Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! (Japan, USA) (Rev 1)

In Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!, players take on the role of Little Mac, a diminutive boxer with the dream of becoming the world champion. Your mission is to overcome a series of eccentric and increasingly challenging opponents across three distinct circuits: the Minor Circuit, Major Circuit, and World Circuit. The game focuses on one-on-one boxing combat, where observation skills, reflexes, and memorization are key to victory.

Each match takes place in a boxing ring, viewed from a third-person perspective behind Little Mac. Players control Little Mac by moving left/right, dodging (left dodge, right dodge, duck), blocking, and throwing punches. Basic punches include jabs and body blows. When an opponent shows an opening or is stunned, players can unleash more powerful punches. A unique feature is the "star punch" system. When a player successfully performs a specific action (e.g., dodging at the right moment or hitting an opponent's weak spot), Little Mac earns a star. Up to three stars can be accumulated. With at least one star, players can use a powerful uppercut, dealing significant damage or even instantly knocking down an opponent.

A highlight of Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! is its memorable cast of unique opponents, each possessing distinct fighting styles, weaknesses, and "tells." Players must learn to recognize their opponents' movements to evade their attacks and find the opportune moments to counter. For instance, Glass Joe is very weak and easily defeated, while Bald Bull will perform a signature "Bull Charge" series of attacks that players must accurately dodge or block. The ultimate challenge is the climactic bout against Mike Tyson himself, an incredibly fast and powerful opponent who demands peak concentration and perfect strategy.

Each match has a time limit of three rounds. Players win a match by knocking out (KO) their opponent or winning by decision if time runs out. If Little Mac is knocked down three times in a single round, it results in a Technical Knockout (TKO). If the player is knocked down and cannot get up within 10 seconds, it's a KO. The game demands patience and the ability to learn from failures to progress. Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! is not just a fighting game but also a test of reflexes and strategic memory.