Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into 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, you've come to 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 controller, and let's get started!

First Impressions and Setting the Stage

Right off the bat, the game aims to immerse you in the Olympic atmosphere. The vibrant colors, upbeat music, and character customization options immediately give you a sense of being part of something big. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a casual player, the initial setup is pretty straightforward. You get to create your athlete, choosing from a range of nationalities, appearances, and outfits. This personalization is a nice touch, allowing you to feel more connected to your in-game avatar as you compete for gold.

The game features a variety of Olympic events, from classic track and field competitions to more niche sports. This diversity is one of its strengths, offering something for everyone. The tutorial system is adequate, guiding you through the basics of each event. However, mastering the controls and nuances of each sport takes time and practice. Don't expect to be an Olympic champion overnight!

Diving into the Gameplay

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of the gameplay. Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 offers a mix of button-mashing, timing-based challenges, and strategic elements. Some events, like the 100m sprint, rely heavily on quick reflexes and precise button presses. Others, such as the javelin throw or gymnastics, require careful timing and coordination. Then there are events like sports climbing, which blends stamina management with route planning.

The button-mashing aspect can be both fun and frustrating. On one hand, it creates a sense of urgency and physical exertion, mirroring the intensity of real-life Olympic competition. On the other hand, it can become repetitive and tiring, especially during longer events or when trying to beat challenging records. The timing-based mechanics are generally well-executed, adding a layer of skill and precision to the gameplay. Nailing the perfect jump in the long jump or executing a flawless routine in gymnastics feels incredibly satisfying.

However, the game isn't without its flaws. Some events feel less polished than others, with clunky controls or unclear instructions. The AI opponents can also be inconsistent, sometimes putting up a fierce challenge and other times making inexplicable mistakes. Despite these issues, the core gameplay loop is engaging enough to keep you coming back for more, especially if you're a fan of the Olympics or sports games in general.

Graphics and Sound: Capturing the Olympic Spirit

Visually, Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is a decent-looking game. The character models are well-detailed, and the environments are colorful and vibrant. The stadiums and venues are faithfully recreated, giving you a sense of being in Tokyo. The crowd animations are a bit repetitive, but overall, the game does a good job of capturing the atmosphere of the Olympic Games.

The sound design is also well-done. The upbeat soundtrack and realistic sound effects add to the immersion. The roar of the crowd, the thud of footsteps, and the commentator's enthusiastic voice all contribute to the overall experience. However, the commentary can become repetitive after a while, with the same phrases and anecdotes being repeated ad nauseam. It would have been nice to have more variety in the commentary to keep things fresh.

Game Modes and Features

Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 offers a variety of game modes to keep you entertained. The main mode is the Olympic Games mode, where you compete in a series of events to win medals. There's also a training mode where you can practice individual events and hone your skills. For those who want to play with friends, there's a local multiplayer mode that supports up to four players. And for those who want to compete against the world, there's an online multiplayer mode where you can challenge other players from around the globe.

The online multiplayer mode is one of the highlights of the game. Competing against other players adds a new level of challenge and excitement. The leaderboards and rankings provide a sense of progression and accomplishment. However, the online mode can be prone to lag and connection issues, which can be frustrating. It's important to have a stable internet connection to ensure a smooth online experience.

One of the unique features of the game is the ability to create your own custom Olympic Games. You can choose which events to include, set the difficulty level, and even create your own rules. This level of customization is a nice touch, allowing you to tailor the game to your preferences. However, the custom Olympic Games mode could be more fleshed out, with more options and features.

Is It Worth It? The Final Verdict

So, is Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: The Official Video Game worth buying? Well, it depends. If you're a die-hard fan of the Olympics or sports games in general, you'll probably enjoy it. The game captures the spirit and excitement of the Olympics, and the gameplay is generally engaging. However, if you're looking for a deeply immersive or highly realistic sports simulation, you might be disappointed. The game has its flaws, including repetitive button-mashing, inconsistent AI, and occasional technical issues.

Ultimately, Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is a decent but not exceptional sports game. It's a fun and accessible way to experience the thrill of the Olympics, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of other sports games on the market. If you can find it on sale or used, it's definitely worth checking out. But if you're on the fence, you might want to wait for a price drop or read more reviews before making a decision.

Tips and Tricks for Olympic Glory

Before you jump into the games, here are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve Olympic glory:

• Master the Controls: Each event has its own unique control scheme, so take the time to learn them. Practice in the training mode to hone your skills before competing in the Olympic Games mode.
• Pay Attention to Timing: Many events rely on precise timing, so focus on getting your timing right. Watch the cues and indicators carefully to execute your moves perfectly.
• Manage Your Stamina: Some events require you to manage your stamina, so don't overexert yourself. Pace yourself and conserve your energy for the crucial moments.
• Exploit AI Weaknesses: The AI opponents aren't perfect, so try to exploit their weaknesses. Observe their patterns and behaviors to gain an advantage.
• Experiment with Different Strategies: There's no one-size-fits-all approach to winning, so experiment with different strategies. Try different techniques and tactics to find what works best for you.

Conclusion: A Fun but Flawed Olympic Experience

In conclusion, Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: The Official Video Game is a fun but flawed Olympic experience. It captures the spirit and excitement of the Olympics, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of other sports games on the market. The gameplay is generally engaging, but it can become repetitive at times. The graphics and sound are decent, but they're not groundbreaking. The game modes and features are varied, but they could be more fleshed out.

Overall, if you're a fan of the Olympics or sports games in general, you'll probably enjoy Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. Just don't expect it to be a perfect game. It's a fun and accessible way to experience the thrill of the Olympics, but it's not without its flaws. So, grab your controller, gather your friends, and get ready to compete for gold!