Sonic Mania

 Switch
User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 877 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 755 out of 877
  2. Mixed: 61 out of 877
  3. Negative: 61 out of 877
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  1. flowqi
    May 17, 2018
    8
    As a long-time Sonic fan, i was really, really looking forward to this game.
    And i was not disappointed - finally a Sonic game that looks and feels as it should!
    Technically its perfectly executed, controls are spot-on. I only have some minor gripes with it: - i dont particularly some level sections where pacing is completely disrupted all the time - the transitions between levels    As a long-time Sonic fan, i was really, really looking forward to this game.
    And i was not disappointed - finally a Sonic game that looks and feels as it should!
    Technically its perfectly executed, controls are spot-on.

    I only have some minor gripes with it:
    - i dont particularly some level sections where pacing is completely disrupted all the time
    - the transitions between levels make less sense as in sonic 3
    - the robot boss battles are not particularly interesting

    Aside from that, its a game i find myself returning to from time to time for yet another playthrough.    … Expand
  2. njja02
    May 15, 2018
    9
    Didn't care much for one of the bonus games and the co-op, which is a shame. However, everything else about this game is awesome. From the music, level design, art-style, game-play, all of it is just amazing.
  3. Quacksonja
    May 3, 2018
    10
    Everything with this game is awesome. After 23 years SEGA finally realised to make a old school sonic game again! 10/10
  4. IndieCrit
    May 2, 2018
    7
    I made an awful review of this game earlier, giving it extremely low ratings. But I will keep this short and sweet. Sonic Mania has solid gameplay, excellent music, graphics take me to the old sonic games, great animations, and finally sonic charm (the series has been doing horrible lately, with Sonic Forces being the latest disappointment.) But Sonic Mania still has some flaws, too,I made an awful review of this game earlier, giving it extremely low ratings. But I will keep this short and sweet. Sonic Mania has solid gameplay, excellent music, graphics take me to the old sonic games, great animations, and finally sonic charm (the series has been doing horrible lately, with Sonic Forces being the latest disappointment.) But Sonic Mania still has some flaws, too, ignored by nostalgia happy gamers. The Oil Ocean Act 2 boss (and others, but mostly this one), is very cheap. Some controls feel wonky and you'll be slowed to a halt while going fast from an instant - death hazard. Buy.. at your own risk. Dig into it more before you buy.… Expand
  5. Marmeg
    Apr 5, 2018
    10
    Sonic Mania is masterpiece! It brings back the amazing controls and level design from the originals. Sadly, there are only 4 new stages (which are amazing) I kinda wished for at least 6. Yet the old stages aren’t exactly „old”, there are improved in many ways. Easily the best 2D platformer of a year, a decade, or maybe even all time!
  6. TopHatTortoise
    Apr 5, 2018
    3
    Mania is praised for being "the best Sonic game" and that might well be true.

    However the sonic formula mixes high-speed, momentum-based movement, precision platforming, minimum speed gates, instakills, small vision (plus no map), and sprawling maze-like levels. Those contradictions are hard to enjoy. Those who can ignore the contradictions may have fun. Those who invest in the    Mania is praised for being "the best Sonic game" and that might well be true.

    However the sonic formula mixes high-speed, momentum-based movement, precision platforming, minimum speed gates, instakills, small vision (plus no map), and sprawling maze-like levels. Those contradictions are hard to enjoy.

    Those who can ignore the contradictions may have fun. Those who invest in the level memorisation that allows you to bypassing the momentum-killing blocks and instant kills can enjoy flow and mastery. But I don't know why you would.

