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Sonic Origins

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Sonic Origins
Item: Sonic Origins
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJun 23, 2022

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 5

DeveloperSega

Overview

Celebrate the games that started it all. Sonic Origins is a brand new collection including Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic CD, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, and Sonic 3 & Knuckles. Play as Sonic, Tails, & Knuckles and immerse yourself in the fully remastered gameplay, tie the games together with all new animations, explore added features, modes, and more. The versions of Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and Sonic CD in this compilation are ports of the remasters previously released for mobile, platforms, with the added Drop Dash ability from Sonic Mania. The Sonic the Hedgehog 3 & Knuckles version is brand new for this compilation, and is also a remaster in the same way that the other titles, also adding the Drop Dash ability. This version had part of its soundtrack changed, swapping the songs for those present in the PC port of the Sonic & Knuckles Collection.

Elsewhere

7.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Sonic Origins is largely praised for its new Story Mode that ties classic games together with animated cutscenes, enhancing nostalgia and player experience. Critics appreciate the cohesive narrative but point out execution flaws, such as inconsistent game order and simplistic plots that lack new depth. While the animations are a nice touch, many feel they don't significantly expand the lore, leaving the overall storytelling feeling underwhelming. A solid revival for Sonic, but it could use more narrative richness.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Sonic Origins is largely positive, with many critics appreciating the new Story Mode that links the classic games together through animated cutscenes. Checkpoint Gaming highlights the new animations as a nice touch that enhances the player experience, while Gaming Age and GamersRD note the cohesive narrative that allows players to experience the four games in a unified manner. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Attack of the Fanboy commend the added depth these animations provide to the simplistic plots of the original games, making the narrative more engaging and clear. The nostalgic value of revisiting Sonic's origins is also celebrated, as noted by Everyeye.it, which emphasizes the collection's ability to evoke fond memories of the franchise's mythology. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the execution of the story mode. ComicBook points out inconsistencies in the order of the games, particularly with Sonic CD and Sonic the Hedgehog 2, which detracts from the narrative flow. Destructoid mentions that while the animated cutscenes enhance the storytelling, the narratives remain abstract and not particularly enlightening. Critics like Digital Chumps express a desire for longer animations to further enrich the storytelling experience, indicating that the current offerings may feel insufficient. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from LevelUp and PC Invasion, suggest that the new animations, while beautifully crafted, do not significantly expand upon the lore of the franchise, leaving the core stories minimal. The overall consensus among critics is that Sonic Origins successfully revitalizes the classic games with a fresh narrative approach, yet it falls short in delivering a deeply engaging story. While the new animated cutscenes and the chronological presentation of the games are praised for their nostalgic appeal and aesthetic quality, many reviewers, including Vandal and Gamer Escape, agree that the underlying narratives remain simplistic and do not offer substantial new content. Ultimately, Sonic Origins is seen as a commendable effort to connect the franchise's history while providing a nostalgic experience, but it leaves room for improvement in narrative depth and cohesion.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Sonic Origins delivers a nostalgic experience with beloved platforming mechanics and modern enhancements like new modes and features, earning praise for its speed and design. However, critics lament a lack of significant innovation and modern conveniences, alongside some lingering technical issues, leading to a mixed reception. While it appeals to long-time fans, it may not satisfy those seeking a fresh take on the classic Sonic formula.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Sonic Origins has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its nostalgic appeal and various enhancements. Many reviewers appreciate the classic platforming mechanics that have stood the test of time, with PSX Extreme and Nintendo Insider praising the speed and level design that characterize the Sonic franchise. The introduction of different modes, such as Anniversary and Classic, has been noted as a significant improvement, allowing players to choose between a more accessible experience or a nostalgic challenge. Critics like PC Invasion and Cubed3 commend the modernized features, including the removal of lives in Anniversary Mode, which makes the game more forgiving for newcomers. Additionally, new mechanics like the Drop Dash and the inclusion of mission modes have been recognized as valuable additions that enhance gameplay depth, as noted by CGMagazine and Xbox Tavern. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the gameplay of Sonic Origins that detract from its overall impact. Many reviewers, including PSX Extreme and Gaming Age, express disappointment over the lack of significant changes or new levels, suggesting that the game feels uninspired and does not fully capitalize on the potential for innovation. Critics like GameGrin mention the absence of modern conveniences such as save states, which could have improved the experience, especially for new players. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and Metro GameCentral, point out lingering issues from the original games, including frustrating level designs and bugs that affect gameplay, which can diminish the enjoyment for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sonic Origins successfully delivers a nostalgic experience while incorporating some modern enhancements, though it does not reinvent the wheel. Many reviewers, including Worth Playing and Nintendo Life, recognize the solid gameplay loop and the enjoyable platforming mechanics that remain true to the original titles. However, the lack of substantial innovation and the presence of some technical issues have led to a mixed reception regarding its overall execution. While the game appeals to long-time fans and offers a fun experience, it may not fully satisfy those looking for a fresh take on the classic Sonic formula.