What Features Should the Next 2D Sonic Game Include?

What Features Should the Next 2D Sonic Game Include?
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A Few Things Sonic 4: Episode 2 Hopefully Has

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 is a great example of how to make an awesome Sonic game. After years of delivering games that left fans disappointed, Sega finally went back to basics and got to work on Sonic 4, an episodic series that has already begun restoring the faith of Sonic loyalists. What do we want to see in the next chapter of this neo-retro series?

Enemy and Special Stage variety are two things that would fit Episode 2 nicely. Hang gliding stages as well as a few more mine cart levels would be cool. And of course we can’t forget about the power-ups. Fire, Bubble, and Lightning Shields all added a nice little dynamic to past Sonic games, and they would certainly do the same for Sonic 4: Episode 2. What other gameplay elements can Sega throw in to make the second chapter of Sonic 4 even more impressive than the first?

Varied Boss Battles

Some mini-bosses would make a great addition to Episode 2.

Taking out Eggman (Robotnik sounds cooler) is always fun. Still, some boss variety would be greatly appreciated in the next installment of Sonic 4. A few mini-bosses here and there would certainly add to the game’s appeal. Oh, but if Sega is going to do that, let’s hope they include at least a revamped version of the mini-boss theme from Sonic & Knuckles. That tune was awesome!

Larger Amount of Levels

Star Light Zone-themed stage, anyone?

Sonic 4: Episode 1 features 12 great levels. But again, they’re only 12 levels. As much fun as they are, you can’t deny that such a small number leaves you wanting more. Sega, if you’re reading this, please include a larger amount of levels in Episode 2. Every single stage in Episode 1 is awesome, so you can bet all of your fans want to see more in the next game.

Increase in Difficulty

Sonic 4: Episode 1 is a great deal of fun, but it’s also a pretty easy Sonic game to get through. It’s certainly nowhere near as tough as Sonic 3. There are some challenging moments, but these are few and far between. Though the low level of challenge allows you to have a more uninterrupted, seamless experience, it also leaves you desiring something more. Let’s hope Sega amps up the difficulty a few notches when Sonic 4: Episode 2 rolls around.

What Can We Expect from Sonic 4: Episode 2?

Though I’ve stressed this point countless times, I’m going to say it again. Sonic 4: Episode 1 is awesome. Just look at our 4-star review of the game. This series of articles hasn’t been a shot against Sega or even an attempt to criticize the finely-crafted work of art that is Sonic 4. This is just some polite constructive criticism. Sonic 4 is a step in the right direction, and we all hope Sega can add a few things and tweak some mechanics to provide an even better experience with Episode 2. Until that game launches, let’s all keep enjoying Episode 1!