SCI Can Learn from NBA 2K’s Success by Hiring Hardcore Boxing Fans and Industry Experts

Steel City Interactive (SCI), the developers behind Undisputed, are facing growing scrutiny from boxing fans regarding the state of their game. Many are questioning whether the company has made the right hiring choices, as the game continues to struggle with mechanics, realism, and core gameplay elements that should reflect the sport of boxing. Fans are pointing to the success of NBA 2K as a model for how a boxing game should be built—by hiring individuals deeply connected to the sport, including hardcore fans, former boxers, trainers, and industry professionals.

The NBA 2K Blueprint for Success

One of the key reasons NBA 2K has remained the premier basketball simulation for years is its commitment to realism. Visual Concepts, the developer of NBA 2K, has consistently hired former NBA players, analysts, and basketball enthusiasts who understand the nuances of the sport. They bring expertise that helps shape gameplay mechanics, player tendencies, and game modes in ways that feel authentic to fans. By integrating these experts into the development process, NBA 2K ensures that the gameplay reflects the actual sport, making it an engaging and rewarding experience for players.

SCI’s Hiring Choices Raise Concerns

In contrast, SCI’s hiring decisions have left many boxing fans perplexed. While some hires may have industry experience, it’s unclear if they possess a true passion for or deep knowledge of boxing. The result? A game that feels disconnected from the sport it’s trying to simulate. Undisputed has received criticism for unrealistic movement, awkward punch mechanics, and gameplay that often ignores fundamental boxing strategies. Fans are now questioning whether these issues stem from a lack of true boxing minds in the development process.

Why Hiring Hardcore Boxing Fans and Industry Experts Matters

1. Understanding of the Sport – Hardcore boxing fans and industry experts know what makes boxing unique. They understand the importance of feints, defensive maneuvers, stamina management, and realistic punch trajectories. This knowledge is crucial for developing an authentic boxing simulation.
2. Player Tendencies and Styles – Just as NBA 2K replicates the playing styles of real basketball players, a boxing game should ensure that real-life fighters have accurate tendencies and behaviors. Hiring trainers, boxers, and analysts would help SCI capture these details.
3. Game Balance and Mechanics – Having people who truly know boxing can prevent developers from implementing arcade-style mechanics that alienate fans of the sport. A sim-based boxing game requires deep understanding, not just generic fight animations.
4. Community Trust and Engagement – When fans see that developers respect and understand the sport, they are more likely to support the game long-term. Having well-known and respected figures from the boxing world involved in development can build credibility and trust.

The Current State of Undisputed

The criticism of Undisputed largely stems from the gameplay not meeting expectations for a realistic boxing simulation. Issues such as unnatural footwork, repetitive animations, questionable stamina management, and unbalanced mechanics are frustrating players. These flaws suggest that the team behind the game lacks a deep understanding of boxing fundamentals.

While SCI has attempted to engage with the community and take feedback, their response time and execution have been inconsistent. Many believe that hiring more knowledgeable individuals would help bridge the gap between what fans expect and what SCI is currently delivering.

What SCI Should Do Moving Forward

• Hire Hardcore Boxing Fans – Passionate fans who understand the sport will advocate for the details that make boxing unique.
• Bring in Boxing Experts – Trainers, former fighters, and analysts can provide valuable insights on mechanics and realism.
• Study Successful Sports Games – Following NBA 2K’s approach of using real-world expertise can elevate Undisputed to the next level.
• Listen to the Community – The fans have been vocal about what they want, and SCI needs to acknowledge and implement their feedback properly.

Conclusion

SCI has an opportunity to create the definitive boxing simulation, but that will only happen if they take the right approach. By following in the footsteps of NBA 2K and hiring individuals who live and breathe boxing, they can refine Undisputed into the game that boxing fans have been waiting for. The blueprint for success is there—SCI just needs to follow it.