Shhhh--nobody tell Nintendo and Sega that the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics are still another year out. After spending a few minutes testing out Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games, we don't want to wait a full year for its release. The clever mix of characters from both franchises blended with solid mini-game action could very well earn it a spot on the medal stand when it ships in early November.

The game will pack in 20 authentic events from the summer games ranging from track and field to swimming to gymnastics. Additionally, a set of casual mini-games can be unlocked by earning medals in the main events. In total, a little more than 30 competitive events and mini-games will ship in the game, playable with a maximum of four people.

We played three events: 100-meter dash, triple jump, and hammer throw. All involved use of the Wii Remote and nunchuk motion-controls, but not every event will. For instance, running in the 100-meter dash involved alternate flicks of the Wii Remote and nunchuk to mimic the act of sprinting down the track. Naturally, the faster you pump your arms, the quicker your time.

Not all events are as straightforward as the 100-meter dash though. In the triple jump, you'll have to combine movements of the controllers, timing, and a button press. The event starts off with a bit of running, done in the same fashion as the 100-meter dash. Once you have speed, you'll hop with a flick of the Wii Remote, and then skip by moving the nunchuk, and finally jump by pressing A. Timing is everything because you have to jump before a designated mark on the track or risk fouling. We fouled on our first attempt, but made a comeback on the second jump.

It helped that we rallied the crowd by clapping before the jump. Some events, like the triple jump, allow you to mimic clapping with the two controllers and pump up the crowd. Not every event supports clapping--trying to boost the crowd before a high dive would be silly--but you'll want to take advantage of the feature on those that do.

The third event we tried was the hammer throw. We ditched the nunchuk for this game, instead wielding the Wii Remote to fling the heavy object down the field. Throwing the hammer was done by holding down the A button and twirling the Wii Remote, essentially mirroring the real act of spinning to build power behind the throw. Release the A button and the hammer will fly down the field. Like the triple jump, the control mechanics are pretty easy; it's just nailing the timing that's difficult. Two throws were unsuccessful, leading us to believe that a little practice will be needed before attending a medal ceremony.

As previously mentioned, up to four players can participate in any of the events and mini-games. Each player picks an avatar from a huge roster of characters from both Sonic and Mario franchises. Not all characters will be available at the start of the game, but we did catch a glimpse of Dr. Eggman, Sonic, Tails, Mario, and Luigi. There are differences between the characters represented by attributes. For example, Sonic has a bit more speed than Mario, who can jump with greater skill. The differences aren't huge, but can make it easier when trying for record-breaking performances.

From what we played of Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games, it looks to be an entertaining multiplayer romp. While it won't be the deepest Wii title out this holiday season, it could easily keep the family occupied in competition for a few hours. Our one concern is whether Toadstool will pass his drug tests and make it to the games.