Sonic the Hedgehog 3 only had six Zones, two acts each. And how many did Sonic & Knuckles have if you didn't own Sonic 3? Like six or seven? Heck, you could rename Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Sonic the Hedgehog 3:Episode I and you could rename Sonic & Knuckles Sonic the Hedgehog 3: Episode II.
Four isn't alot by itself, but if you figure in three episodes at four zones each, that's twelve...And fifteen if the fifth hidden Zone in each one is a full fledged level.
Well, firing the programmers wasn't worth mentioning, since it's almost implied by the basic rules of logic. As for Sonic 3 and Knuckles...
6 levels is two more than four. And let's not forget that the zones in Sonic 3&K were about three times longer than the zones in Sonic 2. Even Sonic Advance had Sonic3-sized stages, and they gave us more than four. We are essentially getting a game, smaller than Sonic Advance. Go SEGA!!!!
We don't know how many episodes there will be in this game. It could be two (8 Zones Total) three (12 Zones Total) or more. Complaining about the number of Zones in a Downloadable Title designed to be a part of a series is splitting hairs. Consider that we're getting this episode for a lot less then Sonic Advance sold for at retail so we're getting a good amount of content for the price.
Well, the vid and images have been removed "at Sega's request", so I'mma guess they were leaked.... unless... unless thats what they want us to think. 
Seeing as Dimps have made all the Sonic games I love since 2001, I can't say this is a bad thing! Unless I remember Sonic Battle...
Dimps had nothing to do with Sonic Battle.
well if this was a legit leak I want to know how this person got hold of it. If its not even a physical disc how did they get the download? Like maybe Sega just has really weak computer security.
Like maybe Sega just has really weak computer security.
Makes sense. They're weak in everything else.
They should bring back Sonic 2 bonus level but Sonic 1 style is fine. Just never bring back the Sonic 3 emerald stages, ugh. Once the speed kicked in, you had to pause to get your eyes straight and risked running into a red sphere after unpausing. Some of those last ones were straight evil.
We don't know how many episodes there will be in this game. It could be two (8 Zones Total) three (12 Zones Total) or more. Complaining about the number of Zones in a Downloadable Title designed to be a part of a series is splitting hairs. Consider that we're getting this episode for a lot less then Sonic Advance sold for at retail so we're getting a good amount of content for the price.
How is this like splitting hairs? The whole idea of the fact that this is a DL title coming out in small parts is the reason for the complaint. There is nothing HUGE about this at all. Sure it may look nice, but it, to me, is nothing more than a mini-game collection that they're pumping to be the biggest thing since Sonic Adventure. It's not. It's nothing big, it's nothing special. I've never seen a gaming company hype the living hell out of even a portable title, as much as this is being hyped. And THOSE are typically bigger than any DL titles at all. Only series I can think of that hypes portable titles is Pokemon, since that's pretty much where the core series rests.
I wonder how long it will be until SEGA releases the following episodes, because quite frankly four zones would keep us busy for an hour. Two tops... and then what? Another month for the second episode? Not likely even that soon, considering how long Episode 1 is taking. Perhaps six months? All I'm saying, which is the basic point of my last post, is that this release is not even half as big, or significant of even Sonic Advance, even for someone like me who likes the nostalgic look of the game. And quite frankly, I see it bombing. Anyone under 18 can't even get it without a parent to pay for it with their credit card. So not only will younger kids, who have never even played Sonic 1-3, that are used to 3D glory, be skeptical, but they won't even be able to buy it on their own. Which is why I think a huge core of the younger audience won't even bother/care about this one.
Sure, people like you and me will enjoy four zones of nostalgia for an hour, while we wait several months for the next part, but even for me, it's a bittersweet victory. The fact that this is being pumped as a major title(which it isn't) probably means that we won't get an actual major title for quite some time. This to me is just SEGA admitting defeat, that they can't keep up with the times. SEGA isn't fixing any problems of Sonic's with Sonic 4. They are just ignoring them.
I really don't know what to think about the leaked screens and footage. Only four levels (and a bonus)? Come on, I know its a download only game but that seems a little weak. That, and the levels all seem to be rehashed, renamed, HD-afied zones from the old games! Like hell it isnt just an HD remake. We'll be playing Scrap Brain, Casino Night, Labyrinth, and Emerald Hill all over again!
