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Sonic Origins

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

2022

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

AvailableJun 23, 2022

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, 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

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

43%

Mixed (50-79)

57%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Story of Sonic Origins are generally positive. Checkpoint Gaming appreciated the new animations linking the games together, adding a nice touch for players. MeuPlayStation also praised the addition of animated cutscenes, providing more depth to the simplistic plot of the original games. PC Games highlighted the inclusion of small cartoons that tell a simple yet engaging story about Dr. Robotnik turning animals into robots and Sonic's efforts to stop him. These elements were seen as enhancing the overall storytelling experience and adding value to the game. On the downside, some critics felt that the story in Sonic Origins was too simplistic and lacked depth. Nintendo Life mentioned the absence of overwrought narratives, indicating a focus on Sonic fighting an evil mustache man to save animals and the world. While this straightforward approach may appeal to fans of the classic Sonic games, it could be seen as a limitation for those looking for more complex storytelling or character development. Additionally, the repetition of the same story theme across different games within the compilation might lead to a sense of monotony for some players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Story of Sonic Origins successfully combines nostalgia with modern enhancements to deliver an engaging narrative experience. The addition of animated cutscenes and small cartoons was generally well-received, providing a fresh perspective on the classic Sonic stories. Despite the simplicity of the plot, the storytelling elements were considered effective in immersing players in Sonic's world and his ongoing battle against Dr. Robotnik. The game's ability to capture the essence of the original Sonic games while introducing new features like Anniversary Editions and additional modes like Mission Mode and Story Mode was appreciated by reviewers, making Sonic Origins a worthwhile experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics praise Sonic Origins for its nostalgic blend with modern enhancements, including new animations and engaging storytelling elements like animated cutscenes and small cartoons. While some find the story too simplistic, the game effectively immerses players in Sonic's world with its focus on battling Dr. Robotnik. Despite potential monotony from repeated story themes, Sonic Origins is lauded for capturing the essence of the original games and offering new features like Anniversary Editions and various modes. Overall, it's a worthwhile experience for both longtime fans and newcomers.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

84%

Mixed (50-79)

16%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of Sonic Origins, highlighting various positive aspects. Critics such as DualShockers and Worth Playing commended the fluid controls and enjoyable bonus levels, emphasizing the timeless appeal of the classic Sonic gameplay. The addition of new features like the 'Drop Dash' move, as mentioned by GAMES.CH, was also well-received for making the gameplay more accessible and engaging for both existing fans and newcomers to the series. Additionally, the inclusion of new game modes such as Boss Rush and Mission Mode, as noted by GameSpew and MeuPlayStation, added depth and replay value to the overall experience. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain negatives related to the gameplay of Sonic Origins. For instance, Game Informer mentioned that while playing through the collection was fun, there were frustrating design elements in Sonic 1 and CD that hadn't aged as gracefully. Hooked Gamers raised concerns about the Drop Dash ability causing glitches in Sonic CD, indicating potential technical issues that affected the gameplay experience. Noisy Pixel also highlighted design oversights and technical problems that hindered the otherwise enjoyable gameplay of the classic Sonic games. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of Sonic Origins. The solid and simple gameplay mechanics, as described by GameCritics, coupled with the enhancements such as new playable characters, additional modes, and quality-of-life improvements, contributed to a highly enjoyable experience for players. The faithful recreation of the original classics, combined with modern updates and tweaks, resonated well with reviewers and players alike, showcasing the enduring appeal of Sonic's platforming adventures. The mix of traditional and modern gameplay elements, as mentioned by Nintendo Life, further solidified Sonic Origins as a must-have collection for fans of the iconic blue hedgehog. Despite minor issues and technical hiccups, the overall sentiment is that Sonic Origins delivers a nostalgic and engaging gameplay experience that captures the essence of what made the original Sonic games so beloved.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics praised Sonic Origins for its fluid controls, enjoyable bonus levels, and new features like the 'Drop Dash' move, enhancing the classic Sonic gameplay for both old and new fans. While some noted aged design elements and technical glitches, the overall consensus is highly positive, with the mix of traditional and modern gameplay elements making it a must-have collection for Sonic fans, delivering a nostalgic and engaging experience.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

51%

Mixed (50-79)

46%

Negative (0-49)

