I'm a long time Sonic fan, and I can say without a hint of doubt that this is my favorite Sonic game. Bar none.
The game follows the story of Sonic being mistaken for his newly awakened doppelganger Shadow as he tries to prove his innocence. He tries to foil yet another one of Dr. Robotnik's plots and uncovers a shadowy conspiracy over 50 years old.... What can I say about the story? It's excellent. It feels very cinematic and is surprisingly dark and introspective for a Sonic game. While many may criticize the trend of darker, more plot based Sonic games, I found that direction to be the best thing that could happen to the series, and adds a layer of depth.
On the technical side, the game had pretty good graphics for its time, but it certainly looks dated now, especially its recent HD re-release. However, the levels still look vibrant and realistic and the mediocrity of the cut-scene graphics is overpowered by the quality of the story. The soundtrack is absolutely amazing, easily the best of the series, and a contender for best game soundtrack period. All the songs fit the levels and characters they are associated with and show a broad range without feeling disjointed.
Now for the most important aspect: The gameplay. To be honest, it's a bit of a mixed bag. The Speed levels are all amazing- fast paced adventure at it's finest. The only problem there is the atrocious camera. While most people seem to have a great deal of disdain for the Hunting levels, i quite enjoy them. They have vibrant atmosphere and encourage lots of exploring. They may slow the game down a tad, but it doesn't usually hurt the experience.Usually. Except Mad Space. The levels I tend to like the least are the shooting levels, particularly Tails'. Eggman's levels have better design, and Eggman is just a more enjoyable character to play as in general, so he gets a bit of a pass. In general however, I find them slightly tedious. Still, they are enjoyable in their own way and the game would be quite incomplete without them.
Overall, this game is just one thrill after another, with a gripping story, excellent music and visuals, and exciting gameplay. Its a must have for any gamer.
I give this game 9.5/10 (excellent)
The High Point of the Sonic Series
I'm a long time Sonic fan, and I can say without a hint of doubt that this is my favorite Sonic game. Bar none. The game follows the story of Sonic being mistaken for his newly awakened doppelganger Shadow as he tries to prove his innocence. He tries to foil yet another one of Dr. Robotnik's plots and uncovers a shadowy conspiracy over 50 years old.... What can I say about the story? It's excellent. It feels very cinematic and is surprisingly dark and introspective for a Sonic game. While many may criticize the trend of darker, more plot based Sonic games, I found that direction to be the best thing that could happen to the series, and adds a layer of depth. On the technical side, the game had pretty good graphics for its time, but it certainly looks dated now, especially its recent HD re-release. However, the levels still look vibrant and realistic and the mediocrity of the cut-scene graphics is overpowered by the quality of the story. The soundtrack is absolutely amazing, easily the best of the series, and a contender for best game soundtrack period. All the songs fit the levels and characters they are associated with and show a broad range without feeling disjointed. Now for the most important aspect: The gameplay. To be honest, it's a bit of a mixed bag. The Speed levels are all amazing- fast paced adventure at it's finest. The only problem there is the atrocious camera. While most people seem to have a great deal of disdain for the Hunting levels, i quite enjoy them. They have vibrant atmosphere and encourage lots of exploring. They may slow the game down a tad, but it doesn't usually hurt the experience.Usually. Except Mad Space. The levels I tend to like the least are the shooting levels, particularly Tails'. Eggman's levels have better design, and Eggman is just a more enjoyable character to play as in general, so he gets a bit of a pass. In general however, I find them slightly tedious. Still, they are enjoyable in their own way and the game would be quite incomplete without them. Overall, this game is just one thrill after another, with a gripping story, excellent music and visuals, and exciting gameplay. Its a must have for any gamer. I give this game 9.5/10 (excellent)