Sonic 4 Episode 2 OST Review

Summary

Sonic 4 was oddly split up. It was a failed attempt at catering to fans. Overall Ep 2 is an improvement over the last game because it's not as cringe-worthy. However despite additions like bits from Twinkle Park/Pleasure Castle, it fails for many of the same mistakes as the first game. It is not that good.    

Best Song: Vs Metal Sonic Boss

Runner-Up (s): Oil Desert Act 1, White Park Act 2, Sky Fortress Act 1, Sylvania Castle Act 2

This is kind of cool. While it's not as Genesis-era as some of the other options, its determined, artificial tone is a great idea for this scenario. 

Worst Song: Sky Fortress Act 2

Runner Up (s): White Park Act 1/3, Oil Desert Act 2, Final Vs Death Egg MK 2 Core, Boss Battle, Main

The first act was fine, but they really goof around with the different sounds and in this case it makes the whole song sound terrible.  

Final Ranking: E

5 of these songs are good, and some are fair. But most of it is annoying. Instead of taking on a life of its own, like with Ep 1 it tries to replicate the classics in a horrid fashion. I'd say it's better than Ep 1 but not by a lot. 

Mario and Sonic @ the Olympic Games OST Review

Summary

When the Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games music began, it did not seem as through as the 2012 version (which I recently listened to). Even though its main themes seemed weaker, surprisingly the events' music seemed fun and more carefree.   

Best Song: Athletics: 400m 

Runner-Up (s): Athletics 100m, Throw, Vault, Aquatics 100m, Shooting, Fencing, Dream Platform, Dream Table Tennis, Dream Boxing (DS), Replay

This is a fun, speedy track that really caught my attention right away. This upbeat rush seems cheery enough for Mario yet edgy enough for Sonic. Seems like the sort of thing they should be aiming for. 

Worst Song: Trophy Get

Runner Up (s): Title, Options, Channel Menu

A short, bland thing that doesn't do much.

Final Ranking: C

Pretty interesting that while the main theme did not seem as strong, the collection of different music for the various events seemed more energetic, fun, and unique. 

Sonic Battle OST Review

 

Summary

Sonic Battle is a fighting game and pretty good, but it's music is...not so good? A funky mix, it seems like this OST tried to be more than a Gameboy Game...but it was. And overall it doesn't do too well. 

Best Song: Chaos

Runner-Up (s): Crater, Emerl Confirmation, Holy Summit, Emerald Beach, Green Hill, Gimme Shelter

This is the one case where the guitars don't sound bad. A wacky tone gives the track momentum, and it's pretty cool. 

Worst Song: Mode Select

Runner Up (s): Battle on the Death Egg, Tails' Lab, Eggman plots, Happy theme, Battle Mode 

Bombardment, right at the game's start! Likeable in some crazy way, but it's so loud and harsh. 

Final Ranking: D

This is kinda' "so bad it's good?" Maybe. It can be very odd/annoying, but likable somehow. 

Sonic the Fighters OST Review

Summary

Sonic the Fighters blew me away. I mean, it's good. Not that it strikes me the best or anything, but I wasn't expecting this. 

The tracks are bursts of energy and speed. 

Best Song: Giant Wing/Fire Stone

Runner-Up (s): Never Let It Go, Back to Soul, Lovers, Blue Garden, Hurry Up, Everything, Take Me Away, Character Select, Advertise, North Wind

This reminds me of Sonic Riders at points and Sonic Heroes at other points...it's just an epic and intense combination that really goes all in. Amazing.  

Worst Song: Mushroom Hill/Come On Mr. Sonic 

Runner Up (s): Name Entry, Continue, Winner's Fanfare

It's not really too bad or anything. Its unique noises just kinda' make it one of the weaker tracks. 

Final Ranking: B

This is extremely close to an "A." The tracks are fun and energetic and none are really bad. The only thing is: this is a fighting game, yet in total it sounds more like a dance/party game. Still very likable and easily the best arcade OST so far. 

Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine GG OST Review

 Summary

Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine also had a Game Gear version. 

Best Song: Scenario 

Runner-Up (s): Robotnik, Ending

This one is actually very impressive because it sounds so much like the Genesis one. It doesn't seem like a down-graded version at all really. 

Worst Song: Menu

Runner Up (s): Exercise, Puzzle, Intro 

It starts out okay, nice beat. But it gets rather annoying with it's higher pitched noises. 

Final Ranking: D

For a Game Gear title, it's pretty good. It did not seem as much like a crappier (Genesis) copy. However there are some songs that just sound like a possessed printer spitting up paper.  

Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine OST Review

 Summary

Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine is half the reason to play the game. The catchy themes are addicting, but from my understanding they (like the game) are mostly rearranged versions of Puyo Puyo. 

Best Song: Stage 1

Runner-Up (s): Danger, Continue, 2-player, Stages 3-4, Password, Exercise 

This is a determined little thing made of synthesizers, "genesis" drums, little beeps, and a pretty xylophone.  

Worst Song: Ending Theme

Runner Up (s): Puyo Puyo, Title

It's a peaceful and happy tune yet annoying. 

Final Ranking: C

Overall this is actually quite impressive. It has industrial robotic sounds but also catchy melodies. Really, it is up to Genesis-Sonic standards. 

Mario & Sonic @ the 2012 Olympic Games OST Review

Summary

Mario and Sonic at the 2012 Olympic Games is better than what I was expecting. However it seems to jump around in style. Sometimes it sounds very traditional (it even uses some classical songs) and sometimes it's more of a "modern" jam. 

Best Song: Beach Volley Ball

Runner-Up (s): Rivals (all), Remixes (all), Football, 4x100 Meter Relay, Uneven Bars Max, Options

This, like a lot of tracks, falls for what I'm calling Colors Syndrome (sounding like the 2010s). However, the bit in question is fairly cheery and not really annoying, and the percussion in this one gives a really nice beach-day ambience. 

Worst Song: Canoeing 

Runner Up (s): Tag, Equestrian, Hammer, Trampoline, Badminton 

WAY too many horns. It sounds like an intro to some 70s show where they'd pull away from a shot of a city. 

Final Ranking: D

It's not bad. There are a lot of tracks but they don't jump out as too special, they just kind of fit. I guess, being Mario/Sonic, they had to be more considerate of both franchises' tastes. Though it's pretty good, they overuse the main theme. 

Sonic Rush Adventure OST Review

Summary

Sonic Rush Adventure saw the return of Blaze the Cat as Sonic and Tails wind up in her world. This one had a different composer than previous, but the style was similar enough many do not realize.  

