Eras UPDATE: Transitional Classic

ALL about the "forgotten" era

Era: Transitional-Classic

Main Years: 1995-1999

Gameplay Type: While still mainly 2-D with gimmicks like rings and power-ups, new experimentation was done. For example, Knuckles Chaotix used a team-like idea where characters are linked together. 

This era also saw the debut of 3D games. Sonic 3D Blast was technically the "first." Several 3D game ideas were planned but scrapped. A portion was used in Sonic Jam. The main "first" 3D game would be Sonic Adventure (a game on the line between this era and the next).     

Character Designs and Personalities: While early games and Game Gear tiles mostly kept Sonic's design the same, he and the other character would be made a bit taller (inspiring the change in Sonic Adventure). The art shifted into a more "3D" style. 

Although the different expressions in Sonic the Fighters gave a hint at personality, overall the characters' attitudes and motivations were less defined. For example, Knuckles dedication to his island and emerald is forgotten or at least set aside so he could make his appearances in these games. On the other hand, it does hint at the shift from Knuckles being an antagonist to a protagonist.   

Story Type: Generally because of the game gear titles, most of the plots are simple. Other characters like Tails and Knuckles, however, are given more time to shine. 

Some games, like Sonic 3D Blast and Sonic Labyrinth, had a plot more tied-into the gameplay, but overall the games were casual, like with Sonic the Fighters and Sonic R. 

Staring with Sonic Adventure, the stories would become more in-depth. This was change planned much earlier, however. Plots including Sally Acorn and the Freedom Fighters, a new love interested named Tiara, and a deadly virus were scrapped along the way. One concept would be passed into Sonic Adventure: breaking the Master Emerald.  

Visuals: Much as everything else in this era, the graphics were experimental, varying bits and trying more computer-created images. The types of settings did not change much, though.  

Music: The 8-bit titles are a bit improved from the previous era, but still limited. Likewise the Genesis games are impressive but still trademark Genesis. As the era came to a close, clearer OSTs would be made, including the Saturn version of Sonic 3D Blast, Sonic R, and the arcade game Sonic the Fighters. Sonic R became infamous for its many vocal songs. 

Voice Cast: Through the 90s, Sonic's main recognized voice was still Jaleel White. Interestingly, White voiced Sonic's siblings, Sonia and Manic in Sonic Underground (but did none of the singing). The cartoon would include a "DiC era" voice for Knuckles, Brain Drummond (no relation to Ryan) as well as a new voice for Robotnik, Gary Chalk. 

The American dub of the OVA, "Sonic: the Movie," was done by a different company and hired a different cast, including new voices for Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Robotnik as well as original characters like Sara. This Sonic was voiced by Martin Burke. 

Finally soon after both of these releases and a year after its Japanese release, Sonic Adventure came to America. With it was yet another cast and a new voice for Sonic, Ryan Drummond.   

Main Voice (Sonic): Martin Burke 

Memorable Theme Song (for Sonic): "Super Sonic Racing" (from Sonic R). 

Memorable Catchphrases (Sonic):  "Aw yeah, this is happening!" (Sonic Adventure)

"I'm waiting!" "Game over Robuttnik!" "Bummer Majors! (pronounced may-hor-es)" "SHUT UP TAILS!" "Strange, isn't it?"  (cartoon/OVA)

Cartoons and other Appearances: A short animation was released in Sonic Jam along with several commercials. Jam also released enhanced versions of the Sonic CD animations (which are the ones used in later releases such as the 2011 version). 

Sonic Underground and the dubbed Japanese 2 parter OVA ("movie") were released in 1999. 

The Archie comics took a new turn after issue 50 (which the writers originally expected to be the last of the series). Interestingly, Sega prevented the death of a major character (Sally Acorn). As the comics entered a darker chapter, a spin-off based on Kncukles debuted. 

Sonic the Comic would end after its Sonic Adventure adaptation. 

Quote of the Month

 

"Look whose calling who a thief." 

-Knuckles the Echidna, Sonic Adventure 2

Quote of the Month

"I'VE FOUND THEM." 

-Knuckles the Echidna, Sonic Adventure 2

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.  

Sonic Mania Review

Summary

THE BEST-ahem. Let's not get ahead of ourselves. 

Gameplay and Controls

The gameplay is a lot like the classic games, even with different options for spinning styles. that being said, it's easy for anyone to pick up and play (though it will make you miss the simplicity of the ABC type of controller). 

Plot and Characters

I'm not really into the whole hard-boiled heavies thing. Pretty lame, honestly. 

While it would have been nice to add Amy maybe as an Easter Egg like Sonic Advance 2, the original games basically were Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles, so I'm content. 

I thought the Phantom Ruby thing was actually kind of annoying, here. Does this have an instruction manual? Where's my backstory?!

