Even though Sonic has made the way from SEGA, this loveable super
fast hedgehog has had his ups and downs over the years, however he
is still an integral
part of the gaming franchise and is definitely in the top ten
of famous video game characters.
With that said, SEGA have created
the next story for Sonic in Sonic Unleashed that once again follows
our hero as he attempts to save the world again. The story of Sonic
Unleashed revolves around Sonic attempting to save the world from
the diabolical Dr. Eggman as he unleashes a variety of strange
beasts upon the world again that has also effected our hero.
Featuring a variety of Sonic guest stars, the storyline is pure
cartoon goodness and will have fans of the series squealing with
joy... and even new fans.
It should be noted that Sonic Unleashed is also available on the
PlayStation 3 and the XBox 360, however the developers have ensured
to make this a unique experience on the Nintendo Wii with not just
the unique control system but also the gameplay which is by far
superior on the Wii than its next generation cousins.
In its essence, Sonic Unleashed features your traditional Sonic
mechanisms from running at high speeds, exploring vast areas and
defeating a plethora of enemies. The gaming environment of Sonic
Unleashed is gigantic and thankfully the game keeps a tab of where
you should be in the title, rather than pointlessly wandering
through this detailed environment.
Probably one of the most
innovative arcade series of time, Sonic still manages to deliver as
you collect items, uncover secrets and attempt to proceed through the
title.
The “carrot” in Sonic Unleashed is the ability to change into a
lycanthrope hedgehog as it becomes dark in the title which allows
for additional gameplay mechanics and assists in the overall
enjoyment of the title. Although the game is quite linear at times,
this gives the gamer a purpose, unlike a Sandbox experience arcade
that is sometimes a little too open.
The Wii control is perfect for Sonic Unleashed and although it may
be a steeper learning curve than average, it’s definitely worth the
effort to master the control system due to the amount of
entertainment which can be gained from this game.
The motion sensor
ability of the remote and the nunchuck works quite well when you are
the werehog, especially for combat, although be warned, you may
become a little tired. In relation to combat, Sonic can perform a
variety maneuvers which work well with both the gameplay and
environment. By defeating foes, you are awarded experience points.
There is a slight RPG aspect to the title, although it does not
really effect the outcome of the title.
Sonic Unleashed has some great graphics on the Nintendo Wii with
some varied gaming environments from lush jungles to frostbitten ice
lands. Featuring some great special effects and some detailed and
well animated characters, this is one first class game. The title contains a good camera system
that is not as clumsy or awkward as some other Wii games and in
conclusion is
visually a decent looking game on the Wii. Match that with great
"Sonic" inspired music and sound effects and Sonic Unleashed is an
overall well designed game.
At the end of the day, Sonic Unleashed features traditional Sonic
gameplay on a 21st century console as you race through loops, smash through
walls and defeat an almost unending supply of enemies. Match that
with some great mini-games, although some extremely frustrating and
Sonic Unleashed is a sturdy arcade experience that you will enjoy
from start to finish.
