EA announces new next-gen boxing game

EA Sports has revealed it is developing a new boxing game at its Canadian studios for the Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii and Sony PlayStation 3.

FaceBreaker, according to EA Canada, promises a more arcade-like feel than the firm's previous boxing title Fight Night, as well as offering stylised graphics.

"FaceBreaker reinvigorates one of the great genres in sports videogames," said Peter Moore, president of EA Sports.

"Arcade boxing takes me back to my roots in the industry, and this game signals our shift to adding more approachable fun to our product lineup."

EA said the game, which appears similar to Midway's popular Ready to Rumble boxing game, will allow players to "watch in satisfaction as your progress is illustrated by real-time facial deformation. With haymakers, face shots and body blows, wait for the right moment to drop a super punch to make your presence known. Taunt your adversaries and flaunt your talent, by tying one hand behind your back to add ultimate humiliation to your bout."

FaceBreaker is planned for release this year, though an exact date is yet to be announced.