Best Song: Deep Core

Runner-Up (s): Deep Core Allegro, Sky Babylon 1/2, Coral Cave 1/2, Haunted Ship 1/2, Blizzard Peaks 1/2, Big Swell, VS Whisker/Johnny, Windmill Island 3, Submarine, Waterbike, Sea Map, Opening, Nervous, Tense, New Venture, Credits

A blast of intense energy, this panic-y, speedy track is just as boss as the...boss.  

Worst Song: Plant Kingdom Act 1

Runner Up (s): Plant Kingdom Act 2, Windmill Island 5, Boss

I don't like the vocals in this. Otherwise it sounds kinda' like a generic Leaf Storm sort of thing, but, gah. Those "Whhhhhhhhaaaaaaaaaaa"s and the other clips really just seem random and weird rather than fun. 

Final Ranking: B

Over all it is good and a worthy sequel to the first game. However it seems divided between flashy/energetic tracks and ones that are more nautical/exploration.   

Sonic Pinball Party OST Review

Summary

Sonic Pinball Party is a game that features elements from the Sonic series as well as other Sega "super stars" like Nights and Amigo. Likewise the music would follow suit. Being another Gameboy game, it is similar to the Advance OSTs.

Best Song: Super Sonic Racing

Runner-Up (s): Open Your Heart, Jackpot Mode, Ring Mode, Egg Mode, Casinopolis, Vamos a Carnaval, Nightmaren, Chu Chu Fever, Mini-game 3/4, Roulette

Surprisingly this song sounds pretty epic in a more limited form. The tune is still very catchy, and the lack of vocals makes it less cheesy. 

Worst Song: Mini-game 2

Runner Up (s): Spring Valley, Splash Garden, Frozen Bell, Soft Museum, Mambo de Verano, Dreams Dreams, Phantasy Star Online, Chu Chu Rocket, Story Mode, Mini-game 1

It's a cross between Mario and high-pitched medieval times/castle-ish music. It seems out of place and just isn't very fun to listen to.  

Final Ranking: E

Even though the mixes are cute, they just don't cut it, and in total it could get bland. 

Sonic Labyrinth OST Review

  Summary

Wow, don't judge a game OST by its game. Sonic Laybrinth was not one of the better handheld titles, but the music isn't bad. There are still some "gross" tracks, mainly on account of the drums which sound more like sandpaper being smashed together at either ear. But once you get used to it...

Best Song: Smiley Bomb/Final Boss

Runner-Up (s): Ending, Boss, Scroll, Pinch, Continue, Act 1/3

Quite intimidating, this easily sounds like it could have come from a Sonic Advance title rather than from Labyrinth. Which is to say it's years ahead, in a way. 

Worst Song: Bonus Stage

Runner Up (s): Invincibility, Title, Act 2

Whoa that's annoying. The high pitched part, mainly, yikes. Not that the "sandpaper" drums help or anything. 

Final Ranking: D

The tracks have a lot of energy. Which, considering this a game where Sonic can't go fast, may have been a mistake. But it makes it one of the better, if not the best of the Game Gear games.

Sonic Chaos OST

 Summary

Sonic Chaos was another Game Gear/8-bit special. As such, there's not much to say about it's quality.  

Best Song: Boss

Runner-Up (s): Turquoise Hill (GG), Rocket Shoes, Electric Egg, Sleeping Egg Zone (MS), Mecha Green Hill, Final Boss, Player Select (MS)

It's a menacing, in-trouble feel. It makes the bosses seem dangerous but also has a fast speed that keeps the fight going.   

Worst Song: Ending

Runner Up (s): Into (MS), Gigapolis Zone, 

By a long shot, the worst. Take the Tiny Chao garden and then butcher it further and this would be the result. It's supposed to be a happy, thanks for playing sort of song, but it's horrible. 

Final Ranking: D

If the gameplay seems like a generic Sonic 2,  the music is sadly far worse. While it has it's redeeming qualities, in total it's kind of terrible. 

SegaSonic Popcorn Shop OST

 Summary

You may know the Popcorn Shop from the small cameo/reference in Sonic Mania. Otherwise it's pretty forgotten. It was an arcade game/popcorn machine in Japan in the 90s. Some of the music is from Sonic 1/SegaSonic.

Best Song: Choose a Flavor

Runner-Up (s): See You Again

A cheery little upbeat thing. 

Worst Song: Please Ask For Assistance 

Runner Up (s): Popcorn Popping Machine

I was going to put "Popcorn Popping Machine" because it's kinda' lamer/this one sounds better. But wow, it sounds menacing. It's from the SegaSonic arcade game, but it seems pretty dark for a popcorn machine. It sounds more like please ask your local creepy clown for assistance.  

Final Ranking: E

Not much to it, but really it's not bad for what it is. 

Sonic Generations OST Review (Console and 3DS)

Summary

Sonic Generations saw the return of many fan-favorite levels, and the return of fan-favorite music. The majority of the OST is remixes, which are great, but I can't give as much points for originality. The cutscene music is lame except for one or two tracks (or lame compared to other games, at least). 

As for the mixes, there is a lot of range. It shows how Sonic music has evolved. Classic has fun beats with some Genesis inspiration but it's much cleaner and there are less limitations. For Mod, the music gets richer with clearer instruments and it diverging more from the source. Some of the unlockable music was also remixed.  

Surprisingly even the mixes I expected to find tiresome (Greenhill, etc) seemed fresh, though there were some tracks that weren't as good. 

Best Song: Crisis City Act 1

Runner-Up (s): Crisis City Act 2, hub, Radical Highway Act 1/2, Speed Highway Act 1/2, Hub, Green Hill Act 1/2/hub, Chemical Plant Act 1, Tropical Resort Act 2, Emerald Coast Act 2, Rooftop Run Act 2, Casino Night Hub, City Escape hub, Metal Sonic Hub, Vs Metal (US), Big Arms, Mission 3, Skill Shop, Toxic Caves, Hyrdocity, Flying Battery

Crisis City is awesome to begin with, but they put a lot into this "Classic" version. The guitar, bongos, and 16-bit like synth fits the tune perfectly and gives it an almost Marble Zone (lava-dungeon) feeling. Just right for a stage that trolls the player with a goal post. 

Worst Song: Time Eater: Final Attack

Runner Up (s): Title, Results 1/2, Cutscene 2 Cutscene 5, Cutscene 10, pretty much all cutscenes save 8, Sky Sanctuary Act 1/2, hub, Rooftop Run Act 1, Water Palace Act 1, Planet Wisp Act 2, Pink Spikes, Orange Rocket, Planet Wisp Hub, General Hub, Mission 5, Vector Beats, Marble Garden, Leaf Forest, Door into Summer 3DS Ver

WHAT THE FxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxCK?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A hint of "Live and Learn" dashed away by the disgustingly ugly theme of SONIC 4?! WHAT THE FxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxCK?!!!!! The even the horrible quality theme of Sonic Chronicles would have been better. It's trying so so hard to be Genesis music, but why? If respect for the past is what they were going for, they should have played the original invincible theme (or this games' invincible theme). Sonic 4 was pretty new at back then, but this is just wrong. Even "Reach for the Stars," which I. CAN'T. STAND. would have at least made more sense. 

