Sonic Flash: The Hedgehog Booms Again

Sonic is back - but non on console or handheld as you might expect - not until E3, anyway. For now, we found this superb fan-created "spin"-off...

We don't normally cover anything to do with flash games, because quite frankly, most of them are rubbish. But recently one caught our eye - and definitely impressed!

Ultimate Flash Sonic is a fan-created version of the legendary Sega series. It resembles the various recent GameBoy Advance editions of the series most closely, but also combines elements from other titles in the series - such as music from Sonic 3.

Created by two chaps calling themselevs "Dennis_Gid" and "Daniel Sidney", the game subtly changes some of the physics of traditional 2D sonic games to give Sonic more momentum when rumping and running - making certain parts of the level design play slightly different to how you'd expect, and adding a small dose of challenge.

On the flipside, you have far less recovery time after losing your rings, and for some reason, the homebrew creators decided that the rings should remain on the screen forever after they scatter. The boss levels, both with forced side scrolling, are particularly well thought out.

For a fan effort, the level design, in places, is nothing short of astounding - something fans of the meticulously-mapped originals will appreciate. You can play as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles and Cream the Rabbit -- and there are even unlockable characters up for grabs! Meanwhile, a password save system ensures that you don't have to start again next time you play the game.

It doesn't last long, and the designers are quick to point out in the credits that users should "go and buy Sonic Advance 2, the best game ever" in order to stay in Sega's good books, we imagine.

It's definitely worth a look for all Sonic fans who are waiting with bated breath to discover more about upcoming Sonic titles for PSP, Nintendo DS and GameCube - all of which are most likely set for an E3 unveiling in May.

And with the success of the classic Sonic game compilations over the last few years, there can be no shortage of fans wanting to have a look.

And now, here's the game! Hit 'Start' - and enjoy! Just remember that 'jump' is the 'space' key - not A, S or D -- you know who you are!

Note: Kikizo Ltd is not responsible for the content of the game. For information, please contact the makers of the game via the contact details in the flash window above.

Kikizo Staff
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