The sweetest science is one sweet game

The game once known as "Knockout Kings" has transcended to become "Fight Night 2004," a completely new experience that sets the standard for all other boxing games.\n"Fight Night" uses a new control scheme called "Total Punch Control" which maps almost all punch controls to the right analog stick, which you move around to throw different kinds of punches. It sounds a bit clunky, but in fact it's the best control scheme in a boxing game. The motions of the punches match those of the stick, so it feels like you have more control of your fighter.\nThe rest of the play mechanics work well, as the game also emphasizes defense and varying punches in order to make players actually use some strategy, instead of just mashing on the buttons.\nThe game has both exhibition and career modes, with the ability to play as real boxers like Muhammad Ali and Roy Jones Jr. The create-a-boxer option is also impressive, as anyone with enough patience and talent could put their own face in the game. While the career mode could be more in-depth with a few more bells and whistles, it is still a blast to play through and the most rewarding part of the game.\nAny fan of sports or fighting games should definitely give "Fight Night 2004" a look.