Summer Games (USA)

When you start the game, you'll see a menu listing the available Olympic events. Use the D-pad (arrow keys) to highlight an event and press X to select it. Each event has its own objective - some require you to run as fast as possible by tapping the B button (S key) rapidly, while others demand precise timing for jumps or throws. After completing all events, your scores are tallied and medals are awarded based on performance.

The core loop is simple: pick an event, perform your best, and move to the next. There's no save function, so the game is meant to be played in one sitting. For events like the 100-meter dash, you'll need to alternate between tapping B to build speed and pressing A (X key) at the right moment for the start. Other events like the long jump require you to press A at the apex of your run. There's no practice mode, so learning the timing for each event takes a few tries.

If you're playing alone, the game acts as a score attack. With friends, you can take turns competing for the highest overall score. The Atari 7800 version keeps the same straightforward controls and event list as the original, so veterans of the Commodore 64 release will feel at home.