When it comes to the Sonic franchise, opinions can be divisive. While many fans hold a deep nostalgia for the blue hedgehog’s earlier titles, some of the more recent games have also made a significant impact. Here are some of the best modern Sonic games that fans can enjoy today.
Sonic Mania (2017)
Sonic Mania is a love letter to the classic Sonic games that fans know and love. Developed by fans turned professionals, the game pays homage to the original games with classic level designs and gameplay, while also introducing new and exciting mechanics. The result is a game that stands on its own while still remaining faithful to the franchise’s roots.
Sonic Generations (2011)
Sonic Generations brings together classic and modern Sonic in an adventure that spans both timelines. The game offers a mix of classic and modern gameplay styles, allowing fans to experience the best of both worlds. The 2D levels capture the nostalgia of the early Sonic games, while the 3D levels showcase the speed and thrill of modern Sonic.
Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed (2012)
While not a traditional Sonic game, Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed offers a fun and engaging racing experience. Players can choose from a variety of characters from the Sonic universe, as well as other Sega franchises, and race through a variety of tracks inspired by iconic Sega games. The game’s transforming vehicles add an extra layer of excitement to the already exhilarating races.
Sonic Colors (2010)
Sonic Colors takes place in a theme park built by the villainous Dr. Eggman. The game features bright, colorful visuals and exciting level design that encourages players to explore and collect items. The addition of Wisps, alien creatures that Sonic can use to gain new abilities, adds a fun and unique twist to the gameplay.
Sonic Lost World (2013)
Sonic Lost World offers a unique take on the Sonic formula, with gameplay that emphasizes exploration and platforming. The game features a variety of new and returning villains, and Sonic can use a new parkour system to navigate through the levels. While the game received mixed reviews upon its release, it’s worth a second look for fans of the franchise who are looking for something different.
Sonic Frontiers (2022)
Sonic fans rejoice! The blue blur is back with a new adventure in Sonic Frontiers, the latest platform game developed by Sonic Team and published by Sega. Released on November 8, 2022, Sonic Frontiers takes the series in a new direction by introducing an open-world design that allows players to explore the Starfall Islands, collecting Chaos Emeralds along the way.
As Sonic, players must navigate through challenges, battle robotic enemies, and access “Cyber Space” levels inspired by previous Sonic games. The game integrates traditional Sonic elements like rings, platforming, and grind rails, into the series’ first open world.
Sonic Team, the developer behind the game, began exploring approaches for its next game after the release of Sonic Forces in 2017. The team wanted to create a model for future titles, similar to Sonic Adventure in 1998. Sonic Team settled on an open-world design and focused on adapting Sonic’s abilities to fit this new format.
Sonic Frontiers was announced in December 2021 and was released for multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. The game received mixed reviews from critics, with praise given to the visuals, story, and soundtrack, while some critics criticized technical issues and the game’s controls and combat system. Fans of the series, however, received the game more favorably.
Despite mixed reviews, Sonic Frontiers proved to be a commercial success, selling 3.2 million copies by March 2023. Sonic fans can look forward to more adventures with Sonic and his friends in future games, as Sonic Team continues to explore new ways to keep the series fresh and exciting.
Conclusion
These modern Sonic games offer a range of gameplay styles and experiences for fans of the franchise. Whether you’re looking for a classic Sonic experience or something new and exciting, these games are sure to provide hours of fun and entertainment.