Sonic World (Fan Game)

Sonic World is a fan game built as a tribute to one of the greatest video game mascots of all time, Sonic the Hedgehog.

Sonic the Hedgehog first appeared in 1991 and was associated with the Sega Genesis 16-bit video game system. Sonic the Hedgehog games have always been about one thing; speed. While many games of the era had players making slower, careful movements, Sonic flew through gigantic rollercoaster-like levels at high speeds. Players had to be careful to keep him under control and not fly into a chasm or obstacle.

Over the years Sonic games evolved from a simple 2D platforming affair to 3D environments and modern game design aesthetics. Sonic also picked up some anthropomorphic friends, such as Tails the fox and Knuckles the Echidna. The main villain is almost always Dr Robotnik who wishes to enslave the world.

Sonic World pays tribute to the decades of innovation poured into the Sonic games. Although the game is fully 3D, it plays in a way that feels faithful to the original 16-bit Sega Genesis masterpiece. Tales, Knuckles and other friends also make appearances as playable characters. There are also excellent new ideas such as breakout-style blocks that Sonic must break through like a pinball. The graphic quality and frame rate is exceptional. Many of the objects look like 3D versions of the original pixel game graphics.

One of the greatest things about this game is that true fans don’t have to stop at just playing it. There are level building tools allowing everyone to get in on the action and design their own worlds. This game is truly a labor of love by dedicated Sonic fans.

Those uninitiated to the Sonic world may find the high speeds initially disorienting. The amazing 3D environments often give the player the feeling of being miles above the surface of the planet; an occasional sensation of vertigo can occur but only serves to heighten the excitement level. Fans of the series will notice nods to the many games that have come out in the Sonic series. All gaming fans will find something to appreciate in this excellent fan effort.

Pros

• Free to play
• Pays homage to Sonic games from the 16-bit era and onward
• Players can design their own levels

Cons

• Fans unfamiliar with Sonic games may find the high speed disorienting
• Environments can occasionally give off a sense of vertigo some players my not like