Sonic 4: Episode 1 Impressions, Thoughts, & Help Topic

[Speederino]

If I were to group this with the original three, I'd honestly rank it third best. It doesn't beat Sonic 2 or Sonic 3 and Knuckles, but as of now I think I'm having more fun with Sonic 4 then Sonic 1. (It's too early to say for sure, I admit)

[LATER BUDDY]

Well, I'm not done yet, just need to collect the emeralds.

GAMEPLAY

Sadly, I'm overall disappointed. I just can't get used to it, and I think the best word to describe it is "stiff." I feel like I'm not ever picking up speed. The way Sonic stops if I don't hold right is probably the biggest thing though. That's probably were I can pretty much sum this up as stiff. I don't feel very acrobatic. As for anything else, it's the half-piping. Sonic can run up the wall, but I can't charge a spindash like I used to anymore. Makes me cry, >=.

It's not all bad though. I'm still able to play the game fine, just not near as well as Sonic 1-K.

LEVELS

Design-wise, I think it's a blast. I love pretty much all the gimmicks to the levels, and love the return of some old ones as well. The enemies are a charm to see again, if not a little too easy to kill with that home attack. As for the themes though, not that big of a fan. Then again, Sonic 1 is my least favorite Sonic game out of 1 through Knuckles, so that might explain things. I find Splash Hill and Mad Gear probably the most enjoyable.

The special stages are not fun to me though, and I think it's the whole time limit. And that Sonic likes to bounce a lot. I just get frustrated having to replay levels again just to get there. I know I can just hit start and replay, but sometimes I hit a red "!" to quick and it's all over. It's actually pretty fun to control, but yeah, just annoying being rushed and initially getting there.

BOSSES

Not that thrilled here either. I understand he's doing his old creations again, but it's really bland, even with the "I'm pissed" powered versions. Nothing really else to say, ^^".

MUSIC

Overall the most disappointed. I love some of Mad Gear and Lost Labyrinth, but the whole approach is extremely lacking. There's no call and response hardly like the original game had. You know, where the lead melody plays, and then a quick supporting second melody plays after it before the measure is up. Splash could be less corny (more tropical, or ska at least) and the Casino more swingy, but that's my opinion. Also, the regular rolling sound being the spindash sfx is pet peevingly driving me crazy, XD.

GRAPHICS

I love them, <333. When I first booted up the PS3 version I have, it was just like seeing the colorful surprise from when I first saw Sonic 2 (my first Sonic game lol). Part of me wishes it were in sprites just to carry on graphically as a sequel as well, but I'm totally happy with what they did.

----

If anyone actually read this, I know it sounds like I totally hate the game. But here is the thing. Despite that I could pick it apart all day, I still really enjoy playing it. Maybe that it's the simple fact that it's "Sonic freaking 4," but I honestly don't know what it is. I have fun playing in this style, despite it being different. As I explained to Sean on MSN, I think I'm just a derp-classic fan at heart, and have a hard time adjusting to when things change; at least with the continuation of a series that before Sonic 4, all played the same way for the most part.

For any thoughts, it'd be great if things were patched up, but I don't expect it, nor blame them. It's honestly fun the way it is, but gameplay-wise, I don't think it'll measure up to the epicness of Sonic 3 & Knuckles or Sonic 2 even. Story-wise, I think it can (especially when someone accidentally spoiled the ending for me), but I'll have to wait and see.

Definitely a spot welcome for Episode 2 though, <3.

-Blur

EDIT: Man, after doing that, I almost feel bad. I don't know why, but it's like the one series I thought I'd never pick-apart, I did. And I've put up with SO MUCH more in other Sonic games before, XD.

Maybe I should give it more then a few hours of one day. I'll probably make another one of these (more condensed) in a week from now I think.

[Blue Blood]

Definitely worse than any of the classics and the advances. Fun-ish in it's own right, but not as fun as the Rush games.

[Sean]

Yep, I just beat Sonic 4 now. Still didn't like the game one bit. But I'll spend some more time tomorrow picking it apart. I already kind of pointed out my beef with the game a few posts ago, but I might as well go into more detail about it.

[DistantJ]

Sorry that not all of us can enjoy this game. I find it terrible.

I just love how people fall back on this statement whenever a bunch of people are disappointed in something. Trying to negate the other side's opinion and make them look foolish, yeah real cool.

I've bitched about this game before it was released. I said I wouldn't give it a chance, but I gave it a chance anyway. I now know everything this game has to offer, and none of it is for my tastes.

Edited October 13, 2010 by DistantJ

[Badnik Zero]

I haven't played it yet, but I just wanna chime in on the Rush physics debate. The thing about Rush is that physics didn't make the game. Sonic flies all over the place because it's about constant movement. The big issue with using a model like that for a classic game is that those games were not about constant movement unless you were some kind of speed runner. Rush and other Dimps stuff were game changers, reflecting the modern style of dashing madly to the goal. Sonic moved constantly in those games because of the boost. What replaces the boost in this game are the controversial propel objects, like the 1,100 springs and boosters. I'm sure it's fun but I think it's fundamentally different.

