Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 – The Official Video Game on the PlayStation 4. If you're wondering whether this game captures the spirit and excitement of the Olympics, or if it's just another sports game, you're in the right place. We'll break down the gameplay, graphics, features, and overall experience to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your collection. So, grab your virtual controller, and let's get started!

First Impressions: Diving into the Olympic Arena

Right off the bat, the game throws you into the vibrant atmosphere of the Tokyo Olympics. The opening ceremonies, the cheering crowds, and the iconic Olympic stadium are all rendered with a decent level of detail for the PS4. While it's not pushing the console to its absolute limits, the visuals are clean and colorful, creating a positive first impression.

However, graphics aren't everything, right? What really matters is how the game feels to play. The initial menus are straightforward, allowing you to quickly jump into various game modes. You can create your own avatar, choosing from a range of customization options to represent your nation in the games. This is a nice touch that adds a personal connection to the experience. The game features a roster of over 15 different Olympic sports, from classic events like track and field to more modern additions like skateboarding and sport climbing. Each sport has its own unique control scheme, which can take some time to master, but that's part of the fun!

Gameplay Mechanics: A Mixed Bag of Gold Medals and False Starts

Now, let’s talk about the gameplay itself. This is where the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 presents a bit of a mixed bag. Some sports are incredibly fun and engaging, while others feel a bit repetitive or clunky.

The Highs: Nail-biting Races and Skill-Based Challenges

Certain events, like the 100m sprint and the hammer throw, are surprisingly addictive. The timing-based mechanics require precision and quick reflexes, making each attempt feel like a genuine test of skill. When you nail the perfect start in the 100m, or get the rhythm just right in the hammer throw, it’s incredibly satisfying. These moments truly capture the competitive spirit of the Olympics.

Skateboarding and BMX are also standouts. The controls are relatively intuitive, allowing you to pull off impressive tricks and combos with practice. The level design in these events is well-thought-out, offering plenty of opportunities for creative maneuvers and high-scoring runs. Plus, landing a perfect trick and hearing the roar of the crowd is always a thrill.

The Lows: Repetitive Actions and Lack of Depth

Unfortunately, not all the sports are created equal. Some events suffer from repetitive button-mashing or overly simplistic controls. For example, swimming can feel like a monotonous grind, and certain track events lack the depth needed to keep you engaged for long periods. It’s a shame because the potential is there, but the execution falls short in some areas.

Another issue is the lack of advanced techniques or strategic elements in many of the sports. While the game is accessible to newcomers, it doesn’t offer much for hardcore sports gamers looking for a deeper, more nuanced experience. This can make the gameplay feel shallow after a while, especially if you're used to more complex sports simulations.

Graphics and Sound: Capturing the Olympic Atmosphere

Visually, Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is a decent-looking game on the PS4. The character models are well-detailed, and the environments are colorful and vibrant. The animations are generally smooth, although there are occasional moments where they can look a bit stiff or unnatural. The game does a good job of recreating the look and feel of the Tokyo Olympic venues, which adds to the overall immersion.

In terms of sound, the game features a lively soundtrack that captures the energy of the Olympics. The crowd noise is convincing, and the sound effects for each sport are well-done. The commentary, however, can become repetitive after a while. While the commentators provide useful information and insights, their lines tend to repeat frequently, which can get annoying during extended play sessions.

Game Modes and Features: A Variety of Ways to Compete

Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 offers a variety of game modes to keep you entertained. The main mode is the Olympic Games mode, where you can compete in a series of events to win medals and become an Olympic champion. There’s also a Practice mode for honing your skills in each sport, and a Ranked Games mode for online competition against other players. The online multiplayer is a welcome addition, allowing you to test your skills against friends and strangers from around the world. Competing for a spot on the leaderboard adds an extra layer of excitement and replayability.

One of the standout features is the Avatar Creation system. You can create a custom avatar to represent yourself in the games, choosing from a range of options for appearance, clothing, and accessories. This is a fun way to personalize your experience and feel more connected to the game. The ability to represent your country and compete for national pride adds an extra layer of immersion.

Final Verdict: Is it Worth the Gold Medal?

So, after spending a considerable amount of time with Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 – The Official Video Game, what’s the final verdict? Well, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The game has its moments of brilliance, with some sports offering addictive and engaging gameplay. The graphics are decent, and the overall presentation captures the atmosphere of the Olympics. However, other sports feel repetitive or lack depth, and the commentary can become tiresome.

If you're a die-hard Olympics fan or looking for a casual sports game to play with friends and family, Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is worth checking out. Just be aware that it's not a perfect game, and some aspects may leave you wanting more. For hardcore sports gamers looking for a deep and nuanced experience, you might be better off looking elsewhere.

Pros:

• Engaging gameplay in certain sports (e.g., 100m sprint, skateboarding)
• Decent graphics and presentation
• Variety of game modes, including online multiplayer
• Fun avatar creation system

Cons:

• Repetitive gameplay in some sports
• Lack of depth and strategic elements
• Repetitive commentary
• Inconsistent level of quality across different sports

Overall, Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is a decent sports game that captures some of the excitement of the Olympics. It’s not a must-have title, but it’s worth considering if you’re a fan of the games or looking for a casual multiplayer experience.