Sonic Mania – Review
We’re huge Sonic fans around here, so when a new retro version of the original game came out called Sonic Mania we had to have it. In my opinion, it’s totally worth it! Sonic the Hedgehog was made in 1991 for the Sega Genesis. While Sonic Mania was released in 2017 made for modern hardware.
They really captured the best parts of the original series then added more modern features. It would have beet so nice to have spin dash in the original series. The graphics have the look and feel of the original but with improved added colors and modern resolution lacking in the original.
There are parts of the original stages, bosses, and bonus levels. However, the new content blends in with the original material flawlessly. It’s hard to believe this wasn’t part of the original series, it’s that good!
Why Would Anybody Get Sonic Mania?
Because it’s everything great about the original Sonic series minus he drawbacks of old hardware. It feels like playing an old game on a high end system, like all the advertising was back then. The commercial for the game always looked better than actually playing anything on a Genesis, Atari, Intellivision, Commodore, and yes, even the original NES!
If you like side scrollers and quick action then this game is for you. Plus it has a competition mode for 4 players. That’s something missing from the original. Sure, you could have someone join in as Tails, but honestly it kinda sucked trying to keep up with Sonic. It was more of an afterthought than a feature of the original.
Not so with Sonic Mania. This should appeal to anyone who enjoys 4 player games. Each player gets their own screen. Plus you can choose features like item boxes that switch players. Definitely one of the most hilarious features I’ve seen in a 4 player game.
Comparable Games
Big surprise, Sonic Mania is comparable to most Sonic games. It’s so much like the original it’s hard to believe it wasn’t released in the late 1990’s or early 2000’s. Llike most side scrollers there are stages followed by a boss battle. Plus bonus rounds. A formula that’s been around since Mario Bros.
The 4 player head to head action in Sonic Mania stands out since many side scrollers are single player. It’s our favorite mode when we play Sonic Mania. It’s a good blend of the best parts of the old with upgraded features and gameplay.
Pros and Cons
The graphics and soundtrack are an advantage of Sonic Mania. It doesn’t lag or look low resolution like most games back then.
Th 4 player mode is one of the best benefits. Being able to play side by side with each other in a fast moving game just wasn’t possible on the old hardware.
The bonus levels and content are so good it’s hard to believe it wasn’t part of the original. Item boxes with different power ups, hidden paths, new characters, and new bonus levels fit seamlessly with the original.
I can’t forget to mention the shrinking levels. A personal favorite and totally awesome! I really can’t think of any negative things to say. We’re huge Sonic fans around here.
Summary Sonic Mania
Our review of Sonic Mania gives it 10 stars out of 10. We loved it that much and play it all the time. It’s that good!
Sonic Mania – Review brought to you by: David M.
I’m David M. I’ve been playing video games a long time, my pong game was fire. Now, my kids run circles around me but we always have a good time. We mostly play party and family games. Strategy and battle games are still among my favorites. I like writing about games almost as much as I do playing them. My favorite games are: Moving Out 2, Out of Space and Overcooked All You Can Eat.
