Sonic x Shadow Generations

Sonic X Shadow Generations would’ve been an incredible package if it was simply remastering the 2011 classic, but the fact that it throws in a whole second game makes it one of the finest platforming experiences of the year, and arguably the most jam-packed release of 2024. Serving as love letters to Sonic’s past and present while perfecting two distinct forms of gameplay make it one the Blue Blur’s finest outings. It’s not just a stroll down memory lane — it’s a high-flying rollercoaster reminding us how great Sega’s mascot was, and still is.

Sonic Generations returns in the form of a remaster as well as a new game starring Shadow. A somewhat unusual combination, but it works out extremely well. The levels are fantastic, the technical improvements are excellent and the performance is top notch. Moreover, the purchase price is very reasonable considering what you get in return in terms of content. Lover of the original game or just a fan of Sonic in general? Then this is definitely recommended.

Sonic x Shadow Generations is a love letter to the fans and the definitive Sonic title. It combines an already beloved title and builds upon its foundations to create a fluid, fast, and fun experience that can only be described as the best Sonic game to date. All we need now is a new Chao Garden.

Thanks to a magical level design and a gameplay that comes out strengthened by the tweaks and the Doom skill, SEGA and Sonic, with the precious contribution of Shadow, remind us that the timeless adventures of the blue hedgehog are special.

Sonic x Shadow Generations marks the triumphant return of one of the franchise's most beloved games. It combines the classic Sonic campaign with an exciting new storyline for Shadow, offering unforgettable levels, a stunning soundtrack, and, above all, endless fun.

In remastering Sonic Generations, Sonic Team and Sega didn’t really need to go so hard – but they have, and we can all thank them for it. The original game was already good, and in enhanced form, it’s even better. Shadow Generations is a very worthy addition here, and it’s great to see Shadow getting a new chance to shine, in levels that serve him, and the wider game, incredibly well.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is the best version of one of the best games in the franchise, with the addition of a great Shadow campaign. All this makes it the definitive Sonic game so far.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a must-experience for platform game lovers. It combines the best of both 3D and 2D, bringing back the 2011 classic in a definitive version, and adding Shadow's own campaign, with gameplay that gives it its own personality.

Whether you're a veteran player of the franchise or not, there's plenty of fun to be had here. The changes mostly improve on the original, and Shadow's campaign is a real blast. That's how we like Sonic, friends of SEGA.

Sonic X Shadow Generations takes an already excellent game and spring jumps it to new heights at a blistering pace by doubling up the campaign length with creative level design, fantastic bosses, plenty of collectibles, and an appreciable graphical upgrade. While the brand-new Shadow content isn't necessarily long on its own, it adds a nice change of pace to the collection of all-time great Sonic stages Generations already contained, and there’s an exciting new story that’s filled in as you explore the overworld for collectibles, activities, and challenges. This bulked-up remaster soars far and above previous enhanced versions we've gotten in the Sonic franchise, and hopefully will be the gold standard Sega holds itself to when it decides to bring back other Sonic games from the past.

Sonic X Shadow Generations gives Shadow fans everything they could wish for and more in this celebration of the Ultimate Lifeform’s history. The level design established in Generations and Sonic Frontiers has been perfected in the generously sized Shadow Generations storyline, with reimagined stages and boss fights from Shadow’s past appearances alongside heaps of references and tributes you’re bound to love.

Back in 2013 I dreamed of the day Sonic Generations got a sequel featuring levels from Sonic’s history that didn’t make it into the final game, and even further back in 2005 I hoped SEGA would give Shadow another chance to shine following a frankly messy spin-off. Sonic X Shadow Generations has turned those hopes and dreams into reality, and I’m ever so thankful for it.

Even in a post-Astro Bot world, Sonic X Shadow Generations serves as an epic reminder of how untouchable both Sonic and Sega can be when they're firing on all cylinders, and its treasure trove of content and top-notch presentation make it an easy recommendation, regardless of it not being a blemish-free experience.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is the Sonic game we didn't know we needed. It's a must have for Sonic fans.

In the end, Sonic x Shadow generations is a must-have for Sonic fans. Sonic Generations remains one of the best Sonic games of all time, and the addition of Shadow Generations elevates this package to a whole new level. The new mechanics and collectibles in Shadow’s adventure add depth and replay-ability, while the visual upgrades and refined hub world make it clear that SEGA has learned from its past mistakes, especially when compared to Sonic Frontiers. This is a perfect time to hop in and catch up on Shadows story before the release of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie later this year.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is basically two excellent games in one. Sonic Generations is a remaster of one of the hedgehog's best titles, while Shadow Generations is a new game that builds on the Sonic Frontiers formula to revisit the past of one of the most beloved characters by fans. Shadow's gameplay mechanics are great, the levels are fun and exploring the White Space is great. It's a complete and recommended package.

