Epic open-world video games and multiplayer shooters could also be all the fashion proper now, however as any individual who began gaming within the early Nineties, I’ll take a brand new Sonic the Hedgehog or Super Mario Bros over any sport with a thousand planets or a dozen maps. The incontrovertible fact that we’re getting a brand new side-scrolling Sonic and 2D Mario just some days aside is a improbable stroke of excellent fortune, and extra proof that 2023 would possibly simply be the best yr in gaming historical past. Even higher is that each video games greater than reside as much as expectations.

Indeed, Sonic Superstars supplies a traditional Sonic the Hedgehog side-scrolling expertise, however with glittering new graphics and some extra bells and whistles.

While I’ll all the time have a smooth spot for the traditional 16-bit visible type that proved such a success in Sonic Mania, the splendidly vivid and flashy artwork type of Sonic Superstars appears like a pure evolution.

From the intense blue skies of Bridge Island, to the topical hue of Speed Jungle and Neon lights of Pinball Carnival, every new stage is a feast for the eyes.

If something, phases are so pleasing to have a look at and packed filled with element that it is borderline distracting!

Even higher, nonetheless, is how good Sonic feels to regulate. It’s far nearer to the tight really feel of traditional Sonic the Hedgehog video games than the free, floaty feeling of titles like Sonic 4.

Elsewhere, regardless of just a few enemies and obstacles that really feel unfairly and improperly positioned, the extent design is basically distinctive, with dozens of big, sprawling phases that finish with imaginative and entertaining boss battles (for probably the most half, at the very least).

You’ll additionally discover that exploration performs a a lot greater half in Sonic Superstars than virtually some other 2D Sonic sport in historical past. SEGA has positioned rather less emphasis on speed-running and extra on discovering the sport’s different routes and secrets and techniques.

It’s to not say the motion is simply too gradual or missing momentum, however you not often really feel such as you’re on auto-pilot, with ranges that require much more talent and focus. It’s maybe nearer to the unique Sonic the Hedgehog than a few of its speedier sequels. 

To assist gamers in exploration, Sonic Superstars introduces a choice of new Chaos Emerald Powers that may be unlocked by finishing particular phases.

As the sport progresses, gamers shall be ready summon a wave of clones to assault enemies and destroy obstacles, in addition to a capability that permits you to climb waterfalls with a view to entry new areas, and one other energy that reveals hidden blocks, objects and platforms.

You choose your energy utilizing the fitting stick, earlier than activating it utilizing the Square button (on PlayStation). The purpose for explaining the controls is that whereas the powers add an fascinating new twist to the traditional method, they do not all the time mesh properly with the speedy gameplay.

Powers are not often used to get your character out of a jam, and as a substitute as one other technique of accessing secret areas, or acquiring hidden rings and medals.

Other new additions embrace co-operative multiplayer for as much as 4 folks. Sadly, nonetheless, this is not the game-changer we hoped it could be.

Even with a larger emphasis on skilful platforming and exploration, Sonic Superstars is simply too fast-paced and frantic for co-op to work.

It’s not one thing that bothers me an excessive amount of, however in the event you’re anticipating a co-op multiplayer expertise that matches the likes of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, you then’ll be sadly dissatisfied.

Despite a split-screen viewpoint that is just a little on the small aspect, the sport’s multiplayer Battle Mode is way extra fulfilling.

Playable regionally, on-line or with bots, gamers compete in varied problem phases to earn factors and high the leaderboard. One stage has gamers compete to gather probably the most stars, whereas one other includes damaging your opponents utilizing a particular lightning energy.

The Battle Mode is not on par with multiplayer greats like Smash Bros or Bomberman, however it’s undoubtedly price testing when you’ve got just a few pals over for a gaming get together.

While not each new characteristic and innovation hits the mark, Sonic Superstars is an excellent side-scrolling Sonic sport that comes near matching the magic of Sonic Mania.

The creative phases, impressed bosses and gorgeous visuals come collectively to create a improbable single-player expertise that performs pretty much as good because it appears to be like.

VERDICT: 4/5