A WiiNintendo game review by hattrick.
Game – Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1
Version – WiiWare
Time Spent Playing – 6+ hours
Completion – All but Final Boss
Obtained – From Sega & Triple Point PR
Introduction and Story
Sonic is back again, and this time, he is back to his roots. Running around in a 2D plane, Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 has a similar look and feel to the Sonic of the Genesis days. While many fans have been asking for this type of game for years, does Sonic 4 fulfill, or does it fall short? And does it warrant the 1500 Point ($15) price tag?
The story is basically what you would expect. It takes place after Sonic & Knuckles. Dr. Ivo “Eggman” Robotnik is set out to take over the world with his robot creations and defeat Sonic. Through the 4 Zones, each with 3 Acts and a boss fight, you will see both new enemies and those from past games. This time, though, Sonic is on his own as he sets out to find the Chaos Emeralds and overcome Eggman, as Tails and Knuckles are nowhere to be found.
Visuals and Sound
You already know that Sonic 4 goes back to the original in style, but the visual update requires some praise. The development team has done an excellent job of bringing an older game to a modern generation. It definitely looks like Sonic of old but with a welcome upgrade in the visual department. Sonic has a cartoon-like look to him, and the environments are rich with color and a sense of depth. While you are playing a 2D game, you often feel like you are a part of a 3D level. It really is a good combination of both.
The music also feels exactly like retro-Sonic. However, while many people could be pleased with this, it is interesting they did not update it a bit. Instead of an orchestra or full band, Sega seems to have gone back to their 16-32 bit tunes. For fans of the originals, this is perfect; nonetheless, younger players might wonder why the game sounds a bit older than it looks. Each level, though, has a fitting soundtrack and it never feels out of place.
Gameplay and Controls
Sonic 4 slightly changes things up but, for the most part, sticks with the tried and true. You start off in Splash Hill Zone, and work your way through each Act. Finish that Zone, and move on to the next. The basic level scrolls from left to right with little backtracking needed. Along the way, you will collect rings and defeat robot enemies. Although, the game is rather short, this time around, you also have the ability to replay every Act, as a map screen has been added. You may want to replay for a higher score, or you might want to see how fast you can complete a Zone. Then, post your score online, and see how you stack up against worldwide competition. The levels are just as you would expect from 2D Sonic. They start off fairly simple and easy, but the difficulty ramps up with every Act. However, if you loose all your lives and see the game over screen, you will not have to start over from the beginning of the game. Just accept your new 3 lives and start back at your last save. Because of this, it is less frustrating to die, but it does not give the feeling that every life is precious. If you lose them all, you do not face much of a punishment.
As for controls, this is where things get a bit hairy. For the WiiWare version, you will turn the Wii Remote sideways (NES style). Control Sonic’s movement with the control pad, and use the 2-button to jump. While past controls have returned (i.e. dash by holding down and 2), we also have a one new ability not previously seen in the 2D console outings. Sonic can now use his homing attack while in the air. If you are near an enemy or spring, you can hit the 2-button again to fly in that direction, defeating the enemy or bouncing off the spring. If there is nothing to home into, Sonic will simply to a mid-air dash, beneficial in landing on platforms you might not normally reach. All this sounds great, and it works very well. Just be sure not to abuse the homing attack, as it is not always the best at zeroing in on every enemy. The main issue with the controls is the lack of forward momentum in Sonic’s jumps. In past games, Sonic would continue to move in a forward direction when he jumped. Sonic 4 does away with that for some odd reason. Instead, if you do not continue to hold down the control pad, he will stop in his tracks and fall straight down. This is especially annoying when playing some of the more difficult platforming levels (i.e. Casino Street Zone).
Concluding Overall Impressions
Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 sets out to do one main thing, and that is to satisfy Sonic fans of old. They have been asking for a title like this for quite some time, and many feel Sonic should never even have jumped to 3D. The visual upgrade and addition of online leader-boards and a map screen are welcomed, but many might have small issues with the controls. The big question is if it is worth the 1500 Points for only part of a game, as we know there will be at least one more episode coming.
FINAL SCORE – TRY IT
While it looks and sounds great, that is not all that makes up a game. The controls are a bit spotty, and the price is quite hefty for an episodic game of only 4 Zones. If you are a huge fan of Sonic, go ahead and purchase this today. If you are not, my recommendation is to find someone else who owns it or try it on another platform that has a free demo first.
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Related Articles:
Sonic 4 – Press Release
Sonic Classic Collection debuts on the DS
Sonic 4 Update
(E3 2010) Sonic the Hedgehog 4 – Hands-On First Impressions
Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 – E3 2010 Interview
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