Info about Sonic Colors: Ultimate:

Official game description:
Join Sonic in the high-speed adventure of a lifetime in Sonic Colors: Ultimate! Digital Deluxe includes the Ultimate Cosmetic Pack and the Ultimate Music Pack. Color the Universe!  
The evil Dr. Eggman has built a gigantic interstellar amusement park bursting with incredible rides and colorful attractions – but he’s powering it with a captured alien race called “Wisps.” Use Sonic’s lightning speed to free the Wisps and learn the secrets of their amazing powers as you explore six unique colorful worlds, each filled with dangerous enemies and hurdles to overcome.

Release date: Feb 6, 2023

Categories: 3D Platformer, Action-Adventure, Speedrunning, Character Customization, Collectathon

Feature scans:
- Steam Deck: score 55; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals significant issues with the Steam Deck experience, particularly related to Denuvo DRM, performance on the Steam Deck, graphical problems, and control issues. These factors contribute to a less than optimal user experience, with Denuvo DRM and performance issues being the most impactful.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics: No data
- Time-to-fun: No data
- Player Archetypes: No data


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Nostalgic and Charming Story (weight 0.67): The game holds a special place in the hearts of many reviewers due to nostalgia. The story is lighthearted, straightforward, and charming, with good voice acting.
- Creative Use of Wisps (weight 0.65): The Wisps add variety and fun to the gameplay. They introduce unique mechanics and abilities that enhance the overall experience.
- Engaging and Fluid Gameplay (weight 0.61): The gameplay is described as very fluid, fun, and unique. It includes enjoyable level exploration and a variety of levels with unique mechanics.
- Unique Level Design (weight 0.6): The level design is praised for its creativity and variety. It includes a mix of 2D and 3D gameplay with intuitive mechanics and interesting platforming sections.
- Vibrant and Fun Soundtrack (weight 0.58): The game features an original soundtrack that is vibrant, fun, and highly praised. It includes options to switch between new and classic music, enhancing the overall experience.
- Beautiful and Colorful Worlds (weight 0.57): The game features beautiful and colorful worlds with unique visual presentations. Each level has its own aesthetic and atmosphere, making the game visually appealing.
- Enhanced Multiplayer and Rival Modes (weight 0.54): The game features enjoyable multiplayer modes and new additions like Rival Rush, which adds to the overall fun and replayability.
- Challenging and Enjoyable Bosses (weight 0.06): The bosses in the game are generally well-received and add to the challenge. Some reviewers found them easy, but overall, they are considered enjoyable.
- Smooth and Precise Controls (weight 0.04): The controls in the game are described as smooth and precise, especially on modern controllers. The gameplay feels tight and responsive.

Common complaints:
- Technical issues and bugs (weight 0.97): The game suffers from various technical issues, including crashes, stuttering, and bugs. These problems are widespread and significantly impact the gameplay experience, making the game frustrating to play at times.
- Bad cutscenes and dialogue (weight 0.95): Cutscenes are often criticized for their poor quality, AI upscaling, and childish dialogue. The writing is seen as cheesy and unremarkable, with many players finding the humor and jokes unfunny and irritating.
- Uninspired level design (weight 0.94): Level design is frequently described as uninspired, bland, and repetitive. Many levels are criticized for being too short, overly reliant on 2D sections, and lacking in creativity or challenge.
- Poor controls and physics (weight 0.89): Controls are often described as clunky, imprecise, and poorly optimized for modern gamepads. The physics, especially in underwater sections and with Wisps, are criticized for feeling broken and unresponsive.
- Underwhelming bosses (weight 0.89): Boss fights are frequently criticized for being too easy, repetitive, and unmemorable. Many players find them lacking in challenge and innovation, contributing to an overall underwhelming experience.
- Denuvo DRM issues (weight 0.88): The inclusion of Denuvo DRM is criticized for causing stuttering, performance issues, and preventing offline play. Many players find it intrusive and detrimental to the overall gaming experience.
- Short and unremarkable story (weight 0.87): The story is frequently criticized for being shallow, childish, and unremarkable. Many players find the dialogue and writing to be poor, with a lack of depth or serious tone.
- Excessive bloom and visual issues (weight 0.86): The game's visuals are often criticized for excessive bloom, poor lighting, and overall lack of improvement over the original. These issues can make the game visually unappealing and straining to the eyes.
- Poor implementation of Wisps (weight 0.86): The Wisp mechanics are often criticized for being poorly implemented, gimmicky, and not fun to use. Some Wisps are seen as redundant or boring, adding little value to the gameplay experience.
- Disappointing soundtrack (weight 0.83): The remixed soundtrack is often seen as a downgrade from the original, with many players finding the new music unremarkable and poorly executed. Some remixes are also locked behind a paywall, adding to the disappointment.

