Boxing Man

Warning!!! (ok, maybe a bit strong!)

2012-01-17T13:41:00.001Z

Hi all!
Hope you are well.

Please note I will be shutting this blog down in a couple of weeks and have yet to decide if I'm starting up a new one for the new website. I certainly don't want to lose any of you so please follow me over to either Twitter, Facebook or make sure to check the email you used to buy the previous game. As always any problems or questions please just let me know.

Until next time...

Box On!
Anthony (ProBoxMan)

Email: support@pcboxing.com
Web: http://www.pcboxing.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/ProBoxMan
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ProBoxMan

New Version Feature Spotlight #10 - Professional Boxing Manager

2011-12-31T13:17:00.000Z

Professional Boxing Manager is a Knockout. Start the Count..1..2..3..4..5..6..7..8..9..
10..KNOCK OUT!
Like no other Boxing Management game. Made by Boxing fans, for Boxing fans since 2005.

This is the point where I'd like us to sit crossed legged in a circle for a little chat if you don't mind!

You should know me by now. Whether you know me as Anthony, ProBoxMan, 'support@pcboxing' or whatever. You should know that this game is and always will be, my baby. I have been a hardcore boxing fan since the 1980s and remember (just) those early classic fights with the likes of Tommy Hearns, Iron Mike to British legends like Barry McGuigan, Lloyd Honeyghan and of course Big Frank. Every fight was amazing to me. So much so that I began making my own boxing board games which my friends and I would play for days on end. Yes, I was 'that guy'! The inventive fanatic. As boxing computer games begun to appear on my Commodore64 and beyond, I have played and loved pretty much all of them.

This started my desire to create my first boxing management game 'Ultimate Boxing Manager'. Although it wasn't the 'ultimate' boxing management game it was 100% my work, every single part written or designed by me. Did you play it? Remember the boxing circles? Did you beat it? It's a bit of a legend as not even I managed to become the ultimate boxing manager! I was rightfully proud when the positive reviews and feedback came in and this sparked the need for the follow-up.

January 2006 saw the launch of 'Boxing Manager - Professional Edition' and apart from the office and gym backgrounds was once again made by me. This was a more ambitious version than 'Ultimate' and was also well received until the well documented issues it had staying upright and running! This is a shame as it was a superior game to the previous effort. Being a true boxing fan, when the problems began I didn’t run and hide I thought 'what would it take to make the absolute best boxing management game. To this end I requested feedback from every player of the game for their opinion and every feedback, whether from a real professional boxing manager or casual player was treated on its merits. From this I created the blueprint for the best boxing management game.

And then here we are. This game 'Professional Boxing Manager' is the accumulation of efforts of boxing fans all around the world, the love of my family and support from my friends. I don't want to get into the personal expense this game has cost me or even the effects of lame coders and designers bailing out on me mid project had on my health. It was worth it and whether it’s a success or not, I know this game has the features the dedicated players of the game wanted. Is it the exact vision I had when I started? No. Have there been compromises? Yes. Too many unfortunately mainly caused by the weak hired help and financial constraints. The good news is that even now I already have a massive wishlist of features and ideas which simply couldn't be squeezed into this version. In fact, the team here had to constantly be 'reigned in' as the sheer amount of good ideas threatened to swamp the development. Is this a finished list? Not at all. Not by a long shot. Your feedback helped me then and it will help me now to develop, improve and strive to make YOUR game, MY baby the best boxing management game it can be. True story.

"so what's the question then?" That's simple. The question on your lips, or tweets, or facebook comment is simply "when is it coming out?" The answer? Well, that was meant to be this year but hit a few nasty snags at the end which put paid to that. Now the game is slated for release January 31st. An actual date! Happy? If so, make sure you're signed up here for the discount off your purchase.

Until next time...

New Version Feature Spotlight #9 - Professional Boxing Manager

2011-12-01T14:02:00.001Z

Professional Boxing Manager is a Knockout. Start the Count..1..2..3..4..5..6..7..8..

9..SUPERIOR QUALITY
Incredible background data processing speed, rock solid stability with a slick & stylish interface.

Basically, this game works! I cannot stress to you how important this fact is to me. The current game (coded by these hands) was very quickly found out in terms of its ability to run well on modern PCs. In fact it was the advent of Windows Vista that really caused it problems. I'm not technically able to explain in detail but I believe Vista worked in a different way to good old XP and combined with faster processors etc my simple coding was soon corrupted.

If you've complained about this you would have received an email from me. Not copied and pasted but written by me personally apologising for it. I'll be honest and say the game 'falling over' personally upset me. I could take a 'this game is rubbish' comment on the chin but not being able to fix the problem hurt and I REALLY tried to fix it! I even hired a third party to fix it but I guess my coding was so contrived he couldn't. He did create a backup database system which allowed for some 'rolling back' (usually to an earlier still corrupted version!) and the legendary 'THIS ERROR MESSAGE HAS BEEN COPIED TO YOUR CLIPBOARD PASTE IT INTO A SUPPORT REQUEST EMAIL' message. Oh how I loved those! :0)

"So what’s different this time?"
That's simple, I didn’t write it. Not a single line. Instead I hired professional coders to do the work and a fine job they did too. The result is a fantastically stable platform for a game which is literally a hundred thousand times the size of my little boxing game! The new version also has absolutely fantastic new in-game graphics, again professionally designed and brand new for this version. This also includes a new 3D office environment for you to run and build your boxing management empire.
The result? You get the pleasure of playing with a beautifully designed, solid and reliable game worthy of your time, effort and appreciation and I get to sleep at night! ;0)

Until next time...

