Sonic the Hedgehog has been one of the most popular video game mascots since his debut in 1991. Today, I'm going to be reviewing his newest game...Sonic the Hedgehog 4 Episode 2, which won't be released until May 15. What's that? How did I play and beat it early? Glad you asked...simple, really. Beta 8. For those unaware, Beta 8 was an accidental early release of the game that happened a couple of weeks ago. I was able to snag one of them. Now, I need to warn you that I AM reviewing a beta, so a few things may be different in the final release. But it is a complete and working build, and I don't believe they changed too much. Regardless, today I am reviewing Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2.
Now, a little background...as always. In 2010 Sega announced Sonic the Hedgehog 4, the long awaited direct sequel to Sonic 3 & Knuckles. It was said to be a episodic release, with about four episodes. In 2010 Episode 1 was finally released to ENORMOUS...mediocre response. There was a long list of problems that people had with the release, and Sega listened and improved. Two years later Sega has finally released Episode 2 (Or, will...), and Sega has claimed to address almost every issue.
Now, one more thing to keep in mind is my own thoughts on Sonic. I love Sonic, and have loved him ever since playing the original Sonic the Hedgehog on Genesis back in '97. My favorite game is Sonic 3 & Knuckles, by the way. Anyways, I consider myself a classic fan, but I do appreciate the modern games for what they are. So, when Sonic 4 was released I was HYPED! I downloaded it on...Wiiware...the day it came out! I played it that night and...I loved it. Absolutely loved it! I knew it was short, I knew it recycled old designs, and I loved it! Yes, the physics were a little odd, but it wasn't a deal breaker for me. I would have given it a solid 8. I couldn't wait until Episode 2 came out! And now...I've played it. So we can FINALLY break it down right.
Let us talk story...this will be quick. Robotnik is back yet again, and he has rebuilt Metal Sonic! Sonic has to stop him! Ok, to be fair this IS supposed to be basically an old school platformer, so there is a good reason why there isn't much story. But still, is there any major twists? ...not really. The only true twist is the final couple of stages, and even then it doesn't do much story wise. However, I will give the story points for having Episode Metal, which will help expand the story a bit. 7/10
Now usually I'd talk about writing and delivery...but there really isn't any. So instead we move onto presentation! The presentation is MUCH improved over Episode 1 in almost every way! The graphics and models are top of the line, and the animations are actual animations! The music is the same as Episode 1, but that doesn't bother me since I LIKED Episode 1's music. The stage layout is very VERY good, and include some nice diversions. Little animations and things in the background also help cement the fact that this is improved from Episode 1. Nice game to look at. 9/10
And how about gameplay? Well, the physics are a LOT better than Episode one, but I don't think it's EXACTLY like the Genesis game's physics. Also, this game is HARD. Not too hard, and very rarely does it seem unfair, but it IS hard. In particular the Sonic 2-like Special Stages. (Note: I always hated the Sonic 2 special stages...) But difficulty aside, the game handles nicely. The biggest new addition is Tails, and the special moves. They take a couple minutes to get down, but once you do it will feel like second nature, and really does add to the experience. There is also a lot more diversity in the levels, with a couple of levels almost completely shaking the formula with a race, a plane level, and more. Now, as a personal disappointment, I will say that there was a surprising number of water levels. That's...unsettling for me. But they actually work pretty good. Also, the bosses are a lot of fun, and challenging. The only boss that is truly recycled is Metal Sonic...but that is GREAT! Seriously, I'm glad that he is! 9.5/10
But what about bonus things and such that add to the experience and replay value? Eh...there are some. There is a red ring in each stage that is TORTURE to try to obtain...usually. Seriously, my first time through I collected one! Also, there is time trials and leaderboards... but we all no somebody is going to cheat and destroy the leader boards. There is a co-op mode that I couldn't try out, but it seems excellent. Of course you have the chaos emeralds to collect, and the levels have enough diverse paths that you'll be playing through them at least a few more times. But the big thing here is Episode Metal, the "lock-on" technology bonus for owning both episodes. Playing as Metal Sonic through Episode 1? Sold! However, the game is incredibly short, and there isn't that many bonus things to do. Of course, it IS an episode of a larger game, so can you really expect that much? 7.5/10
So, my final thoughts...improved. Much improved over Episode 1. Sega is really trying to give the fans what they want. This game is a blast to play, and has a good challenge as well. All I can really say is that Sonic has done it again and that I am hoping that Episode 3 comes sooner than later. In the words of everyone's favorite blue hedgehog..."Way past cool!"
Word of Warning: ...there really is nothing. You could argue mild violence, but it's a hedgehog blowing up robots to rescue animals. That's the worst it gets. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
Final Verdict: 9/10
I am The R2 Dude, and this is The R2 View!
