Sonic Origins
" Nostalgic action-adventure collection with classic gameplay and new modes but technical issues persist "
Sonic Origins Review
Sonic Origins is a compilation of four classic Sonic games, offering both the original 4:3 aspect ratio and an Anniversary mode with updated features like infinite lives and the ability to retry special stages by spending in-game coins. Players appreciate the inclusion of characters like Tails, Knuckles, and Amy Rose across all games, even when not originally present. The collection also features a mission mode, new animated cutscenes, and a boss rush mode, enhancing replayability and nostalgia.
However, some players find the price steep for the content offered and recommend waiting for sales or using mods to improve the experience, especially regarding music and visual fixes. Technical issues such as crashes on Windows 11 and frame pacing problems have been reported, though many feel these bugs have improved over time. Overall, Sonic Origins is praised for convenience and nostalgia but is seen as less authentic compared to fan-made or modded versions of the classics.
Highlights
Players praise the faithful recreation of classic Sonic gameplay, including the option to play in original or updated Anniversary modes. The widescreen support and new animated intros add to the visual appeal. The ability to play as multiple characters, retry special stages, and the inclusion of mission mode with unlockable content provide depth and reward exploration. The soundtrack and presentation evoke strong nostalgia, making it a definitive way to experience these timeless games on modern hardware.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game's high price point relative to the content and lack of certain classic titles like Sonic 3D Blast and Sonic R. Some players report technical issues such as crashes on newer OS versions and frame pacing problems, especially on PC. The removal of other versions of these games from stores frustrates some fans. Additionally, some feel the Anniversary mode’s easier difficulty diminishes the original challenge. There is also dissatisfaction with certain design choices and a call for better quality control and less intrusive changes.
Pros
- • Faithful recreation of classic Sonic gameplay with both original and Anniversary modes.
- • Widescreen support enhances the visual experience on modern displays.
- • New animated intros add charm and nostalgia to the collection.
- • Ability to play as Tails, Knuckles, and Amy in all included games.
- • Mission mode offers additional challenges and unlockable content.
- • Retrying special stages using coins makes progression more accessible.
- • Boss rush and mirror modes increase replay value.
Cons
- • High price point for the amount of content included.
- • Technical issues such as crashes and frame pacing problems reported.
- • Removal of other versions of these Sonic games from digital stores.
- • Anniversary mode’s infinite lives reduce game challenge.
- • Missing classic titles like Sonic 3D Blast and Sonic R.
- • Some bugs persist, particularly in Sonic 3 & Knuckles.
- • Certain design changes and omissions frustrate longtime fans.
Rating Criteria
Experience the collected adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog in Sonic Origins Plus! With 16 legendary Sonic titles, including 12 Game Gear games, new playable characters, modes, challenges, behind-the-scenes content, and more, this is the definitive way to play these classic games!