Box On!
Anthony (ProBoxMan)
Email: support@pcboxing.com
Web: http://www.pcboxing.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/ProBoxMan
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ProBoxMan

New Version Feature Spotlight #8 - Professional Boxing Manager

2011-10-14T13:48:00.003Z

Professional Boxing Manager is a Knockout. Start the Count..1..2..3..4..5..6..7..

8..MAJOR SUPPORT
Featuring famous boxing brands from across the world helping to create an authentic experience

The core strategy behind this game was to not only make it bigger and better but also to make it much more realistic.
To aid this cause I solicited the involvement of boxing brands from the well known world famous down to new independent labels on the basis of helping create a fabulous and authentic experience making you, the boxing fans feel right at home!

So who's in? Yeah, like I'm ever going to reveal all of the brands involved here!
But to give you some idea of the scope of the massive and beautiful boxing game that will soon be in your hands, it includes major publications like the renowned Boxing Monthly and the awesome new Undisputed Magazine. Then there's world class equipment related brands such as Sugar Rays, AMPro and Rival to name a few. There are also great boxing forums and channels like Live Fight, Boxing Asylum, The Main Event Boxing Show, World Boxing News and many more.

The brands are interwoven into the fabric of the game so they can be experienced exactly how they are in the real world. For example you might get a message from an boxing equipment manufacturer offering you a glove wearing deal or you might see a boxing forum quote telling everyone how rubbish your stable is, lowering your fame.

Oh, So this is Advert City population me then?

No. I wish. Then I might actually be getting paid handsomely and using the funds to make me handsome! There are a couple of ads around but nothing too distracting. Also every brand appears on the ring mat in the 3d fight scene which is a pretty cool bit of screen time, no matter how majorly famous you may be.

Until next time...

Box On!
Anthony (ProBoxMan)
Email: support@pcboxing.com
Web: http://www.pcboxing.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/ProBoxMan
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ProBoxMan/

New Version Feature Spotlight #7 - Professional Boxing Manager

2011-10-09T18:54:00.005Z

Professional Boxing Manager is a Knockout. Start the Count..

7..FUN GAMEPLAY
Enjoy the thrill of achieving Amateur boxing glory and gaining recognition for your management excellence!

Games should be fun right?
I was very conscious when making this game to ensure it doesn't feel like you are simply interfacing with a cold hard database, rather that you are making an impact on the boxing world and having fun doing it!

So, how is some fun to be had?
Well, fun is what you make it. What may be fun for one player may not be quite so entertaining for another! I know some players are already excited by the Amateur boxing career development aspect, whereas others would take more enjoyment from bringing back washed up a former champ. Whatever your idea of fun may be, I have devised interesting side plots to the main mission of boxing related getting, training, fighting and winning.

Firstly; it is my pleasure to announce...The Golden Games! That's right; since this game has Amateur boxing what it also needed was a massive World Championship Amateur Boxing knockout style Tournament! Every year the best 32 Amateurs in each weight class are drawn to compete in the Golden Games to decide who takes the gold and the glory! Maybe your hot prospect will round off a fantastic year of wins by scooping the title! Maybe after he’ll get big headed and try to dump you? Maybe he’ll add a few zeros to his contract if you tried to renegotiate? Maybe it’ll mean he starts higher in the rankings when he turns pro? Maybe you’ll have to wait to find out.

Secondly; if you're an awesome boxing manager you should be rewarded right? What are you expecting? Some sort of trophy? Alright then! The game is stacked with great unlock-able trophies for all manner of brilliant achievements, there's even an in-game trophy room where you can bask in their glory whenever you like! No, I will not be telling you what they all are! :0)

But; I want MORE fun! Give it to me now!
Whoah, easy Tiger! Ok, check this out. Guess what happens if you're the manager of the best Amateur boxers in your Country in each weight-class when the Golden games come around? That's right, by default YOU will become your own Countries International Boxing Team Manager! Neat huh? There should probably be an award trophy for that... ;0)

Until next time...

Box On!
Anthony (ProBoxMan)Email: support@pcboxing.comWeb: http://www.pcboxing.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/ProBoxMan
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ProBoxMan

New Version Feature Spotlight #6 - Professional Boxing Manager

2011-09-02T16:03:00.000Z

Professional Boxing Manager is a Knockout. Start the Count..1..2..3..4..5..
6..REALISTIC MANAGEMENT
Multiple Boxing organisations, weigh-ins, contract/fight negotiations, PPV & TV deals, Corner-man mode & more!

Ok, I think we'd better break this one down a bit!

How multiple are the multiple boxing organisations? With this game we have gone from a total of 2 boxing Organisations (ORGs) to (wait for it) 69 National level PLUS 5 Continental level PLUS 2 World level which equals 76 ORGS! Each has their own licensing criteria, rules, rankings, results, website and head honchos for you to deal (or not deal) with!