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

The critics generally praised the graphics and visual design of Sonic Origins for various reasons. Critics like DualShockers and Wccftech appreciated the cleanliness, vibrancy, and extra details in the graphics, while Game Informer and Pure Xbox highlighted the new animated cutscenes and rebuilt visuals in the Retro Engine. The widescreen presentation and sprite art were also commended by GamingTrend and Shacknews, with the latter mentioning beautiful HD remasters of animated intros and a Museum feature showcasing retro art. On the flip side, some critics expressed concerns about the graphics and visual design of Sonic Origins. Checkpoint Gaming noted the missed opportunity for significant graphical enhancements, while GameCritics criticized the gameplay graphics for not looking as good on modern TVs. NintendoWorldReport and The Mako Reactor mentioned scaling issues and blurry appearances on modern displays, with the former pointing out the lack of graphics options as a drawback. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sonic Origins delivers a mix of positive and negative aspects in its graphics and visual design. While the game received praise for its vibrant colors, detailed environments, and new animated cutscenes, there were criticisms regarding missed opportunities for significant enhancements, scaling issues on modern displays, and the lack of visual options. Critics like COGconnected and Xbox Achievements appreciated the improvements in breathing new life into Sonic's 2D outings, while others like Nintendo Insider and Noisy Pixel pointed out specific shortcomings like the absence of extra visual options and messy level design in Sonic CD. Despite these mixed opinions, the general sentiment leans towards a positive reception of the graphics and visual design in Sonic Origins, with many critics acknowledging the efforts made to enhance the classic Sonic games for modern platforms.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics praise Sonic Origins for its vibrant graphics, detailed environments, and new animated cutscenes, but express concerns about missed opportunities for enhancements, scaling issues on modern displays, and the lack of visual options. Overall, opinions are mixed, with some appreciating the game's improvements in breathing new life into Sonic's 2D outings, while others criticize specific shortcomings.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

22%

Mixed (50-79)

72%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Sonic Origins are varied, with some positive aspects highlighted. Critics such as COGconnected and Gamers' Temple appreciated the inclusion of memorable and nostalgic music tracks from the Sonic games, enhancing the overall experience for fans of the franchise. Additionally, GameCritics praised the addition of music, artwork, and videos in the supporting content, specifically mentioning the opening movie from Sonic CD and the theme song. Worth Playing also commended the memorable sound effects, stereo sound separation, and the mix of original and new tracks in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 & Knuckles, contributing to a celebratory atmosphere for Sonic enthusiasts. On the other hand, several critics pointed out negative aspects of the Sound Design and Music in Sonic Origins. Checkpoint Gaming and PlayStation Country criticized the replacement of tracks in Sonic 3 & Knuckles, mentioning missing or altered songs that did not live up to the original compositions, impacting the overall experience negatively. Similarly, Game Informer highlighted audio issues in Sonic 3 & Knuckles and Sonic 2, where replacement tunes were deemed weaker and removed nostalgia from the games. Video Chums and Pure Xbox also noted changes in the soundtrack, with some iconic tracks missing or being replaced, leading to a step down from the original music quality. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a mixed reception regarding the Sound Design and Music of Sonic Origins. While there is appreciation for the inclusion of nostalgic tracks and supporting content, criticisms regarding missing or altered music in Sonic 3 & Knuckles, as well as sound balance issues, are prevalent. The sentiment reflects a balance between positive aspects like the memorable sound effects and celebratory musical flourishes, as praised by Hardcore Gamer, and the disappointment over changes to iconic tracks and the impact on the overall experience, as noted by critics like Nintendo Life and GameSpot. Ultimately, the Sound Design and Music in Sonic Origins seem to evoke a sense of nostalgia for longtime fans while also falling short in certain aspects, creating a mixed response among reviewers.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics have mixed opinions on the Sound Design and Music in Sonic Origins. Positive feedback includes praise for nostalgic tracks and celebratory elements. However, criticism focuses on missing or altered music, impacting the overall experience negatively. The consensus reveals a balance between appreciation for certain aspects and disappointment over changes to iconic tracks, resulting in a mixed reception among reviewers.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

18%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

18%

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

In terms of the technical performance of Sonic Origins on different gaming platforms, the PlayStation 5 received mixed reviews. Critics like Press Start Australia and Push Square praised the flawless performance of the games, highlighting smooth gameplay and expected visuals and sound. Additionally, MeuPlayStation appreciated the fast loading times and different display modes for performance optimization, adding a positive aspect to the PS5 experience. However, there were notable technical issues reported by several critics on the PS5 platform. Checkpoint Gaming, We Got This Covered, and Wccftech mentioned various bugs and glitches affecting gameplay, such as save data corruption, freezing problems, and stability issues like frequent crashes and save file corruption. These issues impacted the overall experience negatively, as noted by critics like We Got This Covered, who highlighted freezing problems and technical issues affecting gameplay. Moving on to the PC platform, Hooked Gamers and Noisy Pixel reported occasional glitches in Sonic Origins, including problems with abilities and occasional frame drops. While these issues were not overwhelmingly frequent, they still detracted from the overall gameplay experience. On the Nintendo Switch, Gaming Age praised the performance of Sonic Origins, indicating a relatively smooth gaming experience. However, NintendoWorldReport criticized the lack of basic features and technical issues, such as glitches, impacting the gameplay negatively. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of Sonic Origins is varied. While some reviewers like Press Start Australia and Push Square found the games to run perfectly, others, such as Checkpoint Gaming and Wccftech, highlighted significant technical issues like bugs, glitches, and stability problems. The lack of basic features, occasional frame drops, and save data corruption were common concerns raised by multiple critics, indicating a mixed reception for the technical performance of Sonic Origins across different gaming platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Sonic Origins on PS5 impressed with flawless performance and fast loading times but was marred by bugs and stability issues. PC version had occasional glitches, while Nintendo Switch offered a relatively smooth experience. Overall, critics had mixed opinions on technical performance, with some praising it and others pointing out significant issues across platforms.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

