Overview
Track & Field asked a simple question: how fast can you press buttons? Konami’s Olympic-style game turned athletics into endurance tests of button mashing. Arcades installed metal plates to handle the abuse. Friendships were forged and destroyed over split-second victories in the 100-metre dash.
Fast facts
- Developer: Konami.
- Release: 1983.
- Controls: Run buttons + action.
- Damage: Notorious joystick destroyer.
Events
| Event | Technique |
|---|
| 100m Dash | Alternate buttons rapidly |
| Long Jump | Run + timed jump |
| Javelin | Run + angle + throw |
| 110m Hurdles | Run + timed jumps |
| Hammer Throw | Rotation + release timing |
| High Jump | Run + angle + timing |
Control scheme
| Input | Function |
|---|
| Run buttons (×2) | Alternate for speed |
| Action button | Jump/throw/release |
| Timing | Angle and power |
Strategies evolved:
- Two-finger alternating
- Palm rubbing
- Spoon handles
- Pencil rolling
- Anything to go faster
Hardware casualties
| Victim | Fate |
|---|
| Joysticks | Broken microswitches |
| Buttons | Worn through |
| Cabinets | Metal plate reinforcement |
| Fingers | Blisters |
Multiplayer appeal
| Factor | Appeal |
|---|
| Head-to-head | Direct competition |
| Spectacle | Frantic action |
| Accessibility | Anyone can mash |
| Drama | Photo finishes |
Qualifying system
| Performance | Result |
|---|
| Meet standard | Advance |
| Fail | Game over |
| Record | Bonus points |
Home versions
| Platform | Quality |
|---|
| NES | Excellent (Hyper Sports) |
| C64 | Good adaptation |
| Spectrum | Playable port |
Power Pad / Family Trainer
NES mat controller:
- Run by stepping
- Physical exercise
- Less destructive
- Different experience
Sequels and variations
| Title | Year |
|---|
| Hyper Sports | 1984 |
| Track & Field II | 1988 |
| Hyper Olympic series | Various |
Legacy
Track & Field established:
- Button-mashing gameplay
- Olympic game template
- Multiplayer sports competition
- Hardware stress testing
See also