Passing The Torch

The 2020 Olympics in Tokyo are fast approaching, and that can only mean one thing: it’s time for Mario and Sonic to grab their skateboards and go for the gold. Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games might sound familiar, and it should. The cross-platform duo starred in a similarly titled release on the Wii in 2012, as well as a winter games edition in 2009. Neither one was critically acclaimed, but the combination of classic characters and motion-controlled local multiplayer made for some carefree fun with friends.

This latest iteration, releasing on the Switch in November of this year, relies on the same formula; albeit with the addition of some new events. The gameplay can be summed up by the title, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Fans of Mario, Sonic or the Olympics might find themselves having more fun than they expected. Fans of all three should definitely pick it up in November.

Surf & Turf

The demo available at E3 showcased some of the newly added events, such as skateboarding and surfing. The mechanics are simple, and anyone who’s played Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater will feel right at home. That being said, there isn’t much complexity to be found in the trick system. Anything beyond a simple jump or grind is relegated to a single special trick button.

The same can be said for surfing, though the added dynamics of paddling out and changing direction to avoid the crest of the wave add some intrigue. Both events make for accessible-yet-competitive game play, while the simplicity serves to level the playing field between veteran gamers and casual newcomers.

Mixed Motion Emotions

Motion controls are almost always a mixed bag. Based on the demo, this game is no exception. Skateboarding in particular felt like controlling an amateur skater at best, or a drunken marionette at its worst. This can create some very entertaining moments when playing with a friend, but for the wrong reasons.

Luckily it’s possible to choose between standard or motion controls before starting an event. Playing on a single Joy-Con might not be the most comfortable experience, but the simple gameplay keeps it from ever being a handicap. Certain events like archery lose their luster without motion controls, but the fact that there’s a choice keeps with the game’s pattern of accessible gameplay.

Bring On 2020

While Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 might not be a contender for game of the year, it’s shaping up to be a fun way to spend time with friends while celebrating the upcoming Olympic Games. If the demo is any indication, there’s plenty of fun to be had with or without motion controls. Thanks to the Switch’s portability and versatile Joy-Cons, the local multiplayer (up to 4 players) is more accessible than ever.

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 launches in November of this year for the Nintendo Switch. Be sure to stay tuned to NerdOn! for more articles and other great E3 content.

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