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