Shth is better than Heroes (pt 2)

I like Sonic Heroes, but it seems overrated for what it is. On the flip side, Shadow the Hedgehog seems underrated and portrayed in a misleading light. For that reason I'm showing why Shadow the Hedgehog is a better game than Heroes.

Gameplay

About Heroes 

Sonic Heroes debuted a new, team-based type of gameplay. The player could toggle between one of three characters. While there were 12 characters, the basics remained the same: there was speed (Sonic, Shadow, etc), flight (Tails, Cream, etc), and power (Knuckles, Vector, etc).

The environment was crafted so that only certain characters' abilities would be allowed to proceed. This method was interesting and added to the game's theme of working together.

However, the unique qualities would be a downfall as well. The game is difficult to get used to. It does include a tutorial level and recommends playing at with Team Rose (easier). Still, it's a lot for a player to digest.

The levels could often seem very long or difficult to a new player. Even now that I am skilled with this type of gameplay, returning to the game I need to practice with a level.

Another problem I encountered was how the power types moved in circular motions as they attacked. There are many of levels set in the sky or above water with steep edges. Although Power was best for attacks, I often found myself switching to Flight so there was less a risk of falling off (to death). 

Flight characters were the safest, but were very slow (because the team members weight a lot? BIG?).

The Speed's "Triangle Jump" also proved difficult in high places. In Mystic Mansion, for example, one has to jump onto a specific grind rail (or bone, in this case) with out falling in order to move on.

Speed characters also preformed a mid-air move which was more annoying than the Homing attack. Though the Homing Attack was still available, it was difficult and slow.

Most of the other attacks were fine, but they were not powerful unless on level 2 or 3. In order for the characters to be at their best, they must "level up" in the stage three times. Losing a life will rest their levels to 1.

The most enjoyable thing about Heroes' gameplay is the unique team-attack, Team Blast.

About Shth

In contrast, Shadow the Hedgehog was the only main playable character in his game. The biggest change in traditional Sonic games was the addition of weapons (mainly guns) and vehicles.

Unlike Sonic and The Black Knight's sword-based gameplay, the weapons were easy to use (easier than many shooter games, for that matter). Shadow generally seems to aim himself while running forward, with the occasional need for precise shooting. The controls are simple and the title does not require the same "adjustment period" as Heroes.

The guns would receive backlash, despite calls for a gun-based game style before (See also: Gamma). Though the game is remembered for it's realistic looking guns, the majority are actually alien, futuristic, or cartoonish in design. There were also knives, swords, and Heal Units (heals wounded or makes an enemy neutral). Though weapons are required on some paths, their use in most levels is technically optional.

Shadow can instead use the homing attack, the spindash, or a series of small attacks. The "Triangle Jump" is still a bother for new players, but it's slightly improved since Heroes.

The vehicles are not great, but the majority are optional. Though the hover craft, motorcycle, and car(s) are alright, the strange jumping one and it's similar, shooting companion are a pain.

While Shadow can be quite fast, speed was not always the goal. The player had the option of "choosing" who to help or ignore. Many of the levels have a mission given by fellow character who would offer help. The player could also remain neutral (decline to help). Due to this "mission" nature, the levels could vary from 2 minutes or 12.

Most of these side-characters are playable with a second controller on PS2 and Gamecube, sort of like Tails in Sonic 2.

Shadow the Hedgehog had effects similar to Team Blast. Acting as a "hero" or "villain" affected the Hero/Dark gauges. When full, Shadow was invincible, had unlimited ammo, and could either use Chaos Blast (a powerful attack; dark) or Chaos Control (races forward; hero).

So...

Shadow the Hedgehog is a better gameplay experience. The guns' violent stigma hurt how the game was seen. However, actually playing the game is quite fun. The choices and options (from a gameplay point) help ensure that replaying the game is unique. The style also made itself "free" of Sonic ("Personally, I wouldn't go near those things") without changing too much.

Sonic Heroes can be fun as well, but it feels more restricted. As I have mentioned, it "takes some getting used to." Having the characters bond is nice, but this is is not a spin-off or side-game. I'm not sure if having such a sharp difference in gameplay for a main game was a good idea. That being said, while I love the "team" element, most Sonic games have preferable gameplay.   

