Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric

 Wii U
  • Publisher: Sega
  • Release Date: Nov 11, 2014
User Score
3.6

Generally unfavorable reviews- based on 712 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 175 out of 712
  2. Mixed: 71 out of 712
  3. Negative: 466 out of 712
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  1. Kadeemluvmusic
    Nov 30, 2014
    0
    Note to SEGA, you are killing this poor hedgehog into an obscure excuse of making more crappy 3-D Sonic games. I don't know why SEGA just gonna be an exclusive to the ailing WII U console. But they are killing the franchise we know and loved since the O.G. Sega Genesis days.

    Sonic Boom is just crap. 100% Crap. Bugs, glitches, some sort of a Crash Bandicoot rip-off, mediocre graphics, a    Note to SEGA, you are killing this poor hedgehog into an obscure excuse of making more crappy 3-D Sonic games. I don't know why SEGA just gonna be an exclusive to the ailing WII U console. But they are killing the franchise we know and loved since the O.G. Sega Genesis days.

    Sonic Boom is just crap. 100% Crap. Bugs, glitches, some sort of a Crash Bandicoot rip-off, mediocre graphics, a lame story campaign, terrible voice acting, a watered-down soundtrack, you name it. It's a hot steamy mess of a broken game that is unfinished and unpolished. Maybe I have another meme of my own: What Nintendoes what Seg-Don't.

    Just die already, Sonic. I don't want to play any new Sonic games unless you should make a 2-D reboot. Think of Sonic Generations. Wouldn't it be cool if you just turning the roots back and prove that Sonic still has some life left if he can beat his longtime nemesis, Mario.

    Do not buy Sonic Boom. Sega just finally put the nail in the coffin and I hope they buried the ageless hedgehog, R.I.P. Sonic the Hedgehog (1991-2014).    … Expand
  2. babyboo
    Nov 28, 2014
    0
    An embarrassing rush job and an inexcusably bad game in every way. The graphics stink, the gameplay is boring as crap, the cut scenes are vomit inducing, the music is canned. Even if it weren't so sloppily made, the game is so uninspired in design and concept that it would barely merit a rental anyway.
  3. Niles2K14
    Nov 27, 2014
    2
    This game is an absolute disappointment because of a number of things. It has a terrible framerate, it's full of bugs and glitches, it's unfinished (due to Big Red Button breaking up during the development of the game hence why it's a terrible mess) and most of all, the game is extremely dull and monotonous to play. I personally would recommend Sonic Lost World or even Sonic 06 over thisThis game is an absolute disappointment because of a number of things. It has a terrible framerate, it's full of bugs and glitches, it's unfinished (due to Big Red Button breaking up during the development of the game hence why it's a terrible mess) and most of all, the game is extremely dull and monotonous to play. I personally would recommend Sonic Lost World or even Sonic 06 over this abomination. For your own sake, avoid this game like the plague.… Expand
  4. cronofighter
    Nov 27, 2014
    0
    The Story is ****

    the characters are nothing like the original

    endless glitchless

    soundtrack is one of the worst i ever heared

    the "humor" is for small children

    the control is awkward
  5. SegoEde
    Nov 27, 2014
    4
    First, this is isn't as bad as Sonic 06. That game is a broken mess, this game is just a "normal" mess. Controls are ok, I have seen better but also much worst. Graphics, yeah, outdated but not ugly.

    So what's wrong? Almost everything. The pure game mechanic is the same like in Knack, combat is just pressing one button ja extremely repetitive. There's too little platforming sections,    First, this is isn't as bad as Sonic 06. That game is a broken mess, this game is just a "normal" mess. Controls are ok, I have seen better but also much worst. Graphics, yeah, outdated but not ugly.

    So what's wrong? Almost everything. The pure game mechanic is the same like in Knack, combat is just pressing one button ja extremely repetitive. There's too little platforming sections, too much button-pressing puzzles and everything is so easy and boring. I mean really, a boring Sonic-game. Just play this piece of junk and you'll feel the torpidity. Even music can't help because they're so blank and forgettable.

    And the best or worst of all, characters keeps talking "so-cool" one-liner that makes me either facepalm or yell because of their stupidity. Yeah, cheese scriptwriting is okay with Sonic-games and it worked kinda well in 3 previous games but this one is just a bomb. Terrible jokes and the best ones are just mediocre.

    Who sre the people which this whole cake is intended for...?! For under 10 year old kids maybe when it comes to difficulty but they will feel the torpidity as well as we olders!    … Expand
  6. EpikRaikku
    Nov 26, 2014
    1
    If you actually believe in the reviews for this that are Positive they are lying. This game is absolute trash and shouldn't even be bought. You must go read the reviews from the critics on Youtube or other websites like that. The gameplay is awful, eye rolling humor, and more glitches than you can count. This game is about as bad as Sonic 06 which was also a glitch fest. Save your moneyIf you actually believe in the reviews for this that are Positive they are lying. This game is absolute trash and shouldn't even be bought. You must go read the reviews from the critics on Youtube or other websites like that. The gameplay is awful, eye rolling humor, and more glitches than you can count. This game is about as bad as Sonic 06 which was also a glitch fest. Save your money this year and buy a game like Bayonetta 2 or Smash bros.… Expand
  7. MasterKate
    Nov 26, 2014
    0
    I'm not gonna waste my time thinking of a thoughtful review, it sucks. That's all you need to know.