Level Design

What is impressive: layout and gimmicks. Especially in Act 2, they try to jazz things up. I LOVED the Mean Bean part in Chemical Plant. Best surprise in the whole game, and the easiest boss by far. 

What's not: the actual locations. First, let's choose the most obvious levels possible. GREEN HILL! CHEMICAL PLANT! FLYING BATTERY UM, WHERE IS ICE CAP?! At least there's Lava Reef. 

I don't like the reusing locations thing Sega's been pulling since Generations. I don't care who made this version, that's no excuse. Maybe 1 or 2, NOT HALF THE GAME. And NO, NO, NO, not the same levels from Generations, ugh. Then stupid Forces made this even worse. 

I don't like the bosses at all. This is the classic days, so they should not take more than 3 minutes max. These are much too difficult and slow (Sonic 4 had this problem, too). Ugh, Stuidopolis is annoying. 

The original levels must be creative, then, right? Ugh. I like half of them, maybe, visually, Mirage Saloon the best (and that...was inspired from the scrapped CD level...which was inspired from the scrapped Sonic 2 level). Stuidopolis is very cool...but nothing says classic Sonic quite like a HUGE CITY. No, wait, that's Mod Sonic, ugh. Press Garden annoyed me almost as much as Marble Garden from Sonic 3. 

Just...it wasn't as fun to go through as anything from, say, Sonic 2. Including all 3 acts of Metropolis Zone. I think there's an identity issue and they tried to pile too many ideas up. It got cluttered.  

Music 

Mania's OST was disappointing. I would not call it bad--some of the songs are epic. But as a whole it's not deserving of it's high, HIGH praise. 

Many of the tracks, especially in the beginning, are so happy it feels forced. It can get annoying.

The biggest disappointment while playing the game was Stardust Speedway: my literal reaction was "What the FXXX?" At the time I was so excited to get to the level that I completely forgot about the original Japanese soundtrack. Foolishly I thought maybe there was some Easter Egg that would change it, or I at least expected some of the instrumentation to be similar to the US OST as a compromise, but I couldn't be more wrong. 

I told myself to get over it and enjoy the remix in Forces. Unfortunately, even now that I have a deeper respect for the JP version, I can't enjoy the Stardust Speedway mixes. 

The beautiful piano in the past--the main attraction--has been altered into something passive and the "Hues" have become cringe-worthy "Huh-UGH"s. Act 2 was an improvement, but still not as good as the original (or the US version!). 

The Metallic Madness remixes weren't as disturbing. They were fine, but not as impactful as "You Can't Do Anything, So Don't Even Try."   

Green Hill's been remixed so many times that not even resurrecting Michael Jackson and asking him to compose it would make it seem any different. 

Still, a lot of the remixes are good; they just don't jump out at me as special. The exception is Lava Reef Act 2, which took a more radical change--worth the risk. I also liked Titanic Monarch Zone, but the other originals are mostly hit or miss. 

As a whole it's not bad, I'd still call it good! But it's not even close to being the best in the series. Considering Sonic titles of the 2010s, it was probably the best in a while, but Team Sonic Racing has already surpassed it as the best of that era. 

  

Final Thoughts

• While I like all the little details and Easter eggs, I kinda' expected more. It almost seems like they reference the obscure stuff over the things you'd expect. 
• Even though this is "by the fans," the game seems more biased to "Japan Sonic." They kinda' tried some things like some 90s air brushing on the art, but it does not look nearly as authentic to "American-ized Sonic" box art as the animation does to Sonic CD's cutscenes. 
• Light Blue Sonic. Even with the original Sega CD he was not really light blue like that (the colors are washed out/not pixel-y in the rerelease). 
• Sonic's shoes did not have gold buckles really. Just in the CD cutscenes and Mod games. 
• There's hints of the JP CD OST all over and stuff inspired from it. The US? Some drum samples in like one level.
• Not to mention the SegaSonic stuff in Plus
• References to JP-exclusive stuff like Sega Popcorn Shop yet no references to the DiC cartoons? Mirage was callin' for a AoStH one?
• Sorry, Sega. THERE IS NO CLASSIC EGGMAN. ONLY ROBOTNIK. 
• I don't know, it just kinda' bothered me they couldn't make some sacrifices like calling him Robotnik. 
• I mean, other than that nasty attempt at 90s airbrushing, only Ray's shoes (a reference to the Archie Comics) is an American thing.  
• This is what Sonic 4 should have been. Still, Sonic never left 2-D. The Sonic Rush and Sonic Advance games are crying. 

Final Ranking: A

That's a low A, actually, I was tempted to give it a B, if not for one simple fact: this is the Sonic sequel we always wanted. I never understood it. If they had the tech in the 90s to make a Genesis game, why not just MAKE ANOTHER ONE? I've grown to love the 2000s games, but I had this thought with Sonic 4, Generations, and even Sonic Adventure. Yet now here it is, and it's not enough? 

