What’s the difference between Sonic Colors for DS, Wii and Switch?

You might have Sonic Colors for DS and then when you look up a guide for the game it doesn’t match. That’s probably because there’s actually three different Sonic colors! There’s Sonic Colors for Wii and DS with the same name but are entirely different. Then there’s a remake for the Wii edition called Sonic Colors Ultimate. In my post the names to make less confusion will be DS, Wii and Switch.

The Sonic Colors series has been one of the most beloved modern Sonic titles. Originally released in 2010 for the Wii and DS, and later remastered as Sonic Colors: Ultimate for modern consoles in 2021, each version offers a different take on the fast-paced adventure. But what exactly are the differences between these versions, and which one is worth your time? In my post you’ll find out.

Sonic Colors DS

Sonic Colors DS (or just DS to save time) rather than a simple port, the DS version was a completely different game. Built by the team behind Sonic Rush, it’s a pure side-scroller.

Gameplay: Fast 2D action similar to Sonic Rush.

Unique Content: Different levels, bosses, and story dialogue compared to the Wii version.

Characters: Features cameos and missions from Knuckles, Blaze, and others.

Style: Dialogue-heavy storytelling instead of full cutscenes.

• Pros
  • Exclusive stages and bosses.
  • Fun Sonic Rush–style speed and tricks.
  • Great for handheld play.
• Cons
  • No 3D gameplay at all.
  • Story feels less cinematic (lots of text, fewer cutscenes).
  • Some missions can feel like filler.

Sonic Colors Wii

Sonic Colors Wii (or Wii for short) version was the main release and the first to bring Sonic into the colorful world of Dr. Eggman’s interstellar amusement park.

Gameplay: A hybrid of 3D platforming and 2D side-scrolling.

Wisps: Introduced the power-up system, letting Sonic transform with abilities like Laser, Drill, and Rocket.

Story: Full voice acting and animated cutscenes with plenty of Sonic-style humor.

Extras: Local co-op “Sonic Simulator” stages.

• Pros
  • Original experience with balanced 2D/3D gameplay.
  • Full story and cinematic presentation.
  • Wisps feel fresh and fun.
• Cons
  • Wii graphics look dated now.
  • Controls can feel a bit stiff compared to newer Sonic games.

Sonic Colors Ultimate Switch

Sonic Colors Ultimate (AKA Switch) is a remaster of the Wii version, Sonic Colors: Ultimate modernized the game for new players and longtime fans alike.

Gameplay: Same as Wii but polished up.

New Features:

Jade Ghost Wisp (new power-up).

Customization for Sonic (shoes, gloves, boost effects).

Remixed music and updated UI.

Tails tokens for extra help.

Performance: Runs at 30fps on Switch (other platforms can hit 60fps).

• Pros
  • Best-looking version with HD graphics.
  • Extra customization and the new Jade Ghost Wisp.
  • Quality-of-life improvements make it easier for new players.
• Cons
  • Switch version only runs at 30fps.
  • Some players prefer the original Wii soundtrack over the remixes.
  • Lacks the DS version’s exclusive levels.

Summary

Overall, Wii and Switch are the same but the Switch has a few updates to the Wii. While the DS is 100% unique. So if you have Switch don’t bother getting Wii but you could still get DS.

DS: A completely different take, leaning into fast 2D action with unique content.

Wii: The classic hybrid that started it all—best for experiencing the game as it was meant to be.

Switch: The modern upgrade—great visuals, more features, but slightly limited on Switch performance compared to other consoles.

• If you want the pure, original experience, go for the Wii version.
• If you prefer fast-paced 2D gameplay, the DS version is worth tracking down.
• If you want the modern, most accessible version, the Switch (or other Ultimate releases) is the way to go.