Virtual Console Gets Punchy on Nintendo Wii

Most of us older than 21 probably have memories of the first time we ever played Punch-Out!! on the Nintendo Entertainment System. Back in those days, it was Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!, of course, but it was still the same game that was re-released later on with the much more ambiguous Mr. Dream replacing the game's title character. In the 20 years since Punch-Out!! first debuted, that original core gameplay is still copied to this day, and remains just as fun and addictive (and frustrating, at times) as it ever was.

Unlike newer boxing games like Fight Night, there's no boxer statistics to worry about. You don't need to train before fights (unless you count that little Rocky-esque cutscene between stages). You don't create a character that looks as much like you as you can possibly put together and then take him up the ranks of the pro boxing world. There's just you, Little Mac, and 2 all-important punches - left and right.

The game is built upon patterns, patience, and timing. Each opponent has a different pattern that he follows and a different weakness that needs to be exploited. The point of the game is to exploit those weaknesses - whether it be King Hippo's busting gut or Bald Bull's bull-charge - and use them to your advantage without getting your block knocked off. Little Mac is a weak little guy, and will get knocked down pretty quickly if he gets wailed on, so dodging your opponent is paramount, and counter-punching a must.

For anyone who has ever played the game before, the first few fights will be as easy as you remember them, but as you work your way through the second and third tier of opponents, you will remember what had you throwing your controller in disgust the first time you ever played the game. The difficulty of the game as remained unchanged since it was first released - it could just be that tough. Winning that match against Mr. Sandman is also just as rewarding as ever, too.

At the time, the graphics were absolutely amazing. Keep in mind, this was a game that was released in the same era as Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda, so there literally wasn't a better looking game at the time. Kids who've grown up on Grand Theft Auto, Halo, and Half-Life will probably laugh when they read that, but there's something nostalgic to be said about the colorful sprites on the screen. You'd be hard-pressed to find better graphics on any NES Virtual Console offering.

At the end of the day, there are very few titles on the Virtual Console more deserving of your $5. Maybe Legend of Zelda, but even Punch-Out!! provides an experience unrivaled on the system. Whether an old fan looking for a bit of nostalgia, or a new one who has never had the joy of playing this game, it is a must-have addition to your Virtural Console library.