Sonic Advance 2, an prime example of Modern Sonic in 2-D

Interesting Note: both the unique styles of Sonic Heroes and Shadow the Hedgehog would be sighted as reasons to bring Sonic to his speed-based "roots" in Sonic 06 (though the execution of 06 obviously left much to be desired). 

Underground is better than Sat Am (Pt 2)

Characters

I previously hinted at this a bit when critiquing the group's designs. Underground was the winner, there. Sat Am did not age as well and made some bizarre choices. However, looks aren't everything. I'm going to compare the characters personalities and roles in each cartoon.

Main Characters

Sonic, Sally, and Antoine

Sonic's attitude is on spot, though AoStH probably deserves credit for establishing it. His relationship with Sally is interesting and cute, although I wish their relationship would have become more defined by the series' second season. Sally makes an interesting leader and a "serious" personality to contrast Sonic. Antoine, on the other hand...

My opinion of Antione has been corrupted by his comic counter-part. Comic-Ant is a sweetie. Cartoon Ant is an aXXhole! He's useless; his "rivalry" with Sonic is lame; he's irritating. His only purpose, it seems, is comic relief that is neither necessary nor humorous.

Sonic, Sonia, and Manic

Sonic still the same: funny, clever, but a show-off. I do have to say that he feels secondary to Sonia and Manic...maybe it's because they are newer characters, but I'd guess there are more Manic or Sonia centric episodes. So although they are nearly the same, I may have to give credit to Sat Am, here, for (usually) keeping Sonic in the spotlight.

On the plus side, more revealed about Sonia and Manic.

Sonia was raised rich and feels entitled. She's likes fashion and keeping her hair in style. "Spiny Annoying Princess," her brothers call her. But when trouble shows itself, Sonia is revealed not as selfish, but as a quick fighter and sassy musician. She was willing to join a cause greater than her, and continues to give up riches and her "old life" in order to save the world.

Manic was the opposite. He came from a group of thieves who would steal to stay alive. His interesting backstory and the fact that he was tempted to return to his old habits was both fascinating and comical. Manic was also plagued by not being able to spindash...having a character that was imperfect and perhaps even a bit of an anit-hero made for unique plots.   

Side Characters

Sat Am

Bunnie

Bunnie with Rotor in the opening

Bunnie is awesome--a girl power character with a Texas accent. While ignoring the Archie comics, though, there is not much else to say about Bunnie. In the cartoon, she rarely has a major role. Usually she's only a "filler" character who just uses her skills when the plot needs it.

Tails

Sat Am has the advantage of having Tails while he was oddly absent in Undergound. However, this version of Tails is lackluster. He, age 10 in the series, acts more childish than his 5-year-old AoStH counterpart. It's very disappointing that the two don't have the same bond as in AoStH, either. With the exception of one (maybe two) episodes, Tails is only "the innocent."

Apparently Tails was supposed to have a bigger role in Season 3. They waited too long.  

Rotor

I've never really liked Rotor. He always seemed to be a useless character to me. Maybe it's because Tails has been given the "smart" role in other cartoons, or maybe he's just shallow.

Nicole

Nicole was Sally's computer. The AI did little until Sonic shook it, frustrated with it's logical manner. Nicole would then adopt a new way of speaking. While Nicole showed potential, she did little aside from explaining things.

Nicole was also supposed to have a bigger role in Season 3 explaining her origins. 

Dulcy

As if Antoine wasn't enough, there's "Na Na Na Not Dragon Tales" Dulcy. Dulcy does nothing except act as transportation and lose it asking for her mother. I might consider the character funnier than Antoine, but she's a childish addition to the already quite full cast. 

Chuck

Sat Am created one perfect character: Uncle Chuck. Sonic's uncle gave the show emotion and feeling (back when Sonic could cry). It was nice to see him in the second season, and the two-parter, "Blast to the Past" also expanded his character.

Here's the thing, though: Chuck was in Underground, too (further evidence of AM/Under overlap?). He didn't have as big a role, but a similar one. 