[Dreadknux]

I think it's only natural that we have this split. Sonic means a lot of different things to a lot of different people, and blah blah blah. Some love it, some dislike it. That's cool.

When it comes to the minor things like sticking on walls though... I mean, that's really more rare than a lot of people are making out, honestly. And the twice that it's happened to me I've just sat there and laughed. I don't think it's worth getting RAEG'd up about it, honestly, because it doesn't affect how fun the rest of the game is to play. It's a bit like those cute glitches on Sonic Adventure, or some of the more weird shit that people found in Sonic 2.

[Flyboy Fox]

I personally LOVE minor glitches. As long as they don't dominate the game and they don't make me have to restart or undo my work, they just make me lol.

I compare it to a person who has quirks. If they're totally crazy and I can't get on with them well in any way, I may well find it too much and dislike them. But if they're a cool person who I connect with but who happens to have a few little odd quirks, I just find it charming and enjoy it as part of them.

Sure, games are supposed to be as finely polished as possible, but some of my favourite gaming memories are of randomly getting stuck in walls or falling into infinity etc. If it happens all the time, then that's NO GOOD. But the occasionally (and harmless!) glitch of, for example, lying down on the side of a wall... I just laugh at how silly it is, then grin and move on ♥

[Dreadknux]

I compare it to a person who has quirks. If they're totally crazy and I can't get on with them well in any way, I may well find it too much and dislike them. But if they're a cool person who I connect with but who happens to have a few little odd quirks, I just find it charming and enjoy it as part of them.

Ha, I now have this mental image of Sonic standing on a wall with a crazed expression on his face saying something insane. XD

[Agent York]

It all depends on the point of view, glitches don't bother me like that but to others they are a big issue. I am loving the game, though I will say I found I stuck more to walls when I was trying to speed run than playing normally. Like when I play normally I had a very hard time sticking to walls, but then when I was speed running it happened several tunes in one run. It didn't bother me but it does seem a bit wonky.

[Arcade Racer CC14]

Just downloaded the trial version. I'm really enjoying it so far! Sure, it has a bit of a different feel, but I got used to it after I played through SHZ Act 1 a few times. I'll make sure to download the full version when I can find the time to add points to my XBL account. Needless to say, I can't wait!

I personally LOVE minor glitches. As long as they don't dominate the game and they don't make me have to restart or undo my work, they just make me lol.

I compare it to a person who has quirks. If they're totally crazy and I can't get on with them well in any way, I may well find it too much and dislike them. But if they're a cool person who I connect with but who happens to have a few little odd quirks, I just find it charming and enjoy it as part of them.

Sure, games are supposed to be as finely polished as possible, but some of my favourite gaming memories are of randomly getting stuck in walls or falling into infinity etc. If it happens all the time, then that's NO GOOD. But the occasionally (and harmless!) glitch of, for example, lying down on the side of a wall... I just laugh at how silly it is, then grin and move on ♥

Posts like this are what make you one of the most charming users in this whole community, Flyboy. Edited October 13, 2010 by chaoscontrol14

[SykoTech]

So, people who have played the full game, is the Homing Attack a vital part of the game? Going through the demo some more, I found it more enjoyable to take my time and not use the Homing Attack. I only use it for the chains of Bubbles enemies. Do any of the bosses or levels require extended use of the Homing Attack beyond the Bubbles chains?

It would also be nice to know if there are any more moments where a diagonal spring pad launches you right into a Bubbles chain you can't see coming. Thanks!

[Solly]

Just got 100% on the game. It feels more Sonicy than I thought it would.

I do have a few gripes with it: the physics in particular. I don't like how Sonic loses his momentum when you stop holding the d-pad, or how rolling downhill is usually SLOWER than running. Also, despite having otherwise top-notch level design, there are instances where you might take a hit or even die over something you couldn't have possibly predicted. It's irritating.

Besides that though, I didn't have anything to complain about. It might not be on par with Sonic 3 & Knuckles, but it's a great game in its own right, and I had a blast playing it.

Here's hoping Episode 2 is even better.

So, people who have played the full game, is the Homing Attack a vital part of the game? Going through the demo some more, I found it more enjoyable to take my time and not use the Homing Attack. I only use it for the chains of Bubbles enemies. Do any of the bosses or levels require extended use of the Homing Attack beyond the Bubbles chains?

It would also be nice to know if there are any more moments where a diagonal spring pad launches you right into a Bubbles chain you can't see coming. Thanks!

Edited October 13, 2010 by The Soldier

[Snatcher2047]

Played the demo and liked it very much. I fully plan on buying the full version in the very near future. Also, I'm totally in love with SONIC's "look-up" animation. Reminds of when he fought with Chip over the dumplings in that Unleashed bonus movie.

[SykoTech]

Yes, it is mandatory for certain parts of the game, but it never feels like it dominates or cheapens the experience(except for the first boss or so).

On top of that, there are occasions- especially when speedrunning where the regular Spin Jump is more effective.