NOTE: Sonic Gen doesn't have a vocal main theme or closing theme like most console games, but since there are so many lyrical tracks, I'll go over those (just remixes made for the game, not unlockables or short versions):  

Best Vocal Song: Open Your Heart (Crush 40 vs Circuit Freq RMX) (Vs Perfect Chaos pt 1)

Runner-Up (s): Supporting Me (Biolizard), For True Story (Vs Shadow), Escape from the City (City Escape) Act 2, Back 2 Back Act 2

A lot of the tracks struggle with the balance of change. Making it too different risks losing some of the nostalgia factor or the original vibe. But not changing it enough leaves it as a generic version of the "real version." 

Of these, "Open Your Heart" is the only one that truly fits the balance...perfect? This is a cooled, calmer version yet it does not lose the edge or seriousness and can be quite catchy despite it's slower speed and quieter tone.   

Worst Vocal Song: Super Sonic Racing Cash Cash vs Jun Senoue (OST Version)

Runner Up (s): Super Sonic Racing (game ver), Escape from the City (City Escape) Act 1, Back 2 Back Act 1

Not going to lie, this is catchy. Not bad, but silly. It's a pop-ish, 2010s-ish version of "Super Sonic Racing" from Sonic R, and it's just...kind of funny for some reason.  

Final Ranking: B

Sonic Generations is a bit of a cheat since most of it's music is not entirely its own, but making mixes that capture the same essence without being a complete copy is not small feat. There is plenty of nostalgia to go around, and they did not slack with the 3DS tracks either. 

Still, the game would have been cooler with a main theme. Some of the songs are very cool, but others feel too similar to their source or too modernized. It's fun for any Sonic fan, but not at the same level as other titles. 

Sonic and The Secret Rings OST Review

Summary

Sonic and the Secret Rings was Sonic's first Wii outing, and it was a mix of emotions, literally. Sonic struggles to find the emotion-locked world rings while trying to save the world from the request of a genie. She becomes his new friend and guide as the two journey to stop the Erazor Djinn and get rid of the "flame of judgment" that threatens Sonic's life. 

The OST kinda' became infamous for using so many vocals with in the stages with some of the lyrics being cheesy or easy to miss hear. However, the OST surprising emerges itself into the Legend/Arabian Nights idea while also using unique genres and effects. While there is an interesting mix of energies, it fits the games stages and story well.   

Best Song: Unawakening Float (Night Palace)

Runner-Up (s): High and Broken, White of the Sky, The Palace that was Found, It has Come to This, How it Started, Let the Speed Mend It, Blue on the Run, His Fate, The Promise, Miss You, Yellow Sneakers, Purple Pants, Sandstorm 

"Unawakening Float" may be a slower track, but it is more serious and mysterious. This is a mix of some funky sounds with edgy guitar and lyrics. The vocals are calmer, emptier, yet determined. It's suits both the situation (the little time Sonic has left) and the location (a darker, starry location where the Erazor is waiting).   

Worst Song: Pull on It!

Runner Up (s): Power of the Ring,  Villon Classes, Blue Shirt, 

The multiplayer portions had a wackier sound, but "Pull on It!" just happens to be the least likable out of the bunch. Unlike the others, there's not much else to connect it to the rest of the game.   

Best Vocal Song: 7 Rings in Hand

Runner-Up (s): Worth a Chance (original version)

"7 Rings in Hand" is the type of song that makes you want to pretend your Wii remote is a guitar. It's a burst of rock and enthusiasm that embodies the thrill of Sonic's race to save this storybook world.   

Worst Vocal Song: Worth a Chance

Runner Up (s): N/a

"Worth a Chance" is a sad song, and quite beautiful. The piano and everything. But it's not as good as "7 Rings in Hand," and while I like it, I would sometimes get annoyed with it when I just wanted to see the "goodbye" cutscene ("the legendary hedgehog" etc). 

Final Ranking: A

Sonic and the Secret Rings has a soundtrack that is very unique. In the stages there are rich instrumentations, energetic vocals. The cutscene music was great, multiplayer's music is fun, and "7 Rings in Hand" became a Sonic theme to remember. It's a combination that really gives it's predecessor,  06, some competition. 

However while they're still pretty likable, the vocals could be over-the-top and the lyrics could be cheesy. "Wicked Wild" (Dinosaur Jungle) is an example where it might have been better as an instrumental (though I still like of like it for some reason). "The Palace that Was Found" because infamous for it's constant  "who's gonna' rock the place, place?!" I really don't think it's too bad, but it holds Secret Rings from an S rank. 

Sonic Advance 2 OST Review

Summary

Cream the Rabbit and her Chao Cheese (and her mother, Vanilla), first appeared in this underrated Gameboy game. This OST improves upon the first Sonic Advance, with music that better fit the limitations. In general the first acts provide the initial song, and Act adds more effects. 

Best Song: Techno Base Act 2

Runner-Up (s): Final Boss/pinch, Music Plant 1/2, Techno Base Act 1, Hot Crater Act 2, Egg Utopia Act 2, Knuckles Boss, Boss 7/pinch, Special Stage

As the name suggests, this is a techno mix that really stands out from some of the others. Techno Base sounds modern it fits the setting. This version is more tense but also keeps a hopeful part. 

Worst Song: Final Ending

Runner Up (s): Ice Paradise Act 1, Game Over, results

My ears! It's supposed to be an explosion, and a nice little beat, but, ouch!

Final Ranking: C

Pretty impressed, but there are still a lot of ones that are kinda' annoying or easy to forget. I'd say it's on-par with a Genesis title. 

Sonic CD US OST Review

Summary

Sonic CD had two soundtracks. The US version originally got a bit of a bad rep because critics did not understand the change, but reception after the 2011 rerelease (which included both) has been better. Still, even critics seem to love "Sonic Boom" and are impressed with the fast production (1-2 months). 

One "problem" is that there are no US past tracks because they could not replace the JP ones. It's not really their fault, but it does make the past seem quite a bit different in a few cases (I'm not including the past in this because I considered them with the JP OST). 

Like with the JP OST, this was the first of its kind for the Sonic franchise in terms of quality. Instead of a high-speed techno flair, the US version takes on an atmospheric-rock vibe. I really love the US tracks because they play on emotion so well. The selection really matches the characters, too (be it energetic guitar for Sonic, menacing synth for Metal, or creepy laughs for Robotnik).   