Underground

Aleena

Aleena was Sonic's mother in the show, and would usually keep an eye on her kids, often narrating the show's opening and ending. Despite her separation, though, it's shown that she cares for her children, is willing to occasionally interfere, and looks forward to one day reuniting.

What makes Aleena most interesting is her role in the episode "The Jewel of the Crown." She created a trap for Robotnik, showing a "freedom fighter" side to her. 

Bartleby

Bartleby is similar to Antoine. Once engaged to Sonia, the mink is selfish and goes to lengths to avoid helping Sonia and her "ruffein brothers." He usually helps anyway (for Sonia). Main advantage: not as annoying as Antoine. 

Cyrus

Being a lion, Cyrus is often seen as the "Tails" the show never had. Unfortunately he often has a "freedom fighter filler" role, but in his original appearance he showed potential. He almost betrayed the heroes to save his father, but decided to tell the truth at the last minute.

Knuckles

This Knuckles doesn't seem quite as tough or serious as his game counterpart, but has many of the same qualities. He's naive and gullible, falling for tricks twice. He fights with Sonic and has a fierce dedication to his island and his emerald. In total, this Knuckles isn't quite as accurate as other interpretations (such as Sonic X), but he's not a giant idiot, either (cough...I'm sorry...BOOM).

Oracle of Delphius

There's an odd fantasy part of Underground, and the cryptic Oracle is a big part of that. Mainly, he just seems to serve as a plot-device. I don't care much for him as a character, but he has some amusing dialogue when contrasted with Sonic.

Trevor 

A freedom fighter "filler" character, this character is useless.

Villains

Dr. Robotnik, Snivley, Nagus

Dr. Robotnik in SAT AM was shown as completely evil, ignoring his comedic traits. I think (as a whole) this was a bad move. A serious Buttnik is fine when the situation demands it, but having it constantly means there's less of an emphasis when the plot is serious enough to match it. And honestly. It's a big fat man with a mustache. He was made to be funny.

Snively, his underling, kisses his boss' butt and secretly hates him. He's an okay character...amusing, but I don't like him nearly as much as Scratch and Grounder.

Nagus was one of the more interesting conflicts, known for his trickery and mystery. However, all those fantasy qualities clash with what's otherwise a sci-fi show (Sat Am even explained rings as one of Uncle Chuck's inventions...).

Dr. Robotnik, Sleet & Dingo

The three in the opening

Underground's Robonik isn't that memorable, but he's better balanced between comedic and evil.

Sleet and Dingo are funny enough but make little sense. Bounty hunters? Why not just make robots? They are not as good as Scratch and Grounder.

So...

Underground chose to focus on a smaller cast. While it's side characters did not see as much screen time, the main ones were strengthened. The differences between Sonic, Manic, and Sonia were clearly defined as well as their similarities. And though there were some "filler" guests, none were blatantly annoying.

Sat Am's cast was intriguing on the surface, but many of it's characters would be pushed aside. While Sonic and Sally are strong, and some freedom fighters showed potential, misplaced comedy would steal the spotlight far too often (especially for a "darker" take on Sonic's world).

Movie Master Emerald?

Now that we're able to see the Sonic Movie's beginning, I have an addition to my Easter Eggs list...

The Mater Emerald is clearly visible on the bottom right corner with question marks on it. 

This may further hint a a story with Knuckles, the Emerald's protector. Since Tails is already confirmed, it's possible the next movie will combine Sonic 2 and 3. The Master Emerald has been in a number of other plots (notably Sonic Adventure) so it's possible other elements could be combined as well.

At its bare minimum, it could be a hint at the Chaos Emeralds and/or Super Sonic.

The map also answered one of my questions--Sonic did visit other worlds before Earth, as five are crossed off (six including his home at the center).

Therefore it is possible he already knows Tails or other characters from the other dimensions.

Unfortunately, the illustrations are a bit vague (is that the blue sphere special stage to the right? Are the diamond sparkles purposely similar to Sonic CD's ending? Does the whole rim look like the clock in Sonic Generations?!), so the possibilities are never ending (yes, Sonic Unleashed pun intended).

