Previous Next

Summer Olympiad starts off well with a pleasant loading screen. The game comprises five different events, each divided into three rounds: fencing, triple jump, skeet shooting, hurdles and diving. It allows up to four players, but you don't get a chance to compete against each other. The main objective of the game is to compete in each event, winning either a bronze, silver or gold medal. At the end of each round, the score table is displayed and at the end of round three the main score table is shown. If you are not entirely satisfied with your peformance, the computer offers you a chance to replay the event.

There's also a nice set of loading screens separating each event, but of course this does add to the loading times. The events themselves are quite addictive, as they require a lot of skill and accuracy. The first sport is fencing and has a time limit. If you're good, this should be no obstruction - three stabs and you've got it made! In the triple jump you have to hammer the Z and X keys to pick up as much speed as you can, and you only have thirty meters in which to gain it. The skeet shooting is quite hard at first, as you find yourself trying to shoot two projectiles at the same time. But once the keys are mastered it becomes a lot easier. The two remaining events - hurdles and diving - maintain the quality of the others but one thing I disliked about the game as a whole was all the fuss about formalities. For example before most events it plays a tune, waits for you press the space bar and then prints 'On Guard'. This can become quite a nuisance!

Overall I found the game addictive and enjoyable, although I haven't yet won a gold medal - not bad Tynesoft!

Mark Elmer