Weigh-in now takes place before the fight. As detailed in the last update, it is up to you (or a hired expert) to ensure your boxers are properly prepared for the fight and within the correct weight limits. Failure to do so will result in massive financial penalties to pay for substitutes to take your place as well as all manner of other problems that generate from frustrating venue promoters, boxers and fans.

Boxer and Fight contract negotiations are now more detailed as they link into the 'rival/ally' system detailed in a previous update. This means the process is made significantly harder or easier depending on which side of their fence you're on. Negotiations with a party that is neither friend nor foe will be based on their abilities and intelligence and, of course, yours too!

PPV/TV deals is a feature which is still being developed. Currently this means that being skilful in your matchmaking means you may just end up on a fightbill with a world champion, get your boxer featured on screens worldwide and guess what? His star could rise as could your bank balance!

Corner-man mode is quite similar to the current game but with a few significant differences to take advantage of the wealth of stats each boxer now has. More details on this in a future update.

"Hey! You Said More!"
There is more. Even much more. I could've even used the 'much, much more' phrase if I wanted too but that would've simply blown your mind! :0)

The result? A realistic boxing management game placing you in the hotseat and making sure that if you don't put the effort in with determination, skill and style, then you'll be knocked out of the game quicker than your underprepared boxers!

Until next time...

Box On!
Anthony (ProBoxMan)
Email: support@pcboxing.com
Web: http://www.pcboxing.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/ProBoxMan
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ProBoxMan

New Feature Spotlight #5 - Professional Boxing Manager

2011-08-31T14:59:00.001Z

Professional Boxing Manager is a Knockout. Start the Count..1..2..3..4..

5..INVOLVING ACTION
Manage your way & every aspect from your staff down to the number of supplements in your boxers diet.

I detailed in the last update how the way you manage effects the world outside your office door, in this update I will highlight how the way you manage 'in house' has also changed for the better.

This time around you are far from alone as (depending on your level and finances) you can surround yourself with boxing industry professionals to make your life easier. This also comes in various levels from the usual trusty assistant to team members like corner men, cut men and coaches through to additional bolt-on members such as doctors and trainers, right up to specialists that can be hired to train individual abilities and work magic for a hefty fee!

Training has been greatly improved and allows almost limitless customisation with the ability to not only create an entire training schedule up to 16 weeks long but also to save and load plans you've created yourself. This way, you as the manager can tailor your plans to the styles and needs of each individual boxer or create general plans for keeping fit, improving power, etc. As before it is very important not to overwork your boxers as this increases the risk of injury but this time around overtraining can also drain them and reduce their weight. Under-working has the effect of also reducing abilities and increasing weight. One of the specialists available to hire is a Nutritionist which could come in handy as you now also have the task of managing the weight of your entire stable of boxers! And if you don't 'make the weight' come fight week...big trouble!

"I'm not messing about with diets!"
Hey, it's not that bad! check this out. The boxers’ diet is set using a mixture of Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fats and Supplements. Basically four lockable sliders. Tweaking these factors even slightly along with changes in the training plans can have a massive effect on your boxer and you may just find the winning recipe to create that monster you've been trying to create! The good thing is you can assign lots of tasks to your assistant so, if messing about with diet sliders is not your thing, don't make it your thing!

The result? Even more power to your boxing manager elbow. Hire, fire, tweak, change, mess about, experiment and ultimately get involved and make your team and stable a force to be feared!

Until next time...

Box On!
Anthony (ProBoxMan)
Email: support@pcboxing.com
Web: http://www.pcboxing.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/ProBoxMan
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ProBoxMan

New Feature Spotlight #4 - Professional Boxing Manager

2011-08-03T21:47:00.003Z

Professional Boxing Manager is a Knockout. Start the Count...1...2...3...

..4..DETAILED WORLD

Highly detailed characters populate an ever changing boxing world with allies & rivalries made every minute!

How detailed? Well, let's put this into perspective. In the current game each boxer has 6 main stats (Endurance, Power, Defence, Speed, Accuracy and Resistance) and 1 additional (Cuts) which is not trainable. Total of 7. The new version has 9 PAGES of information relating to the individual boxers before you even get into the stats on each! I am not going to reveal all the stats involved and there are a whole series of stats which are going to be hidden from the player anyway (Feeling Lucky Punk?) but the simple fact is there is an immense amount of stats available.

As a manager you will now have the power to not just train a boxer but also to DESIGN your boxer entirely to suit you. For example if you discover a kid who, with a bit of work, could become a fantastic counterpunching Southpaw with a sweet left hook to go with his natural strength, Balance and Bravery you can make it happen.

And that's just the boxers. Now the world also includes a massive array of Staff and Non Player Characters (NPCs) which you can and must interact with in order to survive and prosper. Everything from Cut men and Corner men through to specialist to aid in nutrition and training up to venue promoters, TV bosses and (Gulp!) Boxing Organisation presidents! More on these NPCs later. Suffice to say, the game world has levels of detail unprecedented in a boxing game, let alone a boxing management game.

"I demand more detail!" Wow, OK steady on. Let's look at the 'allies & rivalries' part. Every character in the game (including you!) has an ever evolving list of rivals and allies. This is needed, because as you travel through the game coming into contact with the NPCs, you will now have an effect on them. For example if you organise a fight with another manager and you blatantly fleece them, there's a chance you'll get onto their rival list meaning future attempts may become a lot harder to do. What's worse is that this world (like real life) is about 'degrees of separation' and annoying someone can also be passed onto people they know. Of course, the opposite is true too as is varying degrees in-between. Time to take some responsibility for your actions!