Sonic X Reanimate (Fan Animation)

I'm sure most Sonic fans have seen this already, but I thought it deserved a shout-out:

Original

A bunch of animators put together a "reanimate" of the (English) Sonic X episode "Cracking Knuckles" (mostly known for its Sonic/Knuckles fight scene). Almost 300 animators banded together to make it, and the constantly changing result is both awesome and comedic. Clips can be viewed on their creators channels, and the whole episode can be found Bilianna's.

USA vs JAPAN: Sonic CD's Music Conclusion

Total Scores 
(the totals were added and then divided by the total possible points) 

USA: 74%
JAPAN: 69%

Our winner: the North American version.

Winning Tracks Playlist

Both soundtracks are good in their own way, but the one that suits the game the best overall is the North American soundtrack. While many of the Japanese ones put up a close battle, they did not score as high overall.

America's highest score was a 15/15 (Stardust Speedway Bad) while it's lowest was 7/15 (Collision Chaos Good)

The opinion is so divided, which is a shame because both are great examples of Sonic music. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but the way people fight over these two is pathetic. Previously I assumed this was purely nostalgia or because players never gave the opposite a chance. Now I can see their are other factors as well.

Japan's highest score was a 15/15 (Final Fever) while it's lowest was 7/15 (Stardust Speedway Bad)

The two are mainly different genres. The Japanese leans towards fast-paced, hip-hop and electronic styles, while the American version has a more atmospheric/rock vibe. I would also say that the Japanese version was lined with a "new" 90s sound while the American one had some 80s influences. In the background of the Japanese ones, the vocals would usually be speaking or rapping, while the phrases in the American version were usually sung or drawn out. The instruments also added to the contrast.

Anyway, I've gotten to respect the Japanese tracks a bit more, now, and understand why people like them. I've also realized that I don't just like the North American version for "Sonic Boom" or Stardust Speedway; I like the American soundtrack as a whole, and it's my favorite of the two.

BOOM.

USA vs JAPAN: Special Stages, Game Over, Etc

CD's weird special stages featured UFOs and let the player collect "Time Stones."

Japanese Versions 

Special Stage

It combined the unique exploratory sounds and the rushed feeling of the stage.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 12/15

Game Over Screen 

A song in hip-hop style with disappointed voices. 

Tune: 2/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 8/15

Speedy Shoes 

A quick an happy tune.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 12/15

Invincibility

A mix of jovial and wacky sounds.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 11/15

Zone Ending

A quick and funky jingle.

Tune: 2/5
Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 9/15

American Versions 

Special Stage

A low constant tone alongside effects that aid the mystery and the importance of the stage.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 11/15

Game Over Screen 

A creepy montage of laughing.

Tune: 1/5
Level Relevance: 5/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 9/15

Speedy Shoes 

An edgy tune mixed with light effects.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 13/15

Invincibility

A combo of serious and positive sounds.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 12/15

Zone Ending

A blast of confidence.

Tune: 3/5
Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 10/15

Conclusions? 

Although Japan was decided best for the special stage, the rest went to North America. It was a tough call, but it was mainly it's relevance that kept it's scores higher.

Winner: USA

USA vs JAPAN: Boss Themes

The mood of the boss' music would show how challenging Robotnik/Eggman could be.

Japanese Versions 

Main Theme

With laughing and voices that are a small part of the snappy tune.

Tune: 4/5
Boss Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 9/15

Final Theme

Now aided by vocals, this beautiful yet insane mix puts the battle in focus.

Tune: 5/5
Level Relevance: 5/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 15/15

American Versions 

Main Theme

A bleak song with metallic sounds and creepy laughing.

Tune: 3/5
Boss Relevance: 5/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 11/15

Final Theme 

Very similar to the main theme, this desolate take is arguably more creepy. 

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 10/15

Conclusions? 

While the North American version is creepy and better suited for a boss battle, the Japanese's final is better and more focused. That makes it a tie, so for the winner as a whole I'm seeing who scored the most points.

JPN
24/30
NA
21/30

Winner: JAPAN

USA vs JAPAN: Metallic Maddness

The final zone of Sonic CD, and the final fight before the game's end.

