- Undisputed is a new boxing video game created by a small indie studio in Sheffield, England.
- It aims to bring the excitement of real-life boxing to gaming consoles.
- The developers captured motion from actual boxers to make it feel authentic.
- Top pros like Tyson Fury and Canelo Alvarez appear as playable characters.
- Can this underdog game win over skeptical fans and gamers? Read on to find out!
Steel City Developers Boxing Above Their Weight
Four and a half years ago, the Khabib brothers from Sheffield had a dream – to create an awesome boxing video game. As die-hard gamers and boxing fans from a city with a rich boxing heritage, they formed Steel City Interactive to make it happen.
“We thought we’d give it a shot and took each day as it came, really,” explained CEO Ash Khabib.
Punching In With Real Boxers
To create the most authentic boxing experience possible, the small indie team involved the greatest boxers in the world. Legendary names like Muhammad Ali, Jack Dempsey, and Rocky Marciano were motion-captured performing moves.
Top current superstars Tyson Fury and Canelo Alvarez also agreed to be character avatars that players can select. Up-and-coming British talents like Dalton Smith were even included, too.
“It’s just a nice touch to allow them to grow their profile and name as well,” said Smith.
YouTuber Boxing – Hit or Miss?
The developers had to weigh in on the controversial topic of influencer boxing matches between big YouTube stars.
While initially skeptical, Khabib gave it credit: “They’re bringing a lot of eyes to boxing and inspiring the younger generation…getting them into boxing gyms.”
Smith agreed these non-professional bouts could attract new interest if included in the game, saying “whoever is mentioning my name the most” is who he’d want to fight virtually.
Feeling the Real Fighter Experience
To capture motion data, the boxers had to suit up in special motion capture suits and go through boxing movements, just like in the ring.
“You don’t want this; no one wants this!” joked one boxer as he worked up a sweat practicing dodges, slips, and combos in the studio.
The team’s determined work should pay off with ultra-realistic character movements that respond just like their real-life counterparts.
Bouncing Back From Punches
Like any underdog story, the road to the Undisputed release on October 12th has yet to be completely smooth. Early access gave the game some criticism from PC players over animation quality.
However, based on that feedback, Khabib believes the team has now “hit the spot” with significant improvements.
“I’m just excited about what players can see now,” he said, ready for the real fight with skeptics when the entire game launches worldwide.
An Indie Underdog Worth Betting On?
The video game industry is harsh nowadays, with frequent studio closures and layoffs. But Khabib believes there is a fighting chance for passionate indie developers like them to make an impact.
Steel City Interactive got early backing from the boxing industry before bringing gaming fans on board. Undisputed might be the plucky underdog that leaves a lasting mark on the genre if they can keep punching with that same disruptive tenacity.
Will this small team from Sheffield be able to score a knockout with their first big gaming about? Players must wait until October to determine if Undisputed will complete the 12 rounds as promised.ย