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Sonic Origins impresses with vibrant colors and modernized visuals, especially in Anniversary Mode and through new animated cutscenes, receiving a generally positive reception. However, critics note it falls short with limited significant upgrades, issues like blurry images on larger displays, and gameplay graphics that don't stand out. Overall, it modernizes classic titles but misses the mark on substantial enhancements and options, leaving fans wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Sonic Origins have garnered a mixed but generally positive response from critics, highlighting several enhancements that modernize the classic titles. Many reviewers, such as Attack of the Fanboy and PC Invasion, praised the game for its vibrant colors and sharp visuals, particularly in Anniversary Mode, which offers a 16:9 aspect ratio. Critics like Pure Xbox and Game Informer noted the introduction of new animated cutscenes, which add a fresh layer to the nostalgic experience. Additionally, the remastered graphics have been described as charming and colorful, with several reviewers, including Cubed3 and PlayStation Universe, appreciating the way the original pixel art has been upgraded for modern displays. Despite these positives, there are notable criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design of Sonic Origins. Many reviewers, such as NintendoWorldReport and Checkpoint Gaming, pointed out the lack of significant graphical enhancements and options, with some expressing disappointment that the visuals do not fully capitalize on the potential of modern technology. Critics like Gaming Age and The Mako Reactor highlighted issues like blurry images and scaling problems, particularly on larger displays, which detracted from the overall experience. Furthermore, some critics, including GameCritics and Press Start Australia, mentioned that while the animated menus and cutscenes are visually appealing, the gameplay graphics themselves do not stand out as much as expected. The overall consensus among critics is that while Sonic Origins successfully modernizes the visual presentation of classic games with vibrant colors and new animations, it falls short in providing substantial graphical improvements and options. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and Digital Chumps noted that the enhancements, while appreciated, do not represent a groundbreaking evolution from the originals. Many critics, including those from Gaming Age and Nintendo Life, echoed the sentiment that the value of Sonic Origins compared to previous collections is less clear, primarily due to the limited new content and missed opportunities for deeper visual upgrades. Thus, while Sonic Origins showcases a nostalgic charm, it leaves room for improvement in its graphical execution and options.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Sonic Origins' sound design and music offer nostalgia through remastered tracks and a museum mode, but critics largely condemn the significant changes, particularly the absence of Michael Jackson's compositions in Sonic 3 & Knuckles. Many feel the replacement tracks are mismatched and detract from the experience, leading to disappointment among long-time fans. Overall, while some elements shine, the alterations undermine the nostalgic value that players sought, leaving a bitter aftertaste.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Sonic Origins have garnered a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers. Several critics, including Nintendo Life and Xbox Achievements, noted the nostalgic value of the music, highlighting that the remastered soundtracks and sound effects evoke fond memories of the original Sonic titles. Worth Playing appreciated the memorable sound effects and stereo sound separation, suggesting that the overall audio experience enhances gameplay. Additionally, some reviews, like that of GamersRD, pointed out the inclusion of a museum mode where players can enjoy both original and remixed tracks, adding a layer of appreciation for the iconic music from the franchise. However, the majority of critics expressed significant disappointment regarding the alterations made to the soundtrack, particularly in Sonic 3 & Knuckles. Checkpoint Gaming and Digital Chumps both lamented the absence of Michael Jackson's original compositions, which have been replaced by tunes that many found less fitting. Critics like Destructoid and Nintendo Insider emphasized that the replacement tracks feel mismatched and detract from the overall experience, while others, such as PSX Extreme and LevelUp, noted that the changes lead to a less nostalgic atmosphere, disappointing long-time fans. The need to unlock additional music through microtransactions, as mentioned by PSX Extreme, further exacerbates the dissatisfaction. The overall consensus among critics is that while Sonic Origins attempts to deliver a nostalgic experience through its sound design and music, it ultimately falls short due to the significant alterations made to the original soundtracks. Many reviewers, including CGMagazine and Vandal, highlighted the loss of iconic tracks as a major downside, impacting the game's ability to resonate with fans of the original titles. Although there are positive aspects, such as the inclusion of a museum mode and some remastered tracks, the general sentiment leans towards disappointment, with critics like Nintendojo and GamingBolt noting that the replacements do not live up to the beloved originals, leaving a bittersweet taste for players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Sonic Origins showcases a nostalgic experience with smooth gameplay on various platforms, particularly the PS5, which is praised for stability despite some bugs. However, significant technical issues plague the PC version and to a lesser extent the Nintendo Switch and Xbox Series X, including crashes, glitches, and save data corruption. While some reviews are positive, the overall consensus highlights a need for improvement across all versions, as developers work to resolve these persistent problems.