Sonic Dash 2 Boom – Review

Sonic Dash 2 Boom is the sequel to Sonic Dash and among FoxGamer’s favorite apps. It’s an endless runner type game where you collect rings, powers ups, defeat bosses, play events and lots more, you can find out more in my review for the game.

Why Sonic Dash 2 Boom?

Sonic Dash 2: Sonic Boom is a fast-paced endless runner game based on the Sonic Boom version of the Sonic universe. Like the original Sonic Dash, the game focuses on quick reflexes, fast movement, and collecting rings while avoiding obstacles. However, this sequel introduces several new mechanics and features that expand on the gameplay and give players more options while running.

The game features characters from the Sonic Boom series, which presents a slightly different version of the familiar Sonic cast. Players can run through colorful environments as characters such as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Amy, and Sticks. Each character has their own unique abilities and animations, which add variety and personality to the gameplay.

The basic controls are simple and easy to learn. The character automatically runs forward, and players control their movements by swiping on the screen. Swiping left or right moves the character between lanes, swiping up makes them jump, and swiping down allows them to slide under obstacles. These controls are very responsive and make it easy for players of all ages to understand how the game works.

As players run through the levels, they must avoid hazards such as gaps, spikes, enemies, and barriers. At the same time, they collect rings scattered throughout the path. Rings act as both points and protection—if the player collides with an obstacle while holding rings, they can continue running instead of ending the run immediately.

One of the biggest differences between this game and the original Sonic Dash is the team-based gameplay system. Instead of choosing just one character for the entire run, players can build a team of three characters. During gameplay, players can switch between these characters to use their special abilities or to continue running if one character gets knocked out. This adds an extra layer of strategy and allows players to extend their runs longer than before.

Another new feature is the energy beam mechanic, which allows characters to swing across gaps or obstacles using glowing energy lines. These sections add more movement variety and help keep the gameplay feeling fresh.

The environments are bright and colorful, capturing the playful style of the Sonic Boom universe. Players run through locations such as forests, cliffs, and island paths filled with loops and ramps. The scenery changes frequently enough to keep runs visually interesting, even though the gameplay remains focused on the same core mechanics.

The game also includes special events and challenges that reward players with additional items, characters, or upgrades. Completing missions helps players earn rewards and progress through the game. This mission system encourages players to keep improving their skills and attempting longer runs.

Players can also collect power-ups that help them survive longer or earn more points. These power-ups may provide speed boosts, ring magnets, shields, or other helpful abilities. As players continue playing, they can upgrade these power-ups to make them stronger and more effective.

The music and sound effects match the energetic tone of the Sonic series. The soundtrack is upbeat and exciting, helping to create a sense of speed and momentum during runs. Sound effects for collecting rings or defeating enemies also help make the gameplay feel satisfying.

However, like many endless runner games, Sonic Dash 2 does have some limitations.

One of the main drawbacks is that the gameplay can become repetitive after extended play. Although the team system and swinging mechanics add variety, the core gameplay still involves running, jumping, and avoiding obstacles repeatedly.

Another issue is that the increasing speed during long runs can make the game extremely challenging. Obstacles may appear quickly, leaving very little time to react.

Progression can also slow down later in the game. Unlocking new characters and upgrades may require a large amount of time or repeated runs.

Additionally, players looking for a strong story or deep adventure may find the game fairly simple, since it focuses mostly on arcade-style gameplay rather than narrative.

Despite these minor issues, the game remains a fun and energetic experience.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 1-player on one Android or IOS device.

Pros

Simple and easy-to-learn swipe controls.

Team system allows switching between characters during runs.

Playable characters from the Sonic Boom series.

Bright and colorful environments.

Power-ups and missions provide goals and rewards.

Fast-paced gameplay that captures Sonic’s speed.

Cons

Gameplay can become repetitive after long play sessions.

Difficulty increases quickly as the speed rises.

Unlocking characters and upgrades may take time.

The game focuses on short arcade-style runs rather than a story-driven adventure.

Summary

Overall, Sonic Dash 2: Sonic Boom is a fun mobile game that builds on the formula of the original Sonic Dash. The addition of the team system, new mechanics, and Sonic Boom characters helps give the game its own identity. While it may not offer the depth of larger Sonic games, it provides an exciting and accessible experience that works well for quick gaming sessions. For fans of Sonic and players who enjoy fast-paced endless runner games, Sonic Dash 2 delivers plenty of speed and action.