Eras Update: Current

ALL about the current era

Era: Current

Main Years: 2010-present

Gameplay Type: Although started in 2005, the boost gimmick reached popular success with Sonic Unleashed. While Unleashed was a step towards the "current" era, it was Sonic Colors that changed the boost from a special ability to an expected one. Every main game since has included it as a major element. This allows the player to speed through enemies and the level, but it has a gauge that must be fueled. The "boost to win" type of gameplay has been dominate in the 3D levels, but also in 2D sections and the DS version of Sonic Colors.

However the spinoffs such as the Sonic Racing series (kart racing) and Sonic Boom series (exploration) had takes that differed accordingly. 

Sonic Colors also debuted a new form of power-up: wisps. The wisps have different abilities which alter Sonic within a few seconds. 

Interestingly, guns have reappeared in the series as of Sonic Forces, now "Wispons" and likewise affected by wisps.

This era marked the return of 2D to "main games." This started with Sonic 4, which played much like a classic game but with the homing attack and other elements. Sonic Generations and Sonic Forces provided 3-dimensional levels with a completely 2-D view, simulating the classics. Finally Sonic Mania returned completely to the "classic" style.       

Character Designs and Personalities: While Sonic and the others have not changed much in terms of size, there have been some subliminal changes. Sonic's mouth is now always on the side like in 2-D art rather than being center or sometimes center like in the past. Amy, by contrast, always has a "center" mouth and no longer smirks like Sonic. 

Overall the characters have shifted personalities to be either more passive or more extreme, depending on the character. Starting with Colors, Sonic is the class clown, usually joking about everything and not taking anything seriously. Most of the other characters were sidelined or reduced to being a "cheerleader." 

While Sonic Forces gained some respect for giving Shadow his own "episode," fans felt Tails' cowardly behavior was very out of character. Reception to the changes in personality since 2010 have been mostly negative.  

Controversy

In 2014 Sonic, Tails, Amy, and Knuckles (as well as Metal Sonic, Shadow, and Eggman) were redesigned. Sonic's design gave him lengthy legs, blue arms, and a brown scarf. The group wore lots of sports tape, and were mostly taller. Knuckles was given a completely different body type. 

The characters were also given slightly different personalities. Sonic was more casual, Amy was more mature, Knuckles was stupid, and Tails...okay, Tails is kind of  the same. Reception to these changes has been mixed since Amy was praised, but Knuckles was horribly ridiculed.   

The designs were met with immediate backlash. Despite the fan disapproval, Sega promoted the spin-off series with Sonic Channel artwork and included Boom-exclusive Sticks as character in the 2016 Rio Olympic games title. A sequel to Sonic Dash with the theme was also made. 

The initial disgust with the designs, as well as the poor reception to the spin-off games, may have contributed to the "Boomverse's" slow death.  

Story Type: In sharp contrast to the last era, the plots have been portrayed as lighthearted and comical. Even when a situation seems serious, like when the Time Eater separates Sonic from his friends, the script is designed to let the player know nothing bad can actually happen and Sonic is just here to have fun. 

Also, starting with Colors DS handhelds no longer have their own plots, instead being versions of the console games.  

Trying to mix its appeals, Sonic Forces was given a serious plot. The storyline, which has Sonic defeated by a new enemy, then locked up and tortured while Eggman takes over, does sound surprisingly dark. However, the details are not in the slightest. Sonic remains static, no different start to finish and completely unaffected by the months he was captive. Eggman has taken over, but outside of level design it is hard to tell what affect it really has. Most infamous of all is the new villain/rival, Infinite, and his back story of "throwing a tantrum."    

Even though Sonic's cast is already huge and the games tried to "focus only on Sonic with Tails as support," many new characters joined, including 6 new villains as the "Deadly Six," Infinite, the "Avatar," Yacker, and Dodonpa.  

Visuals: As a whole the graphics have aged well. There does not seem to be a huge difference between Sonic Generations or Sonic Forces, but it still looks as good as it needs to for what it is. Can't say the same for the cutscenes. Colors already had the Wii curse. Generations is okay, focusing on expressions was a neat idea...

The CG scenes just aren't exciting or special, and the openings aren't bad, but aren't too impressive either (with the exception of Mania).    

The settings now use a lot of cartoonish themes. Much of the locations are recycled Sonic settings, being a new version of an old idea (Red Gate Bridge in Sonic Forces, like the bridge in Radical Highway, is based on the Golden Gate Bridge), or being a literal old level revisited (Green Hill, Chemical Plant, etc). 

Common locations include selections from the "Generations" line-up (Green Hill, Chemical Plant, Sky Sanctuary, Seaside Hill, Rooftop Run, and Planet Wisp). Types include hills, beaches, cities, casinos, and haunted places.    

Music: The "current" era was just that: keeping in with the times. In Sonic Colors, this meant Sonic's theme would be changed to something very pop 2010. Cash Cash, the band that made "Reach for the Stars," would go on to make several other songs/covers. Despite the track becoming Sonic's theme in many games following, the next games would not include a main vocal theme at all. 

Orchestral themes were a popular alternative, and Sonic Generations opted to make something more reflective of the "Classics." Many remixes would be made with several anniversary games and other occasions.

The Sonic Boom series had music that was much slower than fans were used to. Rise of Lyric in particular was bashed as one of the worst Sonic OSTs. Fans who listened to Fire and Ice felt the prior games were musically forgiven, but many had already sworn off the series.     

Sonic Mania included a composer picked for his Youtube popularity (part of the "by the fans" thing). He took inspiration from the 90s games, especially Sonic CD (JP). 

Sonic Forces adopted a popular synthetic sound. It would be the first game in years to have vocal themes. 

Team Sonic Racing was the first game that seemed to return to the type of music seen in previous eras, in part because of remixes, but also due to the return of fan favorites composer Jun Senoue/ "the Sonic band" Crush 40.   

     

Voice Cast: 

In early 2010 games the 4kids cast was still voicing the characters (actually the lines might have been recycled). After Free Riders, a mostly new cast took over. 

While Mike Pollock stayed as Eggman, Sonic was now voiced by Roger Craig Smith. Tails would mostly be voiced by Colleen O' Shaughnessey, and Knuckles mostly by Travis Willingham. Cindy Robinson provided the voice for Amy, with Kirk Thornton as Shadow and Orbot. Cubot was voiced by Wally Wingert. 

The Sonic movie casted Ben Schwartz as Sonic. For a brief period, many expected Schwartz would be the new voice for Sonic in the games, but this did not happen. Eggman, being a human, was physically played by an actor, Jim Carrey. The move briefly had Tails (O' Shaughnessey).  

Controversy 

Most felt that by 2010 the voice change was unnecessary and were upset with the change. By the mid-2010s generally fans felt better due to the 2 seasons of Sonic Boom.     

In Sonic Generations two opportunities never came to light: Ryan Drummond returning to voice Sonic, and Jaleel White returning to voice Sonic. Drummond was in a union and did not accept the role (which resulted in the game's "third" Sonic being scrapped). It was decided that classic Sonic would either be voiced by White or have no voice. For reasons unknown, they took the second option.

As a consequence "classic" characters do not talk (in Mania, etc) even though Classic Tails and classic egg Robotnik talked in Generations (voiced by what was their current actors).  

Kate Higgins voiced Tails prior to Sonic Boom. While she still voices Wave the Swallow, she was replaced by Colleen O' Shaughnessey as Tails. The reason is unknown but fans have called Higgins' voice for Tails too old, which may have contributed. 