The result? You will now have an unparalleled level of customisation and training control on the boxers in your stable and it'll be down to you to manage not just your relationships with your boxers and staff but also your relationships with the characters around you. A world of emotional colour to go with the superbly customisable physical one.

Until next time...

Box On!Anthony (ProBoxMan)
Email: support@pcboxing.comWeb: http://www.pcboxing.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/ProBoxMan
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ProBoxMan

New Feature Spotlight #3 - Professional Boxing Manager

2011-07-22T12:59:00.001Z

Professional Boxing Manager is a Knockout. Start the Count...1...2...

..3..MULTIPLE LEVELS
Achieve honours in the Amateur boxing world, go for Professional boxing glory or Both at the same time!

Yes, the amateur boxing world is now going to be fully represented by a world class boxing management game!
This means you'll be able to talent spot right from an early age, nurture the skills and, of course, take them all the way to professional glory. Full career progression is now yours to shape.

The new game is very much about levels. For the boxers (amateur and professional class) and this time around, for you too!
A good way to explain would be to imagine if YOU right now went and applied for a managers licence and started a boxing gym. In all likelihood the licence will only apply in your base country and (unless you have some famous and trusting boxer friends) your gym will be initially attended by local amateurs and low level pros. That's not to say you won't be able to try and get some famous names, you just won't succeed without throwing a LOT of money around which you won't have! :0) The good news is as you (the manager) develop you will be able to earn the right to succeed with an application to manage at Continental and then World level.

"Say what? This is brilliant!"
Thanks, you're too kind! It is brilliant and it is brilliant on multiple levels!

The result? Amateur boxing finally gets the representation it deserves and you finally get to feel the warm glow that only comes from starting at the bottom and climbing the ranks to the top. As always, I'm interested to read your feedback to this and all the future feature announcements so please get in touch.

Until next time...

Professional Boxing Manager Game - New Feature Spotlight #2

2011-07-10T12:01:00.000Z

Hello,
Hope you are well.
See below for the second installment in the 'great boxing game tease of 2011'! :0)

Professional Boxing Manager is a Knockout. Start the Count...1...

..2...EXCITING FIGHTS
Action packed fight engine combining 3d graphics with stunning professional motion capture animations.

As you may have seen from the screenshot, the new version has improved the 'watching the fights' part of the game quite a bit!
Glorious 3D with free-cam allowing you to view the fight from any angle. Uses professionally designed motion capture animations and only the gloves are Red vs Blue now! Certainly beats watching those Red & Blue circles get their boxing on. Bearing in mind, a lot of Football (Soccer) management games have only recently moved on from 'dot game display', so we're not that far behind!

Let's be honest though, the EA Sports Fight Night series has completely spoilt you when it comes to boxing game eye candy. I doubt I can even comprehend the sheer amount of money and man hours that must have gone into it's production. Mind-Boggling!
So what does an independant game developer do in the face of such unbeatable odds? He decides to go for an approach which will deliver a look unique to his game that is enjoyable to watch and represents what is going on behind the scenes in the Fight Engine. This is a management game first and a viewing spectacle second. So don't expect photo-realistic artificially intelligent sweat spray, but do expect boxers that now look different wearing their own colours which makes them much easier to follow and to remember.

"Fight Engine Say What?"
You ask just the best questions! The Fight Engine is the mass of calculations going on behind the scenes in order to deliver a fight on-screen that truly represents the stats and abilities of the boxers in action. In the new version the fight engine is even more sophisticated and delivers an exciting and accurate boxing experience. More on that later.

The result? Professional Boxing Manager is more enjoyable to watch as every single fight will look different (unless it's a rematch) and your stable will now be full of literally colourful characters! As always, I'm interested to read your feedback to this and all the future feature announcements so please get in touch.

Until next time...

Professional Boxing Manager Game - New Feature Spotlight #1

2011-07-01T10:07:00.000Z

Something New...

Hello,
Hope you are well.
Ok, so I promised to announce a feature from the new game so here goes...

Professional Boxing Manager is a Knockout. Start the Count...

..1..BIGGER & BETTER
Fully realised boxing world with over 30 Thousand boxers and characters in 69 Countries spread over 5 Continents.

To put this into some kind of perspective compare 30,000 to the 1,600 boxers and characters in ther current game. I know, wow! The new game is on such an immensely different scale to the existing game it is almost impossible to compare them at all. I honestly don't know how many boxers are in any of the other boxing games out there but I don't think they're packing those numbers.

As you may have gathered from the setup screenshot, at the beginning of the game you get to choose firstly which Continent you want to be based in and then which Country. The amount of boxers and characters in each Country is based on real world boxing data, meaning that different Countries will present a different challenge, depending on the nature of boxers that Country produces. A very rough example of this would be trying to create a Chinese World Heavyweight champion based in China, whereas creating a lighter weight champion could be an easier task.

"But hey, America is a huge Country, so what's going on with that noise?"
I'm glad you asked! It's obviously unrealistic to expect a small time boxing manager to have access to all the USA boxers from cost-to-coast when starting out, so what I have done is I have split the USA into districts which roughtly represent the geographical way the Americans define themselves; i.e. Mid-west, South-East, West-Coast, etc. So basically, if you choose the USA you then have to choose a district instead of a Country, but after that all the same game rules apply.

