Want to play as Ippo? You’ll need to master the Peek-a-Boo style and weave in for the Dempsey Roll. Prefer Sendou Takeshi? You’ll be hunting for the Smash counter. The game captures the "Shonen" spirit of the anime—matches are not just about points; they are about dramatic comebacks, spirit bursts, and knockdowns that shake the screen.
The GBA’s limited buttons are used brilliantly. The A and B buttons handle your primary punches, while combinations of the D-pad and shoulder buttons allow for hooks, upper-cuts, and the signature weaving that defines the series. The Power of "Soul" Hajime no Ippo The Fighting- GBA -English Patch...
There is a "Spirit" meter that fills as you land hits or take damage. Once full, you can unleash cinematic special moves that mirror the high-octane animation of the anime. Seeing Ippo lean into a Dempsey Roll in 2D sprite art is incredibly satisfying. Strategic Depth Want to play as Ippo
Visually, the game is a marvel for the GBA. The character sprites are large, expressive, and fluidly animated. Treasure used a pseudo-3D perspective that gives the ring a sense of depth, making it feel like a predecessor to modern boxing sims despite being on 32-bit hardware. The sound design is equally impactful, with heavy thuds and sharp "snaps" that make every punch feel weighty. Final Verdict You’ll be hunting for the Smash counter
If you enjoy the patched GBA game, consider supporting the official release of the Hajime no Ippo manga (available from Kodansha Comics digitally) or the anime on Crunchyroll. While a Western re-release of the game is unlikely, the fan patch is the definitive way to experience this cult classic.