What Features Will Make Gamers Download Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2?

What Features Will Make Gamers Download Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2?
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Let’s Talk Sonic 4: Episode 2

For years, Sonic the Hedgehog seemed to be in a limbo full of gimmicks and laughable supporting characters. So what made fans want to download Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1? Simply put, Sonic 4 seemed like a true Sonic experience, and fans wanted to believe that Sega was finally listening to them. Thankfully, the blue blur’s latest endeavor is nothing short of awesome, and so far it has managed to impress most gamers who have played it.

Now let’s look ahead at the next chapter of this episodic project by Sega. What will make those same gamers want to download Sonic 4: Episode 2? In our last entry we discussed three features that would be very welcome in the next installment, namely a larger Badnik count, more pitfalls to keep players on edge, and Special Stages akin to those of Sonic 2 and Sonic 3. What other gameplay elements could Sonic 4: Episode 2 benefit from?

A Few More Mine Cart Stages

Mine cart stages first appeared in Sonic 2 for the Master System. Keep ’em coming, Sega!

If you played the Sega Master System version of Sonic 2, then you’re probably familiar with the mine cart gameplay that makes its presence felt in Sonic 4 this time around. The mine cart level in Sonic 4 adds a nice dynamic while still retaining the speedy pace of the game. Sadly, there’s only one of these stages to be found. That’s not to say the game suffers as a result of this, but an additional mine cart stage or two would have been very welcome. Hopefully mine carts return in Episode 2.

Hang Gliding Stages

Hang gliding added a nice layer of depth to the gameplay in Sonic 2 for the Master System.

Another element from Sonic 2 on the Master System was hang gliding gameplay. In that game, Sonic took to the skies and soared over large gaps, collecting rings as he went along. With the first episode of Sonic 4 implementing mine cart gameplay into the mix, perhaps Sega will also throw in a hang gliding level (or two) next time. Here’s hoping!

Varied Power-ups

Who else wants the Fire Shield back?

While we all love protective bubbles and faster running shoes, it should go without saying that many power-ups from older Sonic games are sorely missed in this last game. The Fire, Bubble, and Lightning Shields all have their own attributes, and Sonic’s own abilities were enhanced in different manners when he would collect one of these power-ups in past games. Sonic doesn’t need any over-the-top items. These classic power-ups will suffice.

What Can We Expect from Sonic 4: Episode 2?

If it’s anything like the first chapter, Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2 will likely impress most gamers and leave us all wanting more. Hopefully Sega adds a few wrinkles to the gameplay here and there. We’re not asking for anything major; just a few more power-ups and maybe a hang gliding level or two. Check out the final entry in this series to see the top three gameplay elements Sonic 4: Episode 2 should feature when it launches.

This post is part of the series: 9 Things Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2 Will Hopefully Have

The first chapter of Sonic the Hedgehog 4 has garnered mass praise for bringing the speedy hedgehog back to his roots. What can Sega add to the experience to ensure that Episode 2 is as successful as the first chapter?

  1. 9 Things Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2 Will Hopefully Have - Part 2