Best Song: Stardust Speedway BF

Runner-Up (s): Quartz Quadrant (all), Metallic Madness (all), Stardust Speedway Pres/GF, Wacky Workbench Pres/BF, Tidal Tempest Pres/BF, Palm Tree Panic Pres/GF, Collision Chaos, Special Stage, Speed Up, Invincible

This is an obvious choice, but I just can't help it! There are so many good US tracks, and all of the Stardust Speedways are the best of the best, but this one in particular is something really special. I don't just mean out of CD, but the series as a whole. Relentless drums, synthesizers, guitar, vocals, voices...it is perfect for the stormy fight against Sonic's metallic rival, and it never gets old.  

Worst Song: Game Over

Runner Up (s): Zone Clear, Boss

It's a creepy mix of...basically people laughing. While it kinda' works for the boss themes because they've got more to it, this just kinda' seems meh. 

Best Vocal Song: Sonic Boom (Closing Version)

Runner-Up (s): N/a

"Sonic Boom" is legendary, and the closing is beautiful, edgy, heroic, sad, and happy all at once. The vocals now go a calmer route, the percussion is lively, the guitar solo is awesome, and I love how it switches to an acoustic guitar at the end.     

Worst Vocal Song: Sonic Boom

Runner Up (s): N/a

"Sonic Boom" is a great song with a lot of power and courage, but the closing version just out does it, especially just versus the intro version. 

Final Ranking: A

This OST is some of the best in the classic era (no disrespect to the limits of Genesis games, I still like 'em). All of the different instruments and moods really mix into something stunning. I have no complaints. 

The reason it is not an S rank, though, is the past. I did not have those tracks with this review because they are separate, yet when I think about the actual game I have to consider it. It's a constant reminder that this OST, however awesome it maybe, was not "original." 

It's a shame, too, because the past portions are mostly about exploration, which I think they could have hit very well. 

Sonic Colors DS OST Review

Summary

I always enjoyed the DS version of the game to the Wii version, and it seems that may be the case with the OST as well. Due to the limitations, a lot of it has a retro or Rush sound to it, yet it does not really strike me as a huge quality difference. Amazingly most of the songs sound as good or better than the Wii version, with some exceptions. 

Best Song: Starlight Carnival Area

Runner-Up (s): Nega-wisp Armor, Planet Wisp (all), Tropical Resort (all), Sweet Mountain Mission, Starlight Carnival Act 1, Tense, Sonic Simulator, Aquarium Park (area)

Instead of seeming annoying or dated, as the Wii version did, this one's just a fun party. The higher pitched effects make it actually sound like stars which work well beside the deeper synth, and there are cute little parts to it, too, that shine in this style. 

Worst Song: Terminal Velocity

Runner Up (s): Most of the Color Powers, Yacker's Plea

It has a nice start, but if any of these seem cheaper and/or more annoying, it's this one. And a bad time for it, too. 

Note: The vocal songs are the same as the console version, just shortened, so--no, I still don't like "Reach for the Stars." 

Final Ranking: C

A lot of the music I disliked in the Wii version sounds a lot better in this form, and a lot of the ones I liked from the Wii version did not seem as good. It's pretty underrated compared to the console version, but overall it is mostly the same. 

Sonic Rivals OST Review

Summary

Silver's reintroduction is the game with lots of racing and fighting, Sonic Rivals. But who knew it had such an AWESOME soundtrack?  

Best Song: Meteor Base Act 2

Runner-Up (s): Meteor Base 1, Death Yard Zones, Forest Falls 1/2 Colosseum Highway 1/2, Crystal Mountain 1/2, Sky Park Zone 1/2, Final Boss

This is epic, pure and simple. Awesome guitar, interesting sound effects to break it up and make it kinda creepy along side a tune that encourages the player to keep going.  

Worst Song: Confrontation

Runner Up (s): Win

It's fine, but it's sillier tone seems out of place compared to everything else. 

Final Ranking: A

HOLY COW. I was not expecting this. It's short and doesn't have as much variety, but, wow, this was a lot better than I was expecting. It's edgy, powerful, and kinda' dark at points but then there's cheeky little dish-scratches and voice clips and other things that balance it out for a combo that surprisingly works. 

Sonic Advance OST Review

 

Summary

An underrated game...with an underrated soundtrack? Unfortunately, the music is just kinda' what you'd expect and has trouble being so limited. 

Best Song: X-Zone Boss 3

Runner-Up (s): Ice Paradise 1/2, Cosmic Angel 1/2, Neo Green Hill 1, Secret Base 2, Options, 2-p, X-Zone Bosses 1/2

This is very dramatic yet has a machine kinda' feel as well, making the boss seem very epic (which it is hard, but it's just Eggman in his usual mobile type of thing). 

Worst Song: Verus (waiting)

Runner Up (s): Neo Green Hill 1, Casino Paradise 1, Angel Isand 2

Loud, kinda' annoying, and repetitive. 

Final Ranking: D

It's a real shame because this would be great remastered or remixed, but it was for the Gameboy and it just sounds...staticy? Loud at points. Shame. 

Tails Adventure OST Review

Summary

Yes, long before Sonic Adventure. Shockingly Tails Adventure is a huge relief when it comes to music. It easily kicks Sky Patrol's butt. 

Best Song: Polly Mountain

Runner-Up (s): Volcanic Tunnel, Tails' House, Polly Forest, Caron Forest, Lake Rocky

This might be a remix? I'm not sure, but it's got a memorable, catchy beat that stands out. 

Worst Song: Password

Runner Up (s): Intro, Title, Map Screen

Short, kinda' harsh and annoying. 

Final Ranking: D

Hey, not bad! This Game Gear title leaps ahead other ones. Better, it's much more worthy of Tails' character. 

Sonic CD JP OST Review

Summary

Sonic CD had 2 soundtracks, but in 2011 they were united in the rerelease. The JP OST has a bigger reputation, but I prefer the US one. Often I listen to the two OSTs together because I like them both a lot and I made a playlist out of it. However, I found that just listening to the OST alone and not thinking too much about comparing the two (staying away from the comments section, lol), that I was able to enjoy the soundtrack a lot better. Even the boss theme, which always annoys me, did not seem too bad.

The quality for the CD music is much better than a normal genesis game, so they were able to try new things. The Japanese soundtrack goes for a dance-techno vibe, using voice samples and clips along with dish-scratching and sirens. 

To go with the time travel motif, there is a song for the past, present, and two optional futures (good and bad). The thing I noticed way back when I first started listening to this OST: the bad futures are way more addictive than the good futures. Not that the good futures are bad, but they can seem kind of overly happy while the BFs sound like a robot rebellion. I like that the past has more of a retro feel, and the present is not to be ignored. Very good for its time. 

