Classic Games Database
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ABC Wide World of Sports Boxing

Review
Also known as
TV Sports Boxing

This sports simulation challenges you to manage a rookie's career, funding training through bouts to become champion.

ABC Wide World of Sports Boxing (also known as TV Sports Boxing) was developed by Acme Interactive and Cinemaware and published by Data East for MS-DOS in 1991; this is the earliest commercial release of the DOS version and the original game.

About ABC Wide World of Sports Boxing

ABC Wide World of Sports Boxing is a career simulation and boxing game for DOS. The player's objective is to guide a created boxer from rookie status to champion, a process managed through a monthly cycle of training and arranged fights.

Before beginning, a boxer is customized with initial statistics, a fighting style, and a designated strongest punch. Progression depends on managing finances earned from bouts, which pay win or lose, after deductions for staff and expenses. A manager books fights, with more skilled managers offering better opponents and pay but requiring higher wages. Similarly, trainers provide monthly stat improvements in areas like power or footwork, with superior trainers becoming available for a fee. Equipment can be purchased to temporarily boost training effectiveness.

The actual boxing matches feature two distinct views. Movement around the ring is handled from a top down perspective, while direct combat switches to a side view with the fighters facing each other. The goal is to deplete the opponent's stamina bar to score a knockdown or, more decisively, reduce their head or body health to zero for a knockout. A technical knockout occurs from three knockdowns in one round or from serious injury. A television commentator provides prefight analysis before each match begins.

ABC Wide World of Sports Boxing Screenshots

10 images
Title screen (North American version)
Title screen (European version)
Introduction
Main Menu
Underwhelming bird's-eye view
Close and furious things are more impressive.
Rock 'em! Sock 'em!
Looks like I've got a glass jaw.
The winner and cham-peen!
Game Credits