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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, 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 mostly impresses with its new Story Mode that ties together classic games with vibrant animations, creating a nostalgic experience for fans. Critics praise the animated cutscenes for enhancing storytelling, yet some note issues like narrative inconsistencies and lack of depth. While it excels in unifying Sonic's legacy, it's not without its flaws, leaving some wanting a richer narrative. Overall, it's a solid tribute to the franchise, despite execution shortcomings.

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 predominantly positive, with many critics appreciating the new Story Mode that connects the four classic Sonic games into a cohesive narrative. Checkpoint Gaming notes the inclusion of new animations that enhance the storytelling, while Gaming Age and Cubed3 emphasize the continuity provided by the chronological playthrough of the games. Critics like PCMag highlight the beautifully animated cutscenes that add character and life to the story without the need for dialogue, and MeuPlayStation mentions the nostalgic stories that are enhanced by these animations, enriching the simplistic plots of the original games. This nostalgic journey through Sonic's narrative universe is celebrated by several reviewers, including Everyeye.it, who appreciates the opportunity to revisit the mythology of the series. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the execution of the Story Mode. ComicBook points out inconsistencies in the order of the games, which can detract from the overall narrative flow. Destructoid mentions that while the animated cutscenes enhance the experience, the narratives remain abstract and lack depth. Digital Chumps expresses a desire for longer animations to further enrich the storytelling, indicating that the current offerings may not fully satisfy players looking for a more elaborate narrative. Additionally, some critics, such as LevelUp, argue that while the new cinematics are beautifully animated, they do not significantly contribute to the lore of the franchise. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Sonic Origins successfully brings together the classic Sonic games through a new Story Mode filled with animated cutscenes, providing a nostalgic experience for fans. While the overall execution has its flaws—such as narrative inconsistencies and a lack of depth—the enhancements to the storytelling are generally well-received. Critics like Attack of the Fanboy and GamingBolt highlight that the story remains simple yet engaging, focusing on Sonic's battles against Dr. Robotnik. Overall, Sonic Origins is viewed as a commendable effort to unify the franchise's narrative while celebrating its legacy, despite some shortcomings in narrative execution.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Sonic Origins strikes a nostalgic chord with classic gameplay and modern enhancements, earning praise for its fast-paced action and new features like the Drop Dash. However, critics lament the lack of significant innovation and technical glitches, which dampen the experience. While it appeals to both new and veteran players, those seeking a fresh take may be left wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

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 mix of praise and critique from various reviewers, highlighting several positive aspects that resonate with both new and veteran players. Many critics appreciate the nostalgic feel of the classic gameplay, noting that the remastered titles maintain the fast-paced excitement that Sonic is known for. For instance, PSX Extreme and Push Square commend the satisfying movement and level design, while GamersRD emphasizes the engaging nature of the gameplay, which includes high-speed traversal and boss encounters. The introduction of modes like Anniversary, which offers infinite lives and modern conveniences, has been well-received, with reviewers like CGMagazine and Hobby Consolas noting that these enhancements make the game more accessible to newcomers. Additionally, the inclusion of new features such as the Drop Dash ability and various character options adds depth and variety to the gameplay experience, as highlighted by critics like Comicbook.com and Meristation. Despite the positive feedback, several critics express dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the gameplay, particularly regarding the lack of significant changes or new levels. PSX Extreme and Gaming Age point out that the core gameplay remains largely unchanged from the original titles, which may disappoint players seeking innovation. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Digital Chumps echo this sentiment, suggesting that while the gameplay is enjoyable, it does not offer a substantial reinvention akin to what was seen in Sonic Mania. Additionally, some reviewers, such as GameGrin and Hooked Gamers, mention that the absence of modern conveniences like save states and the presence of glitches in new features can detract from the overall experience, particularly for newcomers who may find certain challenges frustrating. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sonic Origins successfully captures the essence of the original Sonic games while introducing modern enhancements that appeal to a wide audience. However, the lack of significant innovation and the presence of some technical issues have led to mixed feelings about the gameplay experience. While many reviewers, including Pure Xbox and Nintendo Insider, appreciate the nostalgic elements and the variety of modes available, others, like Gaming Age and Metro GameCentral, feel that the game could have benefited from more substantial updates to its core design. Ultimately, Sonic Origins is seen as a solid collection that balances nostalgia with modern gameplay elements, but it may not fully satisfy those looking for a fresh take on the beloved franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Sonic Origins' graphics have received mixed reviews—while many praise its vibrant HD remastering and new animated cutscenes, critics highlight issues like blurry visuals, limited graphic options, and minor performance flaws. The game strikes a nostalgic chord but ultimately falls short of modern standards, leaving a sense of unfulfilled potential in its graphical execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

