Sonic Unleashed (Java Buttons)

Original Platform: Java Mobile
Original release: 8th June 2009
Available to by: No

A 2D version of Sonic Unleashed. I tested out the “touch” and “non-touch” versions of this for different levels of phones – they’re actually quite different, so will get separate write-ups.

This version of Sonic Unleashed is heavily based on the gameplay form Sonic Rush, using boost and the checkpoint designs. There are four Sonic stages (plus two boss fights) covering Chun-nan, Apotos and Spagonia – although interestingly, the loading screens mention Athens, Greece for Apotos and Middle East for Spagonia.

The Sonic stages have alright level layouts, but the controls are quite bad. Parts of the level also look badly copy and pasted and the graphics don’t quite line up. The Rush influence is clear from the boost rings and grind rails.

There are also two Werehog stages, which are slower paced platformers and some combat sections, which tell you the number of enemies left like Rush. You just bash a button for a basic attack. There are no werehog bosses in this version.

This version is functional, but as you can turn off the touch controls in the main version, stick to that one.