Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: PS4 Review & Gameplay

Hey guys! Let's dive into the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: The Official Video Game on PS4. If you're looking to bring the thrill and excitement of the Olympics right into your living room, this might just be the game for you. We’re going to break down everything from the gameplay to the graphics, and whether it’s worth adding to your collection. So, grab your controller, and let’s get started!

First Impressions: A Virtual Ticket to Tokyo

When you first boot up Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 on your PS4, you're greeted with a vibrant and energetic intro that immediately sets the tone. The game aims to capture the spirit and atmosphere of the Olympic Games, and for the most part, it does a pretty solid job. The menus are clean and easy to navigate, which is always a plus. You can quickly jump into various game modes, customize your athlete, and explore the different sporting events available. The initial vibe is positive, making you feel like you’re about to embark on your own virtual Olympic journey.

The character creation is surprisingly detailed, allowing you to create an athlete that represents you or a completely new persona. You can tweak everything from hairstyles and facial features to outfits and accessories. This level of customization adds a personal touch and makes the experience more engaging. As you progress, you'll unlock more customization options, giving you even more ways to personalize your athlete and stand out in the virtual Olympic arena. It's a fun way to immerse yourself in the game and feel like you're truly part of the action.

Once you've created your athlete, it's time to dive into the events. The game features a variety of sports, including track and field, swimming, gymnastics, and more. Each sport has its own unique gameplay mechanics and challenges, requiring you to master different skills and strategies. Whether you're sprinting down the track, diving into the pool, or performing acrobatic feats on the balance beam, there's always something new to learn and conquer. The game does a decent job of replicating the real-world rules and techniques of each sport, providing an authentic and immersive experience.

Gameplay: Mastering the Olympic Disciplines

The gameplay in Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is a mixed bag, offering both fun and frustrating moments. Some events are intuitive and easy to pick up, while others require a bit more practice and patience. The controls are generally responsive, but there are instances where they feel a bit clunky or unresponsive, especially during fast-paced events. However, with enough practice, you can get the hang of it and start performing like a pro. It’s all about timing, precision, and mastering the unique mechanics of each sport. The game rewards persistence, so don't get discouraged if you don't nail it on your first try.

For example, in the 100m sprint, you'll need to time your start perfectly to get off the blocks quickly, then maintain your speed by mashing the sprint button while carefully managing your stamina. The javelin throw requires precise timing and angle control to achieve maximum distance. Swimming events involve rhythmic button presses to propel your swimmer through the water, while gymnastics demands accurate execution of complex routines. Each event presents its own set of challenges, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging. The variety of gameplay styles ensures that there's something for everyone to enjoy, whether you prefer the speed of track and field or the technicality of gymnastics.

One of the highlights of the game is the local multiplayer mode, where you can compete against your friends and family in a variety of Olympic events. This mode is perfect for parties and gatherings, offering hours of fun and friendly competition. There's nothing quite like the thrill of trash-talking your friends as you race to the finish line or trying to outscore them in a gymnastics routine. The local multiplayer mode is a great way to bring people together and experience the excitement of the Olympics in a shared environment. It's also a fun way to introduce newcomers to the world of video games and sports simulations.

Graphics and Sound: Capturing the Olympic Spirit

Graphically, Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is decent but not groundbreaking. The character models are well-detailed, and the environments are colorful and vibrant, but they lack the level of polish and realism found in some other sports games. The animations are generally smooth, but there are occasional instances of stiffness or awkwardness. Overall, the graphics are serviceable and do a good job of capturing the atmosphere of the Olympic Games, but they won't blow you away. It’s more about the gameplay and the overall experience than pushing the boundaries of graphical fidelity.

The sound design is also adequate, with realistic sound effects that add to the immersion. The roar of the crowd, the splash of the water, and the thud of the landing all sound authentic and engaging. The soundtrack features a mix of upbeat and inspiring tunes that complement the action on screen. While the sound design may not be the most memorable aspect of the game, it does a solid job of enhancing the overall experience. It's the kind of soundscape that supports the gameplay without being overly distracting or repetitive.

The game also includes some nice visual touches, such as dynamic lighting and weather effects, which add depth and realism to the environments. The stadiums are well-designed and accurately reflect the real-world venues of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. The attention to detail in the environments helps to create a sense of authenticity and immersion. While the graphics may not be the most cutting-edge, they are still visually appealing and contribute to the overall enjoyment of the game. It's a balanced approach that prioritizes gameplay and atmosphere over pure graphical power.

Is It Worth It? The Final Verdict

So, is Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: The Official Video Game worth your hard-earned cash? If you're a fan of the Olympics or enjoy sports games in general, then the answer is likely yes. The game offers a fun and engaging experience, with a variety of sports to master and plenty of customization options. The local multiplayer mode is a blast, and the overall presentation is decent. However, the gameplay can be a bit clunky at times, and the graphics aren't the most impressive. Despite these shortcomings, the game is still a solid offering that captures the spirit and excitement of the Olympic Games.

Ultimately, the decision to buy Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 depends on your personal preferences and expectations. If you're looking for a realistic and technically advanced sports simulation, you may be disappointed. But if you're looking for a fun and accessible game that you can enjoy with friends and family, then this might be the perfect choice. It's a game that doesn't take itself too seriously, focusing on delivering a lighthearted and enjoyable experience. So, if you're ready to compete for glory and experience the thrill of the Olympics from the comfort of your living room, then go ahead and give it a try!

Pros:

• Variety of sports events
• Fun local multiplayer mode
• Detailed character customization

Cons:

• Clunky gameplay at times
• Graphics are not groundbreaking

In conclusion, Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: The Official Video Game on PS4 is a decent sports game that offers a fun and engaging experience. While it may not be perfect, it’s still a worthwhile addition to your gaming library if you’re a fan of the Olympics or sports games in general. So grab your controller and get ready to compete for gold!