Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!

THE BAD:
High difficulty level especially if you're not familiar with how boxing works. A 2 player mode would have been nice.

SUMMARY:
Based loosely on Nintendo's arcade boxing sim "Vs. Punch-Out!", there were actually 2 versions of this game released: The first release was called "Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!", and featured the then-World Heavyweight Champion as the game's final opponent. A later re-release removed Tyson's name and likeness and changed the final opponent's name to "Mr. Dream". (This was largely due to licensing issues) In the game, you took on the role of Little Mac, a rookie boxer looking to work his way through the boxing ranks up to a dream fight with Tyson/Mr. Dream. on the way you faced colorful opponents like Glass Joe, Bald Bull, Don Flamenco, and the ever-popular King Hippo.
The graphics are very good, as the fighters show a lot of emotion in the ring, and the facial expressions when hit are quite appropriate and realistic. The pace is fast with no hints of slowdown at anytime. Sounds are above-average, with decent sound effects when punching or getting punched. Music is so-so and is better not listened to, although it's appropriate between "desperation" music when you're down and trying to get up and "celebration" music when you knock the opponent down. Controls are simple but realistic-you use one button for your left arm, another for the right arm, and the pad/stick to aim your attacks or block. Gameplay's about as realistic as boxing gets-you can't just punch away recklessly because if you do, your boxer will tire and be wide open to relentless punishment. You also have to dodge and block the opponent's punches accordingly and look for openings to strike effectively. Plus every fighter has a different style, so what works against one fighter may not against another. Longtime Nintendo fans will also recognize a certain mustachioed man as the guest referee. A 2-player vs. option is lacking and would have added more fun to the game.
As one of the few boxing titles for NES, it's great for either arcade or simulation-style gameplay. If you can get the Tyson version, that title has a little more value just because of Iron Mike's name and likeness, but if not, don't worry-there's no difference in gameplay betwen the two. Recommended for boxing fans.