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 mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers. Many critics have highlighted the remastered visuals as a significant improvement over the original games, with numerous mentions of the vibrant colors and sharp presentation. For instance, Nintenderos noted the nostalgic yet updated visual experience provided by the HD graphics, while PlayStation Universe emphasized the sharpness and vibrancy of the visuals, which enhance the overall gameplay experience. The inclusion of new animated cutscenes, as praised by Game Informer and Comicbook.com, has also been a standout feature, adding a fresh layer to the classic titles. Additionally, the option to play in both 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios, as mentioned by several critics including Cubed3 and GamingBolt, has been appreciated for catering to both nostalgic players and those seeking a modern experience. On the flip side, several reviewers pointed out notable shortcomings in the graphics and visual design of Sonic Origins. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and The Mako Reactor expressed disappointment over the lack of graphics options and scaling issues, with some games appearing blurry on modern displays. Checkpoint Gaming echoed this sentiment, highlighting the missed opportunity for significant graphical enhancements despite the games being rebuilt. Additionally, some critics, such as Gaming Age and MeuPlayStation, mentioned that while the remastered visuals are an improvement, they still feel outdated compared to contemporary gaming standards. Minor issues like screen tearing and sluggishness were also noted, particularly by GamersRD and The Mako Reactor, indicating that the visual experience is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Sonic Origins successfully revitalizes the classic games with updated visuals and new animated cutscenes, it falls short in providing a fully polished graphical experience. Many reviewers appreciate the nostalgic elements and the effort to modernize the titles, as seen in the comments from Vandal and Shacknews, but they also recognize the limitations in graphical options and enhancements. The balance between maintaining the original aesthetic and adapting to modern expectations appears to be a central theme in the reviews, with critics like GamingTrend and Digital Chumps acknowledging the visual improvements while also pointing out the areas where Sonic Origins could have pushed further. Ultimately, Sonic Origins is seen as a commendable effort to bring classic titles to a new audience, albeit with some caveats regarding its graphical execution.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Sonic Origins' sound design strikes a nostalgic chord with classic tracks but falls flat with major criticisms. While many appreciate the remastered sound and the Museum feature, the absence of iconic Sonic 3 tracks—especially those linked to Michael Jackson—has disappointed fans. Critics have flagged sound quality issues and the frustration of unlocking music via microtransactions. Ultimately, nostalgia clashes with disappointment, leaving a mixed reception for the soundtrack.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

19%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

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 mixed yet predominantly nostalgic reception among critics. Many reviewers appreciated the inclusion of classic tracks and sound effects that evoke fond memories of the original Sonic games. For instance, critics from Nintendo Life and Multiplayer.it highlighted the memorable compositions and the nostalgic experience provided by the sound design. Additionally, the Museum feature, as noted by critics like GamersRD and Shacknews, allows players to explore and enjoy a variety of music tracks from the franchise, enhancing the overall experience. The remastered soundtracks, while not universally praised, have been described as enjoyable by some, such as BaziCenter, who noted that the updated music tracks enhance the nostalgic experience while maintaining the essence of the original sound design. However, the criticisms regarding the soundtrack are significant and cannot be overlooked. A recurring theme in the reviews is the disappointment stemming from the absence of original music tracks in Sonic 3, particularly those associated with Michael Jackson. Critics like Nintendojo and Digital Chumps expressed their dissatisfaction with the replacement of iconic tracks, which many felt detracted from the overall experience. Furthermore, issues with sound quality, such as reported bugs and glitches, were highlighted by several reviewers, including PSX Extreme and We Got This Covered, who noted that these technical problems overshadowed the otherwise enjoyable soundtrack. The need to unlock music through microtransactions, as mentioned by critics like Games.cz and PC Invasion, has also been criticized for detracting from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a strong sense of nostalgia for the original Sonic soundtracks, tempered by disappointment over the changes made in Sonic Origins. While many appreciated the effort to include classic tracks and sound effects, the alterations to the Sonic 3 soundtrack, particularly the absence of beloved compositions, left a sour note for long-time fans. Critics like Game Informer and GamingTrend emphasized that the replacement tracks often failed to capture the same magic as the originals, leading to a less favorable reception. Ultimately, Sonic Origins presents a mixed bag of sound design and music, where the nostalgia for the classic tunes is palpable, but the changes and omissions have left a significant impact on the overall sentiment.