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Sonic Origins has garnered a mix of opinions across different gaming platforms, with some positive notes emerging from the reviews. On the PlayStation 5, critics like CGMagazine and PlayStation Universe praised the game for running smoothly and maintaining a nostalgic feel, with CGMagazine highlighting the absence of emulation bugs. Similarly, reviewers from Press Start Australia and Push Square noted that the games run impeccably, suggesting a solid technical foundation. On the Nintendo Switch, while some critics acknowledged minor bugs, others like Nintenderos pointed out that the game runs smoothly with noticeable improvements over the original titles. For the Xbox Series X, GameGrin reported stable performance without mentioning any significant technical issues, while TheXboxHub and Xbox Tavern confirmed the presence of bugs but noted that they did not personally experience serious problems. However, the reviews also highlighted various technical issues across platforms that detracted from the overall experience. On the PS5, Checkpoint Gaming and Jeuxvideo.com noted bugs affecting gameplay, such as problems with Sonic 3 & Knuckles and sound issues. Wccftech reported frequent crashes and save file corruption, while PlayStation Country mentioned losing progress due to save data corruption. On the PC, critics like Cubed3 and PCMag expressed concerns about numerous bugs and performance issues, including high CPU and GPU usage, which affected gameplay. The Nintendo Switch version also faced criticism, with several reviewers, including Gamer Escape and Multiplayer.it, noting glitches and technical issues that could impact gameplay, despite some patches being released. The Xbox Series X version, while generally stable, was criticized by But Why Tho? for baffling framerate issues and the removal of content from the Xbox store. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Sonic Origins offers a nostalgic experience with moments of smooth gameplay across platforms, significant technical issues persist that could hinder enjoyment. The PS5 version appears to be the most stable, with many reviewers praising its performance, yet bugs still plague the experience, as noted by GamesBeat and Metro GameCentral. The PC version suffers from more pronounced issues, with critics like Noisy Pixel and PCMag highlighting gameplay-affecting bugs. The Nintendo Switch and Xbox Series X versions also have their share of problems, though some reviewers reported satisfactory performance. In summary, Sonic Origins presents a mixed bag of technical performance, with room for improvement across all platforms, as developers work to address the reported issues.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Sonic Origins garners mixed reviews on replay value. Critics praise its new modes like Mission and Boss Rush for enhancing engagement and nostalgia, but many lament the shallow depth of these features. The presence of microtransactions and limited content dampens the experience, leading to a consensus that while it appeals to completionists and nostalgic fans, it ultimately falls short for broader player satisfaction.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Sonic Origins among critics is mixed, with several positive aspects highlighted. Many reviewers appreciate the inclusion of various modes such as Mission Mode, Boss Rush, and Mirror Mode, which add layers of engagement and encourage players to revisit the classic titles. Critics like Nintendo Life and Gamers Heroes note that these additional challenges and modes provide significant replay value, while others like MeuPlayStation and CGMagazine emphasize the incentives to explore and experiment within the game. The nostalgic appeal of the collection, combined with the ability to unlock content in the Museum mode, is also seen as a positive factor, enhancing the overall experience for both newcomers and long-time fans. However, the criticisms regarding replay value are substantial and cannot be overlooked. A common theme among many reviewers is the lack of depth and substance in the additional modes and challenges. Critics such as PSX Extreme and Wccftech express disappointment over the limited additional content beyond the core games, with some modes being described as too easy or trivial. The presence of microtransactions and additional content locked behind DLC, as noted by Hardcore Gamer and PC Invasion, further detracts from the replayability, leading some to feel that the game does not justify its price. The overall sentiment is that while there are new features, they often fall short of providing a compelling reason to keep playing. In conclusion, while Sonic Origins offers a variety of modes and challenges that can enhance replay value, the overall consensus among critics suggests that the package may not be sufficient for long-term engagement. Many reviewers highlight that the nostalgic appeal and new modes are countered by the lack of depth and the presence of microtransactions, leading to a sense of missed opportunities. Critics like But Why Tho? and Checkpoint Gaming reflect this sentiment, suggesting that the replay value is limited and may not satisfy all players. Ultimately, Sonic Origins seems to cater well to completionists and those seeking nostalgia, but may leave others wanting more in terms of content and engagement.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Sonic Origins showcases a blend of nostalgia and appreciation for the classic Sonic games, with many critics praising the collection for its faithful recreation of the original titles. Reviews from outlets like Game Informer and Xbox Tavern highlight the enhancements made in Anniversary Mode, which elevate the experience for both new players and long-time fans. Critics such as GamingBolt and PlayStation Universe commend the compilation as a celebration of Sonic's legacy, emphasizing the quality of life improvements and the polished presentation that makes the games enjoyable. Additionally, some reviewers, like Meristation and GameOver.gr, describe the collection as well-crafted, catering to both nostalgic players and newcomers with modern enhancements. However, despite these positives, a significant number of critics express disappointment regarding the content and pricing of Sonic Origins. Many reviews, including those from NintendoWorldReport, Games.cz, and PSX Extreme, highlight the lack of substantial new features and the high price point, which they feel does not justify the purchase. Critics like Gamers Heroes and Checkpoint Gaming mention the questionable monetization practices, particularly the inclusion of paid DLC that should have been part of the base game. Furthermore, technical issues and the omission of certain beloved entries in the collection are recurring themes in the critiques, leading to a perception that the compilation falls short of its potential. The overall consensus among critics indicates that while Sonic Origins successfully captures the essence of the classic games and offers a nostalgic experience, it is marred by significant shortcomings in content and pricing strategies. Many reviewers, such as PC Games and NME, suggest that the collection may not be worth the investment for those who already own the original titles or previous compilations. Despite the mixed feedback, there remains a core group of enthusiasts who find value in the collection, as noted by critics like Everyeye.it and GamingTrend, suggesting that Sonic Origins may appeal more to die-hard fans or newcomers rather than casual players.

