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. Kenmei
    Aug 18, 2017
    10
    An amazing nostalgia trip clearly made by a group of people who truly loved the subject matter. This game is similar in look and feel to Sonic and Kunuckles from the Genesis era, but adds quite a few more things to the table to make it a fully fledged game. While there are remixes of past famous levels like Green Hill zone and the Chemical Plant, each Act 2 of those levels includes a brandAn amazing nostalgia trip clearly made by a group of people who truly loved the subject matter. This game is similar in look and feel to Sonic and Kunuckles from the Genesis era, but adds quite a few more things to the table to make it a fully fledged game. While there are remixes of past famous levels like Green Hill zone and the Chemical Plant, each Act 2 of those levels includes a brand new way to get through it as well as an amazing new soundtrack for each Act of each Zone. And truly the music in this game is top notch and some of the best I've heard in a long time. Each level is so well done that it makes the pretty hard difficulty level passable. Plus the new added secret levels that harken back to Sonic CD are fun and challenging ways to get the Chaos Emeralds in the game. The game is also just 20 bucks! I'd prob recommend playing it on the Switch to take it on the go but the trophies/achievements for the other systems can add alot of replay to the game. While it will really only take 3-4 hours per story mode once you figure out the levels, there are 4 different ways to play it. I can't recommend this enough to old school Sonic fans. With how bad some Sonic games have been recently, this is truly a breath of fresh air.… Expand
  2. ganoncrotch
    Oct 1, 2017
    10
    What more can be said about this than what others have already chimed on here... it just plays like a love letter to the Megadrive Sonic that we all wish his newer 3d games have been for the last decade or two.

    Only tiny issue here... there is an achievement to be earned apparently for getting Gold in all 32 of the bonus stages, however since the Switch doesn't have any form of    What more can be said about this than what others have already chimed on here... it just plays like a love letter to the Megadrive Sonic that we all wish his newer 3d games have been for the last decade or two.

    Only tiny issue here... there is an achievement to be earned apparently for getting Gold in all 32 of the bonus stages, however since the Switch doesn't have any form of achievement system then for us users on Switch all you gain from completing the game 100% is.... nothing, Silver medals are enough to unlock everything in the game, Gold only exist for the achievement like I said... which doesn't exist on the platform only on PC/PS4/X1 bit of a shame.

    Otherwise this is just glorious from start to finish.    … Expand
  3. averumsson
    Aug 19, 2017
    10
    Fresh level design, even in old zones. While there are only 4 new zones in the game, the old zones are reinterpreted to add vastly different content and new stage design. Mania is a blast through and through.
  4. Simobros17
    Aug 17, 2017
    10
    This... is GODLY
    I can't believe this game really exists
    All the hype... it was WORTH IT
    I don't know if it's better than S3&K but it's at least on the same level
  5. Michael_Forman
    Aug 31, 2017
    10
    Sonic Mania takes the 1980s classic to the next level. For those familiar with the franchise, this throwback will astound in its massive worlds, creative updates, and faithfulness to the original. I am in awe of the artistic and technical genius that brought forth a new gaming masterpiece. Truly, this labor of love is a gift to the gaming community.

    With that said, just like the    Sonic Mania takes the 1980s classic to the next level. For those familiar with the franchise, this throwback will astound in its massive worlds, creative updates, and faithfulness to the original. I am in awe of the artistic and technical genius that brought forth a new gaming masterpiece. Truly, this labor of love is a gift to the gaming community.

    With that said, just like the original Sonic it starts out easy and then you die a lot, as it should be.    … Expand
  6. MultiThomas777
    Sep 6, 2017
    10
    Simply the best 2D Sonic game to date, that in my opinion of course.
    Aside from excellent, and I mean super excellent level design, extremely catchy music, and adorable graphics, the gameplay is just like the older 2D Sonic games, but feels smoother. It's seriously great, try it out!
  7. Mrbuckminster
    Aug 15, 2017
    10
    I absolutely love this game. Wow wow wow

    This is the real Sonic 4.

