Button Bashing for the next generation

Finger bandages at the ready – this one hurts! but in a fun, multi-discipline Track and Field kind of way. It has been years since I have subjected myself to button bashing torture and I was curious to see the advancements made in this style of gaming – especially with the prospect of Online play.

35 events are offered up covering Track (sprint, longer distance and hurdles), Field (jumping and throwing), Aquatics (swimming and diving), Gymnastics, Shooting (archery, skeet and pistol) and a few random ones thrown in at the end (judo, kayacking, weightlifting, team persuit cycling, table tennis included) make for a great diverse game. You can also compete in heptathlon and decathlon events.

Obligatory button bashing is still ever present

Training Mode is available and should be utilised initially because different events have encorperated different techniques using the controller. Of course the obligatory X and O bashing (PS3 users) is still ever present for speed events, but there is also an analogue stick abusing feature that works the same way. Different events require you to master your controller in a variety of ways to get within a chance of a medal. Challenging your speed, dexterity, stamina, memory, agility like any good Olympic game should

This is where this game comes into its own – Some events are easier than others, some are down right impossible…. at first! the more you practice the better you become. which is capturing the true essence of an Olympic Athlete in that to compete at that level it takes time and practice. Not everyone is going to be able to pick this game up and work through the Olympic Career mode or break world records without practicing events along the way. A fact, I am pretty sure, that has lead to many poor reviews for this game.

Being ambidextrous is a plus but isn’t a requirement

Online play works pretty well. You can compete in a whole ream of different styles from single event tournements to decathlon competitions. Its pretty smooth going and makes for a load of fun challenging your friends. This is certainly adding to the longevity of this game.

General gameplay can be a little slow for those of you who want bang bang action and some peoples patience may not allow them to master the more difficult events (kayacking anyone!!) Overall this game ticks all the boxes you want from a Track and Field style game without defering too far from the staple of previous offerings. There is just something undeniably addictive about chasing high scores and fastest times that the gaming world can’t ignore. If you have an urge to waggle an analogue stick faster than it was ever designed to be then you won’t be disappointed. Being ambidextrous is a plus but isn’t a requirement!