I don't know, maybe it's all the praise the game gets. I usually end up liking the "bad" games because my expectations are so low. But I guess Mania doesn't meet the expectations because everyone says it's perfect. 

It's still the best game in a long time, though. 

Sonic Mania Plus

Ray is kinda' annoying, and I was expecting more levels, but I like the character aspect. Can I get a US Stardust Speedway DLC? Please? There's a nice version by Jun Senoue and Cash Cash!

Final Ranking: S

They changed it up with the gameplay, and somehow I ended up liking the idea. IDK, whatever. 

Sonic Heroes Review

Rank @ End

Summary

BLAST AWAY! Do more characters=a better game? Uh...no?

Gameplay and Level Design

The level design is fair. There are some colorful additions and new ideas, namely the haunted theme. I don't really like the "chunky" look of some of the earlier levels like [shudders] Seaside Hill and Ocean Palace. Many of the levels are pretty long in length. 

The gameplay has its heart in the right place, but is not the best. I like the idea of team work, but unlike Sonic 2 where there's sort-of an optional thing for another player, this "team" thing is forced on the 1st player. It takes a long while to get used to the different moves, switching between characters, and even just balancing while flying. It needs a "learning period." Doing the Rose missions first helps.  

 

Story and Characters

This is a very character-focused game. Team Sonic has a pretty simplistic story, but it is fun to see the crew getting along and hanging out. Rose's is also pretty simple, but it's humorous and the first time we see Cream outside of Sonic Advance 2. Though where did Chocola even come from? 

The Chaotix have a fun story, though I wish the conclusion was not so obvious. Notably this team dodges Team Sonic because then they'd have to decide where to risk having the group recognize Knuckles. The wording when they first cross Eggman is careful for this reason (Knuckles Chaotix). 

Team Dark gets the best story, where the group hunts Eggman for their own reasons. Unfortunately the game does not decide what to do with Shadow. Does he get his memories back? Is he an android?   

This might be because the character was originally dead and Rouge was going to be a part of Team Rose (wtf). 

The game debuted Omega, Chocola, and introduced many "less known" characters like the Chaotix and Cream. I think they handled the intro well, but I can see how it would seem overwhelming. 

The plot twist is great for the game's story and for Metal Sonic's character. Before, he basically had the OVA for personality and that was basically just that he had Sonic's. Here we as a cold, creepier version. I wish they actually used the "Neo" design a bit before transforming him for 5 minutes, though.   

Music and Voice Acting

The music is pretty good. "Mystic Mansion" really got into the setting, and Bullet Station just sounds awesome. The main theme is good but tiresome. Of the team themes, only "This Machine" really works the best. "What I'm Made Of" is and always will be one of the most epic songs in the series. 

This is some of the best voice acting from the original cast, the other game probably being Sonic Battle. Ryan Drummond's voice for Sonic is happy and energetic, finally losing the sarcasm-awkwardness from the Adventure series. Just right. Jennifer Douillard has shown considerable improvement with Amy, putting a lot more into the role. Lani Minella's Rouge voice is also at it's best. 

I do have one main complaint, and it's for Charmy, who just sounds too girlish for a boy (the potato chips line still works though). 

Visuals and Graphics

The CG scenes are fair. The graphics aren't the best, but tolerable. Though do I have to sit through like 5 mintues of Metal Sonic transforming in thunder, rain, and lightning? 

Omega's design is a bit clunky for my taste, but the Chaotix redesigns are awesome. Rouge also wears a different outfit, which I might like better. Interesting to note that in the concept art her outfit was red and black, too, hm...

Final Thoughts

• The Special stage is crap. A-the boost is NOT like the modern boost, don't use it that way or you WILL PAY. B-you can get at least 6 of them by using Big and walking on the CELLING for some reason. C-you'll do fine and then--randomly come to a halt because you somehow fell. What is this, 06? 
• Sonic 2's is WAY WAY WAY better and it came out, you know, like 10 years before. 
• Ultimately I am glad they brought Shadow back, even if it meant SA2 lost a little meaning. However I'm not a huge fan of the android plot. 
• Also, the portrayal of Shadow himself in the game has been greatly exaggerated, I mean one minute he's all "space, did you say space" and the next he's all "some things never change," what the heck?! 
• Sorry, but Shadow the Hedgehog> Heroes Shadow.  The entire game is dedicated to the character's potential. Did it 100% work? No. Did it miss some opportunities with Team Dark? Yeah. But it gives still gives a better idea of "who" he is. 
• Plus "That way you guys can use your super powers," ugh, that's barely better than "you've got this, Sonic," ew.   
• This is the best we see of Metal Sonic, I think, yet the whole "Neo" idea is overrated. Forces may have been an opportunity to flesh out the character's personality when working under Eggman. Too bad.   
• Tails and Knuckles...just get bubbles...shinny little...WHY?
• Part of this game's problem is that Sonic himself is kinda' buried in all these characters. 
• Giving him a super transformation and no one else is NOT a solution. 
• So I'm confused about the sunset thing... 
• HOOHEE

Final Ranking: B 

Eh. What can I say? Beating this game is great, and it's really nice to see the characters work and talk together in the level, too. But it can be long, repetitive, and at points just...boring?

