Why I Think Sonic 3D Blast Is Underrated

[Retrology]

This is a game that not many people (including the critic himself) seem to like, but I have a soft spot for the Genesis version.

Yes, the gameplay is kind of repetitive. Yes, the lack of a save feature or password is glaring. Yes, the controls are slippery. Yes, the lack of a Super Sonic is weird. Yes, it's disappointing in regards to what gamers expected to happen (A true 3D Sonic game). And yes, the game isn't on the same level as the other 16-bit Sonic games (I consider Sonic 3 & Knuckles one of the five greatest 2D platformers of all time).

Having said that, I still enjoy 3D Blast a lot. I like how it sort of does its own thing, and exploring every nook and cranny of each world and collecting Flickies is a lot of fun to me. I enjoy finding the hideouts of Tails and Knuckles, and collecting Continues is enjoyable as well. I don't find the controls as much of a pain in the ass as most do, but it certainly helps that I play the Mega Collection version on the Gamecube (which uses the analog stick).

Seeing what's up next is exciting, and the boss fights/level design are memorable. And of course, the graphics and music (gotta disagree with the critic on the latter) is top notch for a Genesis title. Volcano Valley's 2 tracks are unreal.

This game clearly isn't for everyone, and it's a bit on the easy side, but taken for what it is, you just might enjoy it as much as I do. I think it's a good game, and one that doesn't deserve the reputation it's gotten, but hey, that's just me.

Thoughts?

[SigSauerLover]

You've stated this many times Blueguy. And I agree. Sonic 3D blast is actually quite fun despite it's flaws.

[Rev]

Sonic 3D Blast is a pretty interesting game. I have played the Genesis and Saturn version and if you can stand the load times (there are a lot of them) the Saturn version is a huge step up for the game. I actually semi-enjoy the game. I think the trick is to not think of it as a Sonic game because it really isn't. It's more like a isometric puzzle game (maybe not a puzzle game but I can't think of a better description)...

[Retrology]

You've stated this many times Blueguy. And I agree. Sonic 3D blast is actually quite fun despite it's flaws.

Heh, just trying to get my statement out there. I'm surprised you remember that considering before I changed my name I haven't been on this site for a while.

[SigSauerLover]

It's only been about 3 years since you posted the first 3D blast thread John

[Shapur]

I was thinking the same thing. I just replayed Sonic 3D Blast on my Saturn, and after beating it I'll go as far as saying it's a pretty good game. The music is awesome, the graphics are detailed and colorful, and the bonus stages are pretty fun. Of course it doesn't reach the levels of the original 3(4?) but it is hardly the black sheep it is made out to be.

[Rookie1]

I played through a few levels last night after reading this. Its not bad. I would have been blown away by the CGI intro had I played it as a kid.

It was pretty much just an upgraded version of Snake Rattle 'n' Roll` though. Its a fun game, but I can see why it didnt go over well. It was nothing new in terms of gameplay, and just didnt work with the franchise.