Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020

One of the amazing things about the Olympic Games is how it brings together people from all walks of life, even rival countries, to compete against one another in a celebratory way. Even rival video game characters come together for the event in Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. One of the great things here is that the game doesn't just cross franchises, but it crosses eras as well. There are a handful of events that can be played in a retro mode that recreated the look and feel of the classic 8- and 16-bit track and field video games, complete with frantic button mashing. These are ridiculously simple to play but just as ridiculously addictive as well, especially playing with friends. It hearkens back to the days of crowding around the old NES/SNES with all the screaming, laughing, and pure joy that came with it.

As with most party style games, the mini-game collection in Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 has its hits and misses. Fortunately, a lot of work went into making sure the hits far outnumber the misses, and even the less exciting events this have their fair share of fun. Still, you're likely to find a few favorites, such as the table tennis, which is simple on the surface, but at its best when you play with a little extra flair. Dream Events are suitably outrageous video game events and are some of the wildest competitions players could hope for. Dream Racing, for example, mixes the breakneck speed and swift curves of the Sonic games with the aerial tricks and items that Mario Kart is known for. This hybrid is the best of both worlds, and is only help back by the fact that there aren't multiple courses race on. As far as party games go, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 gets high marks across the board and gives a gold medal performance.