    I would avoid this, don't waste your money. The Sonic series is surely dead.
  8. JN1306
    Nov 25, 2014
    6
    Yeah, it was very disappointing...but honestly 3,8 is way too harsh. Keep in mind this was a brand new team worked on this game and I am willing to give them the benefit of the doubt and hpe they do better in the future. The game had sine enjoyable stages, I liked the new character designs and the music isnt half bad
  9. billywws
    Nov 25, 2014
    0
    In the absolute bottom of the barrel, you'd expect to find a really bad game. But look further, under the bottom of the barrel. Nothing, and I mean NOTHING even compares to the sloppy, unfinished piece of crap that is Sonic Boom: Rise Of Lyric. This game makes Sonic '06 look like an absolute masterpiece.
  10. Arraysion
    Nov 23, 2014
    1
    I cannot believe how Nintendo could allow such a tragedy on store shelves. Sonic, Tails, Amy, and Knuckles are forgetful and the story line is just crap (not to mention Knuckles looks like a inflated scrotum). There is no denying it, Sanic the hudgeheg is dead.
  11. Courageismight
    Nov 22, 2014
    3
    All I have to say is that I am glad I looked this game up on Meta before I fell for this junk heap that only gets half the score of Hyrule Warriors which I am already casting doubt into.
    I swear some games even though they are good games like Twilight Princess and some other game I know get no press then they give games like these that are slapped together messes with terrible plots    All I have to say is that I am glad I looked this game up on Meta before I fell for this junk heap that only gets half the score of Hyrule Warriors which I am already casting doubt into.
    I swear some games even though they are good games like Twilight Princess and some other game I know get no press then they give games like these that are slapped together messes with terrible plots ridiculous repetition that they SHOULD KNOW BY NOW THAT USERS HATE REPETITION LIKE THE PLAGUE anyway and then make the frame rate and the graphics like garbage and make the game SIMPLE WHICH IS ANOTHER THING THAT REPELS AUDIENCES LIKE CRAZY BECAUSE THEY NEED A STEADY STREAM OF THINGS TO TALK ABOUT IN THE GAME AND MAKE THE GAME A BORING FEST WHERE EVERYONE JUST BEGS YOU TO GET OFF THE TV.
    Yeah ALL game companies LISTEN UP make sure your game is COMPLEX AND FASCINATING BEFORE you make everyone get such hype about it I KNOW THEY CAN DO A BETTER JOB    … Expand
  12. Krawbeard
    Nov 20, 2014
    0
    Look.... I love sonic the hedgehog....

    It saddens me to say this.... But this game is unfinished garbage... It could've been something good... but its not.... Its sonic team's last exclusive nintendo game so yeah i guess I could see why they would suck at it especially considering most of sega was working on Alien Isolation.... but still this is their mascot.... Its a    Look.... I love sonic the hedgehog....

    It saddens me to say this....

    But this game is unfinished garbage...

    It could've been something good... but its not....

    Its sonic team's last exclusive nintendo game so yeah i guess I could see why they would suck at it especially considering most of sega was working on Alien Isolation.... but still this is their mascot....

    Its a shame...

    Honestly I wish Sega would give the rights of Sonic to Nintendo because Nintendo does not let games go unfinished...

    Its sad to see him, banjo & kazooie and all the other mascots go to rubbish....

    I guess some good mascots got to end I suppose.

    I haven't enjoyed a good sonic game since the adventure series and colors.

    Oh well. I bet the kids will atleast enjoy it because its a prequel to the Tv series...

    As an adult I am realizing one of my favorite guys who convinced me to get a sega genesis is dead or just a washed up loser by his own job that screwed him over.

    Please Sega just give him to Nintendo... I'm sure Mr. Iwata would be generous to label him as "sega's" sonic the hedgehog.

    Anyways... Look... If you want an unfinished game that doesn't work then I would say just get an Xbone because atleast they'll work better after patches... However if you want a sonic game then you might as well dig up your genesis and get all 7 emeralds and beat dr. robotnik because this wont do it and will disappoint you I promise.

    Shame on you sega....
    I hope you make negative profits on this game    … Expand
  13. ClawedHookshot
    Nov 20, 2014
    1
    What's a Sonic? I feel that was what Big Red Button and SEGA were saying when developing this game. How do you make a game that has brought the franchise back down to where it was eight years ago. After all the hard work Unleashed, Colours, Generations and Lost World had done, this is a major let down.

    The gameplay is horrid. The controls are clunky, characters feel stiff and there's no    What's a Sonic? I feel that was what Big Red Button and SEGA were saying when developing this game. How do you make a game that has brought the franchise back down to where it was eight years ago. After all the hard work Unleashed, Colours, Generations and Lost World had done, this is a major let down.

    The gameplay is horrid. The controls are clunky, characters feel stiff and there's no fast paced action that Sonic is known for. Why should you play a Sonic game if he doesn't go fast, his main selling point? Instead we're treated to the same boring generic platforming that he made fun of back in the early 1990's. The dialogue is ok at times but the characters never shut up, stating the obvious every time you get a ring, power up, run through a loop and I'm pretty sure they do it at some points when you're just walking. Also, the game is buggy as ever. Couple that with the terrible in game graphics and textures that make the game look like it came out of the PS2 era, Sonic Boom is one of the worst games of 2014.    … Expand
  14. gabzjmm23
    Nov 20, 2014
    9
    it is a different Sonic game. enjoyed it, i know why people hated it due to framerate drops and clunky controls. but love playing a platformer game. don't know why people just wanted Sonic to run fast and just collect the rings. this can be improve though.
  15. SuperLuigiBrosZ
    Nov 19, 2014
    10
    This is the closest thing we are getting to having the four most important characters in the Sonic franchise to work together for the first time in a plat former to stop Eggman. By the way, we got a American Classic Sonic, why not Modern? Also Knuckles has the best design in this game because it portrays the true powerhouse he is. He hit Super Sonic once and he went back to normal stateThis is the closest thing we are getting to having the four most important characters in the Sonic franchise to work together for the first time in a plat former to stop Eggman. By the way, we got a American Classic Sonic, why not Modern? Also Knuckles has the best design in this game because it portrays the true powerhouse he is. He hit Super Sonic once and he went back to normal state and Knuckles was laughing after like it was nothing. There is a reason why he is the guardian of the Master Emerald and is the last survivor of his ancient race. Also this isn't effecting the Sonic canon anyway so calm down. The next true Sonic game will have the designs you all remember.… Expand
  16. Yuli_Ban
    Nov 18, 2014
    0
    Clunky controls, uninspired gameplay, insipid humor, and a wretched plot that makes zero attempts to be anything worth experiencing are only the start of where this could-have-been-awesome game went wrong.