WHAT IF...Silver was replaced with Metal...hm.

Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity Review

Rank @ End

Summary

Jet!

Gameplay and Level Design

The settings are mostly futuristic with other themes. It's creative, but not overly so. I'd call it a tie with the last Riders.

The gameplay has changed based on the new gravity features, which was a cool way to shake things up. I'm still not a fan of turning, but being able to take shortcuts across walls is cool. I miss the boost in some ways, but in others the Gravity Dive is superior. And not running out of air every 5 seconds is a plus. I also miss being in control of the tricks, although this way is simpler and much easier to get the hang of. 

Story and Characters

The story gets off to a fast start, though I rather miss the animated-type of opening. Unfortunately it slows. The story the Hero side of things is simple and just sorta' one thing leading to another. It's always nice to see them getting along, but there's not much going on. 

Luckily things are better with Team Babylon. More unique and less familiar, the Rogues distinct personalities help make the game worth playing. 

The nature of Sonic's and Jet's rivalry has changed--now Jet is an even match, making his cocky attitude a bit more justified.  

As a whole this game incorporates more sci-fi than fantasy, in contrast to the previous Riders game, and I kinda' like it better. Since the game is already in a futuristic, hover-board setting, the switch make more sense. 

Music and Voice Acting

The music is a spectacular combination of the first game's high energy and it's own dramatic tone. The slower "Catch Me if You Can" is a great example. It's not as fast and maybe not as taunting, but its more serious, mysterious mood makes it superior. "Ungravityfy" is also a gem. The electronic and natural mixes, like with Gigan Rocks/Device work well, with the game bringing together futuristic and cinematic.   

I liked the 4kids cast in the first game, but they've improved with this one, especially with the Rogues. It's harder to tell Dan Green's take on Storm from Knuckles. Jason Griffith's bossy version of Jet is still hilarious but also more serious than previous. Bella Hudson does her usual sassy job with Wave. 

Visuals and Graphics

While an improvement, they still aren't so good. Even the CG cutscnes. I've always been disappointed there wasn't an animated opening like in the first game. 

Final Thoughts

GOTTA TRY HARDER

Final Ranking: B

For the Babylon side, I think Zero Grav out-did the original. However, for Team Hero, there's not much to make it stand out among any other Sonic game. 

It gets extra points for changing up "the formula" by creating the "Gravity" gimmicks and even revolving the plot around the change. 

Sonic Riders Review

Rank @ End

Summary

NOWAYI'MGONNALOSE! YOU THINK YOU CAN WIN WITH THAT BOARD?! ...wait, what does Storm say?

Gameplay and Level Design

Riders introduced a new and exciting style of racing: Extreme Gear. Hover boards, skates, bikes--it was a futuristic and epic spin that made Mario Kart look like shXX! Unfortunately the item capsules and other things still make it similar enough to be called a rip.

Quickly two elements become a constant bother. Turning and running out of air. The boost is a nice idea, but what's the point if it results in an annoying beeping sound and having to go to a "pit-stop?" Turning takes some skill, but its hard to turn properly when falling in and out of turbulence (most annoying near the end of the game).  With practice, a player will be able to win races with ease...but it's not so simple at first (needs an "adjustment" or "learning" period). 

The locations are futuristic and cleverly add in elements like a pic of Sonic (from Sonic Heroes). Even the more "primitive" spots include something advanced to keep with the theme. In play, there are some spots where falling/dying is easy, as well as spots to become "stuck" in (/fall behind). There are different routes that will be more advantageous, but sometimes it's riskier to get to them/pointless.  

Story and Characters

This game introduced some of my favorite characters, the Babylon Rogues. Jet is hilariously immature but is skilled and demonstrates some leadership qualities. At some points he acts like an extreme (no pun intended) version of Sonic and in others simply greedy. Wave is intelligent and planning, but has some ruthlessness to her (--she did plant a bomb on Sonic's board, after all). Storm is the weaker of the bunch because he's mostly just an idiot, but like the others he serves as a contrast (in his case to Knuckles). 

They make good rivals because they have their own motivations. They aren't evil, but they are out for their own interests first. Unlike Team Dark, though, they are less serious. More lighthearted, for them its mostly about winning. It's also good that they set themselves apart from past rivals: it's not about who's faster on the ground, but in the air. It's about skill rather than natural ability.  

Sonic is tested because he has to learn something new. He's always been the fastest, but Jet's challenging that. Team Hero has to adapt to the races while the Rogues have to face the fact that they aren't as good as they think. 

