Sonic Generations
a game by | Sonic Team |
Platforms: | 3DS, XBox 360, XBox One, PC, Playstation 3 (2011) |
Editor Rating: | 9/10, based on 3 reviews, 2 reviews are shown |
User Rating: | 8.1/10 - 32 votes |
Rate this game: | |
See also: | 3D Platformer Games, Sonic Download, Fast-Paced Games, Nintendo Switch Sonic Games |
If you have been a Sonic fan throughout the last two decades or more. You’ll know that it’s not always an easy existence when you love the speedy hedgehog. For years, Sonic games have consistently promised a lot to fans, only to leave them grossly disappointed. We need only mention Sonic The Hedgehog 2006 as an example of what kind of train wrecks the Sonic fanbase has had to endure. However, Sonic Generations aimed to change the fortunes of the Sonic faithful, using the power of nostalgia as a driving force for the title.
Sonic Generations leaves behind the bumbling and awkward gameplay of titles like Sonic Heroes, Sonic Rivals and Sonic Unleased. Instead opting for a blend of pure breakneck speed and retro style Sonic gameplay akin to titles like Sonic Adventure 2, Sonic 3D Blast and Sonic Mania. This is a game that aims to give the fans everything they have been asking for and more for decades. However, is the game an adrenaline-pumping smash hit or a gruelling slog? We find out in our review of Sonic: Generations.
Taking a Step Back
The Sonic franchise was going through something of an identity crisis for a decade leading up to this title. In an attempt to compete with Nintendo, Sega seemed to lose track of what made Sonic successful in the first place. Leading to Sonic titles with approaches and concepts that just didn’t fit at all. Well, Sonic: Generations represents a turning point for the franchise. Sega finally decided to pander to their fans, opting for a game design that provides a 3D adventure that relies on pure speed and spectacle above all else. It’s the 3D Sonic arcade title we have all been waiting for. The game does an amazing job of seamlessly switching between 2D and 3D perspectives. Allowing fans to enjoy scenes akin to those of Sonic Adventure. While still offering 2D moments that make you feel like you’re right back in the Green Hill Zone. Plus, the game never makes you engage in awkward combat which is truly a blessing.
High Speed Bliss
The gameplay within this title is a joy not only because of the 2D to 3D switches but also because of the challenge it provides. This game doesn’t rely on luck like past titles, but rather on skill and ability. It is almost like a Sonic the Hedgehog version of Trials: Fusion. Players will have to master each stage, have a sound understanding of the mechanics and have super fast reactions to get that elusive ‘S’ rank we all crave.
Plus, in terms of visual effects, animations and overall presentation. We can say with some confidence that this was the best thing that franchise had produced for some time. The backdrops are stunning, the musical score is fast-paced and punchy. Plus, the way the game romanticises the older character sprites with 3D models that bring them into the modern-day gaming scene is wonderful.
The Verdict
Overall, Sonic Generations was the breath of fresh air that the franchise so desperately needed. The gameplay is challenging and addictive. The presentation is beautifully handled and the fan service through the use of nostalgia was an inspired decision.
Fans may have had to wait way too long to play another great Sonic game but thankfully, the wait was worth it in the end.
Pros:
- Challenging and addictive gameplay
- Visuals and audio are fantastic
- Will get your nostalgia juices flowing
- No terrible combat mechanics
Cons:
- Small errors can still kill momentum stone dead
- Will be too difficult in parts for some players
Download Sonic Generations
System requirements:
- PC compatible
- Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
System requirements:
- PC compatible
- Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
System requirements:
- PC compatible
- Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
System requirements:
- PC compatible
- Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
System requirements:
- PC compatible
- Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
Game Reviews
The Sonic the Hedgehog franchise was a huge success back on the Sega Genesis, but the series had a dip in quality during the early 2000s. Luckily, Sonic Generations looks to reverse that trend and reinforce Sonic as a leading brand in platforming gameplay. Created for the series 20th anniversary, Sonic Generations brings together both classic and modern Sonic gameplay for an explosive and speedy package of platforming fun. Featuring an abundance of Sonic characters, classic levels, and memorable music, this is one Sonic game that fans won't want to miss. Whether you're a fan of the retro Sonic or have been hoping for a better modern Sonic game, Sonic Generations offers quite a bit of alluring content.
Main Game Features
- Classic and modern platforming gameplay
- Nostalgia-rich presentation and plot
- Bonus challenge stages
Story
Sonic Generations does its best to include every Sonic character of note, including multiple designs of the same characters. In this twisted tale, the villainous Eggman prepares a plot so dangerous that it threatens the very nature of time itself. After coming across a powerful entity known as the Time Eater, Eggman travels back in time to finally defeat Sonic and his friends. As the Time Eater attacks multiple timelines in the universe, Sonic arrives in a blank, white space. In order to restore time and prevent the collapse of the world, Sonic, Tails, and the rest of his friends must team up with each other (and their past selves) to win the day.
Gameplay
Although the plot of Sonic Generations might sound a bit silly, it ends up being an awesome adventure through the history of the Sonic franchise. The core gameplay is split into two distinct styles, “classic” and “modern”. Classic gameplay is reminiscent of retro Sonic titles from the 90s, while the modern gameplay is similar to recent games like Sonic Colors and Sonic Unleashed. There are nine stages in total, with each stage containing both a classic and modern level. Since Sonic Generations is an homage to the entire Sonic franchise, every single level is a remake or reimagining of a level from an older Sonic title.
Regardless of what kind of level you're playing, Sonic Generations provides an exceptionally fast gameplay experience. You'll speed through colorful levels and collect coins and power-ups, defeat enemies, and even battle enormous bosses. Your performance is judged at the end of each stage, adding a great element of replayability. Bonus content can be unlocked by discovering red star rings, which are hidden across every level. By collecting enough, you'll gain access to new abilities, concept art, and more. If you really want to test your Sonic skills, there are also dozens of bonus challenge levels that are deceptively difficult.
Conclusion
Sonic Generations is not only a great game for Sonic fans, but it's an entertaining and enjoyable adventure for newcomers as well. The gleeful celebration of Sonic and its memorable worlds is addictive and rewarding, providing hours of family-friendly fun. There's a good amount of gameplay variety between the two main styles, so the experience never feels too repetitive. With a surplus of unlockable goodies and bonus content, there's more than enough speedy fun to keep you playing Sonic Generations for hours on end. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the blue blur or a complete newcomer, Sonic Generations is worth a shot.
Pros
- Thrilling classic Sonic action
- Great gameplay variety
- Colorful graphics and cheerful music
Cons
- No new levels
- Music can grow repetitive
- Occasionally frustrating