Previous Next

The classic Konami arcade game, Track And Field, at last arrives on the Commodore. There are six events: 100m sprint, long jump, javelin, 110m hurdles, hammer throw and high jump.

The first event requires the player to waggle the joystick from left to right. The faster the stick is waggled, the better the runner's performance. Both the long jump and javelin require similar tactics, but fire is pressed at the 'scratch' line to jump or release the javelin. The longer the button is depressed, the higher the jump or throw.

The hurdles is another waggler, with fire used to jump. The hammer is a test of timing, where the thrower spins and is stopped to send the hammer flying up the field. Finally, the high jump tests precision, and the player uses fire to guide the athlete safely over the jump.

I was a great fan of Track And Field when it hit the arcades a few years ago, and this extremely accurate conversion gave me plenty to reminisce about.

The gameplay, like all wagglers, is highly enjoyable and provides a lot of fun. The big problem is the £9 price tag - it's much too high for an old game like this, especially as the far superior Decathlon is available for £7 less!

It may be a little too easy to criticise Konami for this one, but they've certainly missed the boat with their 'official' version of Track And Field.

It must be admitted that the game is enjoyable, but to be honest I'd much sooner spend money on Firebird's Decathlon or Americana's Go For The Gold, which both offer more events and variety for over five pounds less.

Presentation 88%
One to four player options, practice mode and level select.

Graphics 55%
Fairly close to the arcade original, but comparatively poor by today's standards.

Sound 62%
Again close to the original, with some reasonable jingles.

Hookability 79%
Still very addictive and playable, especially when two players participate.

Lastability 76%
Although repetitive, it's the sort of game that always provides a laugh when played.

Overall 61%
Playable, but far, far too expensive for what's on offer.