    In short -- buyer beware. Some people love this game, but don't assume that you will. For my money, the high review scores mask a deeply unenjoyable game.    … Expand
  7. loricritic845
    Mar 17, 2018
    10
    Sonic Mania is an awesome game. It brings back everything that the classic games had. It's mixed with old and new stages. I honestly think that they should've payed more attention on the new levels rather than the old ones. This game has been created by Pagodawest, Headcannon and Christian Whitehead who has created a fangame called Retro Sonic back in 2007. The graphics of this game areSonic Mania is an awesome game. It brings back everything that the classic games had. It's mixed with old and new stages. I honestly think that they should've payed more attention on the new levels rather than the old ones. This game has been created by Pagodawest, Headcannon and Christian Whitehead who has created a fangame called Retro Sonic back in 2007. The graphics of this game are good and are trying to resemble Knuckles Chaotix for the failed Sega 32X add-on for the Sega Genesis. Each act has it's own music and that is an awesome thing. The special stages look like Sonic R but have the Sonic CD way with the UFOs. So in my opinion Sonic Mania is one of 2017's best games… Expand
  8. 1234JacobW
    Mar 4, 2018
    9
    This was a great game for the 25th anniversary. The levels are awesome remixes of classic stages
  9. mefzeldernx
    Mar 3, 2018
    9
    Sonic y sus amigos vuelven a sus raíces para finalmente lograr que su lucha ante el Dr. Eggman tenga resultados positivos. "Sonic Mania" es un plataformas 2D que pisa fuerte y se vuelve uno de los mejores juegos del erizo azul.
    El diseño de niveles y la ambientación es una maravilla, se siente el amor de los desarrolladores por el personaje y su legado, hay guiños en cada detalle que un    Sonic y sus amigos vuelven a sus raíces para finalmente lograr que su lucha ante el Dr. Eggman tenga resultados positivos. "Sonic Mania" es un plataformas 2D que pisa fuerte y se vuelve uno de los mejores juegos del erizo azul.
    El diseño de niveles y la ambientación es una maravilla, se siente el amor de los desarrolladores por el personaje y su legado, hay guiños en cada detalle que un nostálgico seguro aprecia. La jugabilidad es la típica de Sonic, debes ir rápido, pero los múltiples caminos le dan una gran rejugabilidad al juego.
    No puedo no recomendar éste juego, ya seas nuevo o un veterano con Sonic, ésta es una entrega que enamora. Ideal para Switch, ya que se reproduce tan bien como en las otras plataformas pero tienes la ventaja de jugarlo de forma portatil.    … Expand
  10. Aletheboss
    Feb 26, 2018
    9
    This is the perfect Sonic game. For any fan of Sonic, or platformers in general, this is a must buy! The game has beautiful graphics, great bosses, an enthralling sense of exploration, a wonderful soundtrack, and the best collection of levels in the series, with new and old levels while adding a new twist on them. This game is only $20, and it’s definitely worth buying!
  11. LukeWilson
    Feb 7, 2018
    10
    Sonic has been a big part of my childhood and after years of disappointment the love that went into this game shows making a game I won’t soon forget. This does what I loved about the old games, being able to go fast and creative levels. I thought this might be just a greatest hits but I was instead blown away by the creativity and love for the sonic franchise that went into this game.
  12. NiltonD8
    Jan 26, 2018
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Im 34 yrs old n i grew up playing sonic and i'm a fan of sonic since i was a lil boy. congrats on this game and for me it was the game of the year period. its magical to see sonic in 2d again and honestly christian Whitehead is brilliant for putting such a good piece together. i think it should stay 2D because 3D doesnt go too well. congrats!!!!… Expand
  13. Xcaliber
    Jan 20, 2018
    10
    this to me is the best sonic game since sonic cd. the level design is amazing and the remixed zones are awesome, the sprites and animations are so good and kinda cute sometimes. the music is also amazing with Tee Lopes handling this phenomenal soundtrack! Now for the problems............none. Christian Whitehead, pagoda west, and headcannon have created the best sonic game ever!
  14. BradyWarren
    Jan 10, 2018
    10
    This has to be the best Sonic game i have played since Sonic 3 and Knuckles. Everything about this game from the music to the level design to the new zones is perfectly rolled into one tight package. I can't think of a single thing wrong with this game... Other than it put classic sonic in forces. Other than that the game is a well crafted masterpiece.
  15. GamersonReviews
    Jan 10, 2018
    10
    Really good game gives nostalgia, and ive played tons of sonic i love the series and this game was just overall outstanding and suprising for its time
  16. MelonReviews69
    Jan 8, 2018
    10
    Best Game created by Sega, Despite the company's worst efforts with Forces, This game says "Heh, Did ya think that was bad? Well this game is not!" Perfect Game in my opinion, It's good if you have grown up with sonic or never played a sonic game before!
  17. tomcrew10
    Dec 26, 2017
    8
    Not only one of the best Sonic games available but also one of the most enjoyable 2d platformers. The reason for this is due to the great level design (for the most part) which allows the player to move fast but has platforming that feels fair. The bosses are mixed bag though as some were annoying to face(OIL ocean boss) where as others are a joy to fight due to their unique design andNot only one of the best Sonic games available but also one of the most enjoyable 2d platformers. The reason for this is due to the great level design (for the most part) which allows the player to move fast but has platforming that feels fair. The bosses are mixed bag though as some were annoying to face(OIL ocean boss) where as others are a joy to fight due to their unique design and throwbacks to earlier games (metal Sonic). Another issue I personally have with the game is how it handles lives as if you run out of lives at a boss you need to redo act 1 and 2 to get to the boss making it take longer to learn the boss patterns. Despite the flaws mentioned this game is great and made even better when compared to recent Sonic games.… Expand
  18. Jack5switch
    Dec 18, 2017
    9
    Sonic Mania is undeniably Sonic the Hedgehog's best modern-day game, so long as we don't bring up the plot threads that tie into Sonic Forces. It's true nostalgia fuel, delivering in every aspect what the original Genesis games set in stone for the blue mascot. It also ends up feeling fresh and inspired, due to the stylised but still pixelated art style, and the exploratory nature of theSonic Mania is undeniably Sonic the Hedgehog's best modern-day game, so long as we don't bring up the plot threads that tie into Sonic Forces. It's true nostalgia fuel, delivering in every aspect what the original Genesis games set in stone for the blue mascot. It also ends up feeling fresh and inspired, due to the stylised but still pixelated art style, and the exploratory nature of the stages, making playing as any character feel like a new experience. However, the Genesis legacy left some fundamental flaws, and Sonic Mania is similarly a victim to them. Some of the level design is hit and miss, momentum can be randomly compromised by the placement of springs or enemies, and the Oil Ocean octopus boss is just the absolute worst. If Mania was built to resolve these embedded problems from start to finish, it would be higher on this list, but currently it sits directly in the middle.… Expand
  19. MzMazzaire
    Dec 15, 2017
    10
    Probably the best classic 2D Sonic game in recent memory since Sonic CD and Sonic 3 & Knuckles. I can honestly say that you won't regret it when you play this game.
  20. Jolimpio
    Dec 2, 2017
    10
    I never grew up with the classic sonic games but this shows me why back then sonic was so successful. This game is fun and its replay value is great. Finally, a Sonic game that is on par with some of the years greatest classic mascot games such as Mario Odyssey and Zelda Breath of the Wild.
  21. dash383535
    Nov 30, 2017
    10
    Introduction: The classic 2D Sonic games are back with a mix of new, old, and remixed levels. Everything has been improved and updated for a classic Sonic game with new surprises that will keep you guess whats next. This is the Sonic game you have been waiting for since Sonic CD.

