The K-1 circuit may be a bit toned down compared to hard-hitters like UFC and Pride, but this mixed-martial-arts competition can still give a pounding. The game based on this popular hard-knock attraction does the same, too. Konami did a fantastic job in making K-1 not too sim-oriented, while also not making it too arcadey. In K-1, you can choose to fight as real kickboxing professionals like the steel-fisted Mark Hunt or the legendary Dutchman Ernesto Hoost. Controlling each fighter is like directing a pugilist in Knockout Kings. The button presses are the same, but the styles of punches and kicks look completely different from one another. The action is well balanced and fast-paced in the ring, and the game’s pick-up-and-play feel is ideal for both amateur and pro fighters. Additionally, an innovative health system adds depth and strategy to the game. As you concentrate on attacking a specific body part, you must also manage your endurance level and choose an effective battle plan between rounds by choosing various recovery options. The graphic and sound departments could have used just as much depth. Instead, the visuals are reminiscent of how the first-generation PS2 games look—not refined with average detail. Still, characters animating their bag of realistic gut-thumping moves smooth out the rough parts. The soundtrack, however, is a monotone of ear-piercing noises mixed with a decent amount of bodies-being-slapped effects. In real life, K-1 appeals to a niche fighting audience—and so does this game. It may not be suitable for everyone, but even if you have an idea of what K-1 is all about, try this brawler out.
