Sonic Rivals 2 OST Review

Summary

Sonic Rivals 2 makes for an interesting listen. Like the first game, there are heavy guitars yet funky effects and clips. 

In this one the sampling and references become more apparent. Mystic Haunt Act 3, for example, has some of Death Ruins (from Shadow). There seems to be lots of bits from Riders and other games (apparently ones other than Sonic as well). Also, there are remixes from the first game. 

In addition, this game gets its own energetic theme, "Race to Win."

Best Song: Final Boss (Ifrit)

Runner-Up (s): Chaotic Inferno Acts 1-3, Mystic Haunt Act 1-3, Sunset Forest Act 3, Tension, Blue Coast Act 1 (Race to Win)

Quite dramatic, this boss remix really makes combines the themes in the best way. Fast, edgy energy with some wackier sounds and some climatic background vocals. And there seems to be a bit of Mystic Mansion (Heroes), too! 

Worst Song: Neon Palace Act 2

Runner Up (s): Neon Palace Act 1, Frontier Canyon Act 1-2, Happy, Confrontation, Win, Lose 

These casino ones are a bit different from the style of the rest. Goes for a Vegas vibe, very jazzy and funky. This one is a bit much for what it is.  

Final Ranking: C

The music is good, yet not as impactful. I hate to say it, but it can get boring. Still, it's worth listening to--deserves far more attention than it gets. It has some magnificent moments, and "Race to Win" is just a Sonic classic.