Sonic Lost World

Original Platform: Wii U
Version played: Wii U & PC
Original release: 29th October 2013
Available to buy: Yes

Originally released on Wii U then ported to PC, this Sonic game has its own unique mechanics and style, ditching the “boost style” games. It didn’t perform well and future games went back to the boost formula, but I really do love Sonic Lost World.

Sonic Lost World has a “parkour” system, which means running up and along walls. It can be a bit fiddly at times, but movement as a whole is very smooth and enjoyable. Out of all the 3D Sonic games (excluding the 2D classic levels from Sonic Generations), Lost World feels the most like the classic Mega Drive games, and even uses elements in ways that don’t feel forced – there are a lot of classic enemies that are implemented well into the game, rather than re-using level themes. Lost World isn’t afraid of having some slower paced platforming levels, which I’ve always felt are an important part of Sonic games.

The visual style is very nice, too, with levels that still look gorgeous, helped by some really nice backgrounds. Sonic animations are also adorable, including the running animation, which I think is the best out of the 3D games. I also even like the basic story this game has. It doesn’t try anything emotional, but sometimes a simple story is all you need.

The game does have some issues. Similar to Sonic Unleashed, the game doesn’t want you to progress too quickly. New areas are gates by how many animals you have collected, and you’ll have to replay previous levels to collect more, it really slows down the game in an unnecessary way. The game also has wisps which feel like an unnecessary addition, although unlike the DS version, the wisps are more for alternate routes and don’t have entire levels focused on using them.