    Believe it or not, it's glitchier than Sonic 2006 for the Xbox 360 and PS3; at the very least it has color. Or at least, I think it does. And the plot isn't as pretentious, but that's    Clunky controls, uninspired gameplay, insipid humor, and a wretched plot that makes zero attempts to be anything worth experiencing are only the start of where this could-have-been-awesome game went wrong.

    Believe it or not, it's glitchier than Sonic 2006 for the Xbox 360 and PS3; at the very least it has color. Or at least, I think it does. And the plot isn't as pretentious, but that's only because what this game thinks is a plot is really a 5 year old's attempt at writing a Sonic fanfiction after playing an old demo for Sonic Adventure 2: Battle.

    Then there's the music. Sonic games are renowned for having top class OSTs, no matter the quality of the game itself. Here, they gave up. That's all I can say. None of the songs had me humming; none stick in my memory; they don't even sound finished.

    I've clocked 7 hours playing the game, and somewhere along the line, I realized that this game *couldn't* have ever been good, unlike Sonic '06, which was at least a thumbs-down Sonic Adventure rehash. The idea behind this is like the spiritual successor to Sonic Heroes, but without any of that game's nostalgic charm or so-bad-it's-good cheesy dialogue.

    If you want a game to satisfy the little ones for a few hours, here's some shovelware for ya. It'll be selling for $4.99 in no time anyway, so don't buy it now.    … Expand
  17. rhaynes7
    Nov 18, 2014
    3
    When I played Sonic Lost World, although there were many problems in my opinion, there were at least redeeming qualities. This game doesn't have any redeeming qualities.

    It's less that the game is broken, and more that it's simply not fun to play. Having Sonic move slow is fine, as long as the platforming works well, but having him go the same speed as everyone else is outrageous.    When I played Sonic Lost World, although there were many problems in my opinion, there were at least redeeming qualities. This game doesn't have any redeeming qualities.

    It's less that the game is broken, and more that it's simply not fun to play. Having Sonic move slow is fine, as long as the platforming works well, but having him go the same speed as everyone else is outrageous. The gameplay is dull, except for the short, short high speed segments. The banter is annoying, and the world created is relatively generic.

    This is the opposite of what Sonic should be. If you like the opposite of Sonic, you might have some fun, but otherwise, steer clear.    … Expand
  18. RegalSwan
    Nov 18, 2014
    0
    Dear sweet Jesus, this game is a mistake.

    Honestly, there's nothing I can say that can't be said. There is no speed, fighting is a chore, the characters are one-sided and the game is a glitchy mess far more than Sonic 06 ever was.

    A zero is the only thing this will ever deserve. Thanks for nothing, Sega.
  19. sonic125
    Nov 17, 2014
    0
    I am so glad this is the last sonic game on the wiil u and this game was rushed so we can get a sonic game not on the will u. thank god it's over with sonic games only on the will u
  20. Flutterflybear
    Nov 17, 2014
    5
    This game sucks it has lots of glitches, the characters don't stop talking, I mean it's alright sometimes it can be fun, but it still should've been made better!:(
  21. Xxsonicfan69xX
    Nov 17, 2014
    10
    Sonic Boom is a masterpiece.
    It'll make you laugh.
    It will make you cry.
    It will change your life.
    I was on the brink of suicide when my friend came in and said, "man, you gotta play Sonic Boom! Its the best." I did.
    It takes Sonic to the next level, with fun combat, awesome running sections, and a deep emotional story.
    I recommend this game to anyone. 10/10 Game of the year.
  22. Salario
    Nov 17, 2014
    0
    This may very well be the worst Sonic game in history. It's worse than any of the modern games that came after Sonic Adventure 2, and dare I say it, it's worse than Sonic 06. Most of you would disagree since you're still harboring negative vibes towards that game, but let me make this clear. Rise of Lyric is worse than 06. The graphics are low quality, the frame-rate is choppy, theThis may very well be the worst Sonic game in history. It's worse than any of the modern games that came after Sonic Adventure 2, and dare I say it, it's worse than Sonic 06. Most of you would disagree since you're still harboring negative vibes towards that game, but let me make this clear. Rise of Lyric is worse than 06. The graphics are low quality, the frame-rate is choppy, the characters are annoying and so on. Even the features that 06 did right were horribly screwed up. I'd sooner play the hated Sonic games than RoL.… Expand
  23. MrHaru2010
    Nov 16, 2014
    2
    I will give this game a starting point of "2 out of 10" because I like the characterization when their lines weren't being repeated over and over. However everything from the fact combat does NOT level you up with experience (The bot parts you gain do nothing but grant you passive upgrades), the fact you can't learn new moves, the choppy horrid framerate that can't even sustain 30 fps, theI will give this game a starting point of "2 out of 10" because I like the characterization when their lines weren't being repeated over and over. However everything from the fact combat does NOT level you up with experience (The bot parts you gain do nothing but grant you passive upgrades), the fact you can't learn new moves, the choppy horrid framerate that can't even sustain 30 fps, the rating system that LITERALLY DOES NOTHING FOR DOING BETTER IN COMBOS (Got an S rank? Doesn't do anything special at all), the fact that revisiting an area (at least in fast travel) resets all the cutscenes and dialogue spoken in that area....

    This game is severely unpolished. I feel regret that I bought this and beat it in a day. I wasn't mad that I beat the game: I was actually satisfied but upon reflecting on the game I had been playing....I just didn't have a reason or wish to go back to it.

    So I traded it in to GameStop towards Super Smash Bros Wii U: something I recommend everyone do if they made the mistake of buying this.

    If not and you're reading these user reviews: PLEASE STAY AWAY FROM THIS GAME. WATCH THE CARTOON INSTEAD. The cartoon actually has some talent behind it who have been working in the field and know their limits.