If the next main game of the blue hedgehog manages to maintain the level of quality, spectacularity and complexity of the levels of Shadow Generations while polishing the formula of open areas of free exploration that we saw in Frontiers and with which they have continued to experiment and test ideas here, we are convinced that the great future that Sonic told us about in 2011 is closer than ever to becoming a reality.

Even 13 years later, Sonic Generations is still one thing above all else: pure and, most importantly, lightning-fast platforming fun! The great levels are packed with little details, the graphics and soundtrack are beautiful and Shadow's appearance makes the experience even better. Despite some minor flaws, this game is absolutely worthy of SEGA's video game legend.

The potent combination of Sonic and Shadow Generations makes a strong case for being the best package of 3D Sonic content we’ve ever seen.

Shadow x Sonic Generations combines nostalgic stages with fresh gameplay, allowing players to experience perspectives of both Sonic and Shadow in a single package. With stunning visuals, energetic music, and dynamic level design, it’s a thrilling ride for fans. While the campaign is short and some of the boss fights lack creativity, it remains a standout title in the franchise.

For its price point, Sonic X Shadow Generations is a true value for hardcore Sonic fans and fans of platformers alike. With high replay value, and even with some control hiccups, Sega reminds us of what they can do with their blue hedgehog and his edgy counterpart.

Sonic X Shadow Generations once again proves that while Sonic may be timeless, Shadow just squeaks ahead in understanding the assignment a little better – offering a revisited revamp that is easy to enjoy for fans and fence sitters alike.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a delightful experience for any Sonic fan. Not only has the original Generations aged surprisingly well, but the new Shadow segment of the story contains just as much love for the parts of the franchise that came after the original release. The gameplay is quick, fun and accessible, and there's so much love for Sega's mascot and his dark counterpart that it's immensely enjoyable, no matter how many times it reminds me of Sonic 2006. It does the one thing I never imagined could happen: It really makes me want a new Shadow the Hedgehog game.

Sonic x Shadow Generations ties past, present, and future together for a comprehensive view of Sonic’s appeal. If Sonic Generations signaled a conservative era for Sonic stuck in the past, Shadow Generation signals an exciting future of new ideas and stories that matter.

Sonic X Shadow Generations delivers two fantastic games for the price of one, capturing the best elements of the Dreamcast era.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a 2011 remaster that enhances an already fantastic game. Introduce a new campaign featuring Shadow the Hedgehog, who has unique abilities and powers to explore large and secret levels. Additionally, this new version provides better graphics quality, making it the best version of the game.

It’s been quite a while since I’ve enjoyed playing a Sonic title this much, with both halves of Sonic X Shadow Generations combining to make a great package.

Sonic X Shadow Generations makes Sonic look better than ever before thanks to its graphical makeover and additional playable campaign featuring the one, and only, Shadow the Hedgehog. With the spotlight on Shadow, players can now play as him in all of his glory while being treated to cinematic sequences that, quite frankly, look cool as hell.

Even though the new additions to Sonic Generations are very welcome, the real star of this package is Shadow. His levels, movements, story and the Overworld White Space are worthy of a character this important, and all the positive things this new campaign does can work perfectly in the next games of both him and Sonic.

I had a great time playing SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS with its modern adaptation of a genuine classic and its super-fun new campaign featuring Shadow the Hedgehog. This is such a bountiful package that any Sonic fan will absolutely love.

Sonic X Shadow Generations not only offers an improved version of one of the best Sonic games ever but also bundles it with an all-new Shadow Generations campaign, making this package the ultimate Sonic experience and a must-have for any Sonic fan.

Sonic X Shadow Generations combines a remastered hedgehog adventure with a brand-new chapter focused on Sonic's rival, Shadow, and the result is both fun and engaging. Sega nails the gameplay, with Shadow bringing a visually captivating style, while Sonic compensates with an abundance of content. Though the mandatory challenges can feel repetitive and occasionally tedious, this double-hedgehog adventure hits the mark.

