Sonic Forces from 2017 marks another chapter in Sonic Team's long-running series. This game mixes fast-paced platforming with opportunities to create your own character who fights alongside the iconic hedgehog. The story centers on a resistance movement battling Dr. Eggman and the mysterious Infinite, who wields powerful illusions.
Players switch between different perspectives, each offering unique gameplay feels. Sonic's sections emphasize pure speed and momentum, while the avatar's missions allow for more varied strategies using gadgets and weapons. Classic Sonic appears too, bringing back retro-style levels that evoke earlier entries in the franchise.
Sonic Team put effort into level design, crafting stages that range from neon-lit cities to desolate deserts. The Phantom Ruby mechanic introduces surprises that keep things unpredictable. Some might find certain parts repetitive, but the overall flow rewards skillful play with satisfying results. The game features over thirty stages, each with its own challenges and collectibles that encourage replayability. Boss fights against familiar villains provide climactic moments filled with tension.
Customization adds depth, as you tweak your hero's appearance and loadout to match preferred tactics. The narrative ties into broader Sonic lore without requiring deep knowledge, making it accessible. Music tracks pump up the energy during intense runs, enhancing immersion. Sonic Team's attention to the physics engine makes controlling the characters feel responsive and fun, even if some sections demand precision.
In the end, Sonic Forces 2017 delivers a mixed but engaging package from Sonic Team. It captures the thrill of speed while experimenting with new ideas that could shape future games.