Eurogamer writes: "You probably have one overriding memory of the original Track & Field arcade game: pain.
Chances are that it was your first encounter with agonising finger blisters and the dull, rasping throb of repetitive strain injury, a condition that didn't even get a name other than "stop moaning, you pansy" until many years later. International Track & Field asked you to do one simple thing: hammer buttons very fast to win. It did this with a torturer's grin. "I'm just going to drip this water on your head, okay?"
For the perhaps-inevitable pre-Olympics rebirth of the franchise, developer Sumo Digital has changed things. The game is on a handheld, it doesn't involve pressing buttons any more (unless you really want to), and it isn't quite as simple as it used to be. One thing, however, remains consistent down through the years: pain."
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.
