'Sonic CD' Is Faster Than Time And Space

Sonic CD originally made its debut in 1993 for the Sega CD---something I never had my young hands on. Consequently, I only got to Sonic the Hedgehog 3 on the Sega Genesis and missed out on Sonic CD. So after many ports and re-releases it's finally on iOS and in my grown up hands. So what do I think of it? It's just classic Sonic! The golden gameplay of the first three Sonics continue in this sequel, or is it a sequel Maybe an un-numbered sequel is more like it. Anyway, the core gameplay that made Sonic the popular contender to take on Mario back in the 90's is intact with a number of new gameplay additions here and there such as introducing the character of Amy Rose, Sonic's biggest admirer, and Sonic's doppelganger/nemesis, Metal Sonic. Players control Sonic as he speeds his way to the end of each level using his spin attack to fight against Dr. Robotnik's badniks (evil robot henchmen). Along the way, Sonic can collect rings, which can protect him if is he hit by an enemy or obstacle, as well as items such as shields, invincibility and speed shoes.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHk6jOQLFBA&feature=player_detailpage Sonic CD trailer Click here to watch on YouTube 

Sonic's gameplay remains similar to that of Sonic the Hedgehog but with the addition of the Spin Dash and the Super Peel Out, which lets him zoom into a quick speed from a standing point, either in a rolling or running position. The Super Peel Out is faster than the Spin Dash but leaves Sonic more vulnerable. Each of the game's seven zones consists of three acts: two main levels and a boss level.

The main gameplay mechanic that sets Sonic CD apart from other Sonic games is the ability to travel to different periods of time within each level. By hitting posts labeled "past" or "future" and running at a consistently fast speed for a few seconds, Sonic can move between past, present and future versions of each level (with the exception of boss levels which always take place in the future) containing different layouts with changes to placement and frequency of enemies and obstacles.

By default, traveling to the future upon entering a level will take Sonic to a "bad future" where enemies and deadly obstacles occur more frequently, providing a tougher challenge. However, if the player travels to the past and destroys a "robot generator" hidden somewhere in the level, returning to the future will take Sonic to a "good future" where enemies are absent and there are fewer obstacles. If a "good future" is achieved in both acts of a zone, the boss level will take place in the "good future" as well. Otherwise it will take place in the "bad future". The player will also automatically achieve a "good future" in a level if all the Time Stones have been collected.

Similar to Sonic the Hedgehog, if a player has more than 50 rings by the end of the act, a giant ring appears that can take Sonic to a Special Stage if he jumps into it. On a three-dimensional plane, the player has a short amount of time to destroy several purple UFOs floating around the level. Time is rapidly reduced if the player runs through water, though a blue UFO which appears when time is running out can grant extra time if destroyed. If the player is able to destroy all the purple UFOs before the time runs out, a Time Stone is earned. A good ending can be achieved by collecting all seven Time Stones, or by achieving a "good future" in every act.

Overall, the game is fun to play and easy on the eyes with it's varied levels and vibrant color palette. It is sure to fare well with the classic Sonic fans out there. But I wouldn't recommend this title if you've never played a Sonic game before. I'd say start with the original trilogy. That's the way to go!  After that, go right ahead with Sonic CD! AppPicker Rating: 5 / 5 Stars App Store link: Sonic CD Other apps by Sega