Mario & Sonic At Tokyo 2020: Switch Games Review

Hey everyone! Let's dive into Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 for the Nintendo Switch. This game is a blast for both casual and hardcore gamers, especially if you're a fan of the iconic duo: Mario and Sonic. This installment takes us to the vibrant setting of Tokyo, and the gameplay is packed with fun. The game brings together characters from the Mario and Sonic universes, competing in a variety of Olympic events. If you're wondering if it's worth the buy, you're in the right place. We'll explore everything from gameplay mechanics and graphics to the overall experience. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, this review will give you the lowdown.

Gameplay and Game Modes

Alright, let's talk about the heart of the game: gameplay and the variety of game modes. Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 offers a ton of options. The game is packed with a wide array of Olympic sports. We're talking everything from classic events like swimming, running, and gymnastics to more unique additions like skateboarding, surfing, and karate. Each event is designed with simple controls that are easy to pick up but have enough depth to keep you engaged. You can play using motion controls, which gives the game a more immersive feel, or use traditional button controls if you prefer. The motion controls are especially fun, making you feel like you're actually participating in the events. For instance, in swimming, you're making swimming motions with the Joy-Cons to propel your character through the water. It's a great way to get a bit of exercise while gaming! Then there's the story mode, which is a standout feature. This mode has a more narrative-driven experience. In this mode, Mario, Sonic, and their friends get sucked into a retro Tokyo 1964 setting. You’ll play through events and solve mysteries. This adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, making it more than just a series of mini-games. This mode adds a unique dimension to the game, and you get to experience both modern and retro events. The gameplay is split between two distinct eras of Olympic games, providing a nostalgic trip for older gamers while introducing younger players to the history of the Olympics.

The game also features a multiplayer mode, which is perfect for playing with friends and family. You can compete in individual events or create custom tournaments, which add to the game's replayability. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a newcomer, the gameplay mechanics are designed to be accessible and enjoyable. Each event has its own set of rules and controls, which are easy to learn, allowing players of all skill levels to jump in and have fun. The game does a great job of balancing the competitive spirit of the Olympics with the fun and charm of the Mario and Sonic universes. You'll find yourself laughing, cheering, and maybe even getting a little competitive as you try to beat your friends' scores. Overall, the game modes and gameplay mechanics are a huge win for Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. They offer something for everyone, making it a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner.

Graphics and Presentation

Now, let's talk about the graphics and overall presentation of the game. Graphically, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is a treat for the eyes. The game has a vibrant and colorful art style that is consistent with the Mario and Sonic franchises. The character models are well-designed and detailed. The environments are bright, and the animations are smooth. Whether you're playing in handheld mode or on the big screen, the graphics hold up well. The game uses a bright and colorful art style, which is characteristic of the Mario and Sonic universes. Characters like Mario, Sonic, and their friends are rendered in high detail. This ensures that their unique personalities shine through. Environments are also well-designed, offering a visually stimulating experience. The Tokyo setting is beautifully realized, with iconic landmarks and vibrant backgrounds. The graphics create a charming and immersive world that complements the gameplay.

The animations are smooth and fluid, which adds to the overall experience. From the running animations in the track events to the movements in the gymnastics, everything looks polished. The game maintains a high level of visual quality across all events and game modes. The presentation is top-notch, with excellent use of sound and music. The soundtrack features a mix of original compositions and familiar tunes from the Mario and Sonic games. Sound effects are crisp and clear, adding to the excitement of the events. The user interface is clean and easy to navigate. Menus are well-organized, making it easy to find your favorite events and game modes. The overall presentation enhances the gameplay and creates a fun and enjoyable experience. The visuals are bright, and the art style is charming, creating an appealing aesthetic that attracts players of all ages. The sound design is equally impressive, with a soundtrack that features a mix of upbeat original compositions and familiar tunes from the Mario and Sonic franchises. This combination of great graphics, smooth animations, and a well-designed presentation makes Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 a visually stunning game. It’s a treat to watch, whether you're playing solo or with friends. The game truly captures the spirit of the Olympics in a fun and engaging way, providing an exciting experience for players of all ages and skill levels.

Characters and Customization

Let’s get into the characters and customization options available in the game. Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 brings together a massive roster of characters from both the Mario and Sonic universes. You can play as Mario, Sonic, Luigi, Tails, Peach, Amy, and many more. Each character has their own unique abilities and stats. This adds depth to the gameplay and allows players to choose characters that suit their playstyles. For example, some characters might excel in speed events, while others are better at events that require strength or agility. This variety ensures that everyone finds a character they enjoy playing as. Characters are not just about their abilities. The game offers a range of costumes and accessories to customize your characters. You can dress them up in various outfits, from traditional Olympic gear to themed costumes. This customization adds a personal touch to the game, allowing players to create unique characters that reflect their personalities. The game also features unlockable content. You can unlock new characters, costumes, and other items as you progress through the game. This provides a sense of achievement and encourages players to keep playing to unlock everything. There is a wide variety of playable characters, each with unique abilities and stats that affect gameplay. This diversity allows players to choose characters that match their preferred play styles, adding strategic depth to the events. The inclusion of popular characters from both franchises ensures that fans have a wide array of options to choose from.

Character customization options enhance the gameplay experience by allowing players to personalize their favorite characters. The availability of costumes and accessories adds a creative layer to the game, enabling players to express their individual tastes and styles. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also fosters a sense of engagement and ownership over the characters. Overall, the range of characters and customization options is a significant strength of Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. The combination of diverse characters and customization options ensures that players can have a unique and personalized experience. The inclusion of both iconic characters and a variety of customization options enhances the appeal of the game, making it enjoyable for players of all ages and preferences. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Mario and Sonic or new to the series, you’ll find plenty to enjoy when it comes to the characters and customization options available.

Pros and Cons

Let’s quickly break down the pros and cons of Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. This helps you get a quick overview.

Pros:

• Variety of Events: A wide range of Olympic events keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting.
• Fun Gameplay: Easy-to-learn controls make it accessible for all players.
• Motion Controls: Adds an immersive element to the gameplay.
• Story Mode: Offers a unique and engaging experience.
• Multiplayer Fun: Great for playing with friends and family.
• Graphics and Presentation: The game looks and sounds great.

Cons:

• Repetitive at Times: Some events might feel repetitive after extended play.
• Motion Controls: Might not be for everyone.

Final Verdict

So, is Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 worth it? Absolutely! It's a fantastic game for the Nintendo Switch, especially if you enjoy party games or are a fan of Mario and Sonic. The combination of classic characters, engaging gameplay, and vibrant graphics makes it a must-have for your Switch library. It's perfect for both solo play and multiplayer sessions with friends and family. The game does an excellent job of capturing the spirit of the Olympics while incorporating the fun and charm of the Mario and Sonic universes. It’s a great addition to your Nintendo Switch collection. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the series, this game offers a fun and engaging experience for everyone. The diverse range of events ensures that you will always find something new to try. The game's accessibility makes it easy for players of all skill levels to jump in and enjoy. Ultimately, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is a winning title. It successfully combines the thrill of the Olympics with the beloved characters of Mario and Sonic. This combination results in a fun and engaging gaming experience for players of all ages. If you're looking for a fun party game or a solo adventure, this game is a great choice. You won't be disappointed!