39%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

11%

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

The opinions of multiple critics regarding the replay value of Sonic Origins are quite varied, with several positive aspects highlighted. Critics such as Game Informer, GameSpew, and MeuPlayStation praise the inclusion of various modes like Mission Mode, Boss Rush, and Mirror Mode, providing additional challenges and surprises for players. These modes offer different ways to experience the classic Sonic games and encourage replayability through diverse gameplay experiences. Additionally, features like collectibles, global leaderboards, and the ability to play as different characters, as mentioned by GameCritics and Nintendo Insider, add depth and incentive for players to revisit levels and explore the games further. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about the limitations and drawbacks of the replay value in Sonic Origins. Checkpoint Gaming and Wccftech mention that the additional content beyond the core games feels lackluster, with unlockable content in the Museum not being perceived as special or engaging. Limited features like save states, lack of multiple saves, and additional content locked behind DLC, as noted by Shacknews and Gamers Heroes, also hinder the overall replayability of the collection. Furthermore, critics like But Why Tho?? and Forbes criticize the lack of innovative challenges and rewards, with some modes like Story Mode not offering substantial value beyond playing the games separately. Overall, while Sonic Origins offers a variety of modes and challenges that enhance the replay value for players, there are mixed opinions among critics regarding the depth and impact of these additional features. Critics like COGconnected and DualShockers appreciate the diverse gameplay options and unlockable extras that contribute to long-term motivation and engagement. However, criticisms from critics such as GamingTrend and Worth Playing highlight the need for more meaningful content and innovative gameplay elements to truly elevate the replay value of the collection. Despite some shortcomings, the consensus among critics leans towards Sonic Origins providing a decent amount of replay value through its additional modes and challenges, albeit with room for improvement in terms of content depth and innovation to truly captivate players in the long run.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics have mixed opinions on Sonic Origins' replay value. Positive aspects like diverse modes and challenges are praised by some, while others criticize limitations like lackluster additional content and locked features hindering replayability. While the collection offers incentives for players to revisit classic Sonic games, there are calls for more innovative challenges and rewards to elevate the overall experience.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

53%

Mixed (50-79)

47%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers on Sonic Origins, it is evident that the collection has received a mix of positive feedback. Critics such as Game Informer and GameSpew praise Sonic Origins for providing an excellent compilation of classic Sonic games, with enhancements like Anniversary Mode and beautifully animated cutscenes that enhance the overall gameplay experience. The addition of new content and improvements, as highlighted by GamingTrend and Worth Playing, also adds value to the collection. The accessibility of gameplay and the celebration of the franchise's artwork and music, as noted by Shacknews, further contribute to the positive aspects of Sonic Origins. On the flip side, several critics express concerns and criticisms regarding Sonic Origins. Checkpoint Gaming and Nintendo Insider highlight the lack of substantial enhancements and weird omissions, respectively, which may lead to disappointment for players expecting more from the collection. Issues such as questionable monetization practices, technical limitations, and locked DLC content, as mentioned by critics like PC Games and Gamers Heroes, detract from the overall experience of Sonic Origins. The presence of noticeable caveats, occasional glitches, and missing features, as pointed out by Noisy Pixel and NintendoWorldReport, also contribute to the negative aspects of the collection. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Sonic Origins leans towards a positive reception with some reservations. While the collection is praised for faithfully recreating the classic Sonic games and offering a robust experience for fans, there are concerns about the pricing, paid DLC, and missed opportunities for additional features. Critics like COGconnected and Push Square acknowledge the positive aspects of Sonic Origins but also highlight the need for improvements in certain areas to fully realize its potential. Despite its flaws, Sonic Origins is generally recommended for fans of the franchise and newcomers looking to experience the classic Sonic games in a modernized format.

TL;DR

Sonic Origins receives mixed reviews, with critics praising its faithful recreation of classic games and new enhancements like Anniversary Mode, but also criticizing its lack of substantial improvements and questionable monetization practices. Overall, while the collection is recommended for fans and newcomers, there are reservations about pricing and missed opportunities for additional features.

CRITIK

Reviews

134 reviews found

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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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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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.

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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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Jul 5, 2022

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

Sonic Origins is praised as a great way to experience the classic games, with the added mission modes being a standout feature. The review mentions some issues with pre-order lockouts and minor bugs, but overall, it is considered a fantastic package.

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Game Informer

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2022

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

The Sonic Origins package is terrific overall, providing the best versions of the classic Sonic saga in one bundle. The enhancements in Anniversary Mode make the experience more enjoyable than ever before.

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GameCritics

PlayStation 5

Jun 29, 2022

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

The review praises Sonic Origins as a great collection that delivers on its promise, with charm, personality, and a complete package of content.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Jun 29, 2022

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

Sonic Origins is praised for being one of the best ways to play classic Sonic games, with some missed opportunities for additional gameplay features.