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 receives mixed reviews for technical performance across platforms. The PS5 version shines with smooth gameplay and fast loading times but suffers from bugs like Tails getting stuck and crashes. The Nintendo Switch shows improvements over originals but still faces glitches. PC players experience significant performance issues, including high CPU usage. Overall, while there's praise for stability on PS5, all platforms have notable bugs that detract from the experience, highlighting a need for improvements.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The technical performance of Sonic Origins across various gaming platforms has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics. On the PlayStation 5, many reviewers noted that the game runs smoothly, with CGMagazine praising the absence of emulation and a stable performance overall. PlayStation Universe and Press Start Australia echoed this sentiment by highlighting the game's ability to run at 60 FPS without significant technical hiccups. Additionally, MeuPlayStation pointed out the fast loading times and performance optimization features, which enhance the experience on PS5. On the Nintendo Switch, while some bugs were reported, Nintenderos mentioned that the game runs smoothly with noticeable improvements over the original titles. Similarly, Gaming Age noted that the Switch version performs well, suggesting a generally satisfactory experience for players on that platform. However, the technical performance of Sonic Origins is not without its issues. On the PS5, several critics, including Checkpoint Gaming and Jeuxvideo.com, reported bugs affecting gameplay, such as Tails getting stuck and inconsistent shield abilities in Sonic 3 & Knuckles. Wccftech and We Got This Covered also highlighted serious concerns, including frequent crashes and freezing issues that detracted from the overall experience. On the PC platform, critics like Cubed3 and PCMag pointed out numerous bugs and performance issues, including high CPU and GPU usage, which significantly impacted gameplay. The Nintendo Switch version also faced criticism, with reviewers like Cubed3 and Multiplayer.it noting the presence of glitches and technical issues that could affect gameplay, despite some improvements over original titles. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception regarding the technical performance of Sonic Origins across all platforms. While many praised the stable performance and smooth gameplay on the PS5, there were notable concerns about bugs and glitches that affected the experience, as highlighted by critics like Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Country. On PC, the performance issues were more pronounced, with several reviewers expressing disappointment over the game's stability, as seen in the opinions of Noisy Pixel and PC Invasion. The Nintendo Switch version, while generally performing well, still faced criticism for its lingering bugs and technical issues, as noted by SECTOR.sk and TouchArcade. In summary, Sonic Origins presents a blend of positive and negative technical experiences, with room for improvement across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Sonic Origins offers engaging modes like Mission and Boss Rush that boost replay value, but criticisms surface over lackluster museum content, microtransactions, and easy challenges. While some see replay potential, many reviewers question long-term engagement and value, leaving mixed opinions on whether it meets players' expectations for a rich experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Sonic Origins highlight several positive aspects that appeal to both new and returning players. Many critics commend the inclusion of various modes, such as Mission Mode, Boss Rush, and Mirror Mode, which provide additional challenges and opportunities for gameplay. For instance, Game Informer notes that these modes offer "remixed experiences" that enhance replayability, while critics like Attack of the Fanboy and GamingBolt emphasize the significance of collectibles and challenges that encourage players to revisit levels. Furthermore, the ability to play as different characters and the addition of a museum for unlocking content are seen as engaging features that add depth to the experience, as highlighted by Nintendo Insider and BaziCenter. However, the reviews also reveal a range of criticisms regarding the replay value of Sonic Origins. Many critics express disappointment over the lack of meaningful content in the museum, with several noting that the unlockables do not feel special or unique. PSX Extreme and Checkpoint Gaming specifically mention that the presence of microtransactions and limited additional content detracts from the overall experience. Moreover, the ease of certain challenges, as pointed out by Noisy Pixel and Vandal, is seen as a drawback, suggesting that the game may not provide enough depth to keep players engaged in the long term. Additionally, features locked behind DLC, as mentioned by PC Invasion and Hardcore Gamer, further exacerbate concerns about replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with many acknowledging the potential for replay value through various modes and collectibles while simultaneously highlighting significant shortcomings. While some reviewers, such as Nintenderos and MeuPlayStation, assert that the game offers substantial replayability, others like Games.cz and Wccftech question its long-term engagement due to the nostalgia factor and limited content. The presence of microtransactions and the need for additional purchases for certain features have left a sour note among many reviewers, suggesting that while Sonic Origins has its merits, it may not fully satisfy players seeking a rich and rewarding replay experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Sonic Origins has garnered a mix of opinions from critics, with several praising its nostalgic value and the quality of the remastered titles. Reviewers like COGconnected and PlayStation Universe commend the collection for its faithful recreation of classic Sonic games, highlighting features like the Anniversary Mode and the overall presentation that pays homage to the franchise's legacy. Critics such as SpazioGames and Attack of the Fanboy echo this sentiment, calling it a compelling package that successfully combines nostalgia with modern accessibility. The collection is viewed as a solid entry point for newcomers and a satisfying experience for long-time fans, with many appreciating the enhancements made to gameplay and visuals. However, the compilation is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers, including Games.cz and NintendoWorldReport, express disappointment regarding the high price point and the minimal new content offered, suggesting that it does not justify the cost for players who may already own the original titles. Critics like PC Invasion and Xbox Achievements point to the questionable monetization practices, particularly the inclusion of paid DLC for features that could have been included in the base game. Technical issues, bugs, and omissions in content are also frequently mentioned, with critics like Wccftech and Metro GameCentral noting that while the collection is competent, it lacks the polish and completeness expected from a definitive edition. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sonic Origins is a mixed bag, offering a nostalgic experience that appeals to both new players and veterans of the series. While many appreciate the effort put into the remastering process and the enjoyable gameplay, the collection is marred by issues such as high pricing, technical flaws, and a lack of substantial new content. Critics like Digital Chumps and Pure Xbox emphasize that while the collection has its merits, potential buyers should weigh their options carefully, especially if they already own the original games. Ultimately, Sonic Origins is seen as a worthwhile experience for some, but it may not meet the expectations of all fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

Sonic Origins is a nostalgic remaster praised for its faithful recreation of classic Sonic games and modern features, making it appealing for both newcomers and longtime fans. However, it faces criticism for its high price, minimal new content, questionable monetization practices, and technical issues. Overall, while it offers a solid experience, potential buyers should consider their options, especially if they already own the originals.

MONSTER

Reviews

133 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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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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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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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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