Sonic returns for Rush Adventure, an adventure that proves hard not to rush to the finish! But it's still a treat.
Finally - you reach the first island, and get back to true Sonic action - side scrolling, running, jumping and rushing. The same formula seen in the first Rush returns, with some tweaks to the gameplay, but it doesn't need to be fixed, it was never broken - what you will play with each act, is Sonic perfection. The only problem I can see some people having is the delay between each Island - having to upgrade to new crafts etc... Luckily once any level is started, it can be replayed by the main menu (pressing Y).
There aren't many levels and it is particulary sad to see Blaze (although she at least returns) doesn't get her own version of levels. I won't spoil the storyline for you but this time her and Sonic share the same reality. (Whereas in Sonic Rush they played in separate realities that mirrored the other, but showed subtle differences, particulary in boss battles).
Even the music doesn't have that difference, and overall seems a lazy effort compared to Rush - although some tunes are very good, there is nothing nearly as memorable.
The Boss battles of the game is where it shines, although they may seem easy on your first play through (I will explain a bit later). These bad boys are BIG and strong! They're also some of the most imaginative bosses I have seen in any Sonic game. One boss will need you to dodge a giant Mechanical Whale's chomping bites, but then go inside the machine's stomach and find your way to it's weakpoint. They can be easily beaten, although the last boss will give you a hard time. But new challenges can be unlocked in the form of Missions.
There are 100 missions in the game, and each boss reappears for a second and tougher battle. These missions unlock extras in the game, and are for collecting Blaze's Sol Emeralds. Some missions will have you race across a particular level in search of a hidden medal, or reach the goal within a time limit, or perform a certain amount of tricks - overall they're very varied and a favourable method of unlocking hidden extras, than say, backtracking over the ocean in search, which I was expecting.
Once all Chaos and Sol Emeralds have been found, expect some 'Super' fun, you can usually rely on to be in every Sonic title. I found Sonic Rush Adventure to be a fun experience and I've been wanting it since I finished the original - but is it rewarding? Yes and no, while there are 100 missions, upgradable ships, hidden islands, and Wi-Fi, the replayability for any Sonic game, comes down to the main acts of the game, which lack any of the creativity or challenge the first Rush showed. But it still makes a good game, with imaginative bosses and loads more content.
Definately worth a look - and if you're a Sonic Rush fan, even though you might be slightly dissapointed, you should own this anyway - if not already!