    SEGA, it's time to just let Sonic die. Please.    … Expand
  24. jswessler
    Nov 16, 2014
    0
    Adding on to my other review (I hoped this game was going to be good, but it was not. The freaking combat in unleashed is WAY BETTER than this combat, where you can only get like a 2 hit combo... Also a slow sonic game?? Gimme a break...)
    Also, what are these graphics? PS2
    and frame rate? PS2
    and jokes? REALLY BAD
    I would rather play sonic 06
  25. Kinaibhlan
    Nov 15, 2014
    5
    The game had the potential to be great but failed due to glitches and bugs and some are dubbing the game as Sonic 14. Is it THAT bad? Well yes and no, the glitches and framerate drops are a huge problem but there are good parts. I find the old Jak and Daxter sound effects nostalgic and the platforming really fun but everything else is not that good. The game is not worth $60, just wait forThe game had the potential to be great but failed due to glitches and bugs and some are dubbing the game as Sonic 14. Is it THAT bad? Well yes and no, the glitches and framerate drops are a huge problem but there are good parts. I find the old Jak and Daxter sound effects nostalgic and the platforming really fun but everything else is not that good. The game is not worth $60, just wait for it to be in the bargain bin or a low price used at Amazon.… Expand
  26. Solidough
    Nov 15, 2014
    1
    The game is flat out boring (really slow too!). People compare the combat system in this game to Sonic Unleashed, though Unleashed's is so much more varied. This is just a button masher.

    Also, the game is full of glitches. It's not as bad as Sonic 06, but it's still really bad. While 06 is more broken, it's also more enjoyable than this junk. They always tried way to hard to add    The game is flat out boring (really slow too!). People compare the combat system in this game to Sonic Unleashed, though Unleashed's is so much more varied. This is just a button masher.

    Also, the game is full of glitches. It's not as bad as Sonic 06, but it's still really bad. While 06 is more broken, it's also more enjoyable than this junk.

    They always tried way to hard to add comedy, it ended up becoming boring. Also they WOULDN'T shut up during the levels. Ever.

    The fact that the graphics are as outdated as if it was a game for the PS2, but it still has severe frame rate issues is abysmal. In multiplayer, the levle of detail is lowered and the the lighting is non-existent, but the frame rate is even worse.

    Finally, the music. The Sonic series is known for (no matter how bad a game) almost always having some rememberable soundtrack. However, this doesn't have a single soundtrack that is worth remembering. Also the music is quite often out of place.    … Expand
  27. dijukun
    Nov 15, 2014
    0
    would rather play sonic 06, at least that had a decent story. Terrible framerate,graphics, and etc. I don't know why nintendo would waste money on getting on this as an exclusive.
  28. VincentofRiften
    Nov 15, 2014
    2
    Bad OST, bad story, bad graphics, tons of glitches, annoying voice acting makes this one of the worst games; if not the worst game in general; of 2014.
  29. Undeadbobop
    Nov 15, 2014
    7
    It is up there with crash bandicoot & spyro, a good old style Naughtydog game, people just need to open their eyes and look at it not as sonic games pasts.
    Disregaurd the 10's and 4 & bellows they are made by people who never played the damn game and basically just troll scoring for the most part, most of the negative reviews are by sony ponies and xbots getting mad cause its not on    It is up there with crash bandicoot & spyro, a good old style Naughtydog game, people just need to open their eyes and look at it not as sonic games pasts.
    Disregaurd the 10's and 4 & bellows they are made by people who never played the damn game and basically just troll scoring for the most part, most of the negative reviews are by sony ponies and xbots getting mad cause its not on playstation, xbox, or vita. Most of the 10s are made by people who don't actually have a review explaining their rating and opinions of this game.

    Gameplay:

    The gameplay isn't like the standard sonic game were you just run fast with high flying action of player NOT the hell in controll, instead in this game it is a action platformer with exploration elements, with a combat system of 2 different types of attacks. A standard attack every characters is different, and a special attack. The special attacks for some characters seem really useless like knuckles break dance attack range is too small to actually hit anything without getting hit yourself. While sonics special attack actually is more of a combo move where there is 2 varients with feed back that feels like you are doing a lot more damage, thus more rewarding to do.

    It is a more action adventure game that will leave you exploring but disappointed there are not enough secrets which causes you to search and look deeper for secrets instead of instant gradification like in other sonic games. It does treat you like you are dumb giving you tutorials and walks you through but only after the fact that you needed to know what it is you are suppose to do. Then at other times it nags you to do something you done a million times, and this is in the very beginning of the game.

    About half way through they stfu, and you can actually play the game and have some fun, there are some puzzles that it actually does the right thing and doesn't tell you jack **** which can leave some people confused because they thought game was going to play them and not them play game.

    But for gamer's it should be fun, unless they are whiny entitled dinguses.
    Voice acting: terrible... oh you want more to know on it well the voice... sonic + voice acting = always bad especially when you treat the gamer like they are **** stupid. Voice acting for the purpose of story mmmk, voice acting to tell me what each character is doing without telling me what they are doing BBBBADDDD...

    Multiplayer:
    this is a very 2 player co-op centered game but apparently there is a 4 player challenge mode I havn't gotten around to it.

    Level design:

    It is amazing you can clearly tell it is reminised of both spyro and crash bandicoot, many people were complaining saying the 2d sections are just trying to be like sonic generations and crap like that but they have 3d to 2d to 3d with levels designed exactly like crash bandicoot at parts and other parts were they were layed out exactly like spyros.

    The bad:
    Worst part of the game: Requires 3ds version of the game to unlock larger "wallets" which means more coins because you can only collect 100 coins and that is it. Coins are treated as health in this game so that is obviously a very flawed thing with this game which is why I am rating it so low unlike most of the whiny bastards on here without a actual legiment complaint about the actual game.