Gameplay feedback:
- Wisp mechanics enhance gameplay (weight 0.7): The game introduces Wisps, which provide unique abilities and add variety to the gameplay. These Wisps include different types like the Jade Ghost Wisp, each offering distinct powers that can be used to navigate levels and solve puzzles.
- Mixed level design quality (weight 0.63): The level design in the game is a mix of well-designed stages and questionable layouts. Some levels are praised for their design and variety, while others are criticized for being too puzzle-oriented or having poorly implemented sections.
- Excessive 2D platforming (weight 0.61): A significant portion of the game is dedicated to 2D platforming, which some players find excessive. The controls in these sections can feel stiff and less responsive compared to 3D segments.
- Controls and mechanics (weight 0.6): The game's controls are a mixed bag, with some players finding them smooth and others feeling they are stiff and clumsy. The homing attack system has been updated, adding a new specification that can be both helpful and problematic.
- High replay value (weight 0.58): The game offers high replay value with multiple strategies for levels, collectibles like red star rings, and challenges for achieving S ranks. These elements encourage players to revisit levels and improve their performance.
- Repetitive and easy bosses (weight 0.55): Boss fights in the game are often criticized for being repetitive and underwhelming. There are a limited number of unique bosses, and some bosses are recycled from other levels, making the fights feel less challenging.
- Boost and speed mechanics (weight 0.55): The game features boost mechanics that allow for high-speed gameplay and wall scaling. These mechanics are central to the game's dynamic and fast-paced experience, though some sections may feel like hallway boosting.
- Tails save system (weight 0.52): The game replaces the traditional life system with a Tails save mechanic. This system allows players to save their progress at certain points, making the game more beginner-friendly and reducing the penalty for failure.
- S rank challenges (weight 0.52): Achieving S ranks in the game is challenging and adds a layer of difficulty for players seeking 100% completion. These challenges require precise gameplay and mastery of the game's mechanics.
- Story and soundtrack (weight 0.48): The game's story is short but offers replayability. The soundtrack is praised for its quality and originality, adding to the overall enjoyment of the game.
- Auto-running sections (weight 0.48): Some levels include auto-running or auto-scrolling sections that can feel tedious. These sections often require players to wait or perform minimal actions, which can disrupt the game's pace.
- Customization options (weight 0.48): The game offers various customization options for Sonic, including visual cues and character models. These customizations allow players to personalize their gaming experience.
- 3D sections lack inspiration (weight 0.48): The 3D sections of the game are criticized for being uninspired and poorly implemented. These sections often feel short and lack the depth and excitement found in other parts of the game.
- Visual and audio improvements (weight 0.48): The game features improved graphics and visual cues, making it visually appealing. However, there are some audio quality issues that detract from the overall experience.
- Puzzle and platforming elements (weight 0.48): The game includes puzzle and platforming elements that require players to use switches and navigate through levels carefully. These elements add variety but can also be frustrating if poorly implemented.
- Rail grinding mechanics (weight 0.48): The game features rail grinding mechanics that allow for quickstepping and switching rails. These mechanics add to the game's dynamic and fast-paced gameplay.
- Original soundtrack option (weight 0.43): Players have the option to switch to the original soundtrack, providing a nostalgic experience for fans of the classic Sonic games.
- Mod support and improvements (weight 0.43): The game supports mods that can change character models, lighting, and other visual aspects. Projects like Project Re-Rainbow improve cinematics and enemy modeling, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

Performance notes:
- Performance issues on various platforms (weight 0.49): The game suffers from performance issues across different platforms, including stuttering, frame rate drops, and loading times. These issues are particularly notable on modern hardware and the Steam Deck.
- Graphical and audio problems (weight 0.44): Players have reported various graphical issues, such as low-resolution cutscenes, visual glitches, and poor upscaling. Audio problems include inconsistent sound mixing, audio desyncs, and sound effects cutting out.
- Frequent bugs and crashes (weight 0.41): The game is reported to have numerous bugs, crashes, and performance issues. Players have experienced frequent stuttering, graphical glitches, and audio problems, which significantly impact the gameplay experience.
- Control and optimization issues (weight 0.35): The game has been criticized for its poor optimization and control issues. Players have reported that controls feel less responsive and that the game could be better optimized for modern gamepads.
- Specific level and gameplay bugs (weight 0.35): Certain levels and gameplay mechanics have specific bugs, such as camera issues, crashes at particular points, and characters getting stuck. These issues can make the game unplayable at times.
- Alt-Tab issues (weight 0.31): Players have reported problems when alt-tabbing out of the game, such as the game not showing new frames or displaying a black screen upon refocusing.
- Denuvo DRM impacting performance (weight 0.12): The presence of Denuvo DRM is noted to affect the game's performance negatively. Some players report that it makes the game run worse and can even make it unplayable.