Best Song: Metallic Madness BF

Runner-Up (s): Wacky Workbench (all), Palm Tree Panic (all), Tidal Tempest Present/GF, Quartz Quadrant GF, Metallic Madness GF, D.A. Garden/Little Planet, Final Fever, Special Stage, Speed Up 

This one is an old favorite of mine, and it still holds up. It's a panic-driven beat with drum bursts and creepy voices. 

Worst Song: Boss

Runner Up (s): Stardust Speedway BF, Quartz Quadrant BF, Collision Chaos BF

IT'S THE FUNKY SANTA CLAUS! INGOINGOINGO R-R-RED! 

Yes, this has not aged well. It's a mess of samples and just...does not sound good. It reeks of the 90s in the worst way.   

Best Vocal Song: Cosmic Eternity (Believe in Yourself)

Runner-Up (s): N/a

It's a pretty song with a nice long opening. As with both songs, I don't care for the male vocals, but at least in this one they feel like more of a compliment to the main, female singing. 

Worst Vocal Song: Sonic You Can Do Any Thing (Toot Toot Sonic Warrior)

Runner Up (s): N/a

I like this tune a lot. It's super catchy, has some power, and the song is cute. But the entire first 30 seconds, ugh. Sorry, I think the guy signing wrote it, but I wish it solely sung by Kieko Utoku.  

Final Ranking: A

I think it really beats a lot of the classic music out because it's a better quality and more complex. It is fun to listen to. Some of them are too 90s or just out of place/odd, but it's impressive in all.   

SegaSonic the Hedgehog OST Review

 Summary

Ah, the arcade game I'll never get to play that debuted Mighty and Ray.

Best Song: Hot Pursuit

Runner-Up (s): Eggman's Tower

It sounds pretty cool for what it is, like it came straight from the Sega Genesis. Awesome percussion, too. 

Worst Song: Ice & Water 

Runner Up (s): Trap Tower

Doesn't sound as good, kinda' harsh. 

Final Ranking: D

It points it's actually pretty good, but there is not much to it and some of the songs are not as good. 

Sonic Colors OST Review

Summary

I don't like Sonic Colors very much, but I though the music was good. I thought wrong. 

Okay, that's not fair. Half of this OST is really good. There's some epic orchestra-type of music that makes me wish the game went with more of a Star Trek/Wars story. There's some nice synthetic-driven ones, some good piano. Really good guitar eventually. 

The other half...ouch. Many of the levels are so artificial/2010. 100% 2010. It has not aged well. The adventure series, yeah, you could guess it was around the 90s-2000s, same for other games. But this one is SO obviously hopping on the feel-good floaty-remix type of sound that it hurts. It's more 2010 than Sonic is is 90s.

While some of the tracks have managed to age better, a lot of it also feels like a rip-off of Sonic Unleashed. The World Map. The music for the second half of the final battle. Having a closing song dedicated to some cute little friend. If it was not intentional on the composers part, it was Sega's intention when hiring them.  

Also, like the levels themselves, the tunes get tiresome after listening to them 3 slightly different times. I think they were trying too hard, maybe to try to out-due Sonic Unleashed, and the result kinda' hurt.  

Best Song: Asteroid Coaster (area)

Runner-Up (s): Asteroid Coaster Acts 1-3, Aquarium Park Act 1, Planet Wisp Act 1, Tropical Resort Act 3, Sweet Mountain Act 1-2, Vs Jelly, Vs Orcan/etc, Nega Wisp Armor, Options, World Map, Terminal Velocity 

Finally something that sounds like Shad-I mean Sonic. Sonic. This edgy little piece is a pretty satisfying blend of the game's different themes. There's a more dramatic part, addictive snapping, synth/gutair combos...I was quite impressed. 

Worst Song: Starlight Carnival Act 1

Runner Up (s): Yellow Drill, Orange Rocket, Purple Frenzy, Tropical Resort Act 2, Starlight Carnival Act 3, Starlight Carnival (area), Aquarium Park (area), Planet Wisp (area), Robots Lost and Found, half of Game Land

Annoyingly higher pitched and not as catchy as, for example, Aquarium park (in which case the annoying-ness is forgiven). Quickly becomes repetitive.  

Best Vocal Song: Speak With Your Heart

Runner-Up (s): N/a

I thought this was kinda' crap because of how robotic it is (still has not aged well), but I was surprised that as it got going I found it likable. It's happy, up-lifting, yet kinda' sad at the same time. The claps make it catchy, and the guitar helps. 

Worst Vocal Song: Reach for the Stars

Runner Up (s): N/a

This actually made me gag. No joke, that's never happened before, but my, my, my...

The...the...it sounds positive. But instead of finding it's "own way," it finds the way of pop music of the time.  

Look, I don't mind music from then, I mean, I lived through it, like songs in this type of style, but combined with the "the colors feel so right" and...I don't know, it seems more like a theme for Silver. Maybe I would not mind it as much then, but since it's become the Sonic national anthem in every game since this one, I. CAN'T. STAND IT.  

Final Ranking: C

It's overrated, frankly, but I actually like Sonic Color's OST a lot better than the game itself. If it was not for some overly positive, 2010-screaming songs, I'd give it a higher rank. 

Sonic 06 OST Review

Summary

Sonic 06 is loved by Sonic fans, with many calling it the best 3D Sonic game and the best made in the 2000s. No, not at all, but probably in some other dimension. 

While Sonic 06 may be hated by Sonic fans and random people who like to make fun of the franchise, no one can find anything faults with the epic soundtrack. 

There's a variety in speed and instrumentation with stage music and the cutscene/additional music sounds like a movie. Not to mention some of the most kick-xxx themes of the series. 

Best Song: Mephiles Phaze 2

Runner-Up (s): Flame Core (both), White Accropiols (both), Crisis City (all), Aquatic Base (both), Radical Train (both), Mephiles' Whisper/Temptation/Showdown with/Phase 1, Iblis Phase 1/3, Solaris 1/2, You Are My Companion, Wave ocean (water's edge)

Mepiles' theme is creepy enough on it's own, and Phase 1 was exceptional. But Phase 2 is even more complex. Creepy bell tolling, soundeffects and synthesizers, vocals, guitar, all done to not only make Mephiles seem creepy but powerful, evil, and undefeatable.   

It was hard to decide, but part of the reason I chose it is because there is not villain theme quite as cut-throat as it. Eggman is bad, we've got that since Sonic 1. Infintie's more like a rival. But Mephiles is the series' "pure evil." 

Worst Song: Town mission 1

Runner Up (s): Determination: Return to the Future, Tropical Jungle (the ruins)

It's not really bad as far as instrumentation, just kinda' cheesy.