Japanese Versions 

Present

Speedy, this music hosts a collection of panic and sneaky voices.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 11/15

Bad Future 

A startling but impact filled song with discouraging voices and laughter.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 13/15

Good Future

This happy (SEGA WACKY WORLD VIBES!) version seems sparkly and joyous. 

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 12/15

American Versions 

Present

A constant machine-like tone with a cinematic, intense background.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 5/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 12/15

Bad Future 

The mechanical sounds are intensified and the music is brought to a climax.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 5/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 12/15

Good Future

With a quiet beginning, this serene song builds intensity and seems to mix machine and nature. 

Tune: 2/5
Level Relevance: 5/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 11/15

Mesh with the past? (Y/N)
No. The North American version has trouble keeping up with the energetic past, here.

Conclusions? 

Japan wins, just barley beating it's North America counterpart with its futures. While the American ones fully took into account the location and the type of effects it would have, the fast Japanese tracks provide the rush the game's final stages needed.

Winner: JAPAN

USA vs JPN: Stardust Speedway

In perhaps the most important level, Sonic races Metal Sonic and saves Amy.

Japanese Versions 

Present

A jazzy tune to match the stage's music-theme...that is juxtaposed along side odd voices.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 2/5
Total: 9/15

Bad Future 

The voices take focus and siren effects add to the chase theme.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 1/5
Total: 7/15

Good Future

Though the speed remains similar, this positive track alters the voices to be less overbearing.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 8/15

American Versions 

Present

A steady, quick beat that supports the level's fast pace, with a climax worthy of the zone's starry, nighttime background.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 11/15

Bad Future 

An epic, intensified version featuring whip-like sounds, desperate vocals, and whispers of "star dust."

Tune: 5/5
Level Relevance: 5/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 15/15

Good Future

This version starts slow but makes it way to a faster, lively speed. 

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 13/15

Mesh with the past? (Y/N)
No. Thanks to the odd voices and completely different sounds, this one is hard to explain.

Conclusions? 

North America wins 3/3 again. I have to be honest: this one seems obvious. I never have understood what people find appealing about huhuhuhu. That always sounds more like a race with metal Sanic to me. That aside, the American version also kept consistent tunes and each fit the setting perfectly.

Winner: USA

USA vs JAPAN: Wacky Workbench

A bouncy fun stage that can either be very quick or take forever.

Japanese Versions 

Present

"Wacky," this song is a mesh of quick and unique effects.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 5/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 11/15

Bad Future 

With a (familiar?) alarm kicking off, the stakes are clearly raised being creepy and echo-y

Tune: 2/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 10/15

Good Future

A mystical workplace that keeps the groove of the present.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 11/15

American Versions 

Present

A funky song that's brought to life with catchy voices.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 13/15

Bad Future 

A catchy mix of "wacky" sounds with underlying desperation.

Tune: 5/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 13/15

Good Future

At steady mechanical-pace, the focus is on the forward work 

Tune: 2/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 2/5
Total: 8/15

Mesh with the past? (Y/N)
I'm leaning towards no. They are different such different takes...but yes. Both Presents establish funky, wacky sounds so even though they don't blend themselves, it's not that odd to find music like this in the past of even the NA soundtrack.

Conclusions? 

North America wins both the present and bad future. Both were wacky but the American one were very likable.

Winner: USA

USA vs JAPAN: Quartz Quadrant

Quartz Quadrant was a level with convertibles and greenish quartz.

Japanese Versions 

Present

It begins with a mining, working sound that quickly erupts into a positive, cheery one.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 9/15

Bad Future 

Quick, this version is notable for it's echo-y piano.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 9/15

Good Future

This version is far more relaxed but keeps up it's beat. Reminds me of Sonic Advance...

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 12/15

American Versions 

Present

Also keeping in line with the "working theme," it has sharp sounds that are aided by an enveloping edgy tune.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 10/15

Bad Future 

This snaky version bares a resemblance to the others, but seems repressed and desperate.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 10/15

Good Future

Slow at first, the tune quickly picks up and portrays a happy, almost angelic future. 

Tune: 5/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 13/15

Mesh with the past? (Y/N)
Again, a hesitant yes. Luckily the present was intense, otherwise it would be a no.

Conclusions? 

Another win for North America, who is the first to win a complete zone (3/3). Since both were pretty good, it was a narrow win, though.