To the games credit, the physics actually looks like it works, and it seems to run exactly like the old games did, only a lot prettier.
We also don't know how many acts there are per zone. It could be three, which would technically bring the total to 12 levels (more if there's a hidden level.)
Given there's a confirmed Special Zone in this too, I'm wondering how they'll distribute the Emeralds.... ie. will they all be obtainable in this game, or just 3-4 with the rest in Part 2?
Also, I really hope there's smooth act transition and in-game cutscenes between zones like in S3&K.
Seeing as Dimps have made all the Sonic games I love since 2001, I can't say this is a bad thing! Unless I remember Sonic Battle...
Dimps had nothing to do with Sonic Battle.
You are correct Sir!
I wonder where I got that idea from...
That explains a lot actually, but doesn't explain the great characterization.
You know, Silv, you're making alot of assumptions for what very little info we have. You talked about how S3's levels were bigger than S2, but for all we know, the levels could be bigger than S3's. I think it's kinda silly to get worked up about the size until we actually know how big it is; I mean you have reason to be skeptical but don't act like it will be super short until a little more is known.
As far as the kids go, I'm sure most kids can't buy their own games most the time, and even if they do, all three systems have points cards that the kids could buy and use to get the game so the young ones can get it as easily as any other game.
Oh my gosh yes, Matt. I think what really set S3&K apart from S2 was the smooth act/zone transition. That little detail added so much to the game in my eyes. Btw, 7 hours til a multimedia item is unlocked Woop!
We also don't know how many acts there are per zone. It could be three, which would technically bring the total to 12 levels (more if there's a hidden level.)
Quoting myself here - but if you look at the leaked footage's level select, each zone appears to have four acts; three of gameplay and one with a Robotnik battle.
I just watched the leak again and noticed the title screen has an "achievements" option. 
Do want.
How is this like splitting hairs?
You're digging kind of deep to find something wrong with this.
There is nothing HUGE about this at all. Sure it may look nice, but it, to me, is nothing more than a mini-game collection that they're pumping to be the biggest thing since Sonic Adventure. It's not. It's nothing big, it's nothing special. I've never seen a gaming company hype the living hell out of even a portable title, as much as this is being hyped.
Know why they're making a big deal about this? This will likely be the only major Sonic Game we get this year. We might get an announcement for a game this year at one of the major gaming events but I can see this being their only major release. SEGA knows that Sonic is their flagship series and the one that they need to sell well. Despite being critically panned by the big gaming venues Unleashed was SEGA's bestselling title last year. Since they need this game to sell they're doing whatever's needed to get people hyped about buying it. Since this is a Downloadable Title and will sell for less then even their portable titles per Episode they need to push even further to compensate for not selling it for a higher price.
I wonder how long it will be until SEGA releases the following episodes, because quite frankly four zones would keep us busy for an hour. Two tops... and then what? Another month for the second episode? Not likely even that soon, considering how long Episode 1 is taking. Perhaps six months?
How long it keeps you entertained depends on how good you are. I can beat your average 3D Game (through Last) in under 12 hours and can cut the time down considerably if I'd replay them. Some people take months to beat the game either because it isn't high on their priority list or because they're just plain not good at it. Even if they beat the game they can find a reason to replay it either through personal challenge or because they enjoy the game. Being " done " with it in an hour doesn't sound too bad for a 2D Game if you're just trying to beat it. You can play through Sonic 1 and 2 in well under an hour each if you're skilled.
Anyone under 18 can't even get it without a parent to pay for it with their credit card.
Not true. They sell Point Cards for the three Major Consoles at most local Convenience Stores and yes; they will sell them to minors.
So not only will younger kids, who have never even played Sonic 1-3, that are used to 3D glory, be skeptical, but they won't even be able to buy it on their own. Which is why I think a huge core of the younger audience won't even bother/care about this one.
I think you're selling kids short. Children aren't anywhere near as picky about their games as adults are. If they like a character they'll play a game with that character in it despite how " awful " the graphics are or how terrible the gameplay is. They don't care about things like that. They just care about being able to control the little blue hedgehog who runs really fast.
