Game Review: Sonic X Shadow Generations

Sonic the Hedgehog has been synonymous with video games for years. Back in 1991, Sonic starred in many games during the 16-bit era, and new friends such as Miles "Tails" Prower, Knuckles the Echidna, and Shadow the Hedgehog have joined his adventures since. The transition of Sonic to 3D brought a whole new world of fun for gamers in the early 2000s.

On November 1, 2011, SEGA celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Spikey Blue Speedster with the release of Sonic Generations for the PlayStation 3. Sonic Generations was a reimagined version of the past Sonic games in a 3D environment. For players who grew up in the 16-bit era, the game had the option to play the "classic" style which features a side-scrolling perspective just like the original Sonic games of the past. The game was a huge hit to fans back then.

Fast forward to 2024, Sonic Generations gets the remastered treatment on modern consoles. Adding another game featuring Shadow the Hedgehog is a great way to reintroduce the new version to old and new players. Hence, the game's title is "Sonic X Shadow Generations." Think of it as a two-in-one game. Kind of a good deal, right?

Gameplay and Controls

The gameplay and controls of Sonic X Shadow Generations should be a breeze for those who have played the original 2011 PS3 game. On the other hand, it would take a bit of getting used to for new players.

Playing Shadow was considerably smoother compared to Sonic. It's good to play both the "classic" and "modern" versions of Sonic but there's a slight input lag on the controls while moving the Blue Speedster. It took a while to get a hang of it but wasn't much of an issue trying to clear each stage.

While the game is expectedly fast-paced, the ever-switching levels from side-scroller to 3D is interesting and fun. However, it takes a while to get used to if one is new to playing 3D Sonic games. The gameplay on the remastered version is better in "Classic" mode.

Banger soundtrack, vast level design, and jaw-dropping graphics

Like previous Sonic games, level designs for Sonic X Shadow Generations are so vast that there are different paths to clear each stage. The graphics, especially the 3D backgrounds are stunning. Overall level design, especially Shadow's game, reminds you of Sonic Frontiers and Sonic Forces. The game's optimization on the PS4 is surprisingly great.

The soundtrack of Sonic's game will forever be nostalgic but the music on Shadow's game is an absolute banger! The edgy soundtrack suits Shadow the Hedgehog. A fast, dark-themed game with an awesome soundtrack, is a great combo.

Shadow the Hedgehog's story is appealing

"Shadow Generations" brings a new, darker world to explore. He has to deal with the Time Eater's hijinks, and then Shadow ends up in a white space filled with locations of his past. Making things worse for the anti-hero Hedgehog is the return of Black Doom.

Shadow the Hedgehog adds a new flair to the game. Perhaps Shadow's skill set, abilities, and story, appeal to gamers.

New players should check out "Shadow's Story" before playing the game to know more about Shadow the Hedgehog.

Shadow's Doom Abilities and gameplay

Shadow can unlock his "Doom" abilities that help him navigate each stage as he progresses, such as Doom Spear, Doom Blast, Doom Surf, and Doom Wing.

Shadow's Doom Spear and Doom Blast make it so much easier to destroy enemies. Doom Spear can hit and stun several enemies at once, while Doom Blast can launch some enemies for an air attack. Doom Surf and Doom Wing help Shadow cruise in the water and glide in the air respectively.

As mentioned a while ago, Shadow's gameplay and controls are smoother. Shadow's Doom abilities make it easier to navigate each stage.

Just like Sonic games, collecting rings is Shadow's lifeline. Once Shadow gets hit by an enemy, he loses all his rings.

Treasure hunting around the White Space

Players must find tokens at each stage to unlock chests around the white void containing goodies like past Sonic games' official art, music, and more. They can be accessed in the game's Collection Room.

Don't forget to help Cubot and Orbot repair their rocket by tracking down parts around the white void and be rewarded with some helpful items for Shadow.

Find three keys to fight bosses

Collect three keys to open the door to the boss's lair. To acquire each key, there are portals of challenges one must enter and complete. If successful with all the challenges, the door can be unlocked for a boss fight.

Boss fights in "Shadow Generations" are straightforward and fun. If you see a "?" icon in the area, it gives you clues on how to beat the boss. Once you've mastered all of Shadow's Doom Abilities, boss fights won't be a problem. Of course, trying not to lose your rings during a boss fight can be tricky though.

Verdict

Overall, Sonic X Shadow Generations is a great 3D platformer. Plus, it's a two-in-one game! Hats off to SEGA for giving new life to the beloved 2011 Sonic game and porting it to modern consoles. Of course, it's still a Sonic the Hedgehog game but Shadow the Hedgehog certainly makes a case to take the spotlight.

Shadow's game was a breath of fresh air. The remastered Sonic game may have a few flaws, but the improved graphics, controls, gameplay, and level design on "Shadow Generations" exceed it.

Noob Geek rating: 8.5/10

(Note: Review code was provided by SEGA Asia)