Track & Field, the arcade game, was an instant classic when released in the 1980s. Gamers hovered over the controls, pounding buttons to win races and make huge jumps. Systems were developed involving stick razors, pen caps, and toothbrushes to whammy those buttons with lightning speed.
Track and Field, created by Konami in the 1980s, is an Olympic simulation. Although you do compete in some actual Olympic events in the game, you also play events that have never been seen in the Olympics before! Events range from the 100 meter dash to Karate style fighting and fencing.
Although the idea of Tae Kwon Do in the Olympics seems like a good idea, the fighting in this game leaves much to be desired. You will be furious as your opponent falls to the ground after every two punches or so.
Many of the events have similar controls, which consist of alternating buttons at a head speed. The game can easily become repetitive. All of the jumping events, such as long jump, high jump, pole vault etc. are controlled by simply smashing two buttons at corresponding times. A very positive part of Track and Field is its simplicity. The on screen instructions are simple and to the point. However, the repetitive left right, left right button combos does get tiring. Still
the games largest flaw is its controls. Your fingers will ache for weeks if you manage to win the Olympics. There is not a single event which does not involve mashing your keys in order to make your character run faster or jump higher.
Although the game is a fun game, the constant finger ramming technique prevents it from being an instant addiction. You won't find it all the difficult to stop playing as soon as you have blisters on the tips of your fingers.
Overall, Track and Field is a fun game, it challenges the player in various events. However due to mediocre, as well as painful, controls I would have to rate Track and Field a 7 out of 10.
