Track & Field (Xbox Live Arcade) Review
Posted by Ramon Aranda on 08.28.2007
Who will be the best in the world?
Title: Track & Field
Publisher: Eclipse
Players 1-4
Type: Sports
Back in 1983 when Track & Field was released at the arcades, players bombarded the machines with quarters with frantic 2-player mayhem.
The NES version was released a few years later and kids everywhere fell with sore thumbs and severe cases of carpal tunnel (kidding!).
For those who want to relive the good old days of multiplayer pain, Track & Field for the Xbox Live Arcade will let you go back in time.
This re-release will allow players to select from the old 1983 graphics or the upgraded HD resolution version that adds some new artwork. There really isn't a good reason to play it with the old graphics especially if you are playing it on an HDTV. The audio has been reworked to sound cleaner and much clearer than it was before.
You will have the option of playing from one to four players on one single Xbox 360 or over Xbox Live. I managed to play in quite a few competitions over Xbox Live and even though some of the other players had higher ping than I did, the connection was solid and I didn't experience any lag whatsoever.
You will compete in competitions such as the 100m dash, high jump, javelin throw and shotput to name a few. Even if you are winning the competition, if you do not qualify in any of the events, you will automatically lose. To be competitive you will literally need to turn the turbo button on your arm or fingers. To run you need to push the B button at incredible speeds and the A button serves as the action button as when you are jumping or throwing. You can also use the left analog stick to move from left to right instead of pushing the B button.
It's a simple design that although appears quite dated, can still be fun in short bursts especially with four players on the same system.
The game is available for only 400 Microsoft points and if you're not afraid to lose feeling in your hands, Track & Field gets a recommendation.
Graphics
6.0
Outdated graphics with an HD makeover.
Gameplay
5.0
You press the B button A LOT! Who has the quicker fingers is the question.
Sound
4.0
There really isn't much to hear except for the announcers announcing your scores.
Lasting Appeal
7.0
Online multiplayer and 4 player action might keep it around for a while.
Fun Factor
6.5
It can get pretty competitive with 4 players on the same system.