    The best:
    It reminds me a lot of the older crash bandicoot games mixed in with spyro with some racket and clank elements added on to it. The gameplay is solid while the story is bbbbbaddd, mostly due to the some of the voice acting and how many cut scenes are there in the beginning, some of the new characters are decent. The gameplay is solid but it really isn't the standard sonic game which doesn't make it a bad game

    PS:: look at all those angry reviewers mad that they didn't get their review copies copy pasting things here in this user section, all of them mad because they didn't get gift baskets either, I say **** them those corrupt bastards.    … Expand
  30. TheQuietGamer
    Nov 14, 2014
    5
    Another dud of a Sonic game. It's no secret that Sonic has been in some very bad games over the years. However given the fact that his most recent titles Colors, Generations, and Lost World have been good, you'll be forgiven for thinking this one was also going to be. Especially considering a new developer was at the helm, and there was some experimentation with the modern Sonic formula.Another dud of a Sonic game. It's no secret that Sonic has been in some very bad games over the years. However given the fact that his most recent titles Colors, Generations, and Lost World have been good, you'll be forgiven for thinking this one was also going to be. Especially considering a new developer was at the helm, and there was some experimentation with the modern Sonic formula. Sadly it all stumbles.

    For one thing the game is painfully simplistic. Combat is mindless button-mashing, platforming is almost non-existant, and death means nothing. The new features like an open world and side-quests show promise, but they are brought down by the games lackluster gameplay and a plethora of technical issues. Finding a hidden path that leads to treasure or a new collectible can be exciting at first, until you realize that collecting them leads to nothing. Same with the side-quests. The rewards you get for completing them are worthless and not worth going out of your way to acquire.

    Exploring the world would be a lot more fun if there weren't so many glitches in the game. The shear amount you'll face is unbelievable, especially for a game in 2014. I fell through the environment, had cutscenes where I couldn't hear any dialog but could clearly see characters talking, and suffered frame rate issues and screen tearing. The latter two are especially surprising considering this game isn't exactly a graphical powerhouse.

    The story and cutscenes are atrocious. The plot is convoluted as expected with most Sonic games, and I honestly don't remember much about it even though I just beat it. It tries way too hard to be funny, but the problem is that the writing just isn't smart enough to do that. There are a few amusing one-liners, but at most all you'll get is a smirk or a mild chuckle. The majority of them are just irritating, which is a shame given that the premiere episode of the show it ties into was absolutely hilarious.

    So "Rise of Lyric" isn't a good game, but that's not to say it's unplayable. In fact it can be a mindlessly entertaining experience at times. The co-op is also surprisingly great. Both players will always have something to do thank to the fact that certain paths can only be accessed by one character. However despite that I still don't think the game is worth playing.

    It's a mediocre experience. One that feels rushed and unfinished thanks to the number a bugs and glitches it has. The gameplay feels so geared towards children that you can tell it's all just way too dumbed down. It's not necessarily awful, and I can see the more forgiving gaming crowd finding some fun here, but overall the highest compliment I can give it is that it isn't the worst Sonic game out there. That's pretty sad. Especially given the promise it shows at times. Pass on this one Sonic fans.    … Expand
  31. gurren
    Nov 14, 2014
    9
    this game is amazing in my opinion i love EVERYTHING about especially the humor this has got to be one the funniest games i've ever played and everybody is saying that this game is glitchy but i finished the whole game without coming across a glitch.
  32. Jkutz
    Nov 14, 2014
    0
    This game is an abomination. I refuse to accept this as a Sonic game, this just doesn't feel fat or fun. I guess if you wanted to play Sonic '06 with a new skin you could buy this game, but I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy. This game poorly designed with terrible textures and glitches. Avoid this game at all costs.
  33. RedTail
    Nov 14, 2014
    1
    Probably needed another six months to bake. Still, even if you discount all the glitches and unfinished bits, Boom is a tedious and ultimately boring experience.
  34. Warcheron629
    Nov 13, 2014
    4
    If you can complete the whole game in an hour using a glitch that's when you know that the game is bad. Sonic boom is one of worst sonic games I've played in a while. The game is buggy, dialogs are horrible, combat is boring, the world is uninspired, and they even bragged about the game using cryengine but the game still looks like crap. Seriously, I can't even believe nintendo or segaIf you can complete the whole game in an hour using a glitch that's when you know that the game is bad. Sonic boom is one of worst sonic games I've played in a while. The game is buggy, dialogs are horrible, combat is boring, the world is uninspired, and they even bragged about the game using cryengine but the game still looks like crap. Seriously, I can't even believe nintendo or sega allowed this game to be released this month because the game really needs another 6-12 months worth of work. Buy this game at a bargain bin because most likely you'll regret buying this game at full price.… Expand
  35. doolan2355
    Nov 13, 2014
    10
    Although there are a few frame rate and bug issues, those aren't that annoying and are usually exaggerated, the combat was pretty fun and the speed sections were also admittedly fun too, the hub worlds are a little confusing at first but I also love them due to exploration. The music was a little hard to get used to and new to the sonic series but it is still good and actually fits theAlthough there are a few frame rate and bug issues, those aren't that annoying and are usually exaggerated, the combat was pretty fun and the speed sections were also admittedly fun too, the hub worlds are a little confusing at first but I also love them due to exploration. The music was a little hard to get used to and new to the sonic series but it is still good and actually fits the game very well. A few little issues such as no unlock-able combos, or having to connect your 3DS just to increase the max ring count bugged me but didn't bother me enough to lose some admiration for the game.… Expand
  36. CCooombs
    Nov 13, 2014
    2
    This game seems to fail on many, many levels. Bland textures, and Dreamcast level presentation, make this an ultimately ugly looking game. The gameplay itself is also dull, with repetitive, uninspired platforming and glitches throughout.

    The script writing is also relatively poor, with cheesy jokes and cringe worthy lines. I get that this is a kids game, but that doesn't mean it has to    This game seems to fail on many, many levels. Bland textures, and Dreamcast level presentation, make this an ultimately ugly looking game. The gameplay itself is also dull, with repetitive, uninspired platforming and glitches throughout.

    The script writing is also relatively poor, with cheesy jokes and cringe worthy lines. I get that this is a kids game, but that doesn't mean it has to be so low in quality.    … Expand
  37. recorderdude
    Nov 13, 2014
    4
    Why the hell are most of the community reviews for this game 10s and 0s? It surely deserves neither.