Much of the cast (with the exceptions of Sonic, Tails, Amy, Shadow, Rouge, and Eggman) was replaced in Team Sonic Racing. While the replacements have had mixed reception individually, as a whole this move did not receive nearly the same attention as any of the other main cast switches. Since Sonic's voice was not replaced the change seemed to fly under the radar. 

It is unknown what the cast will look like in future games, but Smith has recommitted to the role after briefly planning to leave.   

 

Main Voice (Sonic): Roger Craig Smith

Memorable Theme Song (for Sonic): "Reach for the Stars" (from Sonic Colors). 

Memorable Catchphrases (Sonic):  "Baldy Nosehair?! That's the best thing I heard all day!" "No copywrite law in the universe is going to stop me!" (Sonic Colors) "Enjoy your future, it's gonna' be great." (Sonic Generations) "Green Hill is beginning to look a lot more like sand hill." "It's been generations since I've seen you." (Sonic Forces) "Hey, who needs their bacon saved?" (Team Sonic Racing) "Sonic SPEED" (Brawl) 

"I'm very heroic." (cartoon)

Cartoons and other Appearances: Sonic Boom was a comedy starting in 2014. It aired for 2 seasons. It involved Sonic and his friends coping with various threats such as Eggman and part-time worker/villain, Dave the Intern. Surprisingly also Sonic guest starred on a show called OK Let's be Heroes.     

The Archie comics involved more game characters such as Silver in main plots. However the entire series had to be rebooted after legal troubles so that characters they "did not own" could be written out. 

The following plotlines were more connected to the previous eras, including a lengthy adaptation of Sonic Unleashed as "The Shattered World Crisis" and the reveal of a surviving Black Arms, Eclipse the Darkling. 

In the meantime, Archie also had a Sonic Boom based spin-off and several crossovers with Mega Man. 

The series came to an end in 2016. The reasons were never elaborated on, but it can be assumed there was a disagreement between Archie and Sega. 

In 2018 a new comic series with IDW was started. It included new characters Tangle and Whisper (who soon became so popular they have appeared on official merch and in Sonic Forces: Speed Battle app). 

While the comic initially started with the "fallout" of Forces, it went into a long robot virus/zombie apocalypse plot. While popular, reception to the series has been mixed, specifically on how certain characters have been portrayed. Fans of the Archie comics have also been persistent about wanting to see characters like Sally Acorn.  

Several 2-D animated shorts promoting Sonic Mania Plus, Team Sonic Racing, and chao have been created. A new animation was made for Sonic Colors: Ultimate. 

A new TV show, Sonic Prime is also being created and will be on Netflix. 

In 2020, the Sonic Movie was released and received praise after correcting what many saw as a horrid and uncanny design. The next movie will be released in 2022.

Sega's Worst Decision Yet: Sonic Colors Ultimate?

So in May more details about Sonic's big 3-0 were revealed. Unfortunately, it doesn't look good. There will be a new game in 2022 (which has been teased), but there isn't a lot known about it yet. Additionally there will be a new release of Sonic 1-3&K and CD (wonder what they'll do with the double music...) as a complication game, "Sonic Origins." They also announced...

"SONIC COLORS ULTIMATE"

Tell me this is an April fools joke.

Ultimate is going to be a remaster of the 2010 Wii game. 

I've discussed my distaste with Colors in "Sonic 06 is Better Than Colors" and mentioned how it altered Sonic's character in "One Step Forward, Two Steps Back." Aside from a small attempt at focusing on Sonic and Tails, I found nothing appealing about the Wii version of the game and remain mystified as to how the game received such gracious reviews from critics.  

 

I'm sure a remake will sit well with the fans that liked the game and those that joined the series with the "current era." However to those more familiar with the games of the previous decade, Sonic Adventure through Sonic and the Black Knight, this is a slap in the face. 

Sonic Colors is the game that needed a remake the least. Not just undeserving in terms of what game is the "best" or "most popular," but it did receive those good reviews. Why would a supposed "good" game released just 10 years ago need improvement?

Actually, the game that needs help the most is Sonic 06. While other elements have been criticized, everyone agrees the glitches made the game what it is (dubbed the "worst" Sonic game by many). Fixing the glitches and improving the graphics would finally be putting to rest an old mistake. 

Actually there is a fan project, P-06 intent on creating a remake (by Chaos X).
Also there is an on-going fan comic that rewrites the story by a user on DeviantArt.
But officially Sega stays the heck away from this game.  

The game, or games, that "deserve" a remake the most are Sonic Adventure and Sonic Adventure 2. Fans have been begging for either a remake or an SA3 for years now. The games are legendary and were liked initially. However the graphics, being about 20 years old, are horrible.

 

The cutscenes also feature cut-off lines because they were designed for Japanese dialogue. The games were altered for the gamecube and later rereleased, but both could defiantly use visual improvements.  

Back in the day, these games did get a few official adaptations in Sonic X season 2 and (sort of?) in the Archie comics. However there hasn't been anything new for a while. 

Even "Sonic Origins" may seem annoying to fans of the handheld titles. There are fans who want the Advance series and Rush games released or remade as complication games, too. 

Rereleases of the genesis games are fairly common now, but you'll still need a Gameboy to play Sonic Advance. 

Generally the argument could be made for any game, but Sonic Colors, despite being a decade old, still feels very recent. Perhaps it's because the wisps are in all the games now, or the theme song "Reach for the Stars" is heard 24/7. Maybe it's because the "boost" style of gameplay, started with Rush (05) and Unleashed (08), has been used over and over again in every major title since. 

Regardless, the Wii version of Colors would be dead last on my list, and I hope it flops. But it will probably to do wonderful because somehow IGN loves it.   

Thank you, Sega! 
At least IDW is doing something right with a Free Comic Book Day release. 

Current Era Wrap-Up

    

Sonic Music from 2010-2020

I'm not the biggest fan of the "Current Era," but even I have to admit it's home to some awesome music. 

Trivia

• Sonic Free Riders was the only Riders title without a version of "Catch Me If You Can." 
• Cash Cash, the band that made "Reach for the Stars" and "Speak with Your Heart" in Sonic Colors, also contributed to Sonic Generations and 2 CD tracks (such as the "Sonic Boom" cover with Crush 40). 
• There are 12 versions of "Reach for the Stars" in Sonic Colors alone. 
• It/a remixed version has been in 11 games since. 
• Sonic Generations was the first main-console game since the 90s that did not have a main vocal theme.
• However many themes such as "Open Your Heart" were remixed or others such as "It Doesn't Matter" returned as unloackbles.  
• A song by Hyper Potions, "Friends," was in the 2020 movie. They contributed to Sonic Boom Fire & Ice, Sonic Mania, and Team Sonic Racing.  
• Tee Lopes was chosen to compose Sonic Mania because of his popular fan remixes on Youtube. 
• "Fist Bump" from Sonic Forces was sung and written by Douglas Robb of Hoobastank. There are 9 versions of the song including cutscene music and remixes. 
• "Fist Bump" was the first vocal game-theme since "Reach for the Stars," a 7 year difference. 
• "Green Light Ride" was the first Crush 40 game-theme since "Knight of the Wind," a 10 year difference.    
• Team Sonic Racing was also the first game Jun Senoue had a major role in composing since Sonic Generations. 