Best Vocal Song: His World (Crush 40)

Runner-Up (s): His World (Zebrahead), All Hail Shadow, His World, Dreams of Absolution, My Destiny, Dreams of Absolution LB x JS Remix

For the longest time I could not decide between Crush 40's or Zebrahead's version of "His World," but this time Crush 40 wins out. It maybe slower, but it keeps the atmospheric quality of the original while adding one killer guitar solo. The rearranged lyrics give it its own identity, and it seems like a an epic, sort of a "legend" like the Storybook series or something.   

Worst Vocal Song: Sweet Dreams [Akon Mix]

Runner Up (s): Sweet Sweet Sweet [Akon mix]

"Sweet Dreams" was originally a song in the 90s put into Sonic 2 (instrumental) because the composer was a part of the band (Dreams Come True). Because romance was added to the plot, and this an anniversary game, they added a remix of the song to the game. So it's a bit of an Easter egg, and anyone who played Sonic 2 should at least think the song sounds familiar. 

While it was used for the Sonic-Elise relationship, that does NOT mean Sega was trying to imply they were...doing things under the stars. The lyrics were NOT made for this game because it was written years prior. It does not help the situation, but I actually think the singing is great. That's not why I'm complaining. It's Akon. 

The mix just does not match up. The additions make the whole idea even weirder and shadier than it needs to be. The song is just beautiful with out it. It only makes sense for the Japanese version because it's still English and kinda' serves as a part-translation. 

It's still a nice song, but I really wish they had left it alone.  

Final Ranking: S

Sonic the Hdgehog (2006)'s OST is phenomenal. The quality and collection of instruments and sounds is professional and impressive. The cutscenes are more cinematic, the levels add speed and atmosphere, and the vocal themes are some of the best in the series. It seems the game at least reached its potential one way: through its music. 

Sonic Adventure 2 OST Review

Summary

Sonic Adventure 2 is loved by Sonic fans, with many calling it the best 3D Sonic game and the best made in the 2000s (of course, I think those people forget about things like Route 101). It's soundtrack would also gain attention, with songs like "Live and Learn" and "City Escape" becoming inseparable from the Sonic franchise. 

The music in Sonic Adventure was pretty good, but at points it seemed divided or unfocused. Sonic Adventure 2 was able to create a harmonious mesh by focusing not just on the locations, but on the characters. This allowed for different genres and styles to coexist but also overlap with in the different types of settings. 

Best Song: Rhythm and Balance (White Jungle)

Runner-Up (s): Keys the Ruin, Vengeance is Mine, 3 Black Noises, Unstable World, The Supernatural, For True Story, Supporting Me, Canon's Core Ver 2, Lovely Gate 3, Trespasser, Last Scene, Aquatic Mine, Escape from the City 

Took a while to decide, but this one is an edgy, addictive creation. Sound effects give it a wild, "jungle" feel while the percussion even makes it sound like it's raining. Distant lyrics. Awesome drums, too. 

Worst Song: Down in the Base (Hidden Base)

Runner Up (s): Rumbling HWY/Mission Street, Kick the Rock/Wild Canyon 

This song is extremely catchy, but there's a constant high pitched noise that makes me think my ear is ringing, and I feel like the Tails tracks can be kind of forgettable. Doesn't help that in the actual game the songs are murdered by annoying beeps and shouting. 

Best Vocal Song: It Doesn't Matter

Runner-Up (s): Live and Learn, Throw It All Away, Fly in the Freedom

I love "Live and Learn," and it probably should get this honor. But after hearing it so many times, it's kind of gotten repetitive. "It Doesn't Matter" is carefree, confident, 2000s-esque song really matches Sonic's attitude and character.   

Worst Vocal Song: Believe in Myself (My Sweet Passion doesn't count)

Runner Up (s): Unknown from M.E., E.G.G.M.A.N.-?

While the instrumentation is fine, I don't like the singing as much. It seemed better in Sonic Adventure and I feel like switching to a male singer may have been better way to change it up and for Tails in general.  

Final Ranking: S

Sonic Adventure 2 successfully improves upon the previous title. There's a mix of different music, but none of it is really bad or even out of place. The worst things I can say about it is that some of the lyrics (cough-cough-Knuckles) are cheese and that there's some super 2000s-y songs. However it's still extremely impressive and has heart, earning it's place as one of the best OSTs in the series.       

Tails Sky Patrol OST Review

Summary

Hey, I'm glad the Archie comics added elements from the games. But Tails' Sky Patrol? Uh, why? It's pretty obscure the there were plenty less-obscure games that could have used some attention...

As for music, it's not very good. Being on the Game Gear sets it behind, but it does nothing to try and be more. Lame and impactful, in total its wacky tracks are worse than those from an old Mario game. Not a good start for Tails, no. 

Best Song: Ruin Wood Area (first half)

Runner-Up (s): Bearenger

This is one of the better ones because it's exploratory and there's a hint of danger but it's not weird. 

Worst Song: Carrotia

Runner Up (s): Wendy Witchcart, Continue

It's like a demented circus and yet it's kind of happy. 

Final Ranking: E

I hate to be this harsh, but this might be the worst Game Gear OST yet. Quality is already out. The tunes don't make up for it at all. They...just seem a cross between silly and childish. I know, this is Tails, not Sonic...yet if judging Tails based on this music, he in no way deserves a spin-off. Especially since Knuckles had such a jammin' soundtrack with the Chaotix. 

Sonic 2 OST Review

Summary

Sonic 2's sound track is a huge improvement over the first game, which was good to begin with. It sounds more natural yet has more of a complexity. Many of the songs are happy but have unique sounds that reflect the mood of the various locations. 

Best Song: Mystic Cave Zone (2-Player)

Runner-Up (s): Metropolis Zone, Mystic Cave Zone, Casino Night Zone (2-Player), Special Stage, Emerald Hill Zone, Chemical Plant, Ending (Sweet Dreams instrumental)

This one is creepy like the original, but it also has some playfulness to the combination and just sounds really cool. 

Worst Song: Hill Top 

Runner Up (s): Wing Fortress Zone, Hidden Palace (?)

So gross sounding. The tune itself is not bad, but the way they went about it leaves much to be desired. 

Final Ranking: B

It's really what I expect from "Classic Sonic" and reflective of the era. It, like the game as a whole, was Sonic 1 but better! 

There's just a few that are kind of annoying (mainly Hill Top). I really think it's one of the best Sonic-Genesis OSTs, but I'm still trying to be a bit "harsher" with my music ranks, which puts it at a B level.

Sonic 2 (8-bit) OST Review

Summary

A game mainly forgotten, save for a few hints of the (at the time) yet to be released (JP) Sonic CD soundtrack. Oh, and a grim end for Tails.  

Best Song: Invincibility

Runner-Up (s): Scrambled Egg Zone, Underground Zone

It's a fast little thing that sounds pretty cool fro what it is. 

Worst Song: Continue

Runner Up (s): Crystal Egg Zone, Good Ending

Loud and harsh on the ears. 

