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Preview: Sonic Superstars hands Blue Blur a hot streak
Sonic Superstars is fun to play, and that’s something this writer rarely – if ever – associates with the SEGA series. Two actions playable on Summer Game Fest Play Days revealed a fun return to the side-scrolling days after 2022’s well-loved 3D entry Sonic Frontiers, proving that the blue blur has got something to do, even if it’s moving fast.
However, if you’re looking for an in-depth analysis of how Sonic’s latest 2D effort stacks up against the likes of Sonic Mania, we recommend looking elsewhere. There’s no deep-dive comparison, as this writer has little in the way of meaningful experience with the franchise. When an email about an unannounced Sonic the Hedgehog game lands in your inbox, though, you should take a chance.
As Geoff Keighley’s confirmation trailer revealed in his Summer Game Fest livestream, we’re heading back into the 2D space after Sonic’s best 3D game in years, however, our findings don’t suggest that it’s in quality. indicates decline. Far from it. Featuring completely new levels, it’s a spin on the SEGA Mega Drive classics that meets the need for speed, detailed level design, fun mechanics, and new features. The roughly 15-minute demo featured the first two acts of the PS5, PS4 title, with four playable characters to choose from: Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Amy. All come with their own unique skills, providing a reason to return after completing a level.
What unites the four famous faces is Emerald Powers, a brand new mechanic that allows you to interact with the environment in different ways. The first two levels allow you to swim up waterfalls to reach new areas when you find power-ups, and later missions are said to let you change form and multiply. Finding an ability gives you one chance to use its power, and then refill it at star posts. Although the first two missions didn’t have an abundance of fountains, the limited use of Emerald Powers makes it even more important to use them successfully, with various collectibles throughout. It feels like the perfect way to expand on the 2D Sonic the Hedgehog formula — at least when viewed from a distance.
On top of Emerald Powers, mini-games can be accessed through portals scattered throughout each level. To reward a collection of one of a kind, you’ll need to chase Chaos Emeralds and work your way through the spinning maze. They’re nothing challenging, but it’s still a fun distraction from the fast-paced nature of the main levels. We weren’t able to figure out if the rewards outweighed anything else to collect, so don’t rule out another use for them in the main game.
With new additions on top of the classic Sonic the Hedgehog mantra, it’s got the kind of go fast gameplay that longtime fans have come to appreciate. All four characters feel good in control, both on the ground and in the air. Then the platforming is satisfying, with ramps and boosts that make you wonder where you can go. Nothing revolutionary, of course, but when the quality of a Sonic title fluctuates so randomly from one installment to the next, some home comforts can sometimes suffice. With long levels — or at least the first two are — and great set pieces to complement them, Sonic Superstars has the right foot forward. 2D fans should sleep well as Sonic Team’s next effort seems to be on the right track.
Sonic Champions launches later this year for PS5 and PS4. Are you excited about Blue Blur’s next 2D game? Let us know in the comments below.
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