    As for Sonic Boom itself, it is indeed the glitchy, empty mess you've all heard it to be. The story is forgettable, every preexisting character is bastardized and every new character is uninteresting, graphics often look like a PS2 game, music is bland and forgettable, the game plays    Why the hell are most of the community reviews for this game 10s and 0s? It surely deserves neither.

    As for Sonic Boom itself, it is indeed the glitchy, empty mess you've all heard it to be. The story is forgettable, every preexisting character is bastardized and every new character is uninteresting, graphics often look like a PS2 game, music is bland and forgettable, the game plays NOTHING like a sonic game save for a few fleeting speed areas, and the new gameplay is not only very poor-fitting for sonic, but also generally not fun to play. Level design is repetitive and so ar combat segments, Glitches plague the game perhaps not as frequently as 06, but affecting it far more obviously and destructively. This is obviously a game that BRB had little to no interest in making, and the final product shows that. While there are some highlights in the fact that most of the game is at least playable and that controls are generally decent and responsive, the negatives surely outweigh them. However, there are unintentional highlights in how hilarious the glitches often make the game, so there is more enjoyability to be had from the game than intended. As a sonic game, and as a game overall, Sonic Boom gets a 4/10 - if you must have it, wait for the price to go sub-$20 - it won't take long.    … Expand
  38. nighthawkGR
    Nov 13, 2014
    0
    Terrible game,full of glitches,bad controls,bad graphics,bad frame rate.
    Some fresh new ideas..but nothing special who could keep Sonic alive.
    Big red Button killed the Hedgehog...or was he already dead?
  39. Tobi_Whatever
    Nov 13, 2014
    3
    This game tries really hard to dethrone Sonic 06 as the worst Sonic game ever made.
    Whoever decided that a Sonic not going fast is a good idea should leave, wherever they are right now.
    The writing is awful to say the least. It's full of bugs and glitches and you don't even have to try finding them. The game doesn't even look good. And while looking bad and going slowly through walls    This game tries really hard to dethrone Sonic 06 as the worst Sonic game ever made.
    Whoever decided that a Sonic not going fast is a good idea should leave, wherever they are right now.
    The writing is awful to say the least. It's full of bugs and glitches and you don't even have to try finding them.
    The game doesn't even look good. And while looking bad and going slowly through walls with bad animations, you can have frame drops as a little bonus.

    This game is a mess.    … Expand
  40. Icesickle12
    Nov 13, 2014
    3
    This game has so many flaws for one it has a 100 ring cap.It also has way to many cutscenes.There is so much lag in cutscenes.the fighting is very stale and and clunky.The graphics are ps2 era and the jokes are really bad plus the puzzles are just really dumb and to simple.There are way to many rings in the stage there is like no fighting.Overall its just another bad sonic game they needThis game has so many flaws for one it has a 100 ring cap.It also has way to many cutscenes.There is so much lag in cutscenes.the fighting is very stale and and clunky.The graphics are ps2 era and the jokes are really bad plus the puzzles are just really dumb and to simple.There are way to many rings in the stage there is like no fighting.Overall its just another bad sonic game they need to go back to sonic adventure style.… Expand
  41. Ys_guy
    Nov 12, 2014
    3
    I'm speed running the game and I'm so glad I'm just borrowing. The framerate is pretty bad but it doesn't effect response time not that the game requires much. Haven't tried multiplayer yet but I'd imagine teleporting all over the place due to dumbness. This game isn't the worst but considering the price it's now officially bad. Barging bin purchase this game if you're interested.
  42. rawdawg
    Nov 12, 2014
    9
    To counter all the hate towards this game, I will give an in-depth review. I must say that this is a great improvement on the Sonic games of old. The controls were a blast and the gameplay is really fast and challenging without being too difficult. A good mixture! The new character designs take a little while to grow on you, but once they do, you'll be quite pleased. Quite frankly they areTo counter all the hate towards this game, I will give an in-depth review. I must say that this is a great improvement on the Sonic games of old. The controls were a blast and the gameplay is really fast and challenging without being too difficult. A good mixture! The new character designs take a little while to grow on you, but once they do, you'll be quite pleased. Quite frankly they are a good revamp that trump the hedgehog of old. This is one of the cases where change was much needed. Sonic actually has some cool new moves this time around. With his new Enerbeam, you can do things you would never have imagined doing in the classics! You can climb walls, swim, and design your very own ATV's! I hope they add new features to this fascinating weapon as DLC. It was really entertaining and way past cool. Playing as Knuckles was a little rough I will admit. He can’t glide any more which makes some levels difficult, but burrowing more than makes up for it. He can actually find treasure and digging can be used tactically in boss battles.

    Also, as with any game one of the most important elements is the story. In Rise of Lyric, the plot will really suck you in and is in fact one of the most intriguing in platforming games in recent memory. Unlike previous entries in the series, you no longer search for Chaos Emeralds. Now it's Chaos Crystals, which are way more interesting than silly emeralds! The new villain Lyric was also really memorable in the vein of Hannbial Lector and Vladimir Putin. He's terrifying on a psychological level and hopefully will continue to play a large role in Sonic games to come. Compared to the old games, overall the characters are more fleshed out and actually have depth with three dimensional personalities. I promise you will care for them this time around! When one of the main characters dies (SPOILERS!), you will feel much loss, just like if you had lost a family member. The plot twists really took me by surprise, particularly when the apocalyptic nature of the ancients is revealed. Other than that the dialogue was amusing and heartwarming, while at the same time maintaining an atmosphere of tension and mystery. Much applause must also be directed to the VA in this game. I was able to take them seriously throughout the entirety of the story and not once could I find fault in their performance.

    All in all, it was the little things that helped this new generation of Sonic stand out. The soundtrack was one of the best in ages. The levels where you get to play as Metal Sonic were also a great surprise. I actually wasn't suspecting that and was pleasantly shocked to see this character again and play through his perspective. The physics for the spaceship levels were really entertaining and helped Sonic Boom stand above previous titles in the series. Finally, there were cameos from all sorts of characters in the franchise. Princess Acorn even makes an appearance at the end!

