Sonic Superstars

A solid 2D Sonic chapter that blends Genesis-era staples with fresh ideas, offering four playable characters, varied zones, and emerald power-ups that encourage exploration and replays. Creative bosses and liberal checkpoints keep frustration low, though the busy visuals can cause unfair deaths and the fast co-op and forgettable battle mode fall flat. It doesn't reach the franchise's highs but remains an enjoyable package.

Sonic Superstars successfully blends classic 2D platforming with modernized visuals and innovative emerald powers.

A fantastic return to classic 2D Sonic that feels comfortably familiar while adding optional Emerald Powers, fun 3D special stages, and four playable characters. Momentum-driven gameplay is satisfying, levels stay fresh with clever ideas, and the puzzle-like boss fights are a highlight; the 2.5D art is vibrant though the music is solid but unmemorable. The big drawback is the steep price for a roughly four-to-five-hour adventure with thin extra modes, making it best to wait for a sale.

GameSpot: copious flaws but retains high-speed platforming joy.