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Review of Sonic Colors on Nintendo DS

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Nov 2010
Cover image of Sonic Colors on DS
Gamefings Score: 8.5
Platform: DS DS logo
Released: 16 Nov 2010
Genre: Platform
Developer: Sonic Team
Publisher: Sega

Introduction

Ah, Sonic Colors on the Nintendo DS-the game that managed to turn a blue hedgehog into the intergalactic savior of cute aliens-but let's be honest, there are enough zany adventures in the Sonic universe to fill a 'How Not to Live Your Life' book. What other mascot can make blowing up amusement parks sound so cheerful? So, strap in as we dive deep into this colorful world, with more twists and turns than a roller coaster designed by a hyperactive 7-year-old!

Gameplay

The gameplay loop of Sonic Colors can best be described as... fast! You control Sonic, a blue hedgehog with a penchant for slicing through levels at breakneck speeds while collecting rings, which magically keep him from dying-because apparently, a few coins can grant you immortality in the Sonic universe. The game introduces Wisps, adorable alien creatures who grant Sonic special powers. Honestly, they sound like afterthoughts to a kid's art project: 'Oh, let's make a candy-colored mushroom that lets you float! Or what about a laser that turns you into a bouncing ball of blue fury?' Levels are structured into acts, unleashing more levels than a Russian nesting doll, but each is distinct enough to feel fresh. You race through vibrant planets that could only be described as Eggman's sadly overambitious theme park. Each stage is peppered with traps and enemies, designed to make you question your life choices every time you miss a jump and plummet into oblivion. Upon completing levels, players are graded-just what we needed, another opportunity for assuaging our self-esteem as we're faced with the dreaded 'D' rank! But don't worry; even the worst players will have some fun collecting gadgets and navigating the absurdities that are the games' villains.

Graphics

Graphically, Sonic Colors on the Nintendo DS pushes the hardware to its limits, drawing beautiful landscapes that would otherwise make you stop and admire for a moment-not that you have time when you're zooming at 100 mph. The visuals pop with vibrant colors, rivaling even a highlighter factory explosion, and animations are smooth enough to make you want to keep running. Enemies and backgrounds are animated in a way that keeps your eyes entertained, even when you feel like tracking through levels at light speed. While the Wii version had its own flair, the DS manages to maintain highly engaging locales, cachet, even if it trades off some of that glorious three-dimensional rumble.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sonic Colors on the Nintendo DS is not just a game; it's an experience. While it sadly won't change the minds of those who claim Sonic games jumped the shark a decade ago, it does manage to capture a vibe of joy-dishing out thrilling high-speed fun that's engaging for platforming fans and casual players alike. The game deftly combines nostalgia with modern gaming sensibilities, presenting a more enjoyable version of 'run to the right' than numerous other titles. So, whip out that DS, grab some rings, and unleash your inner hedgehog because sometimes, life is all about going fast and leaving your troubles behind!

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