Videogamer editor Tom Orry writes:
"I wasted a lot of time as a kid because of Track and Field. I'm not old enough to have been playing the original arcade version, but the PlayStation game which moved the series to 3D ruined quite a few controllers. The gameplay was so simple, but the competition was fierce. Hammering buttons was almost caveman-like compared to the complex controls seen in other games, but being able to move your fingers at a speed which seemed super human was, at the time, a bigger achievement than any other game could offer. We even use tools to 'aid' our performance, with everything from coins to golf tees being tested for optimal glide speed across the buttons. Trying to capitalise on us high-score junkies once more is New International Track and Field on the DS, and gaming-inflicted injuries seem guaranteed."
* Great multiplayer support
* Surprising depth
* Plenty of events
x Perhaps too tricky for beginners
Gameplay: 8
Graphics: 8
Sound: 7
Chris Buffa (Modojo): For the most part, video game publishers know what works and what doesn't on a portable system. Terrible games are a part of life, but it's rare to see a bad fit. At the end of the day, companies know a handheld's limitations.
I love portable games but some of these make sense I think. Rock Band Unplugged? Shakes head...
Yeah...they tried to capitalize on the series' popularity by porting it to every possible system. Such is the industry. :)
ArmChair Empire: "The game really shines when it comes to multi player. You can play against others that are nearby (with or without the game cartridge) or online. The online mode will even notify you while you're playing a single player game that one of your friends has jumped online. It's a no brainer for the bigger consoles but a pleasant surprise on the DS. Besides having a friends list you can also have a rivals list too."
NIST has solid presentation and is great for some short, quick gaming sessions. If you have quick reflexes and a fast stylus hand, you will probably have an absolute blast with this one. The old school feel will bring a smile to those who played it before, and it will present an excellent challenge for anyone willing to give it a try.