This game is likeable for having a comedic, character driven plot but also having something more serious to face towards the end. 

Music and Voice Acting

The music is energetic and uses electronic themes to focus on the future-set and speedy aspects of the game. Sand Ruins and Digital Dimension both stand out, and "Sonic Speed Riders" is perfect for the game. "Catch Me If You Can" is in the right place but a little random (like it says "Hawk Wild"...I think..,and "hawk" sounds like the F-word).  

The voice acting is fair. It know back in the day people did not like Jet's voice because (I assume) they excepted Jet to sound cool. Here's the thing: Sonic did not need another "cooler" rival. They wrote Jet in a way that wasn't meant to be taken very seriously--quite the opposite of Shadow or Metal Sonic (writing Silver to be another rival of this type was part of the character's initial problem). 

Either way, Jet's voice was just what the character needed. Higher, "bird-like" with energy and confidence, it was clear this was not a new Shadow or Metal Sonic, but an entirely new and hilarious addition to the cast. The only criticism I have for it is that at some points, he sounds too much like Darkspine Sonic or Werehog Sonic (as a result of sharing Sonic's voice actor, Jason Griffith). As a whole it helped make the game and a lot of the quotes memorable, though.

The actors did a fair job with the other characters like Eggman and Amy. Bella Hudson's voice for Wave is sassy and girlish, but more mature than Jet's--just as it should be (Wave is 4 years older). Dan Green does a lower take for Storm but also throws some power into the role. Maybe it's because of the sound effects rather than dialogue, but Tails is a bit more annoying (than in Sonic X).     

Visuals and Graphics

The epic opening cutscene is a legend rivalling that of Sonic CD. It's easily one of the most memorable parts of the game, if not one of it's best qualities. It makes me wish all the cutscenes were animated. 

Unfortunately the actual 3-D cutscenes haven't aged that well, or the graphics in general. Say what you will about 06, it did have better visuals for being released within the same year. 

Final Thoughts

• Jet is a unique and underappreciated rival. In many ways, I can't help but feel TSR should have been another Riders game.  
• Then I remind myself of his new voice...
• Of course, how could the guy improve after only having like one chance to voice the character? 
• On the other hand Griffith only had 1-2 chances to voice Jet and his version is still superior... 
• The opening is 100% AWESOME.
• Omachao narration=annoying
• Focusing on the two teams rather than clutting the game up with many others (*cough*cough*FREE RIDERS*ahek*Heroes*grum*Rivals 2) helped balance the game's different characters without reducing Sonic's role in the process.  

Final Ranking: B

The opening alone is worth an S rank. The music and characters are great. But the plot (while not bad) is more average, and then the gameplay is too complex/annoying in some parts. And the graphics are crap. So it levels out into an average B.  

AH HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HA!

Sonic Rivals 2 Reveiw

Rank @ End

Summary

The more things change, the more they stay the same...

Visuals, Level Design, and Graphics

The graphics are horrible. The game art/card art or whatever is fine, but other than that...visually, this handheld game may be one of the worst. As far as setting, they try to do new things, but the graphics are just so bad they are barely salvageable.  

On the other hand I liked the different "racer"/etc outfits. Looked neat/funny. 

Gameplay

The idea of racing the other characters is a clever way to capitalize on the idea of speed. This type of gameplay, where almost every level is a race where the players also attack each other, likely inspired many of Sega's future apps. It's a neat idea, and if it worked as well as the Metal Sonic race of Sonic CD or a 2-D version of the Sonic/Shadow race in SA2, it would be awesome. Unfortunately it's not at the same quality. 

Even though the controls should be simple, they can get confusing. Press this button, press that button! I liked the special moves, but some work better in this case than others. For example, Tails' flight is virtually useless because of the level design--not a good choice. If the "rush" boost wasn't used so much nowadays, "Sonic Boom" might not bother me, but this version of the boost seems so inferior. I think Shadow's "Chaos Control" as well as Silver's "Psychic Control" are the best. 

Even though it's 2-D, it does not play out nearly as smoothly as the classic games or the Advance or Rush series. There are also rival fights/challenges that would be nice as a bonus mission but are instead required and therefore unwelcome. The boss fights varied from being what I'd expect to something more frustrating.     

Story and Characters

Each character is linked to another. Playing Sonic's story, for example, also means playing as Tails, even though Tails has a separate story. This is a little excessive--maybe it should have been one story per pair rather than per character. 

Sonic and Tails have a pretty basic story, but the character interactions are funny. This game is kind of like Heroes in that sense, driven by the characters involved. Only instead of all working together, the different pairs turn on each other, ha ha. 

The plot involving Rouge and Knuckles is like SA2, and though they are allies it works just as well. Silver and Espio seem like and odd combination, but it was a smart way to include the two. Shadow and Metal Sonic may be Sonic's biggest rivals, but it's still odd to see them together. Since Metal doesn't talk, it's more of Shadow's story (which is fine by me!) but Metal proves he isn't totally worthless in the end. 