Winner: USA

USA vs JAPAN: Tidal Tempest

Tidal Tempest was Sonic CD's water level.

Japanese Versions 

Present

Streets of Rage vibes again! Playing with the underwater theme, it balances both mysterious and positive moods. 

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 13/15

Bad Future 

Starting with a spacey (Kim Possible?!!!!) vibe, the destruction caused by Robotnik/Eggman seems prevalent.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 10/15

Good Future

It has a quiet, slower sound that creates a sparkling picture. 

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 9/15

American Versions 

Present

North America provides a snazzy tune with vocals with a background that tries to convey the plunge into water.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 10/15

Bad Future 

The situation is far more desolate and creepy. Some people have been quick to make fun of the "breathing," but it keeps the tune steady and hints at a need for air (drowning). 

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 12/15

Good Future

Now there is an exploratory focus with an upbeat tone and an awesome guitar.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 11/15

Mesh with the past? (Y/N)
Once again, a hesitant yes. Since there is a bit more of a notable difference across the American tracks, the differences seem more normal.

Conclusions? 

The first win for North America, who won with its futures. While the Japanese songs--especially the present--proved tough opposition, it's replaced soundtrack (for Tidal Tempest) ended up being better.

Winner: USA

USA vs JAPAN: Collision Chaos

Collision Chaos was Sonic CD's second level, where Metal Sonic abducts Amy.

Japanese Versions 

Present

It has a snazzy, back and forth with some tech-y effects.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 2/5
Total: 10/15

Bad Future 

While maintaining the previous tune, the sounds are more experimental in nature. 

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 8/15

Good Future

It reminds me of a Streets of Rage level. Overall it's now smooth and casino-like. 

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 2/5
Total: 9/15

American Versions 

Present

It has a stressed mood alongside beautiful sounds that remind me of stars.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 9/15

Bad Future 

The guitar amplifies the chaotic setting with a serious tone, backed by the hopeful "starry" effects.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 9/15

Good Future

The tension is now paramount, although it does seem to acknowledge perseverance.

Tune: 2/5
Level Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 7/15

Mesh with the past? (Y/N)
I'm giving this a very hesitant yes. The Japanese tone is slowed just enough that the connection is passable, but barely.

Conclusions? 

Score two for Japan, who won both the Present and Good Future. I'm not a huge fan, but the tune is flashy like the level and just fits the "pin-ball" setting better.

Winner: Japan

USA vs JAPAN: Palmtree Panic

Palmtree Panic was Sonic CD's first stage and set the tone for the levels that would follow.

Japanese Versions 

Present

It is a very upbeat track with some tropical vibes. Sounds sunny. It is accompanied by the occasional "Yeah!"

Tune: 5/5
Level Relevance: 4/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 13/15

Bad Future 

The background is now robotic and the cheers have become demented and taunting. It sounds corrupted. Intense, but as if someone was manipulating the world.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 5/5
Total: 12/15

Good Future

The tune is made higher and happier, with some unique sounds and the continued cheers. It seems sort of like an awards show at points, and has more of a buzzy sound at others.

Tune: 2/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 8/15

American Versions 

Present

This version also hits the tropical stance very well, opting for a slower pace. It's beat gets more interesting as it progresses, but keeps the tone laid-back.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 5/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 12/15

Bad Future 

Although it has similar tone, it is now more ominous. The added vocals seem worried.

Tune: 4/5
Level Relevance: 2/5
General Likability: 3/5
Total: 9/15

Good Future

The rack now becomes more mystic, with some jungle-like vibes. The vocals can now be heard gently in the relaxed song. Reminds me of Unleashed at points.

Tune: 3/5
Level Relevance: 3/5
General Likability: 4/5
Total: 10/15

Mesh with the past? (Y/N)
Actually, since they both are tropical, yes. It's not perfect, but it fits alright.

Conclusions? 

Japan wins Palmtree Panic in general, winning both the Present and Bad Future. While the American songs were appropriate for the levels, they did not have the same energy as their predecessors.