That, and the levels all seem to be rehashed, renamed, HD-afied zones from the old games! Like hell it isnt just an HD remake. We'll be playing Scrap Brain, Casino Night, Labyrinth, and Emerald Hill all over again!
You'd be surprised to see how many of the first Zones look the same. The first Zone in any given Gamegear Game looks virtually identical.
They should throw us off and have the first level be like.....something that has no green in the color pallet at all.
New MULTIMEDIA section added. It's WALLPAPER. Only one available for now. The other two have FREAKIN' TIME LOCKS!!!
Also a new piece of "concept" art. Its just some damn foliage. Just what we needed.
Another badnik is set to be "unveiled" (it's just gonna be Masher) next week, along with a new piece of "concept" art.
Thats some damn nice shrubbery there. 😛
I guess that's exactly the type what the Knights who say Ni were after, eh? x3
At this point I'd much rather appreciate a piece of concept art that isn't just a good redesign. But then again maybe they don't want to give away whatever new elements this game has to offer.
EDIT: First Impressions http://www.sonicstadium.o...ember-impressions-inside
<strong class="quote-title"
B Vulpix wrote:
EDIT: First Impressions http://www.sonicstadium.o...ember-impressions-inside
Okay... now read this.
Doubters were convinced he's full of !#%@, so now he's going to release the build he's allegedly played illegaly. Sonic Drama at its finest, folks.
Won't that get him into crap tons of trouble? Illleeeegal. He's asking for some thing nasty.
Saw the leaked video. Physics look odd. Visuals and music seem ok though.
I think the guy is full of poopie. But at the same time: I did call that this would be Sonic Rush with old school graphics. And if I was right I would post a Stephen Colbert pic. Im.... conflicted.
I suggest the death penalty for the guy.
I totally believe him because it sounds like exactly what you would get from SEGA attempting to get back to basics that they don't even understand (Even if their blog does, see comments about momentum).
I said before that I would prefer that SEGA actually prove they can make a good Sonic game before attempting a Sonic 4. This sucking will be much worse for the series than something like Shadow the Hedgehog sucking. Sonic 4 sucking is like spitting on the original trilogy that has kept Sonic relevant. And for what, a DLC series?!
The whole idea of the fact that this is a DL title coming out in small parts is the reason for the complaint. There is nothing HUGE about this at all. Sure it may look nice, but it, to me, is nothing more than a mini-game collection that they're pumping to be the biggest thing since Sonic Adventure. It's not. It's nothing big, it's nothing special. I've never seen a gaming company hype the living hell out of even a portable title, as much as this is being hyped.
Add to that how they keep hyping the "concept" art. The badniks and Sonic look stupendous in 16-bit while these models have a generic quality to them. People don't realize how huge the role of art direction was in Sonic's sccess, and it can be as simple as how a sprite is shaded or animates. That said, the foliage is the first actual concept art, and it is good.
Honestly, at this point I am convinced that Sonic will never get a better than above average game while SEGA is doing it. If it ever happens it will be a buyout or fan project.
What's the Sonic community without drama? I agree the jump physics looked a little eh but it seemed fine otherwise. I'm more worried about the excess of bottomless pits *coughskycanyonandaltitudelimitcough* and boring level designs in general *coughsoniccdandsonicadvance2cough*
Actually, I have to say that Sonic CD's level design certainly wasn't all THAT Dull. 😛
lol I know but I thought Sonic CD put a little too much emphasis on exploration instead of a healthy balance between speed sequences and exploring. The level designs weren't all that great and far too many had too much in the background and combined with the sometimes annoying combo of colors and patterns was also a pain. About the only level I liked as far as design and layout was Stardust Speedway. Music was the best in that stage as well.
Plus way to give us a new move for Sonic (Peelout) and then give you a bunch of levels where you're bound to peelout into certain death as opposed to being able to enjoy it.
This how ESRB rating process works.
The publisher may either accept the rating as final or revise the game's content and resubmit it to the ESRB, at which time the process starts anew. Publishers also have the ability to appeal an ESRB rating assignment to an Appeals Board made up of publishers, retailers and other professionals. Unless otherwise requested by the publisher, the complete rating information (rating category, content descriptors, and rating summary) is posted on the ESRB website 30 days following the assignment of the rating.
