Sonic Superstars sprints to stores next week, offering players the chance to join forces with up to three friends to take down Eggman. The game promises a nostalgic experience with a modern twist, but one aspect that remains to be evaluated is the co-op mode. Unfortunately, co-op is limited to local play, posing a challenge for those who live alone or work remotely. However, the Share Play feature on the PS5 may provide a solution, allowing players to test the co-op experience with another editor once the game launches next Tuesday. Until then, here are some general thoughts on Sonic Superstars.
Classic Platforming Fun
Controlling Sonic and his friends in Sonic Superstars feels true to the classic adventures of the Genesis era. The platforming physics capture the essence of the old games, allowing players to rely on childhood muscle memory. Each character brings something enjoyable to the table, with Amy standing out thanks to her double jump and hammer attack. Fans of the old-school Sonic platforming will appreciate the faithful recreation in Superstars, but this also means that some old annoyances, like the slow regain of running momentum and the lack of precise control, are still present.
Stunning Presentation with New Challenges
The presentation of Superstars is a visual delight, with vibrant colors and intricate details in the new zones. The level design introduces exciting platforming twists, but also includes numerous hazards that can catch players off guard due to the game’s fast-paced nature. Flying through a rollercoaster-like sequence may abruptly come to an end when unexpected spike pits or enemies appear. This trial-and-error design, while a trademark of the series, can stand out more in Superstars. However, the addition of unlimited lives makes it a bit less frustrating.
In addition to the challenging levels, players can acquire Emerald Powers by finding Chaos Emeralds. These powers, such as Bullet and Avatar, can be useful, but I personally didn’t feel the need to rely on them often. They are not integral to overcoming obstacles, and some powers can only be used in specific levels. While the Emerald Powers don’t detract from the experience, it would have been great if they played a more significant role.

An Underwhelming Soundtrack
Unfortunately, the soundtrack of Sonic Superstars is a disappointment. While there are a couple of stand-out tracks, overall, the music is serviceable but lacks the memorable tunes found in previous 2D Sonic games like Sonic 2 and Sonic Mania. This is a letdown for fans who have come to expect catchy and memorable soundtracks from the series.
Shallow Battle Mode and Customization
Outside of the main adventure, Battle Mode offers multiple mini-games for players to compete in. However, after a few matches, this mode feels shallow and unappealing. The disappointing aspect is that much of the customization options are tied to Battle Mode. Players can use special coins collected in the campaign and Battle Mode to buy new parts for their customizable robot avatar. This takes away some of the excitement from completing the special stages in the game, as the rewards are only useful in the lackluster Battle Mode.
Despite its flaws, Sonic Superstars provides an enjoyable experience overall, delivering the nostalgia that fans of the series seek, while adding a contemporary touch. The game’s old-school frustrations are balanced by the fun of running through the levels, and the co-op mode holds promise for even more excitement. Stay tuned for the full review once Sonic Superstars launches on October 17.
Source : www.gameinformer.com