Total Scoring

S: 0
A: 0
B: 4
C: 8
D: 8
E: 5

Best Soundtrack of the Era:

Sonic Forces was interesting. Sonic Generations was epic nostalgia. But it's Team Sonic Racing that gets the gold for it's unique way of making familiar songs new without altering them beyond recognition. There's just something very cool yet on-the-edge--something very "Sonic" about it, moreso than the rest. 

Best Handheld OR App Music of the Era:

Sonic Runners manages to be the best app by far, sounding just as great as a console game. However handheld games, like Sonic Colors, and Sonic Generations, and even Sonic Boom Fire and Ice, are also good for what they are. 

Most Underrated Console Music:

Sonic Free Riders wasn't as good as the other two before it, but it's still just as good as Sonic Colors and worth listening to. Sonic Lost World also seems to be forgotten in the mix, and it's such a beautiful ensemble it's hard to know why. 

Most Overrated Console Music:

Sonic Mania is good. But no, it's not the best. Generally half the songs were good, the other half were questionable. Remixes were also a tricky factor, often being a mess of too many things. It boils down to being an average OST that everyone loves because they love the game. 

Sonic Colors is also pretty over-hyped. In retrospect, I do think it was one of the best OSTs of this "era," but it had a very modern, popish, "2010" sound that will only sound worse as time goes on. While it's still good I don't consider it one of the "top 3" like everyone else does.   

Worst Music of the Era:

Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric is easily the worst sounding game that's not at a lower 8-bit type quality. While the songs aren't necessarily annoying or harsh, they are instead bland and repetitive. I have to 100% agree with the general opinion for once: it's the most generic music labeled "Sonic."  

Sonic @ the Olympic Games OST Review

     

Summary

Yikes, I though I was done. This time just Sonic's at the Olympics for a new mobile game.

Why didn't Mario and Sonic at Tokyo have many remixes? Apparently Sega was saving the good stuff for itself!

Most of the remixes serve as boss-rival themes, but some are events. Windmill Isle, for example, is Table Tennis. 

Oddly some of the tracks I expected to be good, like "Supporting Me," seemed lackluster. The US Bad Future is just a remix of a remix (forces), so that was not as new. I wasn't expecting a horny version of "My Sweet Passion," ha.     

There are some new songs, mostly peaceful hub world types. Also a few songs seem to be reused, such as Ocean View from TSR and "Reach for the Stars" from Sonic Colors. 

Best Song: This Is Our World Remix

Runner-Up (s): Unknown From M.E. Remix, Tokyo Tourist Roppongi Hub, Throw It All Away Remix, Windmill Isle Remix, Sky Road Remix, Palmtree Panic Remix, Team Chaotix, Eggman's Adventure Theme Remix, Free Remix, Rush Adventure Boss Remix, Sonic Heroes Remix, Story/Go For the Gold    

There were plenty of good remixes. The reason I chose this was because in Sonic Forces the theme was alright, but kind of bland. This more energetic version is more memorable.   

 

Worst Song:  A Rival Appears

Runner Up (s): Victory, Prison Lane Remix, Supporting Me/Biolizard Remix, Main Theme, Let's DASH/Dash Remix, Olympic Spirit, Running Sunrise, Shibuya, Story/Happy  

It's start is very loud and annoying, and then it's fairly boring. 

 

Final Ranking: D

After the disappointing lack of remixes in Mario/Sonic @ Tokyo, this is a welcome surprise. If listening for the remixes only, this is defiantly the better of the two. However the exclusive stuff can get annoying and is not as nearly as good. Gotta' give it credit for being a better app OST, though.  

Mario and Sonic @ the 2020 Tokyo Olympics OST Review

    

Summary

Finally! Finally, the last Olympic game! And for now, the last of the games OSTs.  

Like with Rio, Tokyo uses more cultural influence, though not to the same degree, being more traditional than that one. Generally the music fun and modern mix. 

This game has only 1 and a half remixes for Sonic. Dream Racing is remixed from Sonic Forces, but when you make something super synthetic that already was...it looses its original appeal.

A new edition to the series were classic-inspired "64" events. I hate to say it, but they really should have followed Sonic Color's example. While Color's "Gameland" music could be annoying, but still it still had spunk and charm. This game's attempt at going retro sounds irritating and bland.  

Best Song: Boxing

Runner-Up (s): Main Theme, 4x100m Relay, Javelin Throw, Sport Climbing, Skateboarding, Karate, Rugby Sevens, Table Tennis

This has a lot of fun, dance-like energy while also hinting at an eastern-type sound. Sounds cool.   

 

Worst Song:  Volleyball (64)

Runner Up (s): 100m, Swimming, Badminton, Archery, Dream Racing, New Record, Results, Award Ceremony, Tower Climb, General, Joy, Chapter Intro, All 64 except special, Vault, Judo, and Serious

I get that it's supposed to sound primitive. But overall, the "64" levels don't fair too well, sounding pretty crude for something made in 2019. Kayaking and Volleyball are the more annoying ones. 

 

Final Ranking: D

The event music is good, pretty unique. The main theme is okay, but the lack of remixes is a large disappointment. After the previous games, I'd expect no less than 3 mixes. Also, what prevents this game from a higher rank is the 64 portion. I get that it's supposed to sound like an old game. I get that. But It's not catchy, they have nothing really to offer. 

It's good, but after 5 other games spanning across ten years, expectations are higher. 

Team Sonic Racing OST Review

Summary

Team Sonic Racing features input from a mix of new and old "Sonic" composers alike, such as old favorites Jun Senoue and Richard Jacques, and newcomers like Tee Lopes and Hyper Potions. Apparently this was Senoue's first major return to the series since Sonic Generations. Likewise the song "Green Light Ride" was the first main theme by Crush 40 since 2009's "Knight of the Wind."

"TSR" is somewhat odd, being the third "Sonic [car/kart] racing" title and yet the first (as the previous were "Sega crossover" titles). The locations are Sonic-based, but several stages have returned from the previous 2 "Sega/Sonic racing" games.  

There are several main locations (Planet Wisp, Rooftop Run, etc) and three race tracks per location. Most of the music for these stages are remixes, though not all. In some cases previous songs have been combined (such as "Super Sonic Racing" and "Sonic You Can Do Anything/Toot Toot Sonic Warrior" in returning track Ocean View). 

Several songs, ranging through Sonic CD to Sonic Forces reappear in the Ultimate mixes. "Can You Feel the Sunshine?" from Sonic R, is also remixed in the options.    

IF=Intro/Fly-by

L=Lap

FL=Final Lap

G=Goal

Best Song: Bingo Highway L

Runner-Up (s): Green Light Ride, Wisp Circuit L/FL, Doctor's Mine (all), Ocean View (all), Lost Palace IF/FL, Whale Lagoon FL, Ice Mountain IF/L, Frozen Junkyard (all), Roulette Road (all), Bingo Party (all), Sand Road (all), Boos House (all), Market Street IF/L, Sky Road L, Haunted Castle (all), Thunder Deck L, Dar Arsenal (all), Turbine Loop (all), Start Screen, Ultimates: Knuckles, Shadow, Rouge, Omega, Blaze, Vector, Silver, Metal Sonic, Eggman, Maps: Planet Wisp, Seaside Hill  

I was really thinking about putting Boo's house, because a better Sandopolis remix couldn't exist. Hunted Castle? Also amazing. 

Even though it's been remixed before, Bingo Party (Bingo Highway) has the best of everything this OST offers. Flamboyant energy infused with rock and speedy encouragement. 