The bottom line to all this is Professional Boxing Manager is a game that is set in a realistic boxing world with virtually unlimited game & unique replay posibilities! Neat huh? I hope you think so. I'm always interested to read your feedback to this and all the future feature announcements so please get in touch. I'm contactable via email reply, the website contact form, Twitter or facebook page. Details are below.

Until next time...

New Version Update #12 - Screenshots!

2011-06-01T12:29:00.004Z

Hi All,
Hope you are well.

I know it’s been too long but I have now created some new screenshots of the current game. W-hoo!

To view goto my new Facebook page here - I hope you like and feel free to share your thoughts!

Whilst your over there taking a look at the new screenshots please hit the ‘Like’ button if you do!
Feel free to communicate with me via this channel if that’s easiest for you. Those that know me know I will always respond if I get the message!

Special Offer for Facebook ‘Friends’.
If you do bother to ‘Like’ what I’m doing on FB then you should be rewarded right? Ok, it’s as simple as this:
1.       Goto the Facebook page and hit the ‘Like’ button to get hooked up.
2.       Let me know via reply to this email that you have done so. Include your Facebook name.
3.       I will add your name and email to my ‘Discount Code’ list which will receive an immediate saving on the new game upon release.
4.       Tell your friends and boxing fans!

Next Time...
The next email I send out will have the full feature list from the new game! You will NOT believe the lengths I have gone too! :0)

As always, please feel free to get in touch. Always good to read form you.

Box On!
Anthony.

Wait for it...

2011-05-16T20:33:00.002Z

...a new update is pending. Gonna be a doozy! Watch this space! :0)

Facing The Facts & New Version Update #11

2011-04-17T20:13:00.001Z

Hi All,
Hope you're well and had a good weekend.

Excuse the ominous sounding title, as much as I've tried to resist, I can resist no more...BM is now on Facebook here: http://on.fb.me/eXYtwM
I'm not a big fan of Facebook although I know a lot of you are. Fair play.

So, why bother 'Liking' and keeping track on it? Well, although I'm loving the Twitter, I do realise that Twitter is a bit more 'business end' and Facebook is the best platform for connecting with the real everyday fans of the game...you!

On the update front, it's been a slow period in term of results but I feel its been a good time in terms of progress. I'm sure that within the next week or two I'm going to be able to show you some screenshots and more relating to the new version and it'll be time to start revealing some reasons why your patience is going to be rewarded. New info, screenshots, etc will be posted to Twitter & Facebook pages.

You 'Like'? Then let me know.

Box On my 'Friends'!
Anthony.

Twit Ta Whoo!

2011-03-18T14:28:00.001Z

Hey all,
Hope you're all well and looking forward to the weekend.

Thought it was about time I setup a Twitter account for the game.
I know, I'm just soooo 2010 and should really get with the program. :)
Said Twitter account is here: @ProBoxMan

Why should you follow me?
Good question. I'm glad you asked. Three reasons:
1. Future game updates (and SCREENSHOTS) are going to be appearing there not here. This blog is going to be removed when the new website goes live very soon.

2. Twitter followers will get a discount code for money off the new version price and first dibs on special offers.

3. I often have things on my mind under 140 characters. It's just the way my mind works!

Box On and may the Tweet be with you...always!
Anthony.

New Version Update #10

2011-03-02T15:50:00.000Z

Howdy!

Hope you are well.
I mean that sincerely, I, hope that YOU are well right now wherever you are! :)

Here's an update.
(Wouldnt want to be accused of not updating regularly now!)

How's things you ask? Well they're going well too.
I am currently at a major stage of the development and the signs are good to get through this stage within a month. Right on schedule. Hell, it may even be slightly ahead! (shock horror!)

I am also working on the a new website design.
I know how much you l o v e (jk) the current one but it's time for an overhaul. Looking pretty sweet it is too. Wanna see? Click here

Sorry about that, I'm in a playful mood!

Box On Faith Keepers!
Anthony.

New Version Update #9

2011-02-11T15:53:00.000Z

Hi All,
Hope you are well.

The good news is that there is no bad news!
Seriously, everything is swimming along (thanks to my frankly superb coder) and there's been some behind the scenes stuff completed which is going to help the game progress even quicker and smoother.

So, as the saying goes..."It's all good"! :)

Box On!
Anthony.

I hope you all...

2010-12-31T16:50:00.000Z

...have a happy new year!

Lets hope this is a big one for BM (it wont be for lack of trying!) :)

Keep safe, be lucky and for the last time in 2010...Box On!
Anthony

Twas the week before Xmas...

2010-12-17T11:19:00.001Z

Duppsko was first with #3 so here it is:

This is the award for getting 17 boxers (one in each weight class) to undisputed champion!
Sounds easy eh? I'm sure you can all manage it!

(P.S. My personal favourite is #4! :))

New Version Update #8

2010-11-17T12:46:00.000Z

Hey all,
Hope you are well. Looking forward to Xmas? Me neither! :)

Firstly, the bad news...
Latest 'sheenanigans'? Lost my programmer. I know, unreal...
I don't really want to get into it in too much detail but as you can imagine this was very bad news. Basically he was put under 'personal' pressure to earn more money which meant he could not allow the time needed on the development. Not only did I lose a very clever coder but I also lost alot of time on a guy that knew what I wanted. A major shame.