    The games feels fresh yet nostalgic, something that other revived titles like Crash Bandicoot couldnt do.
  8. BugF1x3r
    Aug 20, 2017
    10
    I'm a big Sonic fan ever since the day that the original Sonic the Hedgehog came out on the Genesis and this game is even better. I only wish that there would be a physical release!
  9. baltowolf
    Aug 18, 2017
    10
    Disparado o melhor jogo de Sonic nos ultimos anos e o melhor em 16-bits.
    fases criativas, Bosses incriveis e musicas lindas, jogo perfeito!
    É mais um jogo que não se enjoa facilmente
  10. CoioTato
    Aug 16, 2017
    10
    O melhor sonic de sempre, feito pelos fãs mais entusiastas e contém uma excelente trilha sonora e gráficos, diversão garantida.
    Absolutamente fantástico 10/10
  11. Seemuhn
    Aug 15, 2017
    10
    An awesome Sonic game, feels just like the 16-bit ones. It looks and sounds like Sonic CD but has better colours and more animations. The only negative thing i can say about it is that it features some levels from the old games rather than have everything made from scratch which just feels lazy.
    This is a perfect game to get for the Switch as it lets you take Sonic with you and as the    An awesome Sonic game, feels just like the 16-bit ones. It looks and sounds like Sonic CD but has better colours and more animations. The only negative thing i can say about it is that it features some levels from the old games rather than have everything made from scratch which just feels lazy.
    This is a perfect game to get for the Switch as it lets you take Sonic with you and as the game is not hardware demanding it looks just as good on the switch as any other platform.
    Buy it right now, its awesome!    … Expand
  12. InfiniteYT
    Sep 20, 2017
    10
    Sonic Mania is a game for fans made by fans but it isn’t a fan game. It’s a symbol of what can happen when you connect with your community to make something special. I preordered the Collector's edition for PC and was so hyped to play it I bought it on Switch as well during the 2 week delay on PC. First of all this game looks amazing. It has some of the best sprite work in any game I haveSonic Mania is a game for fans made by fans but it isn’t a fan game. It’s a symbol of what can happen when you connect with your community to make something special. I preordered the Collector's edition for PC and was so hyped to play it I bought it on Switch as well during the 2 week delay on PC. First of all this game looks amazing. It has some of the best sprite work in any game I have ever seen and has so much detail spread across the sprawling zones. Each level is massive and intricate but I never found myself lost. Every zone rewards mastery of the game's mechanics and knowledge of the zones. Secrets are super rewarding to find and the new special stage to get the chaos emeralds is super fun. The soundtrack is fantastic! There isn’t a bad track in the entire game. The bosses for the most part are really fun and clever (especially chemical plant act 2 boss). Sonic controls very well and so does Tails and Knuckles as they truly nailed the feeling of the original games. There so much to unlock and do in a $20 game it’s magnificent. However not everything is perfect. The blue sphere mini game still isn’t fun, the oil rig octopus boss is fairly annoying, and the steam version has DRM. Other than that there really isn’t anything to complain about here. If you like platformers you have to get this game. I personally don’t think it’s the best Sonic game but it’s the most consistent game in the franchise and is guaranteed fun.… Expand
  13. dsc24axalta
    Oct 25, 2017
    10
    This game is simply amazing. And I don't mean purely from a nostalgic viewpoint either, though it certainly does scratch that itch. The game plays just like the Sonic games from the past, from the legendary titles we all grew up on (assuming you're around my age lol). What's cool about this game is that it adds enough new to keep the game fresh, even when exploring levels from the past. IThis game is simply amazing. And I don't mean purely from a nostalgic viewpoint either, though it certainly does scratch that itch. The game plays just like the Sonic games from the past, from the legendary titles we all grew up on (assuming you're around my age lol). What's cool about this game is that it adds enough new to keep the game fresh, even when exploring levels from the past. I get that some people would have preferred the game to have entirely new Zones. That's understandable to say the least. But what returned is so different from the past that essentially the entire game is brand new. And I love that the Zones themselves are MASSIVE. One of the best elements of past Sonic games was exploring and finding new paths in your runs from A to B and this game definitely gives you a lot to do in that regard. The game is a great blast from the past that has new elements; certainly a very enjoyable game to say the least.… Expand
  14. MorrisSHM
    Sep 10, 2017
    10
    This game can't get any better. It suits to any old school sonic player, and newcomers. I highly recommend buying it if you own the console and won't mind spending just a bit for a totally priceworthy game
  15. Benjimon
    Nov 6, 2017
    10
    Sonic Mania is a game that knows its target audience and catered to their every hope to nigh on absolute perfection. Those who grew up with Sonic in the 90's have wanted this game for a long time and the only complaint anyone could make is that more new Zones would have been nice. Still that is not going to stop me from giving Sonic Mania a perfect score because from tip to tail the gameSonic Mania is a game that knows its target audience and catered to their every hope to nigh on absolute perfection. Those who grew up with Sonic in the 90's have wanted this game for a long time and the only complaint anyone could make is that more new Zones would have been nice. Still that is not going to stop me from giving Sonic Mania a perfect score because from tip to tail the game is a labour of love which truly understands what made Sonic fans of the 90's love the games so much.
    It manages to pay homage to most Sonic games, even the Master System titles in subtle ways such as going underground in Green Zone, or moving around in a bubble in Hyrocity and it's little and not so little touches like these that make the game so a joyful nostalgia trip.
    Like recent Mario games, Sonic Mania manages to ensure every level offers up something different and moves on from it before the novelty wears off. It does this far better than any past Sonic game.