 

Worst Song: Sonic's Team Ultimate

Runner Up (s): Wisp Circuit IF, Mother's Canyon (all), Whale Lagoon In, Ice Mountain FL, Pinball Highway, Ultimates: Amy, Chao, Big, Zavok 

Should have known. Okay, "Reach for the Stars" sounded surprisingly at home mixed in with the coolness of Ice Mountain, but really? "Reach for the Stars" as Sonic's theme AGAIN? They tried to edge-it up a bit, which helps, but after 2 versions of Sonic Colors, a version in Lost World, Transformed, and several from the Olympic games, and presumably in Smash and Generations... 

I guess I'm in the "His World" or "It Doesn't Matter" club. 

TSR only has one vocal theme, "Green Light Ride," however it was remixed and several versions were created...

Best Vocal Song: Green Light Ride The Quemists Scores Remix

Runner-Up (s): Green Light Ride (Racing Mix), Green Light Ride, Green Ride Light (Tyler Smyth Remix)

The original song is okay. Good to hear Crush 40 again. 

This "Garage" music? Better than that. It's not every day that a remix surpasses the original, but this one transforms the song into something epic, intense, catchy, and memorable.  

Worst Vocal Song: Green Light Ride Wall5 Remix

Runner Up (s): Green Light Ride Intro

Actually, this is growing on me. It seems like a typical mix, then...gets odd. Remember Sonic Spinball's Options music? Kinda' reminded me of that. Worst version.  

 

Final Ranking: B

TSR wasn't nearly as experimental as Sonic Mania or Sonic Forces. Most of the songs will sound like the Adventure series or Heroes or Shadow or the Black Knight...but ironically that almost makes the game a better celebration of Sonic's 25th than either of those previous two. 

Like with Generations, this is a lot of nostalgia. Amazing-sounding nostalgia, but not as much new content, so I don't really feel anything higher than a B is fair. Still, this OST is perhaps the greatest example of giving old favorites new life without being too much of a copy or too different.  

Defiantly recommended for long-time fans, particularly fans 2001-2011. 

Sonic Forces OST Review

   

Summary

Forces gave itself a name for its EDM inspired soundtrack. While the attempt at imitating "classic" music was notoriously bad, reception to the rest of the music was more mixed. 

Sonic Forces was the first game in 7 years (since Free Riders' "Free," I believe) to contain a main vocal theme. This game had two songs in particular that were well liked and are now fan-favorites: "Fist Bump" and "Infinite" (though it should be noted that the full version of "Infinite" was an OST-exclusive). 

Something else unique about the game is the Avatar's stages. Each contained lyrics, alternating between male and female vocals, that helped characterize the custom-character. This was the first game in 6 years to have lyrics as a part of the BMG (the last game being Sonic Generations, an example being "City Escape"). While I did not take too much interest in these in-game, they defiantly stand out more listening to the music alone. 

The cutscene music can sometimes be typical or kind of generic, but it can be also serious, dramatic, and intense. Best of the 2010 games.

Also a special shout out for the "obscure" remixes: the US Stardust Speedway Bad Future, the Shadow the Hedgehog Menu music, Westopolis, White Jungle (Rhythm and Balance), and the Biolizard (Supporing Me). I greatly enjoyed all of those.    

Best Song: Battle With Infinite (First Bout)

Runner-Up (s): Theme of Resistance, Fighting Onward/Space Port, No Where to Run/Prison Halls, Arsenal Pyramid Interior, Luminous Forest, Moonlight Battle Field/Aqua Road, Sunset Heights, Fist Bump (Piano), Virtual Enemies/Capitol City, Battle with Metal Sonic (US SDSW BF Remix), Episode Shadow (Map), Enemy Territory (Westopolis Remix),Eggman's Facility (Rhythm and Balance Remix), Virtual Reality (Supporting Me Remix), Red Gate Bridge, Metropolitan Highway, Null Space, Fading World/Imperial Tower, Action on the Rails, Mark 2 locks On

This is song is the type to just get stuck in your head after one listen. It stood out in the insanely easy battle, and within the music as a whole. It's got that funky, synthetic "Forces" sound to it--at its best, yet with guitar edgy enough to match up with Infinite's theme. In the middle is a little heroic part for Sonic to kind of "break through." 

Like I said, I really enjoyed the remixes (but I thought it best to choose something "Forces").

 

Worst Song: Faded Hills (Green Hill)

Runner Up (s): Lost Valley, Casino Forest, Chemical Flow, Iron Fortress, It's Good to See a Sonic, Mission Failed 

WHAT THE--I don't remember this at all, but OH MY. It's...it's...AHHHHHHHH!

While I'd like to praise them for not simply remixing Green Hill again--this is just horrible. 

SONIC 4, SONIC CHRONICALS, "REACH FOR THE STARS"---YOU'RE ALL FORGIVEN!

Best Vocal Song: Infinite

Runner-Up (s): Fist Bump

If only the character was half of what the song is. Edgy, cool, powerful. We haven't heard something this strong in years!

I like "Fist Bump" a lot. It's fun, and generally I consider equal to "Infinite," but when forced to choose: "Infinite" is the tallest of mountains, the roughest of waves, the toughest of terrors, the darkest of days...it's the last one standing. 

Worst Vocal Song: The Light of Hope

Runner Up (s):N/a

This was in the game? Uh, when? The credits? I must have skipped it...

It's not too bad, interesting to have some female vocals in major song. I'm not the biggest fan, but it is similar to past closings like "My Dear Friend," which is a step up from games prior. 

To put it simply, it is weaker than "Fist Bump" and "Infinite."   

 

Final Ranking: C

Alright, Forces' music was a lot better than I remembered. I was on the fence between a C or a B, because here is the thing: when Forces is good, it is GREAT, and when it's bad, it's AWEFUL. Ep Shadow separately would be at a B. 

I like the remixes and the main themes, and honestly most of the Avatar's. Sonic's varies, and Classic Sonic's is just an insult. 

I will say after listening to Forces directly after Mania, the OST is better than Mania, which isn't something I would have thought before. It feels better focused and generally stronger [insert "I AM NOT WEAK" joke here].  

Note: The app Sonic Forces: Speed Battle mostly reuses music from this game, only having new music for "Golden Bay" (an "Escape from the City" instrumental).  

Sonic Mania OST Review

     

Summary

As I mentioned in my review for the game, I was very disappointed by the acclaimed soundtrack for Sonic Mania. While I did not hate the music, I could not agree with the label "best soundtrack" or even "one of the best." Instead I labeled it "good...but extremely overrated." 

Still, I was trying to have an open mind by giving the OST a second chance, here. 

While a few songs were better than I thought, others are even worse. I didn't care for Studioplolis at all this time around.

Remixes

• Half were fairly bland remakes of the original. (Mostly Act 1s) 
• The rest were over cluttered with mixes of sound effects and instrumentals, resulting in something crazy and over-the-top. (Act 2s) 

I was only truly impressed by Oil Ocean and Lava Reef, which were more focused. 

New Zones and Songs

• Unimpressive as a whole, pretty different compared to the classics. 
• Studiopolis is perhaps the most exaggerated song. 
• The boss music is not very serious, save the final boss. 
• The title music and other bits try too hard to make things overly fun/happy. 
• Was interesting that Egg Reverie seemed to have a bit of "Fist Bump," though. 
• There were lots of other hints like Metallic Madness in Chemical Plant, but that seemed excessive (Metallic Madness...was in the game!). 
• I liked Knuckles' Mirage Saloon song--perhaps because I see hip-hop as more of a Knuckles thing. Otherwise the main appeal was Titanic Monarch.   