Final Ranking: E

Not really worth it overall. It's a high E, almost a D, but the quality is cruddy and some of the sounds get repetitive. Lackluster save 1 or 2 bits. 

Sonic Free Riders OST Review

Summary

Sonic Free Riders is a game I've never played, but never wanted to. It doesn't have much going for it. One thing that was not completely skewered, though, is the OST. 

Best Song: Final Factory (Metal City doesn't count)

Runner-Up (s): Magma Rift

This energetic track has the right speedy tempo while having some edgier parts to it. The little bit of "Start Up Your Extreme Gear" is more of a complement rather than something it relies on, like some of the other tracks. 

Worst Song: Rocky Ridge

Runner Up (s): Forgotten Tomb

Really, really odd voice clips that clash with the Cars wanna-be instrumentation. 

Best Vocal Song: Free (Crush 40 Version)

Runner-Up (s): N/a

The original "Free" was more carefree and smoother, so I get why people like it. But CRUSH 40. This song is much more serious, determined, and catchy! The added lyrics and effects really make it crush the original. Maybe the rock-vibe is not as "Riders," but I think the catchy as H-E-double-hockysticks "I'm free/I'm breakin' out," was a solid attempt to give the song that same type of energy.  

Worst Vocal Song: Free

Runner Up (s): N/a

As I mentioned, the original is pretty good and probably more "Riders," but it's not as good as the Crush 40 version. Since this game made the mistake of not making another version of "Catch Me If You Can," or any Babylon vocal theme, this is what happens. 

Final Ranking: C

There are highlights, yet as a whole it's disappointing. It can be strange at some points, and a rip-off of the original Riders at others. It's a soundtrack that tries too much to copy the mood of the first game, seeming generic, bland, and un-focused rather than better. 

Sonic Riders OST Reveiw

Summary

Sonic Riders set to create a cooler, better addition to the Sonic racing genre. It's high-energy, electronic-influenced soundtrack helped make the settings and gameplay futuristic and speedy. 

Best Song: Digital Dimension

Runner-Up (s): Sand Ruins, Egg Factory, Babylon Garden

Riders is full of intense jams that really build the fun tone of the game. Digital Dimension does that while also going more intense with its techno. It manages add effects that complement the hell-ish setting while transitioning into a more heroic part for the heavenly side. 

Worst Song: The Real Treasure

Runner Up (s): Legend of Babylon, Start Up Your EX Gear

Some cutscene music that feels a bit slower and out of place. 

Best Vocal Song: Sonic Speed Riders

Runner-Up (s): Catch Me If You Can (Rockin' Beats Mix)

"Sonic Speed Riders" is epic and fits not only Sonic Riders but Sonic himself perfectly with it's energy and cocky yet determined lyrics. 

Worst Vocal Song: Sonic Speed Riders (Electro Express Mix)

Runner Up (s): Catch Me If You Can

This robotic, electronic song isn't really bad. It has a neat, remix-y tones. But it sounds like someone speaking through a walkie talkie compared to the original. 

Final Ranking: A

I was really, really tempted to give this an S rank. None of the tracks were really bad. Its weakest songs are still pretty strong, and overall it's a really satisfying complication. There's just something (I'm not sure what) missing. Mainly in tracks like "Start Up Your EX Gear" and "High Flying Groove." 

Sonic X (Leapster) OST Review

Summary

Yes, there was a Sonic X Leapster game. MY WONDERFUL MATH ROBOTS.  

Best Song: Angel Island

Runner-Up (s): Arial Automations

Does it sound like a poor quality mix of phone dials? Kinda,' but the tune is not bad. 

Worst Song: Station Square

Runner Up (s): Eggman's Super Sucky Machine

Eh, kinda' lame and still rough sounding. 

Final Ranking: E

It could almost sound like a old 90s game, with the tunes, but unfortunately it's no where near that quality and kinda' hard to listen to. 

Sonic Shuffle OST Review

 Summary

Being somewhat rare, Sonic Shuffle is sort of the "forgotten" Sonic game. It's never been released off Dreamcast, and I've never played it so I don't know how it is. The music, though, is rather unique. I was kind of expecting it to be relatable to Sonic Adventure, but instead it has a mix of it's own. Mainly there are two themes, one that is upbeat or peaceful but ultimately happy, and one that is darker and more threatening. Seems to fit in with the light/dark element of the game.  

Best Song: Fourth Dimension

Runner-Up (s): Wave Taste, Love Poison, Quick Advance, Nice Vacation, Summer Mirage

It's a track filled with mystery yet still an energetic beat. 

Worst Song: Sombrero

Runner Up (s): Rave About Me, Mary Go Round, Hi Tata

All together an odd track featuring some "hillbillly" music and odd grunts.

Final Ranking: B

While it's kinda' weird at points, that doesn't make it bad. Like the game, it's underrated. However some of it just seems bland or not really memorable. It's good but not expectation-shattering. 

Sonic Pocket Adventure OST Review

Summary

Spoiler alert, it's mostly just Sonic 3's music remixed with a lower quality. 

Best Song: Secret Plant Zone Act 2

Runner-Up (s): Areobase Zone, Knuckles Boss, Aquatic Relix Zone Acts 1/2

A cool, catchy little version of Hydrocity Act 2.

Worst Song: Cosmic Casino Zone

Runner Up (s): Gigantic Angel Zone Acts 1/2, Knuckles cutscene part 1

The gumball theme, but 10x more annoying.  

Final Ranking: D

Some of the music is enjoyable, but mostly just because it's from Sonic 3. Not very original, does not match the zones very well, can get annoying. 

Knuckles Chaotix OST Review

Summary

Knuckles' spin-off, ft the new characters, the Chaotix. And Mighty (who was, well, a part of the Chaotix back then).  Knuckles Chaotix ended up being a unique mix that used some Sonic-like themes but took on a life of its own. 

Best Song: Door Into Summer

Runner-Up (s): This Horizon, Seascape, Evening Star, Electoria, Hyper-hyper, Laybrinth, New Moon, Pendulum, Destructive Power, Oriental Legend, Combination

because of Generations No. This is a unique track that is a pretty combination that sounds relaxed but also leaves an exploratory vibe.  

Worst Song: Take a Nap

Runner Up (s): Midnight Greenhouse, Speed of Sound, Child's Song, Chaotic World, Soda Pop, Overture  

The tune's not bad, but the execution is just off. Makes it annoying. 

Final Ranking: B

Overall Knuckles Choatix was fun to listen to. Really, they were all fairly good. However, in total it kind of blends together.  

Waku Waku Sonic Patrol Car OST Reveiw

 Summary

Another obscure Japan-exclusive game. 

Best Song: On Patrol

Runner-Up (s): N/a

It's cute. Basically reusing music.