TL;DR

Sonic Origins hits a nostalgic sweet spot with faithful recreations and quality-of-life improvements, winning over fans and critics alike. However, it faces backlash for high pricing, lack of substantial new features, controversial monetization, and technical issues. While it resonates with die-hard fans, many feel it falls short and may not justify the investment for those who already own the originals.

MONSTER

Reviews

135 reviews found

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Sonic Origins is deemed a fitting celebration of Sonic's legacy, with great gameplay, visuals, and a wealth of extras, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

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CGMagazine

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Sonic Origins is praised for its love for the franchise and quality improvements, making it a worthwhile compilation for fans and newcomers alike.

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Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Jun 28, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Sonic Origins is worthwhile for fans of the series who want to revisit these classics.

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Attack of the Fanboy

Jun 21, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Sonic Origins is an essential collection for fans and newcomers alike, showcasing tight gameplay and a strong soundtrack while preserving the franchise's legacy.

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GamesBeat

PlayStation 5

Jun 23, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Sonic Origins is worth it, even for fans who already own these games in other compilations.

GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review overall praises Sonic Origins as a collection that does justice to the original Sonic games and offers new content and improvements.

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GameOver.gr

PlayStation 5

Aug 12, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Sonic Origins is a well-crafted collection that allows both nostalgic players and newcomers to enjoy classic platformers with modern enhancements.

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GamersRD

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Sonic Origins is a comprehensive compilation that satisfies fans of the classic games, featuring enhancements and a wealth of content that adds to its replay value.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jul 5, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Sonic Origins is praised for being more than a simple emulation and for fully remastering the classic Sonic games. Sonic 1, 2, and 3 are recommended as must plays, while Sonic CD is considered the weakest of the bunch. Some bugs and issues with the remastered versions are mentioned.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Jun 28, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Sonic Origins is a nostalgic anthology that appeals to fans but falls short in some areas, particularly in sound design and addressing gameplay issues.

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