I heard that Tee Lopes (the composer) wanted the music to sound like a Sonic CD 2 (presumably JP)...

I don't think that was the right approach. This should have been musically more like "Sonic 4getting about Sonic 4." 

Sonic 1/2 had a pop-ish, by now retro sound that started the whole thing. While 3 had some input from MJ, it wasn't a huge genre change. It was different, but there were still those "classic" elements that would also join &Knuckles. While the music could be fun, it was never this overblown. 

Sonic Spinball and both 3D Blasts seem more apart of the main games than this.  

Ultimately, though, it doesn't out do either CD OST or Sonic 2 or 3. For me, it doesn't out do the nostalgia of any of the classics. 

Best Song: Titanic Monarch Act 1

Runner-Up (s): Comfort Zone/Main Menu, Sunshine Cassette/Save Select, Chemical Plant Act 1, Flying Battery Act 2, Hydrocity Act 2, Wildstyle Pistolero (Mirage Saloon K), Oil Ocean Act 1/2, Lava Reef Act 1/2, Titanic Monarch Act 2 

Now this sounds like a climax. Pretty/exploratory, but stressed and tense as well. Yet while dark and serious in general, there is also a sense of heroism. It keeps within this more dramatic tone, not being cheeky/brash like most of the OST.    

Oh, and a bonus? Combining some bits of the JP/US CD OSTs? As in Easter Egg for sharp ears? Exactly what I wanted (well, sort of). Epic Act 2 and steady Lava Reef Act 2 are close runner-ups. 

Worst Song: Stardust Speedway Zone Act 1

Runner Up (s): Discovery/Title, Greenhill 1/2, Studiopolis 1/2, Tabloid Jargon (Press Garden Act 1), VS Metal Sonic (Stardust Speedway Boss), Rogues Gallery (Mirage Saloon Act 3), Invincibility 

Disgusting. Absolutely disgusting. Did I mention that when it comes to SDSW I'm a big US fan? Well the past was the same either way, right? So this should be just fine regardless. 

It's not. I can fully say the original was not only better, but a masterpiece in comparison. I even like Act 2 better, because at least it was respectful to the original JP song. 

The highlight of the 93' piece was a downright beautiful piano, and, if memory serves me correct, some fairly nice synth below the famous "hues." As much as I poke fun at the "hues" (really "Heys"), I would take them any day over...

HUH-UGH! HUH UGH! UGH! BREAK IT BREAK IT DOWN! Yeah break the original into a nightmare.   

Bottom line: miss the piano and hate "HUH-UGH" more than I ever have "hue." 

 

Final Ranking: C

For nostalgia, I think Sonic Generations was more respectful. 

• Mania has its own theme and forcing those familiar levels in--while keeping them fresh and a part of the "happy-go-lucky" style...it resulted in something odd. 
• Still a fair soundtrack, Mania is a better attempt at "classic Sonic" than Sonic 4 Ep 1/2, and Forces' classic stages...but not better than the genuine games.  
• As for the new content, it will be hit or miss. For me, it's mostly miss but it is popular, so it must hit with a lot of people. 

Mania doesn't try to be more than it is. It takes pride in simply being a video game, and for those hungry for the 90s, that'll do. 

Mario and Sonic @ the Winter Olympic Games OST Review

    

Summary

The first "Winter" Olympic Games, and the second of the "Mario and Sonic" series. As such, it was fairly experimental while keeping in with its winter theme. Some of the instrumentals are beautiful, pretty arrangements, others are funky and full of the spirit of competition. The range carries from atmospheric, classical, horns, guitars--and (what I guess I'm just gonna' call:) Proto-Sonic Colors.  

There are several remixes, mostly fan favorites like Seaside Hill, Radical Highway, and Sky Sanctuary (though since this is pre-Generations, I guess they deserve more credit with Sky Sanctuary). Luckily lesser-knowns such as the bonus special stage from Heroes and Egg Factory (Riders) both get a mix, however. 

Interestingly, "Open Your Heart" seems to be a remix of the Sonic Pinball Party version. 

The DS version does a good job of replicating the Wii version's music while also having it's own time to shine. In some cases the more "limited" sound makes the music retro and appealing. While it's hard to compete with a console's quality, this DS game isn't a total waste. 

Instrumental bits of "Endless Possibilities," "Knight of the Wind," and "Sonic Heroes" get mixed in a "Sonic Melody," and parts of "New Venture" and Angel Island are mixed with Mario songs as well. 

Best Song: Egg Factory

Runner-Up (s): Title, Main Menu, Alpine Skiing Downhill, Figure Skating (all), Bobsled, Ice Hockey, Curling, Sonic Heroes/Open Your Heart, Radical Highway, Bonus Challenge Stage from Heroes 1/2, Sky Sanctuary, Speed Skating 500mm (DS), Sonic Melody (DS)  Sonic/Mario Melodies (DS), Dream Curling: Bowling (DS) 

Of the Sonic remixes, Egg Factory wins. It's great to hear a less popular track and this modernized version somehow isn't annoying: it does the original justice.   

Worst Song: Freestyle Skiing: Monguls

Runner Up (s): Festival (all except Festival), Shops, Records/Ranking, Ski Jumping: Success, Freestyle Skiing: Ski Cross/Moguls, Speed Skating: 100mm/Short Track/Relay, Luge (DS), Adventure Tours: Mini Game/Ending (DS), Awards Ceremonies

While the funky DS version is salvageable, the main version is too much...too much horn, too much everything. 

 

Final Ranking: D

It's okay. While it was probably pretty fancy in its time, with the games since it seems inferior. Sochi, for example, is very similar but upgraded. The remixes are cool, but the regular events are kind of lost in the shuffle. It's something nice to listen to in December, but otherwise probably not worth it.  

Mario and Sonic at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games OST Review

   

Summary

Honestly I was getting sick of the Mario/Sonic series. It's good, but always has to be grand and trying to out do the next. Rio was surprisingly fresh and new. Incorporating more Brazilian themes, it's not as traditional as before. Unexpected, but when considering there had been like 4 other games that went with that more classical vibe, this one seems very upbeat. 

That's not to say there isn't some classic music, but there certainly more of updated sound to them. In addition to the more cultural themes, it can get 2010s-y. I'll admit it works well in a few cases, actually, but parts of the music will be easily reveal what decade it came from. Which will could aid the game, actually, until maybe 2026. 

Best Song:  Football

Runner-Up (s): Main theme, Copacabana Beach, Athletics 100m, 100m Freestyle Swim, Rhythmic Gymnastics (From the new world), Dedro, Barra, Road to Rio, BMX, Boxing, (Unused) Windmill Isle

This funky piece really puts it all together: vocals, percussion, horns...it really represents the themes of the game well while also being pretty catchy. 

Worst Song: Rhythmic Gymnastics: Reach For the Stars Ver 1

Runner Up (s): Athletics 4x100m, Athletic Triple Jump, Javelin Throw, Rhythmic Gymnastics: Reach for the Stars ver 2, Pocket Marathon, Equestrian, Table Tennis, Duel Football, Sticks Theme

WHAT THE WISP? At least the second version tries to add to it. The first is just another unnatural love song to Sonic Colors. 

