Knockout Kings 2002

 Xbox
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 20
  3. Negative: 0 out of 20
  1. Hot Games
    100
    All said and done, Knockout Kings 2002 does not have a contender in sight, leaving it as the definite king of the ring.
  2. Cincinnati Enquirer
    90
    The most intense and realistic boxing simulation ever created thanks to its deep and challenging game play, responsive controls, cutting-edge visuals, and something not enough boxing games have: emotion.
  3. IGN
    88
    The franchise has made such a graphical leap on the Xbox that it barely looks related to KK2001 that came out last year for the PS2...a flat out fun boxing title.
  5. Game Informer
    88
    A marked improvement over the Playstation 2 version, with buffed-up character models, faster action, and more responsive analog-stick control. [Apr 2002, p.83]
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  6. GameSpot
    83
    Responsive controls, great graphics, and a control scheme that offers players a phenomenal amount of control over the fighters in the game.
  7. Operation Sports
    82
    Yes Knockout Kings 2002 might be more considered a button masher/arcade game than a strategic sim, but bottom line, it’s one enjoyable game.
  8. GameSpy
    82
    Still the best thing out there...Hopefully the developers will make next year's version less arcade-like and implement more simulation aspects that take advantage of the fine engine.
  9. Game Over Online
    81
    This version is essentially identical to its highly acclaimed PS2 counterpart with a few visual enhancements, sadly though this version shares the PS2's excruciatingly long load times.
  10. Official Xbox Magazine
    80
    What makes this game so much fun is the pure speed and power. [May 2002, p.80]
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  11. GamePro
    80
    Though it's not as scientifically challenging as Victorious Boxers, KK 2002 is still a vast improvement over the last one and a satisfyingly addictive slugfest for pro boxing fans.
  12. Maxim Online
    80
    Our only regret is that George Foreman isn't in the game. Apparently he's too busy hocking his new grill to bother bringing his fat ass into the game for a good ol' fashioned digital butt-whuppin'.
  13. GamerWeb Xbox
    75
    This game is definitely for the multiplayer and that's what makes it enjoyable. If you're looking for solo-play action then you definitely need to look elsewhere.

Awards & Rankings

49
#49 Best Xbox Game of 2002
91
#91 Most Discussed Xbox Game of 2002

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.0

Mixed or average reviews- based on 8 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 8
  3. Negative: 2 out of 8
  1. JeffA.
    Mar 26, 2003
    9
    This is an excellent choice if your looking for a fun Xbox boxing game. There is no competition.
  2. JesseS.
    Jan 8, 2003
    10
    This is the funnest boxing game since punchout and victorious boxers. The collision detection on KO replays is a little off sometimes but for This is the funnest boxing game since punchout and victorious boxers. The collision detection on KO replays is a little off sometimes but for me thats easily overlooked. This game is an absolute riot with 2 people once you get the hang of it. My bro in law (a librarian) loves it so you will too.… Full Review »
  3. J.C.
    Jul 15, 2002
    10
    This is the game that got me to buy an Xbox! Knowlege of boxing helps. The jab for instance is under powered in some fighters but is still a This is the game that got me to buy an Xbox! Knowlege of boxing helps. The jab for instance is under powered in some fighters but is still a neccesity for a winning combo punch. Also, each fighter has one 'speciality' type shot that truly match the skills of the real fighter. … Full Review »
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