Difficulty:

Just Right

Time Spent:

20 to 40 Hours

The Bottom Line:

"Worth playing"

Sega is continuing to revive the beloved blue blur. Where the first episode made mistakes, this one managed to patch up and got Sonic back on track. Despite it being a short game to a certain extent, Episode II actually provide a lot more fun and features that guaranteed a successful sequel.

Gameplay comes first as usual. It's way better than the first. The physics has completely changed and is much better. Sonic's speed is pretty much back and you'll be seeing a lot of good straight paths throughout the game to prove its worth. Moreover, warnings of chasms below are greatly useful. And though nothing changed with the moves of the hero, they're more useful now…and now they got some help.

Yes, Tails has returned and is way more useful than ever. Well…perhaps a bit too useful. Quite often, you'll have to use him to climb over tall platforms and navigate in the water. Also, though not a much, his ultra-spin move with Sonic provides great use in situations. Nevertheless, Tails makes the gameplay less repetitive and more interesting when discovering shortcuts and special items. The two player mode is kinda fun, and you can choose who you want to be for whatever stage. Still, if only not so much emphasis on using Tails, you would not worry so much of Sonic being left behind when it comes to tall platforms. Regardless, it's a fun thing to explore with friends and provide some replayability.

The special stages are back, and strongly resemble the Sonic 2 ones. They're tougher, but the rewards are definitely worth it. Also, at least Tails won't cost all the coins hitting bombs like the last time (laughs), which is cool. Some new additions like the boost button, electric fences, and ring link (?) provide some interest changes to the gameplay.

The badniks are tough. Some return while new ones emerge with some big tactics. The worse ones I hated were the walruses that can prevent you from advancing any further underwater, which was frustrating. Then there are some that takes more than just a simple Sonic spin to take out. Nevertheless, they present themselves as good obstacles overall.

Eggman's back, of course. And his inventions put up better fights than the ones in the previous episode. Also, they last a bit longer than expected, which is really good. But that's not all, folks… Yes, the infamous rival from Sonic CD returns from the dead, makes a big appearance. The fun part is that you fight him multiple times, as he desperately tries to get his revenge. And each time, he gets deadlier. And who can ever forget the infamous race that led to his demise? It returns…but it's easier than the last time…well…so you may think. The Bad/Good Future effect from Sonic CD is not there, but Metal Sonic makes an attempt to shut down your path to victory with some new tricks. The last boss is a challenge and, like the other ones, will require Tails to lead to victory.

The story is the usual and I pretty much explained it throughout the gameplay part, so not much to be said here. Regardless, just as long Bowser has been kidnapping Peach and Mario and Luigi goes to save her, Robotnik keeps building machines and find the emeralds to take over the world. And it never gets old. Metal's surprising return makes the story really engaging and gives a reason why Sonic still goes on adventures.

The music in this episode is a bit improved over the last episode. Though, the loops make seem a bit shorter and not really as catchy, they're quite a listen and still try to retain those good ol' drum days.

The graphics are great. Everything remains sharp, even when Sonic is speeding through loops and such. The stages are well designed and provide great views, so they look pretty much alive the whole time. The characters are well-made and perfectly fit in the world.

Episode II is a huge improvement over the predecessor. The gameplay has enhanced physics, unique moves, and return of a more useful sidekick. Eggman and Metal Sonic dominate in the villain roles with some cool tricks up in their sleeves. The stages look amazing and designed to resemble some of the good ol' Sonic speeding days. The music is not bad, but wished it lasted longer in parts of the loops and were more memorable. Hopefully, there will be a sequel and more adventures of the blue blur will help him return to the Sonic we once knew and loved. 8.5/10