 

Final Ranking: C

This can be a fun and appealing OST. Very memorable for being Brazilian-inspired. Still, on the Sonic side the remixes are scarce and overall disappointing. Also, while more unique then the titles previous, somehow it just doesn't seem as "Olympics." If not for that, it might be the best Mario/Sonic title yet. It depends on your point of view and tastes. For me personally? A bit too much horn.    

Sonic & Sega All Stars Racing OST Review

  

Summary

The first All-Stars Racing title, like with Tennis, reuses music. Although Transformed would remix stage tracks, in this case certain past songs would be chosen (unaltered). As a result there is mostly just menu music.   

I was a bit surprised that the game contained a vocal theme, "So Much More," because I don't think it returned in Transformed, or if it was remixed there weren't any vocals. Pop-ish and fits the spirit of the game I guess.

The DS version included MIDI versions of songs like "Final Fortress" and "Can You Feel the Sunshine?" 

Best Song:  Windy and Ripply (DS)

Runner-Up (s): Menu, Shopping, Mission Menu, Lobby, "So Much More," EGGMAN (DS), Seaside Hill (DS), Final Fortress (DS)

Emerald Coast, Sonic Adventure's first level, is loved by fans, but I've found it exhaustible. However this peppy versions puts a retro Genesis-type of spin on it that makes it fun. 

Worst Song: Awards Ceremony

Runner Up (s): Can You Feel the Sunshine? (DS) 

With all the cheering, it's just not as enjoyable. 

 

Final Ranking: D

• Even though there wasn't new music for the stages, the music created for the game is pretty cool and energetic. 
• The DS version may seem limited, but the remixes give fan-favorite modern songs a classic spin. 

Despite a more memorable main theme (and a vocal theme), it winds up inferior compared to the many mixes in Transformed. 

Sonic Boom: Fire and Ice OST Review

  

Summary

I wasn't too thrilled to move on to the next Boom game. Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal was okay, but Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric was generic and never seemed to end. 

Luckily Fire & Ice clearly heard the complaints. It has a lot more energy, while not completely alien to the "explorer" vibe the Boom verse tried to emulate.

While levels like Seaside Island offer similarities to the previous Boom, different elements give it a unique touch. Some parts of the soundtrack are atmospheric, modern-ish, rock, or even retro. "Hovercraft," for example, seems to combine some Genesis era sounds with 2016. 

Even though there were some hints of what I call "Colors" elements, it was mixed up well enough that it didn't seem overly 2010s or annoying. It was more like an enhancer this time.   

No doubt thanks to the same composer, there are similarities to some levels of the Saturn version of 3D Blast. 

Sunset Town, a scrapped level (/scrapped track) for Sonic the Fighters has also been remixed as Ragana Rock. 

Best Song:  Kodiak Frontier

Runner-Up (s): Kodiak Frontier (all), Seaside Island (all except Map), Paleo Tarpits (all), Gothic Gardens (Spooky Hedge/Gargoyle's Patch, Challenge), Ragana Rock (World Map), Thunder Island (Map), Hovercraft

Relaxed, this chill addition to the series could be a distant cousin of Ice Cap.

Worst Song: Cutthroat Cave Swamp/Treetop Marsh

Runner Up (s): Cutthroat Cave (all except boss), Gothic Gardens (map), Thunder Island (bot Race 1), Main Title, Stinger Victories, Most of the Cutscene Music 

Am I in the Tiny Chao Garden? Cutttroat in general seemed out of place, but this funky bit is an even stranger dive from that. 

 

Final Ranking: C

This is quite a step up from the other Boom titles and will have that "Sonic" appeal that fans missed before. While a gem in the Boom verse, it's more average in the series as a whole.  

Sonic Runners App OST Review

Summary

The first Runners game was surprising. It captures a lot of the same type of sound from modern-current games like Unleashed, Lost World, Colors, and others. It has nice piano, guitar, even violins and in total: it was very complex for music from an app. Also, "Theory of Attack" seemed to be some inspiration for TSR...

The sequel I'm not really gonna' count because apparently it mostly just reuses music. 

Best Song: Fly Away

Runner-Up (s): Theory of Attack, End of Summer, Power Ride, Fly Away, Where To Day?, Fiery Passion, Ambition,   

This is quite beautiful, and the Unleashed vibes are welcome. A nice combo of piano and guitar that would easy fit into a more known game. 

I actually prefer Theory of Attack, but that's probably because of TSR. 

Worst Song: Strange Parade

Runner Up (s): Go Quickly!

Only one song sounds like it doesn't belong. This high, vibrant, Color's Starlight Carnival-like song was easily the least engaging. 

 

Final Ranking: B

Admittedly I never expected an App's OST to score so high, but Runner's OST doesn't sound like an App; they did not take any short cuts and it deserves more recognition. 

Sonic Dash Series OST Review

 

Summary

The music of the first Dash game mostly reuses music from Sonic Generations and other games. The main menu while given new life is really Blue Sky Zone from Sonic Jump. There is another remix, but overall much of the music is old. 

Surprising Dash 2, based on Sonic Boom, seems more original. Unless it reuses from Fire/Ice, which I have not listened to yet, it seems pretty different than the other Boom Titles. More refreshing. 

There were a few other versions, but I believe they reuse the same levels/music. 

Best Song: Jungle Level Music (D2)

Runner-Up (s): Main Menu (D2)

From what I can tell this is the main music for all the levels? It is a great example of sounding more on the modern side but still having those edgy Sonic-y elements. 

Worst Song: Seaside Hill Remix (D1)

Runner Up (s): Main Menu (D1)

I'm really sick of Seaside Hill. It's one of those levels that are completely exhaustible. Unlike the above example, this song is overly 2010s and strips away what made the original song tolerable. 

 

Final Ranking Sonic Dash: E

There are only a few new songs and they kind of suck. 

Final Ranking Sonic Dash 2: D

I like the few songs in this a lot better than the first game, which was a surprise with it being Boom. Still, there's only a few songs and not much to it. 

Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric OST Review

 

Summary

After Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal, I went into this next one with an open mind. Boom has a bad name, but I still found a few tracks to be fond of.  

Unfortunately, Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric should be renamed Sonic Bedtime: Rise in the Morning. I usually like atmospheric, dramatic tracks. But this time around, ugh. Not that it is bad, but it can be boring.  

A lot of the music sounds very similar to itself. To be honest, it's not really atmospheric like "painting a picture" of the location. It's more like the tone of what's going on, mostly being about being careful, exploration, or tension. 

Some have compared it to a movie soundtrack, but it seems more generic. There does not seem to be a main goal. Indiana Jones, for example, has a really fun and memorable adventure theme. Star Trek: Voyager has a dramatic opening that is more depressed but does not stray from exploration. Many recall the ominous mystery of Lost's brief opening. Horror movies are more menacing, romance movies swell-up...So if Rise of Lyric was a movie or a show, what would its theme be? What would it be about? Sadly it's hard to say. That lack of personality/purpose is what makes it generic, not the quality.  

If this were cutscene music I'd excuse it, but it's pretty hard to imagine boss battles with these tracks. It would make the "slow" game even slower.  

It's still more mature/professional than what I expect from the Boom side of the franchise I guess. 

