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Sonic the Hedgehog 2 review

Game: Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Platform: Genesis
Genre: Action (Platformer)
Developer: Sonic Team

Reader review by espnking2002

May 24, 2006

Being Sonic isn’t as easy as one might think. Once one looks past the glamour of being a world hero, his job is pretty tough. Sonic’s arch-nemesis, Dr. Robotnik, is constantly kidnapping the furry animals of the world and only Sonic can save them. This might seem like an easy task at first but it is much more difficult than it presents itself. The reason for this complication is because Dr. Robotnik has set up machines to try to take out Sonic so he doesn’t have to take out the blue hedgehog himself.

To avoid getting killed by these droids Sonic must harm them. Jumping on them and running them over using his incredible speed are ways Sonic can make mincemeat out of the robots. Now, the occasional slip up will happen and one of the pesky machines will get to Sonic. When this happens, Sonic’s fate depends on whether or not he has been collecting the rings that are scattered around the various levels he has been exploring. If he has been collecting the rings, his pockets will empty and he will have to make a feeble attempt to recollect the rings back in a few short seconds. If he hasn’t, well every hedgehog has his day.

To collect these rings Sonic will have to explore caves, jump off ledges, play in casinos, and defeat enemies although he isn’t limited to doing only these actions. Another way he can collect rings is by hopping on electronic boxes dispersed around the levels. When Sonic does this, ten rings automatically goes into his tally of collected rings. Now, these electronic boxes aren’t restricted to containing only coins. Depending on the symbol found on the box, Sonic can gain certain abilities by hopping on them. If a pair of red sneakers is found on an electronic box, Sonic will be able to reach an unbelievable speed. If Sonic hops on an electronic box with a blue shield on it, Sonic will be protected by a blue layer that shields him from all things harmful.

Of course, the only way Sonic can get the aforementioned items is to explore the different levels which are marvels onto themselves. The originality of Casino Night, Mystic Cave’s eeriness, and Aquatic Ruin’s peculiar appeal all make Sonic’s adventure worthwhile. Additionally, what Sonic does inside these levels also makes his journey worthwhile. In Casino Night for example, Sonic can play jackpot machines to win, or possibly lose, coins. He can also play pinball with himself to launch up to conveyor belts or metal springs that help him advance in the level. These little details make Sonic’s adventure exciting and advantageous.

What also helps make the levels remarkable is the music that Sonic can bob his head to while saving captured animals. Each song fits their assigned level perfectly and helps create an atmosphere like no other. Whether it is the music that normally goes to each level or the music when Dr. Robotnik makes an appearance they all fit thoroughly no matter what the occasion is.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 prides itself in excellent gameplay, tremendous atmosphere, and a truly great soundtrack. If you still haven’t played this game yet, I’d pick it up and start playing right away. Besides, how else is Sonic going to be able to save the cute, furry animals?

Rating: 9/10

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