When the game is ready for release to the public, publishers send copies of the final product to the ESRB. The game packaging is reviewed to make sure the rating information is displayed accurately and in accordance with ESRB requirements.
So yeah the guy full of it.
The level designs weren't all that great and far too many had too much in the background and combined with the sometimes annoying combo of colors and patterns was also a pain. About the only level I liked as far as design and layout was Stardust Speedway. Music was the best in that stage as well.
That's what I have said many years. Note that Hirokazu Yasuhara, the head level designer of the Mega Drive games and Sonic Team member I consider most important, didn't do the Sonic CD levels. Not many appreciate what a huge accomplishment the level design was in those games, possibly the best in any game ever. I was finding new areas years after getting S3&K.
Sonic CD would have been 100% better if it didn´t have that annoying jump sound.
Also, I wonder what the Sega Ninjas are doing, what´s with all the leaks and defected employees?
I'm a big fan of Palmtree Panic's scenery...but I honestly don't remember how the actual level was laid out. I hear on the "discovering" new areas in S3&K though, Vec. That game...is just so amazing. Anyone who hasn't played that game all the way through, yet is/claims to be a Sonic fan...hasn't experienced Sonic. At all. Here's hoping Sonic 4 can expand on S3&K's insanely in depth level design.
HA! Well now. Wondering though...has this lead Sonic 3 level designer worked on any other Sonic games since Sonic 3&K? Hopefully he still has it. Thanks for that heads up Shadonic.
That's what I have said many years. Note that Hirokazu Yasuhara, the head level designer of the Mega Drive games and Sonic Team member I consider most important, didn't do the Sonic CD levels. Not many appreciate what a huge accomplishment the level design was in those games, possibly the best in any game ever. I was finding new areas years after getting S3&K.
Wow, I did not know that. It makes a lot more sense now. And if he is working on Sonic 4, here's hoping he's still sharp and clever about the level design. And I LOVED the Sonic3&K levels.
Amen in S3&K level design. In this very thread I chronicaled my attempt to beat the full game as Hyper Sonic in 20 minutes (I failed), getting lost in the Death Egg Zone because I somehow stumbled upon an area that I'd NEVER been before in my 15 year history of playing it. It was quite facinating when I think about it.
Excuse me for a moment. "Sonic 3 Senior Level Designer"? That's the most we can be told? It's highly nondescript; Yasuhara is credited in that game as "Lead Game Designer". The Senior Game Designers were Hisayoshi Yoshida (no longer with the company) and Takashi Iizuka. We don't necessarily know yet that Sega mean Yasuhara, especially since Iizuka is still a member of Sonic Team and Yasuhara is not.
Thanks Rapid...you just dashed my little hopes and dreams for this game. 😛
But yes...you make a valid point. Perhaps we are jumping the gun abit.
Yasuhara should still be over at Namco Bandai working on some Pac-Man game, I doubt he'd be jumping ship now.
Yasuhara should still be over at Namco Bandai working on some Pac-Man game, I doubt he'd be jumping ship now.
Hell was Crac-Man* his doing?! If so...SEGA needs this mastermind of a man.
*Pac-Man Championship Edition...it's addicting...i'll say that much.
Well, no... he was over at Naughty Dog working on Jak 2 or 3 when Championship Edition first appeared (GameCube, I believe?).
Hmmm...well CE came out in '07, so...maybe...*shrugs* Actually i'm going to go play some this very minute!
*scurries off*
Pacman Vs was on Gamecube (free with RType Racing. Its sad when the freebie is better than the game that its bundled with) and Championship Edition is AFAIK on Xbox Live Arcade.
Ah. I assumed they were the same game. But I figured it was kind of weird to have a game that had been worked on by Shigeru Miyamoto ported to XBL of all places.
I can kind of see what they're going for by placing the fight at sunset, but the lighting ends up giving the scene a Real Is Brown feel.
And it's beginning to feel more and more like Sonic Pocket Adventure. Don't get me wrong, I love the concept of that game, but it's no Sonic 4 by any means.
Oh come on. Are they even trying? There better be a second phase to that fight, like "haha remember this? OK NOW HERE'S THIS!" cause that's just balls.
