Sonic The Hedgehog 2 is a fan favourite game, with a long lasting legacy, It seems like there is not much that can be done to improve the game, but when it comes to the Sega Ages line of games, M2 always finds a way. Because the game has been talked about so much, I will keep myself from talking about points people already know. After all, this is the 2nd release of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 on Switch after the Sega Genesis Classics Collection. What I can say though, is that the game has had several adjustments that have made it stand out more to me.
The first thing I should mention is the fact that the game has had a few minor technical fixes here and there. These probably wont be noticed by a casual gamer, but some minor issues with sound, screen flicker and more have been fixed. This is present no matter what version you choose, so enjoy the game in its perfected form. But moving on from that, I should mention that the game now includes a new mode called Ring Keep mode. As the name suggests, this mode sees you keep some but not all of your rings when you get hit. This is a good mode for beginners, and is a good way to familiarize yourself with the game. Veteran players may not enjoy it, but it does serve as a good training mode.
Next, the drop dash from Sonic Mania that was included in the Sega Ages version of the original Sonic The Hedgehog is here. It functions perfectly and introduces new twists on the gameplay formula for Sonic the Hedgehog 2, including changes how you may play certain stages. The drop dash can be used to navigate certain areas for instance, and get to certain points much easier and is a very useful tool. There is also the inclusion of time trials and online rankings here, which is good for those who are into that sort of thing. The other notable addition is the inclusion of Super Sonic mode that lets you turn into Super Sonic right from the start. Its a nice addition and manages to add some variety to the gameplay.
But now for the main event. This version of the game adds back in Knuckles the Echidna, who was playable in the Genesis/Mega Drive version if you used the cartridge with the Sonic & Knuckles cartridge. Its a great addition, but as the levels were not designed with Knuckles in mind, there is some adjustments needed for how you play. Some of the tweaks I mentioned above also deal with certain movements, and I believe that Knuckles was the reason why. He plays much better here than on the Genesis/Mega Drive version of the game, and it is a blast to experience. Knuckles mode also has the optional ring keep mode, and the other features as well, and feels like a polished version of what existed before.
Sega Ages Sonic The Hedgehog 2 may be one of the definitive versions of the classic game. It may lack the hidden palace zone and similar bonuses from the mobile port, but it makes up for that with its own additions. I recommend checking this out, as it is an excellent experience.
Disclaimer: A review key was provided
In addition, I would like to add that there is an active Sega retrogaming Facebook community group you can join at https://www.facebook.com/groups/segaretrogamers/
For more, visit Retro Gamers Hub (www.retrogamershub.com) for their extensive collection of retrogaming interest groups to choose from.