Sonic Superstars is a new side-scrolling game that takes players back to the early days of the Sonic franchise. Developed by Sega, it is the first side-scroller with involvement from the original Sonic Team since 1994. While the game has received praise for its fresh look and authentic soundtrack, reviewers have noted that it struggles to reinvent the formula and falls short in some areas.
The game has a strong sense of sentimentality, capturing the appeal of the 2D Sonic games without relying too heavily on nostalgia. Reviewers have commended its visuals and soundtrack, but some have expressed disappointment in the lack of speed that has come to be expected from a Sonic game. Additionally, the co-op mode has been criticized for disrupting the momentum and not suiting the nature of the 2D Sonic gameplay.
Despite these shortcomings, Sonic Superstars offers a good time for fans of the franchise. The game’s controls have successfully captured the feel of the older titles, and the interactive scenery elements add an enjoyable touch. The co-op mode, while not perfect, opens up new paths for each player and adds replay value to the game. Overall, Sonic Superstars falls just short of being a classic, but it shows promise and indicates that Sega is on the right track.
In terms of sound, the game’s phenomenal soundtrack stands out, with music that matches the themes of each stage perfectly. However, the sound effects of enemies and attacks leave something to be desired, often becoming repetitive and annoying. Despite this, Sonic Superstars successfully recreates the foundation of the 2D Sonic games, making it a good addition to the franchise, although not as exceptional as Sonic Mania.