    In conclusion, Rise of Lyric was everything I ever wanted. The game is so good I played it for free. If you haven’t bought it yet, you should. Ignore the hate, and give Rise of Lyric a shot. If you don’t like it, and I know you won’t, you will be one out of a million. Everyone else, I think you will be pleasantly surprised.    … Expand
  43. Blowtaku
    Nov 12, 2014
    10
    This game was really very good. I had low expectations after I was personally unimpressed with Sonic Lost World. I really like this one however. The story is great, the controls are superb and the speed brings back childhood memories of hotwheels cars.
  44. hiddenderek
    Nov 12, 2014
    0
    A horrible, bug riddled game. Feels like an alpha build. No game should be released in this state. Glitches everywhere, horrible graphics, and just a general lack of quality.
  45. Mudkipz9001
    Nov 12, 2014
    10
    A brilliant and innovative game that gives a fresh take on sonic with an all new universe. The controls are perfect and it also manages to capture the adrenaline and speed that makes people go to Sonic.
  46. Slsr
    Nov 12, 2014
    2
    I don't think this game is all terrible, I admit at times it was kinda fun to play, but in the end there is just too much bad there. Firstly it is rather broken game with some frame rate issues, Secondly It is also easy game that also gets a bit dull as there is lack of interesting challenge and it feels very dumbed down game TBH -.-... And thirdly, it doesn't really even feel like a trueI don't think this game is all terrible, I admit at times it was kinda fun to play, but in the end there is just too much bad there. Firstly it is rather broken game with some frame rate issues, Secondly It is also easy game that also gets a bit dull as there is lack of interesting challenge and it feels very dumbed down game TBH -.-... And thirdly, it doesn't really even feel like a true sonic game at all, which as fan of franchise is very disappointing me just by itself, as game isn't really good either to help me accept this. As for being broken, for instance you can literally avoid all hits (was it enemy or some crazy spikes etc.) just by rolling continuously as that makes you apparently invisible, how does something like this even make it to game...

    All in all problem is just that everything feels bit off in this game, nothing is done particularly greatly and some things have been done extremely badly. I feel they had actually good ideas here though, just that what we in the end got here wasn't those ideas implemented in game in some awesome way. Rather we got complete train wreck that will be laughed at as one of the worst games made in 2014. Even dialogue is full of unintentional comedy as jokes are so damn bad... There really isn't any reason to return on this game other than maybe try harder mode if you found game interesting enough somehow to make it to end (Personally I just couldn't make it...)    … Expand
  47. FreshToast6000
    Nov 12, 2014
    4
    This game from the get-go has frame rate issues and many bugs. It's clear that the game is unpolished. The gamers combat is also very clunky the the animations aren't smooth. The platforming is decent but not good. There's a big open town for you to explore but only about 8 NPC in the game. When you explore the town you find rings but you can only hold 100. If you perform an SSS comboThis game from the get-go has frame rate issues and many bugs. It's clear that the game is unpolished. The gamers combat is also very clunky the the animations aren't smooth. The platforming is decent but not good. There's a big open town for you to explore but only about 8 NPC in the game. When you explore the town you find rings but you can only hold 100. If you perform an SSS combo there is no reward for getting the high combo. The story is also bad, the only good about it is the little humor it brings to the table. Another positive is the length of the game, it's above average but for me it felt like a chore. I would not recommend picking this game up at all, not even a price drop will do justice.… Expand
  48. jojo598
    Nov 12, 2014
    9
    I thought that this game was pretty awesome. The music was great, and the game play was entertaining. It was something new and different. I appreciate the new direction taken with the Sonic universe, and I hope that there are more boom games to come. I did however like the 3ds version better.
  49. nuniruro
    Nov 12, 2014
    2
    Sonic Boom: Rise Of Lyrics is unpolished - and even worse, flat out boring. Like, super boring. I tried to find something positive, I really tried. Trust me! But nothing about this game stands out - in a good way that is.

    The graphics are sub-par, even bad. The music sucks - it's stuck in this ambient, cinematic mood and never stands out, ever. The gameplay is repetitive and the puzzles    Sonic Boom: Rise Of Lyrics is unpolished - and even worse, flat out boring. Like, super boring. I tried to find something positive, I really tried. Trust me! But nothing about this game stands out - in a good way that is.

    The graphics are sub-par, even bad. The music sucks - it's stuck in this ambient, cinematic mood and never stands out, ever. The gameplay is repetitive and the puzzles are dumb - you have slow button-mashing fights, then there's a bad puzzle, then a scripted speed section which will most likely glitch out. Rinse and repeat. The characters, oh man, they're annoying. They never shut up. The writing is an atrocity, with constant references to internet memes from 2010.

    The only things I really liked were Amy's new personality, she's no longer incomprehensibly annoying, and Metal Sonic. He's always a nice villain.    … Expand
  50. GamerRedux
    Nov 11, 2014
    0
    This was awful. A complete disservice to fans of Sonic. The game breaking bugs are compounded by the fact that Wii U does little to no patches. This should have been a return to the Genesis days of glory but instead we have just another terrible Sonic game. Fans of Sonic avoid. Everyone avoid.
  51. SonicMan1
    Nov 11, 2014
    10
    What I played of Sonic Boom was amazing. The story was pretty epic(which I will not spoil you on) and the fact that you can switch characters. is pretty neat. I don't see why all these users hated it.There are a few glitches but i can look past them(Plus you pretty much have to not be playing the game normally to experience glitches)
  52. SonicFan29
    Nov 11, 2014
    2
    Well, I wanted this to be a good game, but unfortunately it Isn't.

    Sega's newest attempt at the blue blur fell remarkably short of most expectations. It's scattered with many bugs. While not gamebreaking bugs as some have described, many require you to restart the level. The game lags out at several points as well. It's graphics are a huge disappointment. While some levels, such as    Well, I wanted this to be a good game, but unfortunately it Isn't.

    Sega's newest attempt at the blue blur fell remarkably short of most expectations. It's scattered with many bugs. While not gamebreaking bugs as some have described, many require you to restart the level. The game lags out at several points as well.

