, Super K.O. Boxing 2 is an excellent value. You won't play this game just once or twice and never play it again. I hope in the future we will get a chance to fight as the other fighters which would greatly increase the replay value of this game. Otherwise, this is a superb buy!

Final Score

- 72/80 = 90/100

Justin Hubbell
November 10, 2009