Best Song:  Lyric's Weapon Facility

Runner-Up (s): Abandoned Research Facility (Generator), Lyric's Weapon Facility (Save Tails), Lyric's Weapon Facility (Elevator), Pit (boss), Pit (inside 2), Slow Poke Isle (chase), Slowpoke Isle Cave (battle), Creeper Gorge, Sky Citadel (chase), Lyric's Lair (Speed)

Out of this entire OST, this is the only one I'll probably still remember or want to listen to again. Yeah, it's on the slow side, but I think it is quite sad and beautiful. I could almost see this as some kind of lonely Ice Cap bad future, and the instrumentation is more interesting.  

Worst Song: Clift's Excavation Site (battle)

Runner Up (s): Main Theme, Forest Battle, Lyric's Tomb (forest, tomb), Lyric's Weapon Facility (Sentinel), Pit (Inside 2/Speed), Slowpoke Isle, Slowpoke Isle Cave, Ocean Purification Plant (entrance), Ocean Purification Plant (outside/battle), Final Boss, Bygone Island, Bygone Island (battle), Clift's Excavation Site, Clift's Excavation Site (Speed)

A lot of this OST is simply easy to forget. A lot are similar, just adding a few instruments here and there for the different versions (battle, chase, speed, etc). This one is a good example. It's not just dull or "boring," but I don't have any idea what this evacuation site looks like or who is fighting. Bland, undefined, and not worth listening to.    

 

Final Ranking: E

If you're looking for tracks that are dramatic and "movie like"...I'd recommend the cutscene music of 06. Of Secret Rings. Of Zero Gravity. There have been great, epic Sonic tracks that are "slower" yet stunning. With that ONE exception, Lyric just isn't really worth a listen. 

It's not that the music is terrible, it doesn't make you hate it. But even the "good" tracks did not really leave any kind of impression. For the first time I have to agree with the "generic" consensus. 

Also, Shattered Crystal beats this one by a long shot. 

Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal OST Review

Summary

Sonic Boom has been called the worst game since 06, or worse than 06. Since I'm in the rare club that doesn't think 06 is that bad, I try not to judge Boom since I've never played it. However based on the redesigns, plot, voice acting, and, I'll admit it, reception, I've generally tried to stay away. 

Shattered Crystal was the handled alternate to "Rise of Lyric." This is another Richard Jacques composed game, and as such there are some similarities to previous. The early, "Sea" locations and Worm Tunnel defiantly have that up-beat All-Stars Transformed vibe. A lot actually seem like the Saturn version of Volcano Valley--dramatic, heroic, explorer-ish, etc. 

Generally I found this OST to be a surprise because most of the tracks actually seem rather dark/ominous. After seeing the TV show I was expecting something more childish and whimsical, but generally it was a lot more serious than expected. 

However, the tracks seem really short/repetitive. I can understand why fans might get bored with the slower tracks. Aside from Air Fortress 2, Robot Facility, and some of those Sea ones, I wouldn't care to listen to extended versions.  

Best Song: Robot Facility

Runner-Up (s): Air Fortress 2, Seaside Coast Map, Seaside Beach 1/2, VS Sticks, Worm Tunnel, Scrapyard 1, Volcanic Caverns 2

Blown away. Easily my favorite out of all of this for it's dark, industrial sound. It really reminds me of The Terminator, which is not what I was expecting from this game at all. Amazed.   

Worst Song: Main Menu

Runner Up (s): Seaside Jungle 2, Shadow Canyons 1/2, Ancient City 1/2 Air Fortress 1, Lyric's Air Ship

Apparently this is the theme in Rise of Lyric, too. If this were cutscene music or something, it would be okay. But as a main theme it...it's not Sonic. I try not to say that with things, because Sonic music goes through all kinds of genres and sounds! But this is...Pirate Batman.   

 

Final Ranking: D

It's a shame this OST has a bad name because of the Boom legacy, but it's not too shabby. Robot Facility 1 and Air Fortress 2!!! 

Again, though, there's not much to the tracks. Also it's pretty slow-paced for a Sonic game, which would probably throw people off. 

Sonic Jump App Series OST Review

Summary

Some Japan-exclusive Sonic apps were created in the 2000s, and some made it to the states. Most recognized Sonic apps, though, were from the 2010s. The "Sonic Jump" series started with a 2005 java version, then there was a sequel, "Sonic Jump 2." In 2012 "Sonic Jump" was later remade and released to a wider audience. Finally, the last version, "Sonic Jump Fever" was made 2 years later. 

I decided to review these all at once. "Sonic Jump 2" seems to reuse music from the first title. The 2012 title faithfully remixes them but with better instruments and a clearer sound. While Fever remixes the zones yet again, they are now more energetic/electronic/2010s-ish.  

Blue Sky Zone would later be remixed for Sonic Dash. 

Best Song: Mechanical Zone (2012)

Runner-Up (s): Main Menu (2005), Green Hill (2005), Mechanical Zone (2005), Title (2012), Cosmic Zone (2012), Boss (2012), Fever Mode (2014), Jungle Zone (2014) 

This has fast, fun energy alongside a guitar that gives it some tension. Could easily be in Riders or something, but it is a pretty short.  

Worst Song: Cosmic/Bonus Zone (2005)

Runner Up (s): Green Hill (2014), Mountain Zone (2014)

Sadly the more primitive side to the 2005 one shows pretty easily with this one. 

 

Final Ranking 2005/2008 Version: E

It's kind of like a combo of the Advance series and a less harsh Sonic 4. Pretty nice but simple and held back by the quality. 

Final Ranking 2012 Version: C

A wondrous (musical) remake of the first game. 

Final Ranking 2014 Version: D

Colors' Syndrome Strikes Again! I don't really like their over-zealous, "modernized" versions. They aren't terrible, but don't have the same charm as the 2012 ones.

Mario and Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games OST Review

Summary

The music of Mario and Sonic @ the 2014 Winter Olympics had some interesting points. This title embraces more classical music and generally keeps a romanticized vibe, though it has its cool additions to keep it modern and fresh.

This time around I found the main theme fairly boring, as with many of the others. The events were really built up and could be fun. Still, it feels so focused on being an Olympic title it seems to forget its a Mario vs Sonic title. 

The rival themes appear to be reused from previous Olympic games. 

The Sonic music choices are odd. Diamond Dust, Blizzard Peaks, and Cool Edge make sense, but why beach themes like Windy and Ripply and Seaside Hill? 

About half or less are remixed, and the other half is reused either from its original game, Sonic Generations, or Smash.      

The ones remixed are: Sweet Mountain, Splash Hill, Blizzard Peaks, Route 99, Leaf Forest, Neo Green Hill, Speed Highway, Diamond Dust (Genesis), and Flying Battery.   

As much as I hate Splash Hill Zone's music, the version 2 remix is admittedly awesome.

Best Song: Neo Green Hill

Runner-Up (s): Downhill Skiing, All Finger Skating, All Finger Skating Double, Blizzard Peaks, Flying Battery, Diamond Dust, Route 99 

WOW. I knew Sonic Advance music could sound great. This version is a slower, more relaxed, Sonic Unleashed-ish version of the beach level. And it may be a beach one, but it was most impressive. 

Worst Song: Delfino Plaza (Main Street)

Runner Up (s): Melody & Answer (all), Legends Showdown (all), Winter Sports Championship Race (all), Delfino Plaza (Market Street), Splash Hill Ver 1 & 3, Sweet Mountain  

Annoying, overly horny, and whimsical in a bad way. 

Final Ranking: D

Overall this OST meets expectations. Aside from those few remixes, though, it doesn't stand out from any of the other Olympic titles or from Sonic games in general.  

