In the latest installment of 'Let's throw Sonic into everything,' we have the Sonic Classic Collection for the Nintendo DS. It's like a buffet of retro gaming nostalgia, but instead of crab legs and fondue, you get a side of blue hedgehog and rings. Buckle up, we're about to dash into the past at supersonic speed-hopefully without tripping and falling on our faces.
The Sonic Classic Collection serves up four Sonic games, which is basically an all-you-can-eat buffet of hedgehog-ing. We've got Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic 3, and Sonic & Knuckles-practically a Sonic comedy tour of classic platforming. The notable addition? You can actually save your game anywhere-a feature that was missing at the original launch. Because who wouldn't want to pause mid-race to take a snack break while their virtual hedgehog is plummeting into a lava pit? However, let's get real for a moment. The lock-on technology from the original Sonic & Knuckles that allows players to merge games is included, and there *is* a gallery of art. But when it comes to voice acting? You'll be left with the constant squawking of Sonic's jubilations after grabbing a ring because...something, something, nostalgia? If you were expecting multiplayer chaos, think again. Sorry, Sonic fans, you can't race with your friends on this retro package unless you want that awkward moment where you discuss your scores together, which remains as thrilling as discussing grocery lists with a bunch of broccoli enthusiasts. You can save at any place, yes, but that's about the depth of development in the gameplay. It's fun to relive classic memory but it isn't exactly setting the gaming world on fire.
Imagine running at light speed and then looking back roughly 30 years. That's the graphics of Sonic Classic Collection-a collection of pixels that might make your smartphone weep. The DS is far from the realm of high definition, and while the games look decent for their time, they are about as graphically sophisticated as a toddler's first crayon drawing. Expect good ol' retro pixel art, which honestly looks charming if you squint really hard and drink a warm beverage while contemplating life choices. Just don't expect miracles-this isn't Hogwarts, and Sonic isn't exactly casting spells to upgrade the visuals.
The Sonic Classic Collection is like finding an old mixtape from your high school crush-sweet and nostalgic but a little embarrassing once you hit play. The nostalgia factor is real, and for those who can overlook some rough edges and hiccups in gameplay, it can be a delightful trip down memory lane. However, if you're looking for a polished modern gaming experience, you might just find yourself dashing off to greener pastures. In the end, if you want a simple way to relive your childhood Sonic memories, grab a copy. Just remember to bring snacks. Sonic's patience at high speeds was never great, but yours will definitely be tested if you find yourself waiting for loads-unless you save mid-action and wander off to find your life's purpose.