Sonic the Hedgehog Ranking

Might as well give Sonic the same treatment, even though I haven’t played that many.

I decided to not include alternate versions (Colors DS, Adventure DX) because it was confusing to look at and I like my lists to be aesthetically pleasing. Also won’t include spin-offs. Except some Dimps ones, because those are basically canon.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 & Knuckles
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 & Knuckles
An epic, expertly-crafted platformer that serves as a fitting climax for the original classics, Sonic 3 & Knuckles has exhilarating levels, loads of set pieces, and a surprisingly effective story, all of which combine to make an unforgettable experience.

1

Sonic Mania
Sonic Mania
An ultra-polished reimagining of the classic formula that remakes old levels and introduces fantastic new ones, Sonic Mania more than earns its status as one of the best platformers ever made.

2

Sonic Generations
Sonic Generations
A wonderful compilation of everything good about Sonic the Hedgehog.

3

Sonic Adventure 2
Sonic Adventure 2
As heavily flawed as it is ambitious and rewarding, Sonic Adventure 2 introduces tons of awesome new levels and mechanics, as well as an interesting new rival for the titular hedgehog.

4

Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Sonic the Hedgehog 2
The point where the series comes into its own.

5

Sonic Colors
Sonic Colors
Sonic Colors is upbeat, fast-paced, and— well, colorful. Sometimes the level design is a bit blocky, but the visuals, music, and epic finale all make up for that.

6

Sonic CD
Sonic CD
Unlike a lot of people, I really enjoy the exploration aspect of Sonic CD. Aside from that, all the levels are fast-paced and beautiful to look at, the story is minimalistic yet bittersweet, and the game has one kick-ass soundtrack.

7

Sonic Unleashed
Sonic Unleashed
As fun and adventurous as it is flawed and slow-paced, Sonic Unleashed is still an endlessly creative, jazz-fueled, and action-packed road trip from beginning to end

8

Sonic Rush
Sonic Rush
Stylish, challenging, and enhanced by the debuts of both Blaze the Cat and the Boost button, Sonic Rush is a badass dash to the finish line with an absolute banger of a soundtrack.

9

Sonic Frontiers
Sonic Frontiers
Despite signaling a bold new direction for the franchise, Sonic Frontiers is bogged down by repetitive gameplay, wonky physics, and a general lack of polish. Nevertheless, when the game is good, it’s REALLY good, and the story is easily the best in the series thus far.

10

Sonic Adventure
Sonic Adventure
The series’ jump to 3D is unpolished and unfocused, but Sonic Adventure’s sheer earnestness and ambition help it stand out as a charming journey in spite of that.

11

Sonic Heroes
Sonic Heroes

12

Sonic Advance 2
Sonic Advance 2
Despite some unfair level design and the stupid Special Stage requirements, Sonic Advance 2 is a lightning-fast blitz through some of the series’ most creative locations, with some absolutely gorgeous visuals and music to match.

13

Sonic Dream Team
Sonic Dream Team

14

Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog
The one that started it all, Sonic 1 suffers from a lot of issues and crappy levels, but the overall package lays a solid foundation for what’s to come.

15

Sonic Lost World
Sonic Lost World
A mixed bag if there ever was one, Sonic Lost World is as slow, gimmicky, and clunky as it is creative, satisfying, and energetic.

16

Sonic Rush Adventure
Sonic Rush Adventure

17

Sonic Forces
Sonic Forces
This is definitely the Sonic game of all time.

18

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II
Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II
Better than Episode I in practically every aspect… but that’s a very low bar to clear.

19

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I
Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I
Fuck this game.

20

4 Comments


28 days ago

Based

28 days ago

I love

28 days ago

Solid top 5 there!

Don't play Sonic 2006, for your own sake just don't.

28 days ago

I have to. It’s inevitable.


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