    Story: The story is pretty simple but it keeps the game going along. Eggman uncovers a mysterious gem that    Introduction: The classic 2D Sonic games are back with a mix of new, old, and remixed levels. Everything has been improved and updated for a classic Sonic game with new surprises that will keep you guess whats next. This is the Sonic game you have been waiting for since Sonic CD.

    Story: The story is pretty simple but it keeps the game going along. Eggman uncovers a mysterious gem that can warp and alter reality. You try to get the gem from him but a group of mysterious robot also want the gem. This gem is responsible for taking you to levels from the past that are completely different from what you remember. They also take you to new zones to explore. Throughout the story, you will fight Eggman with robots that he has used in the past with remixed attacks and you will also fight the new robots in crazy scenarios that could not be possible in the older games. The story helps make this new Sonic adventure feel fresh even though it's like the original Sonic games from the 90's.

    Gameplay: Run and jump just like you always have in Sonic games prior. The only new addition to Sonic arsenal of moves in the dash drop which helps you gain speed back up if you have lost it. This moves fixes some of the slower parts original Sonic games have had. The other thing that is new to the gameplay is the bonus stages. During these stages, you are trying to get a chaos emerald by collecting balls and rings that help you speed up to catch the emerald. These stages are a nice addition to the standard sonic gameplay we all know and love.

    Technicals: The animation presented in this game are amazing. Such detail was put into every frame of this game. This animation makes cutscenes and the game as a whole really pop out. The soundtrack of new and old remixes are amazing as well. Every ounce of this game is bleeding with passion from the original 3 games and should be commended for such.

    Conclusion: If you love fast platformers or Sonic in general, then this is a must buy game. This game is a celebration of what made Sonic good all those years ago and improves on the originals in every way, shape, and form. This game is the first in the Sonic franchise to become a masterpiece    … Expand
  22. ultimatepalmtre
    Nov 28, 2017
    10
    This game is perfect platformer not just for Sonic fans, but everyone. Finally the franchise has a game that proves it's still on the cards, even if recent titles have given it a hard time.

    I love this return to sprite based characters and environments, it's looks so beautiful! The levels are fantastically designed and the bosses are so clever! But for me the best gameplay comes with    This game is perfect platformer not just for Sonic fans, but everyone. Finally the franchise has a game that proves it's still on the cards, even if recent titles have given it a hard time.

    I love this return to sprite based characters and environments, it's looks so beautiful! The levels are fantastically designed and the bosses are so clever! But for me the best gameplay comes with the special stages; i love these so much! Genius! The music throughout the game is also fantastic.