Sonic Lost World OST Review

 

Summary

I was not expecting much from Sonic Lost World's soundtrack. The game debuted the mediocre Deadly Six and, from what I've seen, fell into the same mistakes as Sonic Colors. 

However, this music really caught me by surprise. It was not the cringe-inducing, overly happy/poorly aged mess I was expecting. Not at all. 

The small bits of "Colors syndrome" (music that is 100% of the 2010s) was oddly refreshing in songs like Frozen Factory and even with the Color powers. The underwater Yellow Drill, Grey Quake, and Red Burst were all actually pretty cool. 

Overall it is much more atmospheric and cinematic than Colors, instead having much more in common with Sonic Unleashed. In fact, musically it's more like a sequel to that game. The locations have an uplifting mix of different instruments that evolve and adopt new themes through the different Zones. I haven't played this game, but the BGM defiantly gives me an idea of what the settings are like. They did not skimp on the dramatic cutscene music, either.  

Unfortunately there are no vocal themes, a major problem in this era. The main theme did kinda' grow on me. Happy, explore-y. The Deadly Six theme is powerful but repeated many times in the game, to the point of becoming silly.   

 

Best Song: Windy Hill Zone 2

Runner-Up (s):Sea Bottom Segue (Tropical Coast 3), Windy Hill Zones, Desert Ruins Zones, Silent Forest Zones, Lava Mountain Zone 4, Hidden World, Tornado, Red Burst, Eggman's Secret Weapon   

ARE YOU SURE THIS ISN'T WINDMILL ISLE ZONE 2? Ahem. Windy Hill is really beautiful, string-lead piece, and Zone 2 is an enhanced, lovely version of the first. The bongos are a nice touch, as is the gentle guitar in the background.  

Worst Song: Tropical Coast Act 1

Runner Up (s): Tropical Coast Zones 2, Sky Road Zones (except 4), Lava Mountain Zones (except 4), Frozen Factory Zone 3s, Sky Road Bonus, Cutscene music with: Master Zik, Who Got Us Into This Mess? Cyan Laser, Black Bomb, Hurry Up!, Reach for the Stars Jingles

The jingle for "Reach For The Stars" is by far the worst song in this game. However, I felt like naming that would be a bit of a cheat since that was only for the 3DS version and the console version was "Sonic Heroes" (a way better choice).  

Tropical Coast certainly sounds the part. It seems much too slow, though, and the funky parts mixed in just weigh it down further. Disappointing, especially compared to act 3.  

Final Ranking: B

This soundtrack is incredibly rich. It has a lot of atmosphere and depth with layers of beautiful instruments. 

However, aside from it's similarity to Sonic Unleashed, it just doesn't have the personality I expect. As stunning as these make the settings, Sonic's edgy/cool attitude seems absent. 

Games in the past had a lot of ambience to them, too, but they still added in hints of Sonic's personality. Maybe it's the lack of a main theme, but I find myself wondering if these tracks would easily fit Mario or some other game series. 

It's still really good, and some of the tracks have the right idea (Lava Mountain 4, Silent Forest 4, etc). But it feels like is something missing overall. 

Regardless, the arrangement is still quite engaging and nothing short of professionalism.

also. 

THE MAGIC CONCH.

...

Why is Yoshi in a Sonic game? 

Sonic All-Star Racing Transformed OST Review

Summary

Surprisingly, I've heard good things about Transformed. Unfortunately, I don't care too much for this soundtrack. 

Firstly, the stages they picked (for Sonic) are BAD choices. Ocean View is Seaside Hill--reminder, Seaside Hill is practically the modern Green Hill. Oddly though, the music is instead a mix of "Toot Toot Sonic Warrior" and "Super Sonic Racing" (which actually helps a bit).

Galactic Parade is Starlight Carnival, which is from Sonic Colors. Okay, a starry setting might look nice, but out of all the horrors of Sonic Colors, they could have at least picked Asteroid Coaster or Tropical Resort. 

Sky Sanctuary...didn't...wasn't this just in Sonic Generations?! That has to be the most overrated level in Sonic and Knuckles and Sonic 3 & Knuckles. I love most classic levels. Not that one. It's not the composers fault for the choices, but it in no way helped. 

There were also odd choices with the All-Star themes. I have to be honest, this is the best version of "Reach For the Stars" I've heard, but a mix of "His World," "It Doesn't Matter," or maybe "Sonic Boom" would have more ideal (seriously, "Toot Toot Sonic Warrior" is in this game at least 3 times, "Sonic Boom" needs love too!). Tails' oddly has the Adventure-Era invincible theme instead of "Believe in Myself" even though Amy and Knuckles get to keep their Adventure themes. While Metal's makes more sense--his theme from Sonic 4--it's a bit too recent for my taste. 

There are also random bits from Sonic R, which I assume is because of the composer being the same. 

The music is pretty high energy and with techno, dubstep, and a dance-fun feel. At first I kinda' liked it because it reminded me of Sonic Riders, but that quickly drained. The music just gets to be annoying. A lot of the mixes were disappointing, inferior, and/or strange. And some songs defiantly suffer from "Colors Syndrome" (overly 2010s).         

Aside from All-Star mixes, the only Sonic-remix that I really like is the modernized version of the Sonic and Knuckles title theme (for Sanctuary Falls). Ocean View was pretty good too, I guess, but I really would have liked "Toot Toot Sonic Warrior" mixed with "Sonic Boom" instead because uniting the two would be cool. Plus it always ticks me off seeing the JP OST get more attention.  

Some of the "classic" tracks don't sound like they were changed very much (if at all) but, damn it, I love Cosmic Fall.  

Best Song: Shadow All-Star Theme

Runner-Up (s): Amy All-Star, Eggman All-Star, Metal Sonic All-Star, Egg Hanger, Roulette Road, Shibuya Downtown, Outrun Bay+intro, Adder's Lair+intro, Dream Valley+intro, Carrier Zone+intro, Ocean View+intro, Grafiti City, Sanctuary Falls intro

oh, finally something that isn't complete sh--Thankfully it's hard to kill music from Shadow the Hedgehog. This remix is the theme for Super Shadow in the game, which includes parts of "Live and Learn" in addition to "I Am...All of Me." When you combine two of the best and edgiest songs of the series, nothing can go wrong. 

Worst Song: Galactic Parade Intro

Runner Up (s): Dragon Canyon, Temple Trouble+intro, Chilly Castle+intro, Race of Ages+intro, Grave Yard Dig, Galactic Parade, Sanctuary Falls, Graffiti City intro, Seasonal Shrines intro, Rogues Landing intro, Burning Depths intro, Mii All-Star, Alex Kidd All-Star, Results

OHNONOTSONICCOLORS Ouch! I like the Galactic Parade one a bit better than the original since it has a pretty piano, but this annoying intro is from the "Mario" section (stage Map) and is barely changed. I can't tell if it's gotten better or worse, but, boy is it irritating. 

Final Ranking: D

This is the first "modern" (good quality) game that I've considered E-Ranking. As a Sonic fan, it's pretty disappointing. However, as a Sega fan I think it has more potential. Someone who grew up playing on a Dreamcast or even a Saturn or a Genesis will be able to hear nostalgic tunes in a catchy, modern form. This doesn't work for Sonic, though, because this series was lucky enough to have modernized songs already, and compared to the likes of Sonic Generations this is mostly trash.