'Knockout kings' are only middleweights

Knockout Kings 2002\nRating: T for Teen\nBy: EA Sports\nFor: XBox, Playstation 2\nEA brings the sucker-punching, adrenaline-pumping fisticuffs of the ring to stunning life with "Knockout Kings 2002," the most recent incarnation of their popular boxing franchise.\nWhile the game is extensive, perhaps it's not extensive enough? There are plenty of cool venues to scrap in (i.e., Caesar's Palace and Wembley Stadium, among others) and legendary fighters to brawl with (Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, Ruben "Hurricane" Carter, etc.), but many boxing greats are sadly excluded (George Foreman, Mike Tyson and yes, Tommy "The Gun" Morrison). \nAlthough these exclusions are annoying, there are a few other elements within the game that are far more grating. First, it's next to impossible to properly block your opponents' shots. You can hold the block button all you like, but they'll still clock you in the face while dancing about like Baryshnikov. Second, ring announcers Larry Michael and Max Kellerman are a couple repetitive dudes -- every round could be "the greatest they've ever seen." Granted, I mash buttons with the best of them, but I'm not that great. Third, the boxers don't even talk. I want to hear Roy Jones Jr. challenge Bernard Hopkins to a spelling contest. I want to hear Hopkins retort by schilling for goldenpalace.com. I want to hear Mike Tyson threaten to eat his opponents' children. \nDespite these qualms, "Knockout Kings 2002" is an entertaining game. There are various different fighting modes available to gamers. Players can participate in multiplayer tournaments, allowing for a maximum of eight fighters, or they can opt to create their own boxer in career mode (Strangely enough, your manager strongly resembles Robert Shapiro… Where's Don King when you actually need him?). The graphics are impeccable -- details ranging from the crystal clear JumboTrons in the background to Lennox Lewis' sweat-drenched dreads are captured in stunning detail. Facial renderings are accurate and clearly show wear and tear through each round.\n"Knockout Kings 2002" true to its source has built-in two player appeal, which makes for some truly hilarious smack talk among gamers. Boxing fans, or those who truly relish talking trash to their nearest and dearest would be well advised to pick this game up. Otherwise, gamers would be better off waiting around for "Knockout Kings 2003." Either way this game is well worth a rental.\n

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