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Introduction
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Sonic 1995

Sonic Drift 2
System: Game Gear
Released: March 1995

The Plot
Exactly the same as the original Sonic Drift. A bit disappointing, at that.

The Gameplay
screenshot
Click to enlarge
As you would expect from a Mario Kart clone, Sonic Drift 2 includes a fairly decent grand prix mode and an option to engage in two-player matches, if you can find someone else who still has a Game Gear. Racing games on the antique (even for its time) hardware were hardly noteworthy, and Sonic Drift 2 is no exception. Speedwise, this game crawls, especially when the banked corners make an appearance. Some of the courses are well worth a look, including stages set on the beach and the infamous Casino Zone.

Special Notes
Sonic Drift 2 is, essentially, Sonic Drift with several tweaks. Among these changes are more characters, linked two-player mode, deeper grand prix option, hills and banked curves on the tracks, advanced enemy AI to ensure a constant challenge, and slightly more attractive visuals. A dutiful sequel in all regards.

Sonic Labyrinth
screenshot
Near a rocket-powered penguin.
System: Game Gear
Released: November 1995

The Plot
Sometimes you have to wonder why Dr. Robotnik thinks he's such a supergenius. First of all, he replaces Sonic's speedy shoes with lead-lined slow sneakers - a good idea. Then he blows it all by telling Sonic how to get his shoes back so he can get beaten once again. Wouldn't it be smarter to just replace the shoes and not tell Sonic anything? Anyway, you control Sonic as he rolls - slowly - through the Labyrinth Zone, in search of the shoe-giving Chaos Emerald.

The Gameplay
screenshot
Spikes.
Imagine Marble Madness with more bumpers and traps, with an extra bit of puzzle action and exploration potential. Each area has a time limit within which Sonic must find his way to the exit - failure to do so will result in the destruction of the entire universe, or at least the loss of a life. Each stage is composed of multiple mazes, and you need a good sense of direction to get through them all (map-making skills don't hurt, either).

Special Notes
Sonic Labyrinth could have been a contender. Had Sonic's ability to jump been retained and the puzzle element toned down a bit, this could have been a great game instead of a very average one.
 
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