Its been 16 long years and Sega has taken it's sweet ol' time with Sonic 4

User Rating: 8.5 | Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I PS3
By M-Yu | Review Date:
Back in the 90s, Sonic the Hedgehog sped his way to the hearts and TVs of gamers everywhere. I remember back when i was a kid i would go to the basement and play Sonic 2, 3 and Sonic & Knuckles non-stop. He was a worthy rival to Mario. But these days, Sonic has been wallowing in mediocrity, while there were some gems during the turn of the century (Sonic Adventure, Sonic Advance) but fans, like myself craved, salivated and prayed for an old-school Sonic game. But now in 2010, our prayers have finally been answered. Sonic the Hedgehog 4, the first TRUE sequel to Sonic & Knuckles, is finally here and Sonic Team and Dimps (co-developers of Street Fighter IV) have a lot to prove to everyone that this will live up to die-hard Sonic fans' standards.

Fear not, Sega got this one right. :)

First off, let me say, it's about time this game was made. Sonic 4 drops all of the excess baggage that has been accumulated over the years (unnecessary characters, 3D plane, etc.) and goes back to basics (a la Street Fighter IV). The game takes place on a 2D plane and the gameplay is classic Sonic. He speeds through levels, collects rings and jumps on enemies. Sonic Team added the homing attack from the current crop of Sonic titles and it's a cool addition to the 2D format. It takes some getting used to. But once you nail it. Its very fun.

The story takes place after the events of Sonic & Knuckles, Sonic takes a break from saving the world with Tails and Knuckles and goes off on his own to discover new territories, little does he know, Dr. Eggman is up to no good and has begun reworking his past inventions to stop the speedy blue furrball dead in his tracks.

The boss fights are pretty easy for the most part and are reminiscent of the original Sonic title, save for the last boss fight, which is pretty tough and will test your skills. It frustrated me for a while

The levels are nostalgic which pay homage to the Sonic 1, 2 and 3. The visuals are awesome, Back when Sonic graced the screens of gamers. The visuals were bright and pop off the screen. They still do, even today. But this time in sweet, sweet HD and the framerate is like butter. No stutter at all. Sonic Team wanted to feel like your going fast and they nailed the framerate. It's very smooth

The secret levels are back and on PS3 and Wii. They use motion controls which can be used or you can stick to the d-pad or analog stick.
There's also an online component which can you upload your scores and times to leaderboards.

Now, i do have some gripes. Its too short, The levels are split into 4 acts (3 acts and a boss level) and there are four levels. It's longer but Sonic 1 and it can be done in a few days. There is no co-op a la Sonic 2 & 3. But it'll be a smart addition in Episode 2.

All in all, Sonic 4: Episode 1 is a big step in the right direction for the series. It implements new features AND celebrates it's heritage the same way Street Fighter IV did back last year. Despite minor shortcomings, Sonic 4: Episode 1 is the best Sonic game in a long, long time.

Mario better watch his back. cause Sonic is in his rearview and gaining momentum.

Good to (finally) have you back, Sonic.











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