Like with the first one, it would be nice if there was more of an explanation with Nega. Also, while I like that some characters get "the full story" and others think it's just Eggman, I think Sonic should have at least been suspicious. Considering Heroes and the first Rivals, being fooled a 3rd time makes the Sonic seem like an idiot. 

Music and Sound Effects

The music is pretty harsh and not very memorable. The Mystic Haunt one was okay. "Race to Win" is awesome/impressive for a handheld, but it could get annoying being in the first level. 

One of the main advantages in comparison to the last Rivals game and the Rush series is that the cutscene audio is not as limited. Whereas previous games just had small clips ("getreadytobeschooled," etc), every character had several sayings and spoke during the cutscenes. Though the cutscenes were still limited, it was nice to actually hear the characters talk.    

Mike Pollock handles the shift between Eggmans with ease. Pete Capella seemed to perfect his version of Silver, which wasn't that bad to begin with. I've begun to wonder if it was maybe a script issue rather than voice acting, but this is another case where Kathleen Delaney's Rouge voice better than in Sonic X. Amy Palant's Tails has the opposite effect, though. Her voice for him was great in season 3 but seemed higher-pitched in the games for some reason. Most of the voice acting was perfect, and the cast did a good job. 

Metal Sonic had no voice, so he was basically voiced by Eggman, lol. 

Final Thoughts

• This is a good game for those who like the characters and their various personalities and abilities. However, Sonic's own role isn't the biggest.
• I liked that even though, for example, Shadow and Rouge were not allies in this game, they weren't at each others' throats, either. The same could be said for Knuckles among Sonic/Tails.    
• It would have been interesting to see a Rivals 3 (---with Blaze the Cat). Maybe they could have upgraded things. 
• The races in Sonic Generations were inspired from these.   
• Silver calling Tails HALF-PINT is the best Silver quote. "It's no use" is nothing. 

 

Final Ranking: C 

This is another case where the characters make the game very enjoyable, but eliminating that does not leave much behind. Barfy graphics, cute plot. 

Okay, I guess he noticed the laugh was off...

Underground is Better the Sat Am (Part 9)

 Pilots and Multi-episodes

The pilots of these shows are not as strange as AoStH's or Sonic X's 2 pilots. They were just normal episodes (...as far as we know?). They both establish the basics of the shows, but Sat Am gets a few points off because...

Sally's different appearance, which...actually may have been cuter. No explanation, though, just confusion that affected the comics and Sally's color scheme in her random AoStH Christmas Blast appearance.

Let's not forget that Rotor's look randomly changes in season 2 as well. 

Also, Nicole is a bulky as heck!    

"Blast From the Past" was an awesome 2-parter. It had time travel! Sonic and Sally facing their younger-selves! Chuck, Sal's father, the surprising origins of the robotisizer! Snively with hair?!

Still, the time stones were not accurate, or the "floating island" (where's little planet?). Plus Sonic being an adult in the opening when...well...

Small problems aside, it was still a lovable 2 episodes. 

Though there wasn't one like it again, the second season did have a bit of a story-arc as they gathered what they could to fight the Doomsday Machine.

 

Underground has 3-part episodes, though, that out-do all those.

The origins saga is a bit stronger in the beginning (literally) as it shows how they met each other and set out on their quest to find there mother. The first episode is strong, but the others are flat in comparison. Still, it takes the time to explain some things, like how Manic lacks his siblings quick attacks but has the more powerful instrument.   

The next is a trio of episodes featuring Knuckles, who has returned after his initial appearance. It has some bizarre twists, like Chaos-Dingo or whatever, but the addition of Knuckles makes it a better set, even if his voice isn't the best. 

It's always hilarious interesting to see Knuckles get tricked (gotta' feeling this at least partly--along with Sonic 3 obviously--influenced Sonic X). It's also nice to see them pair Sonia up with someone who isn't a rich jXXXXXX more her speed. Adding a character from the comics was a bit odd, but he's sort of like Knuckles' version of the Oracle and fits right in. 

Conclusion

Alone I think "Blast to the Past" might be better than one of these "sagas," but together it's defiantly a win for Underground. Combined with the funny-looking pilot, and Sat Am's at a disadvantage. 

This might have been from Underground's pilot (not that different than normal).

ShtH is Better than Heroes (Part 8)

 Part 8: The Main Character

Sonic Heroes was a game that highlighted the benefits of trusting one another and teamwork while the less clear-cut Shadow the Hedgehog explored the trust's good and bad consequences. 

While Heroes did a great job with balancing the amount of characters fit into the game, Sonic himself was mostly just another Team leader. Shadow the Hedgehog, as the title suggests, was more focused on Shadow despite the inclusion of many other characters. 

