- Original Platform: Wii, PS2
- Original release: 18th November 2008
- Version Played: Wii
- Available to buy: No
![](https://djcube.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/unlwii-box-s-91x125.jpg)
![](https://djcube.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/sonic-recommended-193x184.png)
![](https://djcube.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/sonic-unleashed-wii-1024x595.jpg)
While people are more familiar with the HD Sonic Unleashed, the game also made an appearance on the Wii and PS2. However, it wasn’t simply a downscaled port of Sonic Unleashed, but is a completely different game following the same story and locations.
While the settings for the levels are the same, the level design is completely brand new. For the Sonic levels, they aren’t as much of a spectacle, but I actually think that the Wii levels are better designed and more fun to actually play, with interesting branching paths.
The Sonic gameplay is also different. The boost gauge is in segments, with one hit of the boost button acting like a use-anywhere dash pad. You have to be careful where you use it, as slamming into a wall knocks Sonic back (although the animation of it is a lot of fun). I also found that the drift in this game worked much, much better than the HD version, it felt great going past corners. Another thing was the “action point” mechanic where hitting multiple enemies and other things can be chained. Unfortunately, not much is done with this, and it feels like they didn’t have time to fully flesh it out.
The biggest issue with Sonic Unleashed on Wii is the amount of Sonic levels. There are only 7 levels, as Mazuri (other than a boss fight) and Empire City have been cut. There’s also only one act per level. Instead, you complete challenges (collecting rings, time limit, not getting hit) in sections of the main stage. One good thing is that Eggmanland is separated into Day/Night stages, with the Day stage being a lot more fun, better than the overly long gauntlet in the HD games.
On the flip side, the Werehog has three to five levels per stage. The combat controls are very different, having to alternate shoulder button presses to punch (or shake the Wii Remote/Nunchuck). It makes it feel more of its own thing and less of a direct God of War copy. These sections are fine, but nothing special, although some of the grabbing onto objects can be a bit wonky. Some sections of the game also make you play multiple areas of Werehog stages – there’s around two hours of game between the first and second Sonic levels.
With how enjoyable the Sonic portions of this were, it’s a shame that Dimps didn’t get a chance to make a full Sonic game based on the gameplay in this.
![](https://djcube.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/sonic-unleashed.png)
Where to get
- ROM Status: Available
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