Worst Song: Ranking

Runner Up (s): N/a

Cute. Just the extra life theme, though.

Final Ranking: E

While it's a miracle compared to Sonic Eraser, this is basically just remixed music from the original Sonic 1. Not very creative or the best quality. 

Sonic Eraser OST Reveiw

 Summary

I didn't know Sonic Eraser really existed. Now I wish it hadn't. 

Best Song: Puzzle Game

Runner-Up (s): N/a

It's kinda' robotic and...uh...it's not so bad compared to the other ones. 

Worst Song: Versus

Runner Up (s): Victory

MY EARS! A quaility that sounds like a blacksmith and a synthesizer rigged to torture someone, all in an annoying little tune that somehow never seems to end.  

Final Ranking: E

Quality far below the Genesis' capabilities, and dang annoying. 

Sonic 1 8-Bit OST Review

 Summary

Sonic the Hedgehog 8-bit is an atrocity. Why was 06 even ridiculed when games like this exist? While I can't say much for the game itself, the music is made with a surprising energy.    

Best Song: Labyrinth Zone

Runner-Up (s): Scrap Brain Zone, Green Hill

Unlike with Green Hill, Laybrinth is a different tune than the Genesis title, yet surprisingly fitting. 

Worst Song: Jungle Zone

Runner Up (s): Bonus Stage, Invincibility 

It just seems more like something from Mario. 

Final Ranking: D

I was very impressed because the music is a lot better than I remembered. However, being the from the GameGear naturally sets it behind as far as quality and much of it is still "taken" from the Genesis title.  

Sonic 4 Ep 1 OST Review

Summary

Sega's first attempt to dive back into the "classic" era had some wacky results, and the soundtrack, filled even filled with "Genesis style drums," is no different. 

Best Song: Mad Gear Zone Act 1

Runner-Up (s): Lost Labyrinth Acts 1 & 2

This song has enough energy and tension that you can forget all about the horrendous game you are playing.   

Worst Song: Splash Hill Zone Act 1

Runner Up (s): Super Sonic, Title theme, Menu Theme

How to cringe. 

Final Ranking: E

While it's not the worst, it's defiantly not a good representation of the Sonic franchise. It's a harsh blend of different qualities with tracks that have an out-of-place, overly "happy" mood that, like the rest of the game, try to replicate the essence of the 90s hits without success.

Sonic Rush OST Review

 

Summary

Sonic Rush was the first Sonic DS game, and debuted the character of Blaze the Cat and the now common Boosting mechanic. This game would support the speed with fun, fast music and help contrast Sonic and Blaze. 

Best Song: Back 2 Back (Blazy Mix)

Runner-Up (s): What U Need [Blazy Mix], Wrapped in Black, What U Need, Ethno Cirrus 

This track is a lot of fun energy that, like a lot of the songs, keeps the player rushin' on with hints of a nautical theme. The added "Blazy" instruments further enhance the experience. 

Worst Song: Groove Rush #1

Runner Up (s): Get Edgy [Blazy Mix], Metal Scratchin'

It's just kind of a generic thing with little "come on"s that don't do much for it. 

Final Ranking: B

This is quite the mix of instruments, voices, and just plain funky sounds. For most people, though, I think it's hit or miss. Some people will think it's bizarre, and others will think it's some of the best Sonic music there is. I personally see it kind of as an acquired taste and found the Blazy mixes preferable.  

Sonic Adventure OST Review

 

Summary

The music of Sonic Adventure, like the gameplay, new designs, and story, set to change the Sonic franchise into something new without forgetting the series' history. While it helped usher in a new direction for future games to perfect, like the game's camera angles, it's is kind of odd. A mix of rock and funky genres with remixes from 3-D Blast here and there.  

Best Song: Speed Highway/Run Through the Speed Highway

Runner-Up (s): Red Hot Skull, Choas 6, Bad Taste Aquarium, Leading Lights, Tornado-Scramble, Sky Deck a Go-Go, General Offensive, Tornado, Speed-up

This is a pretty obvious choice, but it really stuck me as the best combination. It has an edgier tone mixed with voice clips and effects that show off the soundtrack's full potential when it's themes work in harmony.   

Worst Song: Windy Valley/The Air

Runner Up (s): Mystic Ruins, Sweet Punch, Fanfare for Dr. Eggman, 

Sonic 3-D Blast PTSD. 

Best Vocal Song: Open Your Heart

Runner-Up (s): It Doesn't Matter, Believe in Myself

"Open Your Heart" is easily the most memorable not just because it's the main theme, but it's by far a stronger song than the other vocal tracks. They're okay, but they're not as serious/at the same level. 

Worst Vocal Song: Unkown From M.E.

Runner Up (s): Lazy Days/Livin' in Paradise

BORN ON AN ISLAND, IN THE HEAVENS! Actually its chorus is quite catchy, but it's so--

Final Ranking: C

It's not really bad, but there are tracks that sort of fade into the background compared to the others, and as a whole it feels unfocused/random. Still, there are definitely tracks worth listening to, more good than bad.  

Sonic Drift 2 OST Review

Summary

I've heard Sonic Drift 2 is an improvement over Sonic Drift. I have not played this one, but it's music is surprisingly quite nice. 

Best Song: Emerald Ocean

Runner-Up (s): Milky Way, Desert Road, Mystic Cave, Dark Valley, Options

This is a happy, upbeat creation with small bits that give it a tropical vibe. A peaceful drive.   

Worst Song: Balloon Panic

Runner Up (s): Title, GP Clear

It's supposed to be circus-like I guess, but it's just kind of annoying. 

Final Ranking: D

I was quite impressed with these happy, fun little pieces. I considered giving it a C, but because of the quality, Sonic Drift 2 is just naturally set a bit behind.  

Sonic 1 OST Review

Summary

Legendary, the tracks are full of nostalgia and spirit. The tone shifts from the happier Green Hill to the dangerous Marble Zone, and onward, helping define the first game's settings and the Sonic franchise.  

Best Song: Starlight Zone

Runner-Up (s): Credits Theme, Special Stage, Spring Yard

The Starlight Zone music, much like the level itself, is a sudden break from the roughness of levels past. It's gentler and happy, but not overly so.  

Worst Song: Laybrinth Zone

Runner Up (s): Final Zone

Laybrinth Zone seems harsher on the ears and less enjoyable than the other tracks.  

Final Ranking: C

The music, for it's time, is awesome, and nostalgia still makes it worth the time of any Sonic fan. However it's not as good compared to the quality and variety future games were able to offer. It's undeniably "game-y" (so it's comparable to "similar" games like Mario). 

Quote of the Month

"We've got to stop him...Shahra! Please...lend me your POWER!" 

--(Darkspine) Sonic, Sonic and the Secret Rings