Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II

It´s best not to question the relevance of Sonic in the world of modern gaming, but as a retro-flashback as well as a strong representative of its genre, this is a convincing game.

If you turn off the annoying music, you will find the joy of a classical 2D Sonic. There is nothing new, however it makes fun and in some moments, you can feel the atmosphere of oldschool 2D sonics.

Sonic games have always worked best at top speed. Unfortunately, for Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II, commitment to that joyous speed is severely lacking. [July, p.79]

In the end, Sonic 4 Episode II is probably the best Sonic game in awhile that combines retro gaming with 21st century next-gen console mechanics. Although the title is a little on the repetitive side, there's enough fun to keep most gamers going and just when things start to become repetitive, the game fortunately ends in time.

All in all, Episode II was a definite progression from Episode I. The bite-sized series updates aren't totally where they need to be, but they're getting there. With a little more focus on speed, fluidity, and a 'back to basics' attitude, SEGA will have a winner on their hands that will be almost as cherished as their best work of art to date.

Sonic 4: Episode II is good - not great, not very good, just good. Its physics are better than the first game and the broad nods to past games will please fans, but the music is a disappointment and the combo moves limit the flowing momentum that would have nudged it into "very good" territory.

Episode II is certainly not a bad game, just a little bit uninspired. It also doesn't help that Team Sonic consistently breaks up the (fast) pacing of the game, resulting in quite some frustration. Less frustrating and even fun are the bonus levels who look like they've been hauled over from Sonic 2.[July 2012, p.92]

If you found no redeeming qualities whatsoever in Episode 1, then you'll probably be pretty underwhelmed on what Episode 2 manages to deliver, but if you got some enjoyment out of the previous entry then I think you'll find this second act worth your time.

What we all deserve is a solid, faithful, and fun Sonic the Hedgehog game. While Episode 2 is closer to this than Episode 1, there is still a way to go. Let's just hope that the Hedgehog still has the legs.

Sonic the Hedgehog 4, once more, has not been the true second coming of your hero.

It's 2D Sonic, with brand new zones, seven half-pipe bonus stages, and a Metal Sonic story for those who purchased Episode I. Not bad for fifteen bucks.

Polished and zippy, but having to give up control in any game is a sign that all isn't well. Sorry Sonic, time to retire. [Aug 2012, p.103]

By far the biggest problem here is how Sonic himself handles. [July 2012, p.106]

A solid though unremarkable continuation of the long-running formula.

Sonic 4 Episode II feels at times dangerously close to being a great Sonic game, but there are elements throughout that let it down and leave you feeling distinctly underwhelmed. The Homing Attack is far, far more of a hindrance than an aid of any sort, and whilst the presentation is good you don't really get the feeling of a classic Sonic game with Episode II.

With 13 levels, 7 bonus round incarnations, and 5 boss fights, Sonic 4 Episode 2 can be easily played through in a single sitting,and doesn't take much longer if you're really looking for completion. It doesn't so much give that feeling of nostalgia, as much as it reminds you of what the series used to be, and for me, how much I'd rather play Sonic 2 again; especially when the first three entries in the series can be purchased (along with a host of other Genesis classics) in compilations like Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection for the same price as-or less than-this $15 episode.

Playing Sonic 4: Episode II co-op is like returning to your favorite family vacation destination as an adult and bringing along a friend. You point at the broken attractions and try to convince them how good things used to be, but no amount of nostalgia can change the fact that the powers that be have let your beloved memory deteriorate.