London 2012 – Official Video Game of the Olympics Review

Game Reviewed: London 2012: Official Video Game Of The Olympics

Release Date: June 26th, 2012

Developer: SEGA

Publisher: SEGA

Platform: [Reviewed: Xbox 360], PlayStation 3, PC

Genre: Sports

Rated: E for Everyone

Taking place once every four years, one of the greatest spectacles that man has to offer is about to once again show off some of the most dynamic and diverse competitors from all over the world. It all begins with the lighting of the torch, signaling the official start of what enthusiast and supporters of the games long for. This year, taking place in London, is the 2012 Olympics.

With London 2012 game, not only can you experience the Olympics live, you can create some of your very own moments on XBOX 360 with the use of Kinect or the Move for PlayStation 3.

From the main menu you’re offered the Olympic Games, Events Play, Party Play, Online Mode, and Teams & Records.

Seth Bennet and Allison Curbishley kick off the London 2012 ceremony, placing you at the heart of when it’s all officially beginning. You get an overhead view of the stadium along with fireworks inviting you to stay tuned as day one follows.

As the Olympics begin, you can choose 2 of the 4 events optioned. This brings us to the mechanics, which work quite well. Most sports will have different controls, mirroring what your player is doing. For instance, when swimming you’ll dive and while underwater use a face button . However, while swimming  you’ll use the analogues to control each arm.

Another is the z00m, where it’s all about button mashing. The trick here is to fill the onscreen meter’s bar without over-filling it in entirety. To go completely left here, think of the “Test Your Might” mini-game in Mortal Kombat. The requirement to keep your meter filled and maintain it to the very end.

The game is mapped out with qualifying rounds , where – should you be successful – you’ll move on to the Finals. Managing to win the Gold will put you at the top of the podium with your anthem proudly played for all to hear.

[jwplayer config=”Mature” mediaid=”5133″]

Throughout the game, commentary will keep the game feeling fresh and exciting. It definitely feels like a live presentation with all the excitement and tension the Olympics can bring. Camera angles really do justice in London 2012, for example, when weight lifting pay close attention. You’ll notice that as the athlete picks up the weights, you can’t help but notice the veins from the competitor’s arms. Look at the animations, as he shows the strength and stress put into maintaining the lift.

When it’s all said and done and the medal tally is calculated, the closing ceremony kicks into gear, thanking everyone for joining in. The camera pans out to the audience and it all ends. This is where you start over.

Does London 2012 present good replay value? YES!

Events allow you to create your own London 2012 experience and earn your favorite country’s medals.

Online is more based on the nation you choose to play for. While you get to play with players in every country, the colors you decide to put on will earn that country “national pride points”. Sure you’ll earn a spot on the leaderboards, but  your medals go for the country to claim. The unique part about this is that every person that plays medals add to your country’s total.

When seeking some local play, party play will keep you entertained. One specific game mode, archery blitz, is a bit of fun. This particular game mode slightly deviates from the traditional rules by giving it a bit of an arcade feel.

You have 60 seconds to score as many points as possible. While on the clock, you can earn extra points and time by hitting the appropriate icon when it appears on the board. Finish with the most points within the rounds to win.

As far as the Kinect controls are concerned, they only see use in the party play mode “with Kinect” option. Gameplay is equally as fun, but I did have a few Calibration issues as the sensor attempted to only capture my upper body, yet stopped too high. This was most noticeable during the Javelin throw.  Nonetheless, the throw Kinect was on point  in all sports as far as precision.

Team and Records is where all your stats can be tracked, as well as the ability to customize each individual player for each sport. If you’ve unlocked any gold equipment or national kits, you can find and change-up here as well.

In closing, London 2012 is a much better game than some people may think first of. With  a suggested price of $39.99, I would recommend this one to all. It’s one thing to watch it all take place, but it’s another to experience. And this, yes this Olympics video game is worth experiencing.

If you’re wanting to have a little fun now head here and play the London 2012 mini-games.

The Scores

Gameplay: 4/5

Visuals: 4.5/5

Audio: 4.25/5

Controls: 4.5/5

Value: 4/5

Overall Rating: 4/5