The story for Team Hero is pretty simple. The rapport between Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails is the main attraction, perhaps highlighted best during the actual stages. In the story, though, there's little difference to make Sonic's role stand out. 

This is the first time he's taken his role-model position to the next level, actually leading Tails and Knuckles. Unfortunately the shift seems to go unnoticed. 

There is a moment of interest where Sonic admits he might not have made it to the end without Tails and Knuckles, but it's quickly replaced with in the Last Story with cheesy comments about the powers of team work and being "Sonic Heroes!"    

The Last Story was a great opportunity to contrast Sonic with his Metal double. That can be done with voice acting, appearance, and even "What I'm Made Of." But it's just not apart of the script or story. 

In Shadow the Hedgehog any path taken is about character development. Now, this game doesn't get too much weight for this because most of it is not CANON. Even if it's not all "real," it was still an important step forward.

In Heroes, Shadow worked with Omega and Rouge to track Eggman. Then he even suggested helping Team Hero in the ending. However, the game left many unresolved questions and used amnesia as an excuse to avoid them.  

The first cutscene establishes some important changes since Sonic Heroes. Mainly that he remembers a variation of Maria's death, but also that now (alone/no purpose) he's haunted and needs answers. Suspiciously Black Doom shows up at this exact moment and tells Shadow to go get the Chaos Emeralds.  

Shadow starts as neutral as possible. He's not aligned with a any character yet, not even Black Doom ("like it or not I have to believe him"). The reason he calls the humans pathetic is because his promise to Maria is lost in his head, replaced with GUN soldiers shooting her. He has no obligation to them--or hatred for them, at the start.

The game takes some unique twists, but mainly Shadow is good, bad, or neutral. 

• In "good" cutscenes Shadow doesn't like to admit weakness or friendship, but he shows respect where it's due. 
• The "neutral" cutscenes range from complete confidence to total depression. 
• The "bad" ones reveal that while Shadow can be loyal, he can also be a dangerous rebel. Either way he runs on ambition and a desire for revenge. 

The true end reveals a Shadow that's tired of being manipulated and just wants to move on. So he says goodbye to who ever he used to be and decides to "Never Turn Back." 

In Shadow the Hedgehog the supporting cast was the supporting cast. That was it. Sonic Heroes could have been Vector Heroes or Rouge Heroes or Amy Heroes because the attention was so divided. If it were a spin-off, it'd probably fine. But, again, it's a main game. In fellow multi-story main games like Sonic Adventure, Sonic Adventure 2, or even Sonic 06, Sonic seemed to get the last moment to reveal something about his own character, like running off instead of taking credit, like saying goodbye to his than-dead rival, or even carefully watching a hint of a another life drift away.  

More centric, Shadow the Hedgehog was about Shadow. It showed sides to the character never seen before and sometimes never seen again, all while aiming to reestablish Shadow's role.      

Sonic Advance 2 Review

Summary

Hello Cream and Cheese. 

Characters and Gameplay

Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Cream are each playable characters. There's a bit more of a story to this one, as Eggman has kidnapped Sonic's friends (and Cream's mother, Vanilla). Sonic frees the characters as he goes (Amy is unlocking after beating the game with the characters and emeralds). While there's a bit more to it than Sonic Advance, it's still fairly simplistic. 

Like with the previous title the game makes use of the differences between characters. Notably polite little Cream uses Cheese to attack, showing the newcomer's docile stance. The sprites' designs are cute and expressive. 

Simple controls reflect the spirit of the classic games. 

Level Design and Music

Music Plant is a personal favorite in both design and sound. Ice Paradise seems just like winter. As with the previous title, in general the music is nice but not of the same quality/not as memorable. 

The levels are a bit more unique. Music Plant obviously incorporates instruments. Hot Crater incorporates some different industrial themes, and the Techno Base is colorful. However there are still familiar themes with the hill-like Leaf Forest and the lit-up Ice Paradise. Generally the levels are better or equal to those in Sonic Advance. 

Sky Canyon--while attempting to create a unique location, is terrible--especially as Sonic. I consider bottomless pits a big no-no in 2-D gameplay, and Sky Canyon has far too many for only being the 5th zone.

Final Thoughts

• Cream and Cheese are adorable, and this her best gameplay style. 
• The bosses are too difficult, especially as Sonic. Sonic's the starter character--it should be easiest for him (it's easiest for Cream, but that's of little help when Sonic is the one to save everyone). 
• This is most frustrating since they are a part of the level, rather then separate. Dying after one of these bosses means the entire stage--both sections--must be completed again. 
• And the game only gives 2 lives, rather than the standard 3. 
• Getting the Chaos Emeralds, again, way too difficult. If this were an easy game, collecting special rings to access the Special Stage may be possible. But it's not. And collecting all those rings is only a chance at getting the emerald, not a guarantee. 
• And this has to be done over and over for all 7 and (to unlock things) for all characters?! That's crazy. 
• Looks like I won't be seeing the real ending anytime soon...
• Despite the challenges it's still ideal for a classic fans (and/or those with a Gameboy/DS, of course). 