    It's graphics are a huge disappointment. While some levels, such as Lyrics base, look nice at parts, other parts are downright ugly. At points it really does look like a PS2 game. On a system like the Wii U this is simply unnacceptable. In addition, after three years in development one would expect consistent graphics, but alas, no.

    The gameplay is generally repetitive and I became bored within the first few levels. The difficulty is minimal, and while more enemies began appearing near the end, they are easily dispatched.

    Music has been one of the consistent bright spots of the Sonic franchise, but unfortunately Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric bucks this trend. The music is unfitting at points and generally forgettable.

    The major bright spot is story. The games story is far more advanced then the last four Sonic games combined. It does have a generic villain and stereotypical (and pointless) characters, which takes away from the enjoyment.

    In an effort to appeal to new fans Sega has completely alienated it's original fan base. The game is not good enough to draw in many kids; nor Sonic enough to draw in the dedicated fan base. Sega has fell into a situation all too many companies fall into. In short, this game is very disappointing.    … Expand
  53. kashop
    Nov 11, 2014
    5
    In general I don't write reviews (because i'm not native English speaker) but the ranking here in metacritics is a complete lie.The game is good and don't deserve the hate.

    -The playability is good, -The character are different, the platforming and puzzle are fun, the fighting is a little monotonous at the beginning, but with the weapons and upgrades at the end are going better.The    In general I don't write reviews (because i'm not native English speaker) but the ranking here in metacritics is a complete lie.The game is good and don't deserve the hate.

    -The playability is good,
    -The character are different,
    the platforming and puzzle are fun,
    the fighting is a little monotonous at the beginning, but with the weapons and upgrades at the end are going better.The boss figthing are special and different.
    The graphics are good, in the speed areas are very fast and smooth.
    The story is very interesting but in another hand the humor is bad in general.
    .
    In sumary the game is good, is especially entertainment in the co - op mode. One player can play in the wiiu pad and the another in the tv, advancing for different areas and meeting later or going together. (this game is very original in different ways).

    the concerns:
    low rate in co -op (its not too much but it is.
    I believe is short, I have the 60% of the game in around 4 hours..    … Expand
  54. UltimateToad84
    Nov 11, 2014
    10
    This is a different Sonic game that we are used too, but it is also one of the greats. The music is very captivating and sets the mood of the levels, the character development is strong and interactions are comical., The gameplay is fun and intriguing with no bugs and the game looks fine as far as graphics are concerned. I love how you can also play as Amy, Knuckles, and Tails. TheThis is a different Sonic game that we are used too, but it is also one of the greats. The music is very captivating and sets the mood of the levels, the character development is strong and interactions are comical., The gameplay is fun and intriguing with no bugs and the game looks fine as far as graphics are concerned. I love how you can also play as Amy, Knuckles, and Tails. The beginning level shows that although the a level can be small, there is a lot one can do within it. Metal Sonic I back as well, which is a character I always thought should sty consistent within Sonic games. I wrote this article because I saw all the hate Sonic has had over the years and he does not deserve it. I will stand up for Sonic!!!… Expand
  55. godzillabots
    Nov 11, 2014
    10
    I actually enjoy the game for what it is. It takes a very different turn on the Sonic franchise. Not every Sonic game has to stay the same thing over and over again you know.
  56. darkfury45
    Nov 11, 2014
    2
    This game had some hopes from me, I was expecting something different yet interesting. Instead, here's what I've found:
    -Graphics that are lazily done, on the Crysis 3 engine no less
    -the combat isn't as enjoyable as one would expect, it's different, but not satisfactory -the humor is really degrading, especially poor knuckles, a character I respected in sonic adventure, sa2 and sonic    This game had some hopes from me, I was expecting something different yet interesting. Instead, here's what I've found:
    -Graphics that are lazily done, on the Crysis 3 engine no less
    -the combat isn't as enjoyable as one would expect, it's different, but not satisfactory
    -the humor is really degrading, especially poor knuckles, a character I respected in sonic adventure, sa2 and sonic heroes
    -BUTTLOADS of glitches that SHOULD have been watched for, its like an early beta or late alpha build.

    As a comparison, I'd have to state this is a lot like a bad spin off of The Legend of Spyro trilogy or the Spongebob Squarepants Movie (video game). The story, character model design, and voice acting isn't horrible, but the slowpaced action and horrible humor isn't something I was looking forward to. Three years of building, yet loads of bugs and graphics that could have been reworked before release if BRB had the common sense to actually do proper testing.    … Expand
  57. ryuhayabusa13
    Nov 11, 2014
    10
    I enjoyed the Combat, comedy and variety of moves and an emphasis on exploration are pretty neat as the original sonic games did have. Also like the humor and quirkiness of story. Don't understand the hate the game is getting. Have played every sonic game and still enjoying it along with new cartoon.
  58. epxyon1
    Nov 11, 2014
    10
    The game reminds me of Sonic Heroes. Its actually very fun. I don't personally care for the new character designs, so if you can manage to get past that you'll like the game.
  59. Like
    Nov 11, 2014
    0
    The only bad thing about Sonic Boom is that the game is terrible in every way.

    But this game is just really bad, It just feels really rushed like it's still an Alpha build.
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Awards & Rankings

45
#45 Best Wii U Game of 2014
3
#3 Most Discussed Wii U Game of 2014
3
#3 Most Shared Wii U Game of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
32

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 28
  3. Negative: 24 out of 28
  1. Games Master UK
    Jan 31, 2015
    29
    Possibly the worst blotch on Sonic's record. [Feb 2015, p.73]
  2. Multiplayer.it
    Jan 15, 2015
    40
    Simply put, Sonic Boom is one of the worst Sonic games in recent memory: the concept is bland, the design is awful and the execution is incredibly poor.
    Read full review
  3. XGN
    Dec 23, 2014
    30
    Sonic Boom Rise of Lyric is a real disappointment for Sonic fans. There is basically nothing positive to say about this game. Sonic deserves much better.
    Read full review
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