Secondly, THE VERY F**KING GOOD NEWS!!!
I now have a new programmer, a new agreement and the guy is in for the long haul!
Not only is he getting paid but he will also be getting paid on sales which means it is in his very best interest to get the game released quickly for everyone sake. Even better news is he is local to me. We have met face to face (no more of this remote wait a week for an answer rubbish!) we've been for a beer or two and I finally feel a synergy with a coder that (as you know) I have wanted for a VERY long time.

Thirdly, current state of play.
The new coder has just finished review existing code and documentations and together we are creating a new production roadmap. Already stated on Non Player Character (NPC) development. New release date? June 1st 2011.

Box On (finally) and keep the faith (please)!
Anthony.

New Version Update #7

2010-08-20T10:06:00.000Z

Hey all,
Hope you are well. Seriously I do.

Decided on a 'pre-emptive strike' by posting an update now.

But firstly a recap summary:
'Man of honour with very limited funds attempt to make world class version of his successful boxing management game. Having been messed about and let down by FOUR different designers and after encountering multiple work and life hazzards our hero continues on his heroic quest...'
Ok. a little overdramatic perhaps! :)

So, update.
Firstly the good news which is worthy of some Capitalisation, colourisation and emboldening:
NEW OFFICE DESIGN COMPLETED!!!!
That's right, I've found a designer who's not only good but can actually (wait for it...) 'complete the task he's been set to the satisfaction of the client' I know! Gonna be keep this guy busy for a loooooong time!
Wanna see? 'course you do. Here's your new office boxing managers:

Secondly, the good news:
CODE 'SHEENANIGANS' OVERCOME!!!
Programmer is my hero and the reason progress is slow is for the following statement to be associated with Boxing Manager for the first time ever: Rock Solid.

Thirdly, the bad news: (too good to last)
Encountered some platform related troubles which were unforseen (basically a third party update) which has put us back a little. Nothing we can't handle though and will be hurdled by the beginning of September.
SEPTEMBER!!! Am I the only one who thinks this year is flying by?

As always, my favourite people, Box On!
Anthony.

Dont worry...

2010-08-08T17:59:00.000Z

...be happy!

The new version is still coming people. Just 'in and amongst' lots of horrible code and things that can best be described as 'shenanigans'! :)

Keep the faith and Box On!
Anthony

Sorry for the delay!

2010-04-18T19:39:00.001Z

Hi All,
Hope you are well.

Wow, where did the first quarter of the year go? Seriously? I've no idea.

On a positive the game is still progressing, albeit very slowly at the moment, as the programmer and I get 'in and amongst' a lot of the finer details of creating a stunning boxing management game.

Keep the faith peeps. It will be worth it.
Anthony.

PS. The latest designer wimped out on me. Thats the 4th one! Unreal. Something about actually rolling up their sleaves and doing some work seems to scare the more delicate ones.
Now I'm simply hiring the talent as i go 'piece by piece' which isn't ideal but its getting the job done. If you know of a talented designer wants to earn some money and get involved in something wothwhile let me know. :)

Just wanted to say...

2009-12-24T20:39:00.000Z

...Merry Christmas. I hope you all have a great day.

The new version development will be back into top gear early next year. Keep the faith.

All the best and Box On!
Anthony

New Version Update #6

2009-10-31T18:28:00.004Z

Good News, Bad News, GREAT news!

Hey all,
Hope you are well. Much has happened over the past month.

Firstly, good news.
The code for the new version has leapt forward and is now 'feeling' like a game. We seem to be over the initial database hurdle now and getting stuck into the whistles and bells required to make this game simply the biggest, most detailed and clearly 'built with the most love' boxing management game...ever.

Over 30,000 active characters and a million stats anybody?

Secondly, bad news.
Lost another graphic designer. Unfortunately other work commitments and personal stuff have meant I have had to say goodbye to yet another designer. I wish him the best of luck in the future.

Thirdly, GREAT news.
Did I replace him? Did I ever. I have found not only an amazingly skilled designer and animator but also one that has a love for boxing. Simply put the holy grail I have been looking for. Wanna see some an example?

You are either thinking 'Wow, that's one sweetly textured mesh'

or 'Eh? It's a bloody boot'!

Lastly, keep the faith and, of course, Box On!

Anthony.

New Version Update #5..ish

2009-10-12T20:08:00.003Z

Hello all,
Hope you are well.

Apologies for the gap between updates. Things have been absolutely crazy and there is much to report but not much confirmed yet.

More details to follow soon. You could hold your breath but I wouldn't advise it!

'til then then, Box on!
Anthony.

New Version Update #4

2009-08-09T21:00:00.006Z

Hello all,
Hope you are well.

Let's see, much has happened recently including the first load of the new game as shown:
Exciting eh?
This obviously won't mean alot to you but the ability to create over 200,000 character attribute records AND save them to disk in under 1 SECOND should. I basically now have the power to create the game I have always wanted to make...