[speedduelist]

A lot of people really seem to be hung up on standing on walls.

[Marcello]

Some help please. For some reason I can't get the full version. I've tried downloading it normal and by getting the demo and then unlocking the full game, but I het an error message every time.

It's

Can't retrieve information from Xbox LIVE.

Please try again later.

Status Code: 80004005

Edited October 13, 2010 by MarcelloF

[Barry the Nomad]

DL'd it this morning! I was able to squeeze in SHZ act 1, CSZ act 2 and half of LLZ act 2 before heading to work. So far it's really cool! Much better than the iPhone version (which I rated a "B" at SEGAbits). The improvements really help, as small as they may have been. Wheel-o-feet coming sooner seems much more right, and the revamped act 2's are loads better.

Also, I just have to say that I find it very pathetic of Sonic Retro to have a contest rewarding players for f*cking with the game. It doesn't help that Slingerland's post is doused in Haterade™. Funny how the same folks who lock a Sonic 4 thread for useless trash talk make an official news post and contest rewarding useless trash talk. Honestly, It's stupid.

[Agent York]

...I JUST FOUND THE CHEAPEST THING EVER.

RIGHT before you lose a Special Stage, (like RIGHT before time runs out or RIGHT before you hit a "!" block) pause and click restart and you start the Special Stage over from the beginning without even needing to go into another Special Ring.

Seriously SEGA? XDD

Edited October 13, 2010 by Dusk the Wisp Keeper

[gato]

Also, I just have to say that I find it very pathetic of Sonic Retro to have a contest rewarding players for f*cking with the game. It doesn't help that Slingerland's post is doused in Haterade™. Funny how the same folks who lock a Sonic 4 thread for useless trash talk make an official news post and contest rewarding useless trash talk. Honestly, It's stupid.

Lol, hypocrecy...

*goes to Retro*

*watches Retro fron page*

Wait, I can't see that "talk trash about Sonic 4 and win" part.

I want you to find a funny place to get stuck and take a picture of it, either a screen-capture or with a digital camera/camera phone. There are many prizes to be won!

• Simply participating earns you a spot in our special “shout-out” thread! Get your name on the internet!
• Finalists will be featured on the front page! More shout-outs!
• The top 3 will be featured in a special video starring B-B-B-B-Beatmaster Dustin Wyatt and I!
• The #1 pick for best picture will be awarded a “refund” for purchasing Sonic 4. That’s $15, folks!

May you point me where is this "prize for trash talk" you are talking about?

EDIT: I feel like I'm going to regret making this post later.

Edited October 13, 2010 by gato

[Barry the Nomad]

Giving a "refund" rather than a "reward" to the person who submits the most broken physics photo. It totally is welcoming trash talking the game. Not the best way to bring a community together in my opinion. Why not reward the fastest E.G.G. Station run?

[Machenstein]

I just played the demo again today and now I actually love it. You actually can replicate classic Sonic physics in the game, you just need to hold down on the direction you're going in. Once you realize that, the game almost plays like the classics. I can do one of those Spin Dash-powered jumps and Sonic would still maintain his midair momentum as long as you're holding the direction you want to go in. I still wish it wasn't a requirement to do that, but there you go.

I will be getting the full version tomorrow. I think I will be ready then.

Edited October 13, 2010 by Machenstein

[jennytablina]

DL'd it this morning! I was able to squeeze in SHZ act 1, CSZ act 2 and half of LLZ act 2 before heading to work. So far it's really cool! Much better than the iPhone version (which I rated a "B" at SEGAbits). The improvements really help, as small as they may have been. Wheel-o-feet coming sooner seems much more right, and the revamped act 2's are loads better.

Also, I just have to say that I find it very pathetic of Sonic Retro to have a contest rewarding players for f*cking with the game. It doesn't help that Slingerland's post is doused in Haterade™. Funny how the same folks who lock a Sonic 4 thread for useless trash talk make an official news post and contest rewarding useless trash talk. Honestly, It's stupid.

Theres nothing wrong with Retros contest, much as I disagree with some peoples level of hatered for the game in some cases. Singerland has given the game a good go, but most of Retro actually work with Sonic games to a point that I imagine it's horribly hard getting over the idea they changed the physics and made them different to the old games.

Plus Sonic 4's thread was locked because it became a constant battle between fans for and fans against. It does rather dampen the mood when you have two camps of people declaring "it's gonna be awesome!" and another bunch going "yeah well we think its going to suck!" over and over. Which gets rather tedious after a while. But theres nothing wrong with poking fun with a section of the game thats slightly broke. You don't even need to be a hater to participate

[Marcello]

So.. How do I get past the part in LLZ Act 2 with the 4 torches?

Nevermind =D Did it myself..

Edited October 13, 2010 by MarcelloF

[Detective Shadzter]

So.. How do I get past the part in LLZ Act 2 with the 4 torches?

Nevermind =D Did it myself..

Don't light the 2nd torch and light the 3rd one last.

EDIT:

Oh, you've done it now XD