    The Soundtrack however is what I loved most about this game. On one hand they have composed a heap of fresh tracks that feel like they have been scooped from the past. The Ooze with 90's charm, Act 2 of Studiopolis perhaps being the most 90's thing ever created. it's all extremely impressive and tone perfect. As for the classic songs the composers have done just as good of a job. They've all been remixed and some have been given a second part for Act 2. They all sound as if the original composer wrote them in the 90's, and yet they are clearly not running on Mega Drive sound technology. Using modern sound technology and yet replicating that mega Drive feeling very well is no easy balancing act....The pure joy of the music really reminds you how much music mattered to Classic Sonic, and this soundtrack is the perfect icing on the perfect cake.    … Expand
  16. 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
  17. kurodo123
    Aug 15, 2017
    10
    It's EVERYTHING a Sonic game should be. I've been waiting years for this game. I sure hope this tell to Sega what we really want. A 2D classic sonic. HD sprites? yes. 3D "Yeah yeah"? NOPE. Amazing game!
  18. RexSol
    Aug 16, 2017
    10
    Sonic was always good. Ok maybe not. But it was a big part of my childhood. The last Sonic game i loved was Sonic 3 & Knuckles. And Sonic Mania is exactly the Sonic game i've always wanted. Perfect level design, perfect soundtrack, the perfect Sonic game, 10/10.
  19. SuperMatt777
    Oct 16, 2017
    10
    Sonic Mania is meant to be a throwback to the classic, 16-bit Sonic games of the 90s and boy did it do them justice. Sonic Mania is an amazing game that does a great job of mixing the old with the new. New zones mixed in with some memorable zones from the old games made this an awesome experience. New stages like Studiopolis and Press Garden were beautiful looking stages with coolSonic Mania is meant to be a throwback to the classic, 16-bit Sonic games of the 90s and boy did it do them justice. Sonic Mania is an amazing game that does a great job of mixing the old with the new. New zones mixed in with some memorable zones from the old games made this an awesome experience. New stages like Studiopolis and Press Garden were beautiful looking stages with cool references while returning stages like Chemical Plant and Hydrocity were really awesome retro throwbacks with new twists. On top of all the stages, the game's difficulty was fair too; it was easy when it wanted to be easy and challenging when the time called for it. Sonic Mania is a really awesome game and the game Sonic really needed after his last few adventures. Any fan of Sonic, old or new, should definitely try it out.… Expand
  20. JN81
    Aug 15, 2017
    10
    I usually don't write reviews but if you were a 90's kid, this is like Sonic on the Genesis...In some ways it's better because of the portability of the Switch. I had a Game Gear and the Sonic games were not that good for it, so this is a pretty awesome tribute to the fans.
  21. nicorz
    Aug 16, 2017
    10
    This game is simply great. Sonic FINALLY is back. What SEGA has done hiring Christian Whitehead as a new developer has been great, hope they dont fire it, but join him to Sonic Team.
  22. GamingBaller
    Sep 4, 2017
    10
    This is the very essence of Sonic. I can honestly this is the best 2D Sonic game I've played. The new stages are amazing, a blast to play in. Constantly going fast in correlation with the players skill. This game isn't a cake walk either... imagine that a hard Sonic game. One of the main arguments is that 66% of the stages are old. this really isn't true, sure they share name with the oldThis is the very essence of Sonic. I can honestly this is the best 2D Sonic game I've played. The new stages are amazing, a blast to play in. Constantly going fast in correlation with the players skill. This game isn't a cake walk either... imagine that a hard Sonic game. One of the main arguments is that 66% of the stages are old. this really isn't true, sure they share name with the old stages but Zone two is completely new. So cut that 66 in half and you have 33% old stages. Even still those old stages are remixed so they still feel new. Now back to praising the game, the physics are so awesome! Perfectly replicated and the attention to detail is so obviously there. The references are everywhere and this is a must have game on the switch. The best part? It's a steal. Seriously, I'd buy this game for $60 but it's only $20!?!? A deal like this is amazing! If you never got into Sonic... try this game. If you used to be into Sonic... try this game. Never liked old Sonic but a fan of 3D Sonic? Try this game. Just love Sonic? Try. This. Game. I assure you you won't be wasting your money. I'm a Zelda fan... but this might be my game of the year.… Expand
  23. 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.
  24. 2000mudkip
    Sep 5, 2017
    10
    Sonic Mania is a perfect game in every sense of the word, it's the best Sonic game since Generations and probably the best game in the Sonic series. The only game in my opinion that is better than Sonic mania is Ratchet and Clank 2. But hey, opinions.
  25. InteligentAdvan
    Aug 15, 2017
    10
    I like the Gameeeee, I love it. Sonic returns whit a very very very very very very gooooooooood gameeeeee. Buy noww. and better in nintendo switch. Buyyyyyyyyyy
  26. MordecaiFloyd
    Aug 17, 2017
    10
    This game is really well made.