    I can't stop playing this game. It's too much fun and I don't think I will ever grow tired of it. I hope they make another one of these with even more amazing content!    … Expand
  23. adanesousa
    Nov 27, 2017
    10
    Esse jogo é um espetáculo, level design incrível, trilha sonora perfeita, um presente de fan para fan, melhor jogo que joguei do sonic, obrigado aos desenvolvedores por nos presentearem com um jogo que queremos jogar.
  24. doodlerman
    Nov 25, 2017
    8
    This is the first "Classic" styled Sonic game I've actually played. Having started with Sonic Adventure, I was surprised by the simplicity of the controls. Also, rather than immediately running fast as you do in the 3D games, you have to build momentum. I kept thinking I was missing something in the gameplay - for example, the homing attack is absent (which I've since learned is almostThis is the first "Classic" styled Sonic game I've actually played. Having started with Sonic Adventure, I was surprised by the simplicity of the controls. Also, rather than immediately running fast as you do in the 3D games, you have to build momentum. I kept thinking I was missing something in the gameplay - for example, the homing attack is absent (which I've since learned is almost exclusively a 3D Sonic mechanic).

    All in all, I like Sonic Mania quite a bit. There was a bit of a learning curb from what I was used to, but beyond that I had a good time. My only real complaint is that in some of the environments it's hard to differentiate platforms from certain background elements (which you can't stand on). This never resulted in an unfair death, but there were plenty of unintentional diversions in the path I thought I was on into new areas that would send me zooming all over the place. Somewhat disorienting to say the least, though - weirdly - this was never as annoying as it may sound.    … Expand
  25. MeTheNinja
    Nov 23, 2017
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The only spoilers here are the levels, so if you don't want to know them then stop reading. This is an incredibly polished game, the soundtrack is amazing, Tee Lopes did an amazing job, highlights include Lava Reef Zone Act 2, Studioplis Zone Act 1, and the Hardboiled Heavies theme. The level design is great, and the game looks good.… Expand
  26. Cjis2Nice
    Nov 20, 2017
    9
    I can't say anything about this game that hasn't already been said before. It's the best classic Sonic game hands down. My only problems with it is that the bonus stages are limited to just the blue spheres, and I wish there were more original stages. Other than that though, this game is great. I would give it a 8.5, but I'll round up because this is the 2nd Sonic game (first beingI can't say anything about this game that hasn't already been said before. It's the best classic Sonic game hands down. My only problems with it is that the bonus stages are limited to just the blue spheres, and I wish there were more original stages. Other than that though, this game is great. I would give it a 8.5, but I'll round up because this is the 2nd Sonic game (first being Unleashed) that was able to surpass my expectations.… Expand
  27. ThomasHogg
    Nov 18, 2017
    10
    I got Sonic Mania on my PS4 first, I went on a road trip with my Switch one day. I bought Mania again on my switch the next day. THAT'S HOW GOOD IT IS!
  28. Shadow1
    Nov 18, 2017
    7
    Sega takes the example from Capcom, because it also parasitizes on past merits, but unlike Capcom, Sega isn't make stupid collection of old games, they makes collection of levels from old games, but add new and upgrade old levels with bosses and make them more unusual. In general this new game is well forgotten (or vice versa unforgettable, causing nostalgia) and altered old.
  29. SamFairc
    Nov 12, 2017
    8
    I wasn’t born when this came out , as I am still a teen , yet somehow I can feel the power of the nostalgia at my fingertips . Stop pumping out trash and let Christian and co . Make the rest of your games SEGA
  30. JavierUzumaki
    Nov 11, 2017
    10
    El mejor plataformas 2d que he jugado, ¡Sonic ha vuelto!. Encima jugar esto en nintendo switch es una verdadera gosada, Sega se la marco con este juego.
    Tiene mi 10.
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Awards & Rankings

12
#12 Best Switch Game of 2017
8
#8 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2017
10
#10 Most Shared Switch Game of 2017

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 17 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 21
  3. Negative: 0 out of 21
  1. Gamers' Temple
    Oct 6, 2017
    93
    After nearly 20 years of almost universally horrible games, the 16-bit icon has returned to his former glory and redeemed himself in the eyes of this long-suffering fan. Sonic Mania does a great job of reminding us what made Sonic great in the first place, while also FINALLY bringing the mascot into the modern era. Everything comes together - the music, the stages, the boss fights and the secrets - to form a package that is both appealing to the retro gamer and irresistible to anyone who enjoys a good game of run and jump. Whether on the Nintendo Switch or any other system, Sonic Mania needs to be in your collection yesterday.
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  2. Switch Player
    Sep 18, 2017
    74
    Sonic Mania is like a greatest hits album that your favourite artist may release, with a few new tracks as a bonus. It has a high level of nostalgia, gloss and polish and will really challenge your skill, reflexes and patience. There's quite a bit to get stuck into, but you may find yourself being frustrated. If you love the little blue chap and relish a challenge, speed along to the e-shop and pick this up.
    Read full review
  3. Edge Magazine
    Sep 14, 2017
    70
    This convincing comeback has been designed for the die-hards - and they haven't been this well served by a Sonic game for ages. [Issue#311, p.118]
See all critic reviews »