The new Sonic game is amazing and is everything we hoped for, but it struggles on the PlayStation 5 fidelity mode.
When Sonic x Shadow Generations was announced for the PlayStation 5, fans of the blue hedgehog hoped it would mark a return to form after a mixed series of releases. Over the past few years, Sonic games have been inconsistent, with titles like Sonic Forces and Sonic Colors Ultimate receiving lukewarm receptions. These entries had bright spots, but technical issues and lackluster design choices left long-time fans wanting more. Given this, many were curious whether Sonic x Shadow Generations would be able to redeem the series’ modern reputation while honoring its storied past.
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To the relief of Sonic enthusiasts, Sonic x Shadow Generations largely delivers, bringing a blend of classic levels, fast-paced 3D platforming, and modern enhancements. It doesn’t just feel like another HD remake but rather an evolution of the franchise. Sonic’s gameplay blends nostalgia with smoother mechanics, while the addition of Shadow’s new campaign feels fresh and exciting. Though it’s not without its technical hiccups, Sonic x Shadow Generations takes bold steps forward, speeding in the right direction with fresh ideas and enough fan service to keep players invested.
What’s New in Sonic x Shadow Generations?
At first glance, Sonic x Shadow Generations might look like just another remaster of the 2011 classic Sonic Generations, but it offers much more than that. Yes, it does bring the original game’s HD makeover into sharper focus with 4K visuals and improved frame rates. However, the inclusion of Shadow Generations, a brand-new campaign featuring Shadow the Hedgehog, truly sets it apart. Shadow’s campaign expands the familiar formula, adding a 3D hub world similar to Sonic Frontiers, and introduces new mechanics like Shadow’s “Doom Powers,” which allow for diverse traversal options.
A Tale of Two Hedgehogs
While both Sonic and Shadow have their respective storylines, it’s Shadow’s narrative that truly shines. The campaign kicks off with an epic anime-style opening, Dark Beginnings, which delves deep into Shadow’s tragic past, particularly his relationship with Maria Robotnik. This emotional core gives Shadow’s story a much darker tone compared to Sonic’s fast-paced, action-packed journey. The game successfully draws players in, making you feel invested in Shadow’s fate as he navigates through iconic locations like the ARK and Kingdom Valley.
Sonic’s story, while not as emotionally charged, is still filled with nostalgia. His sections are packed with revamped versions of classic zones like Green Hill, Chemical Plant, and Sky Sanctuary. The game masterfully blends 2D and 3D gameplay, giving players a perfect mix of platforming and blistering speed. Revisiting these iconic levels, accompanied by remastered versions of their original soundtracks, evokes pure nostalgia, making fans of the classic games misty-eyed with memories.
The Sound of Speed
The Sonic x Shadow Generations soundtrack is another highlight. Sonic’s levels stick to a nostalgic vibe, with remastered tracks that perfectly capture the essence of his past adventures. However, the moment you switch to Shadow, the soundtrack takes a heavier turn, embracing a more epic, hard-hitting sound. With artists like Julien-K, Crush 40, and Douglas Robb from Hoobastank, Shadow’s stages pulse with intensity and energy, perfectly matching his darker, edgier tone.
Gameplay: Speed and Strategy
The core gameplay has been polished to modern standards. Sonic’s classic gameplay returns with smooth transitions between 2D platforming and 3D high-speed sections. The revamped world layout now includes plenty of collectibles, challenges, and secrets to uncover, providing players with hours of replayability. Shadow’s levels, on the other hand, add more strategic elements, allowing players to experiment with his unique powers like Chaos Control and Doom Blast. The varied playstyles make switching between Sonic and Shadow feel refreshing.
Technical Hiccups
Unfortunately, Sonic x Shadow Generations is not without its flaws. While the game generally runs smoothly, I did encounter some issues that affected my experience. In fidelity mode, I experienced noticeable input lag that made precision platforming a challenge, particularly in a game where split-second reactions are critical. Frame rate drops, while minor, were also evident, especially during high-speed sections.
Switching to performance mode at 120Hz significantly reduced these issues, with the input lag becoming less of a problem and the frame drops barely noticeable. However, it’s disappointing that a game focused on speed would struggle to maintain smooth performance on PlayStation 5.
Verdict: A Sonic Adventure to
Despite these technical setbacks, Sonic x Shadow Generations is a must-play for longtime Sonic fans. The combination of revamped classic levels, Shadow’s compelling story, and modernized gameplay keeps things fresh, while the soundtrack is sure to have fans rocking out. The abundance of collectibles and challenges means there’s plenty of replayability, making this a solid addition to any platformer fan’s library.
Is it better than Astro Bot? That’s a tough call. While Sonic x Shadow Generations nails the nostalgia factor and offers engaging gameplay, the technical issues hold it back from being a flawless experience. Still, it’s a fantastic entry in the Sonic series and a reminder of why these characters have remained fan favorites for decades.
Editor’s Note: We received a free promotional copy of Sonic x Shadow Generations from SEGA for the purposes of this review.