We’ve seen a lot of Sonic the Hedgehog games come out over the past few years. Some have been incredibly memorable – including today’s release of Sonic Mania – while others…ehhh, not so much. We’re talking about losers like Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) and Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric, amongst a few other duds.
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But for the most part, the blue speedster has remained a class act over the years, whether it was running around his own adventures or guest starring in games like Super Smash Bros. So, with Sonic Mania making the rounds today, we decided to look back upon Sonic’s greatest adventures and count them down here.
Now, this is based on my opinion, so yours may vary. (Some of you still swear that Sonic Adventure 2 is the greatest thing since sliced bread.) But these games will definitely remind you of why Sonic is who he is, and why we love him so much. Let’s get to blast processing!
Honorable Mentions
Sonic Adventure- It had some problems with its camera, and the stage design wasn’t always stellar, but there was something goofy and enjoyable about Sonic’s Dreamcast debut.
Sonic Colors- a highly original – and good fun – platforming adventure that became one of the Wii’s most noteworthy titles. Hey, it was better than Sonic and the Black Knight, for sure.
Sonic Rush- Nintendo’s debut on the Nintendo DS was nothing short of spectacular, thanks to intuitive level design and colorful visuals. The music was pretty great, too. Way to go, Dimps!
Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood- It was a bit weird seeing BioWare work on a Sonic role-playing game of all things, but they actually pull it off pretty nicely.
7. Sonic CD
Sonic CD is easily one of the best sleeper hits in the legacy of the hedgehog. The reason for that is the original game didn’t get much exposure, only being released on the Sega CD for several years – and with an Americanized soundtrack that shut out the original tunes. It was still great, though – and its legacy eventually paved the way for a return, with Christian Whitehead handling the conversion like a pro. As a result,, Sonic CD saw a powerful resurgence, becoming a favorite on mobile, PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, and still being enjoyed today. Its 3D bonus stages, elaborate time-travel gimmick, stunning stage design and fun soundtrack (the original) still make it one of Sonic’s best adventures. We’re so glad it’s back.
6. Sonic the Hedgehog
Of course, we have to give the original game its due. After all, it was with this 1991 adventure that Sonic hit the ground running – literally – as he challenged Dr. Robotnik and his many robotic adversaries. Though simpler in design compared to other games in the series, the first Sonic the Hedgehog is still a magical delight, a reminder of easier times in gaming, when it was all about running through a stage, discovering its many secrets, and having a blast finally collecting all the Chaos Emeralds in the fun rotating stages. The best version of this game to get right now is on the 3DS, as you can play it in glorious 3D. And, yes, it looks great in that medium.
5. Sonic Generations
Most of Sonic‘s games in this past generation were about average, at best, but one game that tremendously stood out was Sonic Generations, blissfully blending old-school and new-school into an innovative, fast-paced adventure. Featuring classic levels and fresh designs aplenty, Generations catered to fans by including “old” and “new” Sonic at your fingertips. Plus, on top of that, the soundtrack is a lot of fun to listen to. We may be fully invested in Mania right now, but we dare not forget the glory of Generations. Heck, Sonic Forces is being built upon a similar model – that’s how good it is.
4. Sonic the Hedgehog 2
During an era in which Sega knew how to make sequels the right way (like Streets of Rage 2 and World of Illusion With Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck), along came Sonic the Hedgehog 2 – and what a return it was. This sequel truly delivers the wow factor at every turn, from its innovative level design (even better than the first game) to its two-player competitive mode (even with a scrunched screen). And what’s more, Metal Sonic makes for a terrific adversary, even more dangerous than anything else Dr. Robotnik can cook up. If you’re into Genesis classics, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is a must-have.
3. Sonic Mania
It may seem like a cop-out to include Sonic Mania on the greatest Sonic games list, just a day after we reviewed it. But what a game it is. Christian Whitehead, alongside the team at Armcannon, channels old-school Sonic beautifully in this game, and it shows in every step of its design, from the classic competitive mode making a return to the debut of the “+ Knuckles mode” to the wonderfully balanced soundtrack to the wild boss battles. The only question is how Sonic Forces will fare in the face of such a beautiful, retro-fied title.
2. Sonic & All Stars Racing Transformed
When people ask me what my favorite kart racing game is, I usually utter something like Mario Kart. However, I’m not ashamed to mention this Sonic + Sega All Stars Racing sequel in the same breath. Sumo Digital did a wonderful job with this game, throwing in all sorts of Sega fan service (Panzer Dragoon! Jet Set Radio!) and introducing a cavalcade of racing superstars to get behind the wheel with. Plus, the multiplayer options are nothing short of amazing, whether you prefer local face-offs or going online. I do wish Ristar was a playable character, but, hey, we may get that for a third racing game yet.
1. Sonic the Hedgehog 3/Knuckles
Okay, this may be unpopular opinion, but take a look at Sonic games over the past few years and ask yourself – really ask yourself – “What game made me truly proud of the Sonic saga?” To me, it’s all about Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Everything about this game truly rocketed past previously released games, including incredible stage set-ups, a cool soundtrack (put together with help by Michael Jackson, of all people), and a strong challenge that keeps you coming back for more. Gotta love the power-ups, too, especially the lightning shield that scores you extra coins.
For good measure, a shout-out to Sonic + Knuckles. It’s not only a fun adventure in itself, but its “lock-on” technology actually injected some fresh life into older Sonic games. We could use more games like that these days.
What are your favorite Sonic games?