It's not all tech end stuff though, I have hired a fantastic animator/designer to do the graphical work and sneak peak of which is shown:
Ooh...grey...!
This is the first composition of the new game office and has already been superseeded by a preferred version. Wanna see it? All in good time...

That's all for now surfice to say with the new designer on board, the programmer back from a maritial hiatus and me very much zoned-in on getting the game finished this year, it'a all systems go.

Until next time, box on!
Anthony.

New Version Update #3

2009-06-21T22:22:00.002Z

Hello all,
Just a quick update this month as the coder and are knee-deep in technical stuff.
A fully update will be forth coming in the next couple of weeks or so. 'til then...

Box On!
Anthony.

New Version Update #2

2009-05-08T11:05:00.002Z

Hello all,
Hope you are well and enjoying the first rays of summer.

The new version is progressing well and I am in regular discussions with the coder. The current state is one of 'first steps' with the initial data setups and game loading etc being undertaken and, I'm glad to report successfully negotiated.

Nothing really to show at this stage although I did do a mess-about mock up of a screenshot which was to illustrate a point I was making about colours:

IMPORTANT NOTE: The new game will not look like this!

More of an idea wrapped in an mock up shrouded in an example enclosed within a what the hell am I talking about! Ahem. Anyway...

Suffice to say, the whole thing is bang on schedule, just not a lot to show and tell at this stage. Please keep up the encouragement as it is always very welcome!

Keep the faith and box on!
Anthony.

The monster...it has awaken once more!

2009-04-01T16:28:00.003Z

Firstly, apologies for the lack of updates. I've been a little busy surviving the financial apocalypse! :)

Secondly, The new version is back into full time development with a host of very talented people involved. This time no holds are barred from the creation of the defacto boxing management game. I plan to keep this blog updated with development changes as they happen. So if you haven't already, subscribe to the feed now: http://pcboxing.com/pcboxing.xml
Who knows, maybe a link to a screenshot or two may suddenly appear...

Lastly, thanks to all that have been in touch pestering for the new version. I really appreciate the help, encouragement and feedback. You guys are sure to feel the benefit of your dedication.

Watch this space, keep the faith and Box On!
Anthony.

Gutteridge dies following illness

2009-01-25T22:12:00.003Z

Gutteridge was a well-respected figure in the world of boxing.
Legendary boxing commentator and journalist Reg Gutteridge has died after a short illness aged 84. In 2002 he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

To me Gutteridge WAS boxing, certainly in the early days watching Lloyd Hunnigan, Barry McGuigan et al from about 1 foot away from the TV screen. In my thirst for boxing knowledge it was Reg who sang in my ear and nurtured my love for the sport.

My wishes are with his family and loved ones.

Box on Reg.
Anthony.

Boxing Manager is not dead...

2008-06-24T21:55:00.002Z

...but it is definately sleeping!

Sorry all, but a new job, life and lots of 'personal stuff' mean there just isn't enough hours in the day to work on the new version. Therefore I am putting the development on hold until the new year. Apologies for any disappointment.

Will keep you posted.

As always and in everything you do, box on!
Anthony.

Progress...ish!

2008-02-25T10:00:00.003Z

Hi there,
Firstly, happy new year!
Yeah, I know I'm a bit late but if you're not already having a happy new year, then now's the time to start!

Secondly, the new version is progressing well.
I'm currently tempering my desire to spill all the beans with my need to keep cracking away to try and get it finished this year. It's going to be a close call but, believe me, its going to be well worth the wait.

Lastly, as always, feel free to stay in touch. Especially if it's to boost my morale!

Box on!
Anthony.

Deck the halls with 'bouts' of bargains!

2007-11-16T10:15:00.000Z

Hello!
Hope you're well and feeling 'Christmassy' by now, if not you should be, because it is truly upon us once again!

In a rare display of generosity I have decided to slash the cost of the game for a limited time. A copy now costs £6.50 or $13.00 approximately.
How limited is this time? Good question. Probably not long at all, so if you haven't already, grab a copy whilst the going's good.
Feel free to share the news and spread a little Christmas cheer around!

Finally, thank you all again for your continued support and I look forward to updating you with a new version in the near future. If I don't catch your attention again soon, please have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year.

As always, keep the faith and Box On!
Anthony.

Squidoo you do too?

2007-09-21T13:43:00.000Z

Hi All,
Hope you are well.

Just wanted to bring to your attention a new lens (created webpage) on the popular Squidoo website here: http://www.squidoo.com/boxing_games/

Check it out. Any ideas on how to improve it please let me know.

Box on!
Anthony.

All work and no play...

2007-08-07T20:35:00.000Z

...make me very dull and unblog-worthy indeed!

Sorry for the lack of Boxing Manager updates. Work is keeping me very busy.
Every now and then I catch a glimpse at the now completed list of development notes and feel the urge to get cracking. Alas, work keeps dragging me back to my desk and another pile of papers arrives to bury them once more.

All is not lost.
The new version of Boxing Manager is always rattling around my head and recent changes to my workflow mean I am getting closer to being able to devote my time to it once more.

Keep the faith and, as always...Box On!
Anthony.

Help'a La Vista Baby!

2007-06-21T22:37:00.000Z

Hi All,
Hope you are well.

Just got a new laptop with shiny new Vista Home Edition installed, cool...or not as the case may be! Had some serious issues which are hopefully solved now.