Sonic X Shadow Generations delivers a strong mix of nostalgia and modernization, with Shadow's new campaign enriching gameplay through strategic Chaos abilities. The audiovisual upgrades breathe new life into familiar environments, while Sonic's levels feel somewhat dated. Nevertheless, it’s a rewarding adventure for fans.

The overall package is extensive and both games play well, top drawn speedster stuff for platform gaming fans.

Even though I famously hated Frontiers and still do, I want it to get a direct sequel because I want a version of the game I can actually love. That said, playing Sonic Generations X Shadow has me hoping Sega never forgets that kind of game either, because I’ve been reminded that when 3D Sonic platforming is good, there’s nothing quite like it.

Sonic x Shadow Generations brings back one of the best compilations of reimagined classic Sonic levels, while also delivering a completely new, massive section dedicated to Shadow, featuring some of the best 3D levels in the long history of this franchise.

Although it may only take around twenty hours for a long-time Sonic player to collect and experience everything Sonic X Shadow Generations has to offer, its level designs, gameplay mechanics, and incredible music reach a fantastic balance that makes replaying several stages over and over again a joy. Sonic X Shadow Generations is the best way to play one of the series' most enjoyable games that celebrates its past, and with the new Shadow content being a cut above the rest, it's a hopeful tease of where the franchise will go in the future.

To review Sonic x Shadow Generations, you have to look at it in two parts. Sonic Generations feels a little dated, with an outdated design and rough visuals that drag down the collection as a whole. However, Shadow Generations makes up for this with modern tweaks that cater to today's gamers, leaving the collection in a passable and moderately satisfying state.

By offering this formula of two games in one, SEGA offers a great locomotive for the third film which will be released next December. True to itself, the excellent Sonic Generations has lost none of its brilliance, even if the new features are too light to be sufficiently striking in the minds. What Chao to find in the levels, rare new bonuses... we could have expected much more from a remaster. Fortunately, the part dedicated to Shadow is intended to be more ambitious, with a mini open world to explore and powers that boost the experience for several additional hours of play. Without being revolutionary, Sonic x Shadow Generations is a very good game, but which will, inevitably, have more impact on those who have never touched the original.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is far more than just a remaster with bonus levels. Shadow is very convincing in his part of this excellent double pack, while Sonic Generations has held up far better than I would have thought.

Sonic x Shadow Generations brilliantly modernizes a classic while introducing Shadow in a clever, if somewhat short-lived, way.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a fun, albeit mixed experience. The Sonic side of the game remains as fun and creative as its original release. Shadow’s story has some fantastic level design, and any opportunity to play as the angsty antihero is a welcome one. Let down by dated bosses and a messy hub world, it’s still entirely worth a run through.

With an enhanced version of one of the series' best 3D outings to date, as well as a legitimately great brand-new adventure starring a returning fan-favourite, Sonic X Shadow Generations is well worth a look for fans of Sega's platforming franchise.

In essence, Sonic X Shadow Generations is two games in one. The new content, starring Shadow the Hedgehog, continues the good momentum of modern games about the hedgehog and meets expectations with fun and diverse gameplay. However, the short length may disappoint fans.

Sonic x Shadow Generations confirms itself as one of the most successful incarnations of the IP and is preparing to hit the market in its definitive edition. The portion dedicated to the blue hedgehog is still quite enjoyable today, but it is the Shadow spin-off that plays the lion's share: the dark anti-hero from SEGA shows up to the appointment with fans in dazzling form. If you have never had the chance to experience the original adventure or if you are curious to find out in which direction the unpublished Shadow story will move, we can advise you to make the title yours without further ado.

The remaster of an already excellent title, now enriched with new content and a stand alone mode for Shadow.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a high-speed thrills package that combines the best of 2D and 3D Sonic, with superb level design and great boss battles. The addition of Shadow's campaign is a great bonus, and despite some issues with stages proving a little unforgiving and delivering cheap deaths, the overall package is a must-have for Sonic fans.

While I’d love to live in a world of Shadow Generations being the whole thing, there’s fun to be had with Sonic Generations as well. It’s just like putting a $200 collectible figure on the table next to an action figure you picked up at Walmart for a fraction of the price. The action figure is fun to play with, but you can just sit and stare at the collectible in admiration every time you walk past it. While it’s relatively short, Shadow Generations feels like someone took Sonic Frontiers and retroactively applied its secret sauce to an older 3D Sonic platformer, elevating it to heights previously unseen. Sonic Generations is a respectable remaster of a decent game, but pales in comparison. Thus, Sonic x Shadow Generations is definitely a masterpiece in the eyes of someone already on board with the series, but might feel noticeably uneven to newcomers or folks aiming to cautiously dip their toes back in feeding off hype for the latest movie. It’s over for everyone when that Keanu Reeves DLC drops, though.

