New Sonic Heroes Gameplay Videos Show Off Old-School Delights

Sonic Heroes was recently showcased at a special press event hosted by Nintendo, and the latest impressions coming from this new demo have been extremely positive.

Gaming website IGN attended the Nintendo Gamers' Summit and played a one-stage trial of the upcoming Sonic title on the Gamecube. The write-up marvels at the game's ability to hit a consistent 60 frames-per-second experience, improved camera mechanics and extra 'polish' that it says is miles ahead of the recent Sonic Adventure 1 and 2 ports on the system.

"Seriously, Sonic fans will be amazed at the raw pace of the game as Sonic and pals blur over environments," IGN writes. "The camera follows the action more smoothly and accurately than ever before and as a result the end experience is more refined and cinematic to boot.

"The downside is that I found myself taken out of the speedy pace of the game whenever I was called upon to use Tails because the character's ability to fly, while cool, is just plain slow, and frankly maneuvering over chasms at a snail's pace just isn't as fun as roaring down rollercoaster paths as Sonic. I'm hoping Sega can speed it up - even if just slightly."

IGN also posted a couple of new gameplay videos from the event, which you can watch here. It definitely looks like we're going back to the old-school with Sonic Heroes, with amazing-looking colourful environments and abilities that perfectly match each character's traits and personalities. The videos also show off the three different routes you can travel in the stage, depending on the character you choose to play as.

The IGN preview heaps more praise on the demo. "I have to admit, it surprised me. I truthfully didn't have high hopes for Sonic Heroes going in, but now that I've gone through the GameCube demo, which plays faster than any 3D Hedgehog game before it and shines with an enhanced camera system and all around updated, colorful graphics, I'm looking forward to the finished product."

It sounds like Sonic Heroes is shaping up really well. We can't wait to hear more - and get our hands on it - as we near release day (whenever that is!).

Images via IGN.