Winner: Japan

USA vs JPN: CD's Main Themes

Japanese

"Toot Toot Sonic Warrior/You Can Do Anything"

General:

I remember the first time I went to play Sonic CD...it was a release, so Japan was the default. And I looked to the opening with glee and then..."WTF." That's what I thought when I heard "Toot Toot Sonic Warrior." I think I must have seen the American opening online before or something because it was not what I was expecting and I found it ruined the opening for me.
Edit: Apparently the version I disliked was an instrumental version of the song.

However, revisiting what I vaguely remember, I realized it's not that bad. It's background is lively and upbeat. It gets better with the female vocals. Actually, it's the the male's that I dislike the most--it sounds forced and awkward...not very "Sonic-y." Overall kinda' has a weird anime sound that I'm hesitant to like.

While very catchy, I'm still mystified by the whole "Toot Toot" thing. "Toot" usually brings nasty, smelly thoughts, and "Toot Toot"...maybe a train? Just seems odd.     

Tune: 5/5
Background: 4/5
Lyrics: 2/5
Relevance: 2/5
Likability: 4/5
Total: 17/25

American

"Sonic Boom"

General:

Okay, I have to be honest. It's really hard not to be biased about this. "Sonic Boom" (long before the TV show was a thing) always seemed epic, and when paired with the animation and the fact that Crush 40 and Cash Cash made a cover...I'm trying to set nostalgia a side, but even at the first seconds I immediately recognize it.

I think the background gives an edgy feeling that perfectly applies to the blue hero. It starts slower and builds intensity, a more familiar structure. The vocals are encouraging, positive. 

The lyrics make sense and are perfectly timed with the opening. For example "When you use your mind" is cleverly lined up with Sonic looking forward.

Tune: 4/5
Background: 5/5
Lyrics: 4/5
Relevance: 4/5
Likability: 5/5
Total: 22/25

Title Screen

The Japanese version is an interesting instrumental version of "Toot Toot," while the US is just a shortened "Sonic Boom." Typically this is something I'd stay neutral on, but since I have to pick, Japan. While each make sense, it's just refreshing to have something that sounds a bit different.

Endings

Japanese

"Cosmic Eternity/Believe in Yourself"

The game's ending is slower, with a magical sound that quickly turns into a song similar to the main theme but with different lyrics more focused on believing in oneself and "Cosmic Eternity." While it is a separate song, it's not quite as catchy as "Toot toot."

Tune: 3/5
Background: 4/5
Lyrics: 4/5
Relevance: 4/5
Likability: 3/5
Total: 18/25

American

"Sonic Boom"

This one also has a slow but edgy beginning as the lyrics to the song begin to build up. There are added lyrics and a part about "Mr. Bad." The chorus now has an outro-like sound to it, now being a bit calmer but confident as the game comes to an end.

Tune: 4/5
Background: 4/5
Lyrics: 4/5
Relevance: 4/5
Likability: 5/5
Total: 21/25

Conclusion

As far as the main theme is concerned, North America wins. Though "Toot Toot Sonic Warrior" had a nice beat and "You Can Do Anything" fit the game's theme, "Sonic Boom" proved itself epic as both an opening and ending in an unbeatable way.

Winner: USA

USA vs JAPAN: Sonic CD's Music

So Sonic CD had two soundtracks, an original version and a different one for North America. I generally say I prefer the US version, but I know some of the Japanese tracks are good as well.

In fact, I find it surprising that fans get so hostile over which is better. There are a lot of people who like the Japanese version and don't give its replacement a chance. On the other hand, those who were used to playing with the NA version naturally are more attached to it. In either way, it seems like people stick to their favorites for nostalgia's sake rather than deciding which was better in for the game itself.

That being said, I'm giving both a shot and I will try be less biased. From past experience, I liked both, but I'm interested in seeing if it's just that I like a few tracks so much that they overshadow the others, or if I like one as a whole better. 

Note: Just as a reminder, the past is the same in both versions. I will try to take into account how well the US matches or doesn't.

Quote of the Month

"Please, Shadow, do it for me. For all the people on that planet. Give them a chance to be happy. Let them live for their dreams, Shadow...I know you can do it...
"Sayonara, Shadow the Hedgehog."
--Maria Robotnik, Sonic Adventure 2