Foreman for Real

While not plentiful, the sport is represented strongly on Sega's handheld. Foreman for Real is rightfully part of that list, and only a disappointment for what it's missing instead of what it has. For what it is, this is a nice entry for boxing fans, though it's obvious there was room for more.

This looks like every other boxing game out there, with one difference - it plays worse than most of 'em. Somehow the developers have managed to knock all the fun right out of this one, kinda like big George does to his opponents.

When all is said and done, it is the actual gameplay that matters, and this is where the game wobbles. When you press the button there is a delayed response, upsetting the rhythm and balance of the fight. Normally quick punches like jabs feel like you have weights in your gloves, destroying the sense of speed and need for quick reaction. It appears that the developers spent too much time worrying about the motion captured graphics than creating a great playing game, simulation or otherwise. Boxing Legends of the Ring outclasses this game in every respect aside from the graphics, but even this area isn't a knockout. That's a shame too, because with faster gameplay and better control "it coulda been a contenda."

Once you've seen your opponent's head snap back from the weight of your blow, the game loses it's punch. Stick to the cartoony Super Punch-Out! and Riddick Bowe Boxing for better action in the ring.

Don't waste your time with this game when you could just as easily pick up Electronic Arts Foes of Ali.

The graphics for both the Super NES and Genesis versions are good, some of the best ever for a boxing game. Unfortunately, the playability is weak. There really aren't many things you can do besides punch.

The bottom line is that the do-or-die thrills found in Greatest Heavyweights and Toughman Contest just aren't here. You'll want to send this out-of-shape Foreman back to training camp.

This is one of two boxing games on the Genesis that's too focused on technology. The other is Muhammad Ali Boxing. That game featured somewhat realistic boxing stuck inside a slowly rotating ring the console could not handle. Neither game is particularly successful in any category. Stick with the Sega produced boxing series.