Instead of Mario being preoccupied with go-kart racing and missing out on an adventure, it’s Sonic (alongside his companions) who steps up to maintain the platforming tradition for the Nintendo Switch’s second launch. Fortunately, the lead game in Sega’s launch initiatives is “Sonic X Shadow Generations,” an improved remake of one of the most popular 3D Sonic games from last year, and it also includes a generous helping of everyone’s favorite character, Shadow the Hedgehog.
Sonic Generations initially offered a decent gaming experience (however, it doesn’t age as well now compared to its initial release), but the inclusion of Shadow Generations, arguably the best 3D Sonic game since the Adventure series, significantly enhances the overall package. This upgrade offers platforming enthusiasts a substantial and enjoyable title right at the launch of the Switch 2.
In the launch of Switch 2, there’s a broad enhancement; Sonic Generations now maintains a steady and swift 60 frames per second.
The game titled “Sonic X Shadow Generations” was rolled out last year across all platforms, including Nintendo’s Switch. This makes it a familiar title. The 2011 Sonic game, regarded as one of the top 3D entries in the series upon its release, and Shadow’s initial starring adventure since the less successful “Shadow the Hedgehog”, are both included in this compilation. In comparison to the Switch version, the enhanced versions for Switch run noticeably smoother – while the Switch versions of Sonic and Shadow Generations ran at 1080p and 720p respectively, it was the frame rate that received the most significant improvement, as it aimed for just 30fps.
In the release of The Switch 2, there’s an all-round enhancement noticeable. Sonic Generations now maintains a smooth, swift 60 frames per second, fitting for a platformer featuring one of the fastest creatures known to us. Given that Sonic Generations is a 14-year-old game, it’s not shocking to see it perform well on a fresh machine like The Switch 2 in 2025. However, the enhancement over the initial Switch version of Sonic Generations is undeniably appreciated. The attention-grabber here is Shadow Generations, which already struggled on the Switch more than Sonic Generations did, and as a brand new 3D game, it posed greater challenges for the hardware.
As a fervent admirer of Shadow Generations, I’m thrilled to share that it boasts some welcome enhancements! For those craving smooth gameplay, there’s a Performance Mode that steadies the frame rate at a commendable 60 frames per second. For those prioritizing image sharpness and readability, a Quality Mode is also offered, which boosts the resolution while maintaining a frame rate of 30fps.
I’m quite content that the game can run at 60 frames per second, which is ideal for a platformer, provided my hardware supports it.
The quality setting isn’t something I’d ever opt for or suggest in a Sonic platformer, but it’s great that it’s an option for those who find it suitable. Personally, I’m just thrilled to experience the game at 60fps, as a platformer should ideally run, given the hardware capabilities.
While Sonic Generations and Shadow Generations have undergone visual enhancements, there are no other significant changes to these versions of the game compared to their previous releases on Switch and all other platforms. Essentially, they perform better and boast improved graphics but remain identical to their 2021 counterparts. This is not necessarily a negative point – Sonic Generations remains a solid choice, albeit slightly less sparkling than before, and Shadow Generations represents one of the best 3D Sonic games in nearly two decades.
As a gamer, I can’t help but appreciate the top-notch platformers we’ve got here. They boast meticulously designed stages that encourage multiple playthroughs, inviting you to uncover hidden secrets or speed up your completion time to boost your grade. There’s still that thrilling arcade score attack vibe from classic Sonic games, and the level design and character movement are so well-crafted that replaying these levels feels almost instinctual – without any coercion needed from the game itself.
While this game is essentially a direct transfer of a moderately simple remake, it retains many issues that were present in its earlier versions as well. These shortcomings are most noticeable in Sonic Generations, which at times appears quite outdated, especially when playing certain 2D “Classic Sonic” levels, which can be overly simplistic. Furthermore, both Sonic and Shadow Generations suffer from a rather unengaging hub world, notably less captivating compared to some of the series’ past achievements in this regard.
In summary, the updated versions of these popular games are exceptionally good, and unlike the previous Switch version, the new one boasts minimal noticeable reductions or sacrifices that previously made it difficult to endorse it.
The narrative of Sonic Generations is notably straightforward and less complex compared to many other popular Sonic games, which often feature intricate and convoluted stories. Since I don’t place much emphasis on storylines in Sonic games, the simplicity appeals to me. However, it’s important to note that there are numerous Sonic fans who value the franchise’s story and mythos, and for them, Sonic Generations might not measure up. Fortunately, Shadow Generations delves deeper into the kind of storytelling that Sonic Generations avoids, making it a more appealing choice for those who prefer plot-driven Sonic games.
In contrast to Sonic Generations, Shadow Generations excels in numerous aspects beyond. The fundamental design for the game levels is notably superior, enhancing the overall enjoyment during gameplay. Shadow’s control feels more intuitive from the outset, and as the Doom Powers are gradually unlocked throughout the campaign, they enrich his repertoire of moves without disrupting the rhythm or speed of the levels or combat sequences.
Shadow Generations boasts a fantastic soundtrack too, just like Sonic Generations, which is quite impressive in this aspect as well. After all, no Sonic game has ever fallen short on the music front, and that trend continues in this one as well.
Essentially, the updated version of Sonic X Shadow Generations on the Switch 2 offers a comparable gaming experience to that of the PlayStation and Xbox versions, although it runs at lower settings. If you’re a Nintendo user who hasn’t played this game yet or doesn’t own it for the Switch, and you’re looking for a top-notch platformer, this is definitely worth buying.
If, in fact, you currently possess the Nintendo Switch version of the game, the situation becomes more intricate. You should know that Sega, in their strategic thinking, are not permitting Switch 1 owners to enhance their current copies of the game. Unlike numerous other first and third-party games, _Sonic X Shadow Generations_ for Nintendo Switch cannot be upgraded to the Switch 2 version at a reduced price or even for an upgrade fee; instead, you have to purchase the entire game again. This action does permit you to transfer your Switch save data over to the Switch 2, so you won’t have to start from scratch, but it’s quite disheartening that there’s no option for a paid upgrade being provided.
Regardless of the circumstance, please ensure that the price doesn’t overshadow the main point – Sonic X Shadow Generations is a great game.
Regarding any issues with the management of the release, I’d still like to emphasize that those who obtain “Sonic X Shadow Generations” are in for a delightful experience. The game offers an impressive new installment titled “Shadow,” and manages to keep the classic charm of “Sonic.” If you haven’t played it yet and enjoy platformers, I would suggest giving it a try on Switch 2, which is as recommendable as the PC, PlayStation, or Xbox versions. However, if you already own the game on your Switch, it might be a tougher sell to buy it again.
Regardless of how things unfold, it’s important not to let pricing judgments overshadow the main point – Sonic X Shadow Generations is excellent. With the Switch 2 edition aligning the game’s performance and visuals with other versions, this version represents the pinnacle of the best Sonic games for Nintendo enthusiasts.
This game was reviewed on the Nintendo Switch 2.
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2025-06-12 13:43