In a world of gaming intricacies and high-tech simulations, Undisputed steps into the ring with a refreshing dose of simplicity. With just a punching bag and raw power, this game captures attention and intrigue. However, the real game changer lies in the mind of its creator, Ash Habib, founder of Steel City Interactive. Undisputed is more than a virtual brawl; it’s a homage to the art and strategy that define the world of boxing.
Growing up in Sheffield, a city steeped in boxing history, Habib’s fascination with the sport began with legends like Muhammad Ali and Prince Naseem Hamed. Inspired by Naseem’s meteoric rise, Habib saw the potential for entertainment in boxing. Today, Sheffield continues to be a hotbed for boxing talent, including Kell Brook and other world-class fighters, with 90 percent of the Steel City Interactive team calling it home.
Habib’s love for gaming runs just as deep. From ZX Spectrum to Sega Master System, Super Nintendo, and Amiga, he explored a variety of platforms. Boxing games like 4D Sports Boxing and the popular EA Fight Night series left a lasting impression. However, Habib sought to take the best elements from every combat game he’d experienced and create something truly unique.
Enter ‘loose movement,’ a groundbreaking feature allowing boxers to move naturally and realistically, departing from the rigid motions seen in other combat games. Habib’s commitment to realism extends to feinting, a strategic move crucial in real combat sports but rarely seen in boxing games.
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Undisputed promises to showcase British boxing talent like never before, shattering the tradition of token representation for UK fighters. Frank Bruno, Ricky Hatton, and Carl Froch will finally step into the virtual ring, alongside an immersive career mode that lets players hire a cut man, a boxing trainer, and a manager, each impacting their journey.
While Undisputed’s recent early access update faced criticism for issues like “ghost punches” and “desync problems,” Habib acknowledges the challenges. As a small team dedicated to preserving the authenticity of boxing, they’re committed to resolving these concerns one by one, refusing to compromise on the core gameplay.
For Habib, Undisputed’s legacy hinges on one crucial element: doing justice to boxing and the sport. It’s a testament to his unwavering dedication and ambition to create a game that not only entertains but also captures the essence of a sport he holds dear.
Olivia’s Value:
Ash Habib’s journey from a fan of Muhammad Ali to the creator of Undisputed paints a vivid picture of a visionary who combines passion for boxing and gaming to deliver an experience that transcends the virtual realm. With an eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, Habib is poised to redefine the world of boxing simulation.
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While Ash Habib’s vision for Undisputed is admirable, some critics argue that the game’s simplicity may not fully capture the depth and complexity of real-world boxing. They question if hitting a bag alone can truly emulate the strategic nuances and footwork needed in the sport. Yet, Habib’s dedication to authenticity and innovation remains undeniable.