All told, this feels like a solid offering from Sega and Sonic Team. Generations remains a perfect history lesson for younger fans, while Shadow’s new narrative provides a tantalizing introduction to the character before he hits the Hollywood big time just before Christmas. It’s one of Sonic’s better recent outings made just that little bit better - and you can’t really complain about that.

Sonic X Shadows Generations delivers a sturdy one-two punch of fan service, providing a solid remaster of a 2011 favourite and coupling it with a new game starring a fan favourite. The usual 3D Sonic platforming issues remain and the Shadow Generations open-world hub may annoy those who disliked Sonic Frontiers but overall it's a brilliant package.

Shadow Generations feels like a sequel. This is a pretty neat trick for an add-on bundled with a remaster. The controls are better, the graphics are crisp, and the level design is great. While the Sonic section looks awesome, it still feels like the original release. Which is normally fine for a remaster. But it pales a bit compared to the new content. On the other hand, both halves have that incredible corny energy that I love. Sonic (and Shadow) are synonymous with edgy nonsense for me, and this game truly delivers on that front. Whether you played the original or not, Sonic X Shadow Generations is a delightful double dose of high-speed fun.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a great package that features some of the best levels in Sonic's history, and Shadow's campaign serves as a dark but exciting contrast to Sonic's colourful adventures. If you want to experience Sonic at his best, this collection is a must-play. So if you haven't tried Sonic Generations before, here's your chance to play Sonic's greatest hits, on modern hardware, in a package that offers hours of entertainment

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a fantastic bundle of Sonic games, which learned all the right lessons from Sonic Frontiers.

Sonic X Shadow Generations stands as a reminder as to where the series has gone and will be going in the future. While Sonic Generations values the original with some added features, Shadow Generations breaks the glass ceiling set by an already top-tier Sonic title.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a neat combination of remaster and brand new game that can get a little frantic at times, but always stays perfectly playable.

A competent remaster of one of Sonic’s better mainline outings comes bundled with an even better Shadow-centric adventure, that makes up for its short length with fantastic levels, tight controls, and fun new powers.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a great two-for-one deal, but for us, the antihero's half of the package steals the show. While the remaster of the 13-year-old platformer is perfectly fine, Shadow's brand new campaign outshines it with much improved gameplay and level design. The older game definitely shows its age in some regards, but bundling together one of the most beloved Sonic titles with one of the best 3D entries in recent memory makes for a compelling double feature.

Sonic x Shadow Generations bundles the original Sonic Generations and a new Shadow Generations campaign in one thrilling package. Whether you’re a fan of Sonic’s rival-turned-ally or not, his side of the game is filled with some of the best, most well-designed levels in the series’ 3D history.

As a whole product, it’s hard to fault a package that gives us a faithful remaster of one of the most beloved Sonic games, and a great Shadow game to boot. I only hope now that Sega trusts itself to look to the future some more, and keeps moving ahead with the new formula that Sonic Frontiers - and now Shadow Generations - promises us.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a great time. The remaster is exactly as you'd expect and the new game on top of it is better, more polished, varied, and refined. It's almost converted me to a 3D Sonic guy, which is shocking, and, because it's about Shadow instead of Sonic, you don't have to put up with anywhere near as many obnoxious voice performances. Shadow himself is just a bit broody and says things like "the ultimate power" in an almost-Keanu Reeves voice which really makes me laugh – especially with the Keanu voice pack coming in December for some top tier silliness.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a great time. The remaster is exactly as you'd expect and the new game on top of it is better, more polished, varied, and refined. It's almost converted me to a 3D Sonic guy, which is shocking, and, because it's about Shadow instead of Sonic, you don't have to put up with anywhere near as many obnoxious voice performances. Shadow himself is just a bit broody and says things like "the ultimate power" in an almost-Keanu Reeves voice which really makes me laugh – especially with the Keanu voice pack coming in December for some top tier silliness.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a great combination of 2 games in 1 which packs a pretty fun overall experience at a great price.

All in all, Sonic x Shadow Generations has definitely exceeded our expectations. The second adventure dedicated to Shadow, which initially seemed like just a DLC, turns out to be something much more substantial, both in terms of length and concept, combining the best of the boost era with ideas taken from Sonic's new direction. While the game lacks the surprise factor it had in 2011, we're still talking about a new 3D Sonic chapter that's incredibly fun to play. Which is no small feat, as the history of this character has shown us.