Final Ranking: B

I think it's an improvement over Sonic Advance and a worthy sequel. Unfortunately it's not much more.  

Adding Cream was a clever way to spice up the simple story and give the character a bit of a backstory for up-coming games. Still, there are irritating portions in design that disrupt its appeal. As cute as the game is, some may lose interest.

Sonic Battle Review

Summary

Underrated and too easily forgotten. 

 

Plot and Characters

Battle is a great example of combining an easy-going, comedic atmosphere and one that's more thoughtful and concerning. 

Sonic's story is a lead-in, and as a whole not too involved plot-wise, but it sets up the basics and transitions the player into learning how to play. It's important, looking back, for both initially establishing Emerl as a "worthless" robot and creating a link (pun!) between Sonic and Emerl. 

Honestly, Tails and Rouge's stories were rather lame and the characters were probably better outside of their stories (as support) rather than as main characters. Meanwhile Knuckles and Amy each had a funny element to theirs and it kept the story moving while developing Emerl. 

The lengths that Cream and Emerl are willing to go to for each other in Cream's story is sweet. Also on the deeper side, Shadow's story debates "weapons" and purpose. The most emotional of the 8, Emerl's story shows how far the robot has come, the relationships he has formed, and the impact he leaves behind. 

Overall this is one of the best handheld plots, if not one of the best in general. 

Gameplay and Controls

Since this was released on the Gameboy, the controls should be simple. However, there are many combinations, even with only mainly A, B, and the D-pad. Though a new player should have plenty of opportunities to master this combination (as with any fighting-type game) it can be overwhelming.  

It plays out much better than other methods (such as those seen in Sonic Chronicles) though it can easily lead to frustration. Since every level is virtually the same, it can also lead to annoyance and/or boredom. 

While it's a fair fighting game, it's a fighting game, making this more of a spin-off in gameplay. 

Music and Sound Effects

The music is not as good quality and can get annoying. Seems kind of loud/harsh in some cases, but it can still be enjoyable. For example, I like the Battle elements mixed with Green Hill (for Green Hill). Fairly good tempo, which is important since every level is a fight, but some of the lower quality/high pitched parts can get irritating.  

Though they were limited to select phrases, the voice cast did an exceptional job. Everyone sounds in character and has the right energy, making lines like "Time to Party!" "Stone Fists!" and "Didn't even break a sweat!" memorable. 

The effects for the moves were unique and work fine except for the annoying beeping with one of Gamma's moves. 

Visuals and Design

The "Sonic Advance" type of sprites have actually aged well. It may have been more primitive, but it looks a lot better than other 3D sprites. The amount of variety in how the attacks are portrayed (as well as the variety in attacks) is admirable. 

The character/cutscene art is accurate, but some characters like Rouge only have 2 different expressions while others have more like 4. The maps are colorful, though it is a bit off (would Angel Island really be so close to Central City, etc). I think the "Club Rouge" idea was interesting. 

The locations during the battles, however, leave much to be desired. Rather lame, most have rectangles or squares that get in the way. Ultimately the background can be a nuisance. 

Final Thoughts

• Using the cheat codes and getting Emerl's special moves are very important because the final boss is very hard. 
• Tails' stupid virtual training is insane. 
• There is a TERRIBLE challenge Rouge gives Emerl, which is torture and/or impossible without any good special moves. 
• It's annoying when the cutscene makes it seem like you're about to fight 1 enemy but somehow you're fighting 3.  
• Editing/collecting skills with Emerl was kinda' like a precursor to the Avatar (Forces).  
• The Gerald's journals were a fascinating addition. 
• There has been confusion over when this game is set, and I think after Shadow the Hedgehog makes the most sense. 
• In Japan it was released before Heroes, but Shadow's reappearance as well as allusions to Team Dark imply it was after that game. 
• In America it was released after Heroes. 
• However, Shadow is not suffering from Amnesia as he was in Sonic Heroes-Shadow the Hedgehog, further implying the game is set sometime after the Black Arms invasion, but before the events of Sonic Advance 3 and than assumingly before Sonic Rush-forward. 
• The Sonic Battle Arc of Sonic X was important for Cream and strengthened her character. However, it's a much looser adaptation than the adventure sagas, and I wish that was more well-known.

Ranking (S is best, E is worst): B

This game has a touching story and some notable character development. However, it also suffers poorer quality elements and tedious difficulty levels. Among portable and main games alike, it does not fit in as well because of its different gameplay.

While the the characters and plot is certainly A-rank (maybe S-Rank) worthy, the rest of it tilts more average, resulting in a modest B. 

BLACK KNIGHT