Summary
- Release Year: 2001
- Genres: Platform
- Platforms: Android, Game Boy Advance, Wii U
- Developers: Dimps
- Publishers: Gradiente, Infogrames, Sega, THQ
Sonic Advance: A Speedy Debut on Nintendo
In the annals of gaming history, the rivalry between Sega and Nintendo looms large. The two companies were bitter competitors throughout the 1990s, with their respective consoles, the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo Entertainment System, vying for market dominance. But in a surprising turn of events, Sega’s iconic mascot, Sonic the Hedgehog, made his debut on a Nintendo console in 2001 with the release of Sonic Advance.
A Nostalgic Return to 2D
Sonic Advance was a welcome return to the 2D gameplay that had made Sonic famous in the early 1990s. After the 3D experiments of Sonic Adventure on the Dreamcast, many fans were eager to see the blue blur back in his classic side-scrolling form. Sonic Advance delivered on that promise, offering fast-paced, platforming action that harkened back to the glory days of Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic the Hedgehog 2.
Four Playable Characters
One of the most notable features of Sonic Advance was its inclusion of four playable characters: Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Amy Rose. This was the first time that Amy had appeared in a 2D Sonic game, and her inclusion was a welcome addition to the roster. Each character had their own unique abilities, with Sonic being the fastest, Tails being able to fly, Knuckles being able to glide and climb walls, and Amy being able to use her hammer to attack enemies.
A Blend of Old and New
Sonic Advance borrowed heavily from the original Sonic the Hedgehog games, but it also introduced some new elements to the mix. The game’s art style was updated to match the post-Dreamcast aesthetic introduced in Sonic Adventure, and the levels were more varied and imaginative than in previous Sonic games. Sonic Advance also included a number of new gameplay elements, such as the ability to grind on rails and bounce on springs.
Multiplayer and Mini-Games
In addition to its single-player campaign, Sonic Advance also featured a number of multiplayer modes and mini-games. Up to four players could compete in races, battle mode, or a variety of other challenges. The mini-games were a fun diversion from the main game, and they added a lot of replayability to the package.
Critical and Commercial Success
Sonic Advance was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, charming visuals, and innovative new features. The game sold over 2 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling Game Boy Advance games of all time.
Legacy
Sonic Advance is remembered as one of the best Sonic games on the Game Boy Advance. It was a faithful return to the classic 2D gameplay that fans loved, while also introducing some new and innovative elements to the mix. The game’s success helped to solidify Sonic’s status as a gaming icon, and it paved the way for future Sonic games on Nintendo consoles.
Conclusion
Sonic Advance was a groundbreaking game that defied expectations and brought Sonic the Hedgehog to a new audience. It was a critical and commercial success, and it remains one of the best Sonic games ever made. Whether you’re a long-time Sonic fan or a newcomer to the series, Sonic Advance is a must-play game that will provide hours of fast-paced, platforming fun.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