During testing I encountered an error installing 'Boxing Manager Professional Edition'. A quick net research proved this to be a common Vista problem regarding installation of OCX files.

The official line on the pcboxing.com website is:
VISTA USERS NOTICE
Strange bug encountered on Vista Home Edition displaying file not registered, invalid or missing message.
Goto Windows/System32 folder & rename 'nslock15vb5.ocx’ file.
Reinstall BMProSetup.exe and Voila, Fixed!

Hope this helps any of you that have recently come across this prob.

Box on!
Anthony.

Sad Day for Boxing

2007-05-08T15:21:00.000Z

Former two-weight world champion Diego Corrales died on Monday in a Las Vegas motorcycle accident, exactly two years since his finest moment in the ring.
The 29-year-old Californian will be remembered for his epic win against super-featherweight and lightweight champion Jose Luis Castillo.

Corrales dragged himself off the canvas to force a thrilling stoppage victory, but lost the rematch.

His final record was 40 wins (33 knockouts) and five defeats.

Tributes have been pouring in over the
BBC 606 message service. Why not leave your lasting thoughts about Diego there or on your friendly local boxing forum.

A true Warrior. RIP Chico.

Give me your brain!

2007-04-27T23:33:00.000Z

Hi All,
Progress has begun on the new 2008 version of the game and your help is required to ensure all the features you want become a reality.

Ever wanted the game to work a particular way, or is something missing which will make it the best boxing management game ever? Now is the time to put your thoughts forward for review.

No ideas too small, too big or too crazy! Let me know via support@pcboxing.com

Box on!

Rewarding Experience

2007-03-19T10:04:00.000Z

Hi All,
Thanks for reading. Hope you are well.
Been a while since my last post so thought I'd better do one.

Firstly, thanks to all the websites that have showered Boxing Manager with 5/5 awards since the new version was released. 23 so far. Much Appreciated. Also very proud of the 'Clean & Safe' verifications.

Secondly, some exciting developments are afoot. Unable to go into too much detail but I've hooked up with some very talented people recently. You can rest assured the game will be (quite literally) taken to another dimension in the near future. Watch this space.

Lastly, thanks to all that have been in touch in the first 3 months of the new games life. Hope you are enjoying the experience and if there's anything you would like to share then please let me know.

Box on!
Anthony.

The 'God Of Games' hates me!

2007-01-11T00:13:00.000Z

Ouch!

After a very successful trial period with the Beta testers the game has been release to the masses for 'field testing' and...

BOOM! I get hit with a serious quantity of support requests. Not good.

Finally got to the bottom of the main program issue. A couple of file references were missing. One of those 'If this box isn't ticked the world stops' scenarios!

Game is now stable. Famous last words perhaps but there they are!

To all the players that endevoured to try, try again and helped me to solve the issues...I thank you.

Ready....Steady...

2006-12-31T18:01:00.000Z

Go!

Ultimate Boxing Manager is dead...long live 'Ultimate' Boxing Manager!

The new version has now gone live in 2006 as promised. Only just though, 6pm 31st December!

A big thanks to all beta testers and supporters of BoxMan. Couldn't have done it without you.

Hope you all enjoy it and as always I'm here to give you support. Apart from tonight that is, I am having a v e r y deserved drink!

All the best for the new year to one and all,
Anthony.
http://www.pcboxing.com

Drafting in the experts...

2006-12-12T19:57:00.001Z

Things are really getting serious now.
I have released the game to the Beta-testers for a thorough thrashing.
Really looking forward to their responses and making the improvements that will really take the game to another level.

And...It is good!
Apart from a 'game-busting' error that needed attention, the fixes and amendments were mostly cosmetic and changed without too much trouble.

Feeling really confident now and, as I enter the final testing phase, looking forward to releasing the game. Misplaced confidence? We shall see!

Results!

2006-12-12T19:52:00.000Z

Hurrah!
Spoke yesterday with the man in charge of the advertising at the legendary 'Boxing-Monthly' magazine. Very nice guy, we chatted about what I was trying to achieve with the game and he agreed that I can add Boxing-Monthly into the game. Result!
And...
In exchange for me putting the mag in the game, he is going to put the game in the mag! Result again!
I am very much looking forward to working with BoxMon and hope all users of BoxMan will appreciate the feature.
The winners ultimately will be the users. Results for all!

Long Time Coming...

2006-12-06T16:37:00.000Z

Phew....

It...is done.
Finally finished 'Boxing Manager Professional Edition' after a year of being messed around / let down and another year of doing it myself.

It...has not been easy.
Quite a few times it became simply too hard and only a lot of love from my family and encouragement from a hardcore group of supporters, kept me going.

It...should be good.
I am 24 hours away from releasing the game to the Beta group for testing. Payment system has been setup and the game has been 'tweaked' to death. All the internal test have gone well and I hope the Betas will have a similar experience. New website is also ready. The plan is a full release of everything January 1st 2007.

It...is all good.
Thought it might be an idea to do a blog, since the forum never really took off last time. I hope people will be interested in reading this.
Anyone whom has had contact with me hopefully knows I do care about the game, their opinions and when I write 'All the Best', actually mean it.

It...should be a good start the year. Let me know how you feel about...it.

(Once your finished with the Blog, please take a look at the ads below, if you would like to show your support!)