Daniel AgiusI think it’s fair to say that the blue blur, Sonic the Hedgehog, played a monumental role in shaping the childhood of almost every gamer from the 1990s. From his lightning-fast speed to his catchy tunes and vibrant levels, Sonic captured our imaginations and left an indelible mark on gaming history. Sega, recognising the enduring love for their iconic mascot, continues to release new Sonic games. The most recent addition being Sonic Frontiers, an open-world adventure that redefined our perception of the blue hedgehog. However, amidst all the excitement for the future, some of us long to revisit Sonic’s heyday and relive the magic of his classic adventures. Enter Sonic Origins Plus, the game that not only satiates our nostalgia but also exceeds our expectations in every way.
From the moment I heard about Sonic Origins Plus, I couldn’t contain my excitement. It thrilled me to no end that I could now share my thoughts on this long-awaited collection with fellow fans. You might be wondering why you should rush to your local game shop to pick up yet another Sonic Origins title. Well, the answer is simple: this collection goes above and beyond any previous Sonic compilation. Not only does it include the timeless classics like Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, and Sonic and Knuckles, but it also fulfils the dreams of fans worldwide by finally incorporating the cherished Sega Game Gear collection of Sonic games.
This inclusion alone is a game-changer. For those who may not understand the significance, the Sega Game Gear was Sega’s answer to Nintendo’s Game Boy. It allowed fans to experience Sonic on a portable device, and now, with Sonic Origins Plus, we can play these nostalgic handheld versions of the first two Sonic games, Sonic Chaos, Sonic Drift 2, and more. This addition brings the total number of games in the collection to an impressive 16, making it an irresistible package for lifelong fans of the blue blur.
The excitement doesn’t stop there though as Sonic Origins Plus expands the collection beyond the traditional multidirectional scrolling platforming action that defined Sonic’s early adventures. In addition to the mainline titles, we are treated to a diverse range of games that offer a variety of genres and gameplay experiences. Sonic Blast brings the exhilaration of fast-paced platforming, while Sonic Drift puts you behind the wheel in a thrilling racing game. Sonic Spinball takes us on a pinball-inspired adventure, Sonic Labyrinth challenges us with puzzle-solving elements, and Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine delivers addictive puzzle action. These additions breathe new life into the collection and showcase Sega’s commitment to providing a well-rounded experience for Sonic enthusiasts.
One of the aspects I love most about Sonic Origins Plus is the inclusion of new playable characters. In addition to Sonic, we can now step into the shoes of Tails, Knuckles, and Amy in the first three Sonic games. Although the gameplay remains largely the same, there’s an undeniable charm in experiencing these beloved adventures from a fresh perspective. It’s a testament to Sega’s dedication to giving fans more opportunities to connect with their favourite characters. However, I can’t help but wish that Big the Cat had also made an appearance, as his unique play style would have added an extra layer of fun to the collection.
Unsurprisingly, Sonic Origins Plus is a perfect indulgence for those seeking a glorious boost of nostalgia. The collection offers two distinct game modes: classic and anniversary. The classic mode faithfully preserves the challenge and aesthetic of the original games, providing an experience that transports us back to our gaming roots. On the other hand, the anniversary mode offers a modern twist by optimizing the games for full-screen display and granting infinite lives. This mode is a blessing for those who may have struggled with the unforgiving difficulty of some of the classic titles or simply prefer a more relaxed playthrough. It’s evident that the developers have listened to the feedback of the fanbase and gone the extra mile to ensure an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.
Speaking of the experience, the performance of Sonic Origins Plus is nothing short of fantastic. As I dived into each game, I was met with flawlessly executed gameplay, stunning visuals that pay homage to the original art style, and a delightful soundtrack that transports me back to my childhood. The pixelated graphics and vibrant colours evoke a sense of joy and wonder, reminding us of the pure excitement we felt when first playing these games. It’s a testament to the timeless quality of Sonic’s adventures, and the care and attention to detail that Sega has poured into this collection.
Moreover, Sonic Origins Plus offers a seamless experience in both docked and handheld modes, allowing us to enjoy the games wherever we go. Whether I’m playing on the big screen or taking Sonic on an adventure during my daily commute, the gameplay remains smooth and immersive. This versatility ensures that Sonic Origins Plus delivers the same level of enjoyment, regardless of how you choose to experience it.
To further enhance the replay value, Sonic Origins Plus introduces missions that add an additional layer of challenge to the games. These missions offer new objectives and tasks to complete as you progress through the various levels. Overcoming these challenges rewards you with coins that can be used in the museum, a treasure trove of unlockable content. From concept art and character models to developer interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, the museum offers a wealth of bonus material that enriches the overall experience. Sonic Origins Plus truly is the gift that keeps on giving, providing not only the cherished memories of our gaming past but also a plethora of extras that deepen our appreciation for the franchise.
In conclusion, Sonic Origins Plus is an exceptional love letter to fans of the blue blur, both old and new. It captures the essence of what made Sonic so beloved in the first place, combining tight controls, addictive gameplay, and a charming aesthetic. The inclusion of the Sega Game Gear collection, the expansion into different game genres, and the ability to play as additional characters only add to the richness and variety of the collection. This is a perfect balance between nostalgia and modern convenience, providing classic and anniversary game modes to suit different playstyles. Whether you’re a long-time fan seeking a trip down memory lane or a newcomer eager to discover the magic of Sonic’s early adventures, this collection is an absolute must-have. I wholeheartedly encourage you to embark on this nostalgic journey and experience the joy of Sonic Origins Plus for yourself.
This review utilised a Nintendo Switch key provided by Five Star Games. Sonic Origins Plus is out now on PlayStation, Xbox, Steam, Epic Games Store, and Nintendo Switch.
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Chris Inglis
Yonan