Sonic Lost World – Review

Sonic Lost World is part of our collection of over 80 PC games. In the game you play as Sonic and switch between side scrolling and 3D platformer section within levels. The main villains of the game are the Deadly Six. In my review of the game you’ll find out more!

Why Sonic Lost World?

Sonic Lost World is a colorful platform adventure starring the famous blue hedgehog Sonic the Hedgehog. The game combines high-speed platforming with new gameplay mechanics and a unique world design. While it keeps many elements fans expect from a Sonic game, it also experiments with different styles of movement and level structure that make the experience feel different from earlier titles in the series.

The story begins when Dr. Eggman discovers a mysterious floating world known as the Lost Hex. Hoping to use its power to control dangerous creatures called the Deadly Six, Eggman’s plan quickly backfires. The creatures rebel and begin causing chaos across the floating islands. Sonic teams up with his loyal friend Miles “Tails” Prower to stop the threat and restore peace.

Throughout the adventure, Sonic travels through several worlds within the Lost Hex. Each area has its own visual theme and gameplay style, including grassy hills, deserts, icy landscapes, and mechanical environments. The levels are designed in unusual shapes, often resembling curved paths or cylindrical structures that Sonic can run around.

Gameplay in the game blends traditional Sonic speed with more careful platforming. Players can sprint across long pathways, bounce between enemies, and perform Sonic’s signature spin attacks. However, the game also includes sections that require slower movement and precise jumping.

One of the major additions in the game is the parkour movement system. Sonic can now run along walls, climb certain surfaces, and perform wall jumps. These abilities allow players to explore levels in new ways and reach hidden areas that require careful timing.

Another feature is the Color Powers. By collecting special Wisps, Sonic gains temporary abilities that help him overcome obstacles or defeat enemies. These powers include abilities that allow Sonic to fly through the air, drill through the ground, or transform into different shapes. Each Color Power adds variety to the gameplay and is often used to solve small puzzles within levels.

The level design is more experimental than many previous Sonic games. Some stages are fast and focused on speed, while others emphasize puzzles or platforming challenges. This mixture keeps the gameplay varied, although it can also make the pacing feel different from classic Sonic titles.

The visuals are bright and colorful, with environments that feel playful and imaginative. The floating islands of the Lost Hex are filled with unusual shapes and vibrant colors. Characters are animated in an exaggerated cartoon style that matches the game’s lighter tone.

The music and sound design also contribute to the energetic atmosphere. The soundtrack includes upbeat tracks that match the action on screen and help maintain the sense of adventure as Sonic races through the levels.

However, the game does have some drawbacks.

One issue is that the slower platforming sections may feel unusual to players who expect Sonic games to focus mainly on speed. Some levels require careful movement rather than fast reactions, which can change the pacing of the game.

Another potential drawback is the level design variety. While the experimental approach keeps things interesting, some stages may feel less polished or less exciting than others. Certain levels focus heavily on puzzles rather than Sonic’s traditional fast gameplay.

The story also takes a more comedic tone than many previous Sonic games. While some players enjoy the humor, others may feel that the characters behave differently from their usual personalities.

Despite these issues, the game still offers a unique take on the Sonic formula.

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 4-players on one Nintendo Switch.

Pros

Bright and imaginative world design.

New parkour system adds movement variety.

Color Powers introduce creative gameplay abilities.

Mix of speed-based and platforming levels.

Energetic music and colorful visuals.

Unique environments within the Lost Hex.

Cons

Some levels move slower than traditional Sonic gameplay.

Experimental level design can feel inconsistent.

The comedic tone of the story may not appeal to all fans.

Summary

Overall, Sonic Lost World is an experimental entry in the Sonic series that tries new ideas while still delivering the fast-paced action players expect from Sonic the Hedgehog. Its colorful worlds, creative abilities, and unusual level designs make it stand out from other Sonic games. While some of the changes may not appeal to every fan, the game still offers an enjoyable and energetic adventure for players who enjoy platforming challenges and exploring imaginative environments.