    This is what every sonic should be. Perfect. It can please everyone, from younger to older and nostalgic gamers.

    The new stages are awesome. I don't know what else to say, just play this work of art.
  27. nicorzF1
    Aug 17, 2017
    10
    This is a game that shows some things:

    1. People giving negative reviews because they dont want the blue blur to be back.
    2. That Sonic/SEGA games are always better on the Nintendo consoles
    3. That Sonic is finally back.
  28. ScreenScraggy22
    Sep 3, 2017
    10
    I have no words to describe how amazing this game is. The gameplay is so smooth and true to the original. This game brings a challenge but its not unfair, the graphics are great and so much nicer than the old games. The new levels are unique and fun. And don't get me started on how absolutely outstanding the music is.
  29. Panzidane
    Aug 21, 2017
    10
    This game is exactly what we expected for it is. I loved the level design, OST, and everythinh. I wish Sonic Mania 2, 3, 4, and most. Perfect game, RECOMENDED.
  30. llyrowenjones
    Aug 22, 2017
    10
    This is what Sonic should have been over the years. Ever since 3, Sonic has been lagging behind and failing game after game. This game corrects that, and it can show Sonic Team a thing or 2 about it's own heritage and how to build a Sonic game. This is perfect, nostalgic and new.
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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.
    Read full review
  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 »