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I've detailed my relationship with Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! in videos, on podcasts, and in blog posts. Here's the quick version as to why (or you can watch this video I made while at GameSpot): One night, when I was a kid, I made the decision that I wouldn't go to bed until I had beaten Mike Tyson. I spent hours and hours battling Iron Mike, and while I improved ever so slightly with each fight, they all ended with me on the canvas. Finally, at about 5am, I won a decision over Tyson and watched the end credits roll. It was — and still is — the most memorable gaming-related moment of my life.
After I won the bout, I remember thinking "Wow, that was really hard. I wonder how old I'll be when I can't do it any more?" It was then that I decided to try and beat Mike Tyson once a year for the rest of my life. I told myself that when I couldn't do it anymore I'd know that it was time to quit playing games.
That is how "Mike Tyson Day" came to be.
This year, I'd like to share my tradition with everyone at Bitmob. I invite all of you to play Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! this week, and then share your experience with the community either by commenting on this story, writing an article, shooting a video, or sending an email to Letters@Bitmob.com. I'll put all of your stories together into one article and post it Friday at 2pm PST (so, if you could get them to me before then, that would be fantastic).
You don't have to beat him, you just need to try. No, Mr. Dream doesn't count. I can't wait to hear tales of your battles.
Good luck, and happy Mike Tyson Day!*
*Yes, I am well aware of Tyson's criminal past. I'm not celebrating the man, I'm celebrating the game and my life-long hobby.