Overall, Sonic X Shadow Generations is a game that offers two distinct experiences. On the one hand, Shadow's campaign brings something new and exciting to the table, with never-before-seen abilities and a darker, more strategic approach. On the other hand, the remaster of Sonic Generations does its job of reviving nostalgia, albeit without too many surprises.

With Sonic X Shadow Generations, Shadow brings his own set of levels that can easily match the quality of Sonic's. Thanks to Shadow's many interesting superpowers, some of these levels even manage to surpass that level of quality. However, it also exposes a bigger problem within the franchise. Even the best-designed levels in the series don’t always shine due to inherently imprecise controls and mediocre camera work. As such, Sonic X Shadow Generations is an excellent celebration of everything Sonic has achieved over the years—but it also highlights what needs improvement in the future.

Alongside a lovingly remastered Sonic Generations showcase, Shadow Generations is a dark and broody triumph that not only pays homage to the cult classic outing of yester-year for the troubled hedgehog, but also irons out all the aspects that fans didn't quite take to, effectively giving Shadow the do-over they deserve. It's a fast-paced and fluid Sonic title with great new mechanics, a tonne of replayability, and just the right amount of challenge. The fact that this is a short experience will irk a few, as will the lack of crossover between the two games, but all in all, Sonic x Shadow Generations is yet another strong Sonic outing that proves the dark days for the franchise may well be behind us.

Sonic X Shadow Generations experience can be summarized as follows: If you've never played Sonic Generations, this is undoubtedly a great opportunity to try it out, as it was and remains great even after the remastered version. As for Shadow Generations, while it's a definitely cute game that manages to renew and restore Shadow to its greatness, if you don't need the content provided with Sonic Generations, you won't necessarily find the investment in this game to be good and satisfying - and I'm sure Sega understood this when it decided to include it in another great and beloved game of the brand.

With Sonic X Shadow Generations, SEGA brings back one of the best games ever created for the cult saga. This ultimate edition is worth the detour, especially for the new chapter devoted to Shadow, which offers more gameplay possibilities and a more exhilarating setting and rhythm than in the past. However, this chapter suffers from the comparison with Sonic Generations, which may seem old-fashioned to some player. It's far from being perfect, but it's a nice letter of intent about what the future of the license might hold.

Shadow's section shows that the Sonic Team has learned over the years how to better transfer the blue hedgehog's speed orgies into the third dimension.

Sonic x Shadow Generations essentially bundles up a remaster of the original game with a new Shadow-led sequel. Though while taking control of Shadow is fun thanks to his range of new abilities, and there's a new Sonic Frontiers-inspired hub world to explore, it's basically more of the same, complete with highs and lows.

The spruced-up port of Sonic Generations isn't worth mentioning apart from the 2D levels, but the Shadow campaign scores points with fun levels and serves up a worthy comeback for the shadow hedgehog.

On its own merits, Sonic Generations does its best to bring the best of both Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic together in a fun and creative adventure that’s sure to please Sonic fans all around. However, it tries too hard to fit itself into the same mould while attempting to keep true to the 3D Shadow experience, ultimately falling short of the lofty heights it aims for. Die hard fans might enjoy, but more casual players may find themselves overwhelmed by the sense of speed.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a mishmash of enjoyable 2D platforming and frustrating 3D sequences. Shadow at least manages to somewhat mitigate the clumsy controls thanks to some interesting gameplay wrinkles. The title also looks good, but probably won't bring the pair of hedgehogs back to the forefront of the genre.

Sonic X Shadow Generations recalls one of the great games of the series and adds extra content that doesn't quite shine. Sonic's adventure is now very enjoyable, but Shadow's approach has fallen tragically short.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a weird package. On one hand, Sonic Generations is a remaster of a great game from 2011 that now feels like it's a little outdated. And on the other, Shadow Generations is the conclusion to a storyline that the franchise hasn't really cared about since 2006. As someone who specifically got into Sonic games during that early 2000 period, this collection feels like it speaks directly to me. But it also feels much like its protagonists--lost in a place out of time and desperate to return to fonder times. It's a nice enough trip down memory lane, but the trip features all the speed bumps you'd expect from games from that era.

Shadow's campaign provides some of the best 3D levels of the series, but it's coupled with a dated and unnecessary remaster. If only Sega went all-in on the future.