Is Wii Boxing the Same as Real Boxing?

Will learning to box improve your performance at Wii boxing?

In a nutshell - maybe YES. 

As if the thrill of boxing wasn't enough to convince you to take up the sport, now you have the Nintendo Wii to give you that little extra push. (if you can find one)  Ever since the Wii showed up and I started seeing Chinese people attempting to box on Youtube, I've been curious as to whether someone with boxing skill would do better than someone with no boxing skill at Wii boxing. You can even buy Wii boxing gloves to make it that much more realistic.

Unfortunately I don't have the definitive answer for you as I don't have a Wii.  But some research into Wii boxing did provide some interesting thoughts that allows me to make a good guess.  The game depends on four things: timing, acceleration, positioning, and movement which, remarkably, are similar to skills you need to know in real boxing.

Punching power is guaged on three levels and from what I can tell, the makers of Wii boxing actually programmed some real boxing techniques into the game.  By using boxing basics, it is conceivable that you will do better in the game.

For instance, you are not allowed to throw another punch until you have completely finished the movement required for the first punch.  If you jab and do not fully bring your hand back to the guard position, Wii boxing thinks the punch is still in progress and will not respond to another punch - there is a delay during which your opponent can smack you around.

Improper technique has prompted a few arguments complaining that Wii boxing is not responsive enough, however, from what I've read it seems that people just haven't been using the correct movements with the controllers.  Once they learn a few boxing basics - how to punch, dodge, and move, then suddenly Wii boxing is a lot more fun.

A couple of other comparisons:

1. Hooks - not realistic.  To initiate a hook in Wii boxing, you simply move the controller across you in a straight line - not the boxing hook motion.



2. Movement - realistic.  Especially if you are holding the controllers in a proper stance.  Angling both to the left will make you slip left, angle both forward and you duck, angle both back and you lean back.  You could cheat and do this with your wrists, but if you want the full boxing effect hold your guard up and move your torso to get the movements.



3. Straight punches - very touchy.  While you can control the punch angle on the fly, start out by practicing perfectly straight punches.  Should do wonders for your jab.

My wife and kids have been bugging me to buy a Wii for a while now.  This research into Wii boxing is probably exactly what I needed to convince me to give it a try.  However, I'd be very interested in hearing what others have experienced with it.  Do you have a Wii?  What do you think of Wii boxing?

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