A consumer’s guide to the best and worst of sports media and merchandise. Ground rules: If it can be read, played, heard, observed, worn, viewed, dialed or downloaded, it’s in play here.

What: “Mike Tyson Boxing�

System: PlayStation

Price: $25

Players control one of 16 world champions in their quest to become undisputed world heavyweight champion. An arsenal of blows, ranging from body shots to uppercuts, special blows and hooks, enable up-and-coming fighters to try their luck.

However, for a modern video game, this offering has an archaic feel. Fighters steadily circle in zombie-like style rather than quickly move in to deliver a blow or three in rapid succession. Hold down a button to build up power and a fighter just lifts his arm back until the punch is executed. Although suspense and anticipation accompany real world fights, none of this excitement is accurately conveyed here. Mostly you’ll just dance around an opponent, feel out their style, then dive in for the kill.

That’s true to form, perhaps, but not fun.

Knockdowns are easy to come by. A blue and red meter at the top of the screen corresponds to knockdowns. Land blows and it shifts in your direction or take one too many and watch it sway toward the opposite corner. Once the bar touches either the left or right corner, it’s a knockdown.

To win, just keep your eye on the power meter.

The best part of the game by far is the world circuit mode of play. You start with a rookie fighter and try to improve his ranking. This involves booking fights, setting a training regimen and taking intermittent advice from a smiling rendition of Mike Tyson’s crusty mug.

All in all, a disappointing effort. There were better fight games on the old 16-bit Nintendo system.

And that was 15 years ago.