Recommendations:
- Emulate the Wii version (weight 0.45): Several reviews suggest that emulating the Wii version of the game on Dolphin provides a better experience than the current release. This is often recommended as an alternative to purchasing the game.
- Recommended for Sonic fans (weight 0.45): The game is frequently recommended for fans of the Sonic series, especially those who are familiar with and enjoy the franchise. It is seen as a worthwhile experience for dedicated fans.
- Buy on sale with mods (weight 0.39): Many players recommend purchasing the game only when it is on sale and suggest using mods, particularly the Re-Rainbow mod, to enhance the gaming experience. This is due to the game's perceived shortcomings in its original state.
- Wait for discounts (weight 0.31): Many reviews suggest waiting for discounts or sales before purchasing the game, indicating that the full price may not be justified for the experience provided.
- Avoid console versions (weight 0.2): Some reviews advise against purchasing the game on certain consoles, particularly the Switch, due to issues with the port and lack of modding capabilities.
- Good entry for new players (weight 0.19): The game is considered a good entry point for new players to the Sonic series, providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for those unfamiliar with the franchise.
- Use mods for improvement (weight 0.13): Using mods, particularly the Re-Rainbow mod, is highly recommended to improve the game's visuals and overall experience. Mods are seen as essential for enjoying the game fully.

Other player notes:
- Mod recommendations for enhancement (weight 0.05): Several players suggest using mods like Colors Re-Rainbow and Project Re-Rainbow to improve the game experience. These mods are highly recommended and can be installed using the Hedgehog Mod Manager.
- Easy to achieve platinum (weight 0.01): The game is considered relatively easy to platinum, making it accessible for players looking to achieve this milestone without significant difficulty.
- Accusation of false advertising (weight 0.01): A player accuses the game's store page of false advertising. This feedback is in Korean and suggests dissatisfaction with the game's marketing.
- Mention of Steam Deck (weight 0.01): There is a mention of Steam Deck, but without additional context, it is unclear how it relates to the game experience.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.37): Players are disappointed due to the remaster's frequent crashes, performance issues, and poor quality compared to the original Wii version. The gameplay mechanics are criticized as limited and uninteresting, with complaints about recycled bosses, poor level design, and lack of meaningful improvements. Additionally, the remaster's visual and audio issues, along with the need for mods to fix various problems, contribute to the overall disappointment.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.15): Players express satisfaction with the gameplay experience, especially when enhanced by mods like Project Re-Rainbow, which improve graphics and gameplay. The game's tight and focused gameplay, along with its enjoyable Wisp abilities and great stages, contribute to a positive experience. The improvements in framerates, visuals, and controls compared to the Wii version, as well as the overall positive evaluation of the game's graphics, gameplay, and audio, are also highlighted.
- Frustration (weight 0.15): Players are frustrated with the game's numerous technical issues, including crashes, stuttering, and bugs that hinder gameplay. The controls are criticized as stiff, clumsy, and sometimes broken, leading to a poor gaming experience. Additionally, the need for mods to fix various issues and the high price for a remaster with bugs contribute to the frustration.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.09): Players feel nostalgic as the game brings back memories of their childhood and the original Wii version. The game holds a special place in their hearts, being one of the first Sonic games they played as kids. The charm of the Wii release and the enjoyment of replaying a beloved game from the past with improved features contribute to this nostalgic feeling.
- Joy (weight 0.06): Players experience joy from the game's fun and polished gameplay, enjoyable music, and creative level ideas. The beautiful worlds, great soundtrack, and vibrant energy contribute to a positive and happy gaming experience. The game's fast and fun gameplay, along with its enjoyable level exploration, also bring joy to the players.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.04): Players enjoy the fluid and fun gameplay, despite some flaws. The overall game experience, including fun stages, great soundtrack, and the enjoyment of achieving 100% completion, contributes to a positive experience. The fun gameplay and legendary soundtrack are also highlighted as enjoyable aspects.
- Disappointment (weight 0.03): Players express disappointment due to the game's rough level flow and lack of PC options, which detract from the overall experience. The game's performance issues, such as stutters and crashes, further contribute to this disappointment.
- Disappointed (weight 0.03): Players are disappointed with the game's failure to fix issues with controls and level design from the original. The technical state of the game, including performance issues and bugs, along with the inclusion of Denuvo, adds to the disappointment.
- Excitement (weight 0.02): Players are excited by the game's fast, chaotic, and adrenaline-filled gameplay. The introduction to Starlight Carnival Act 1 and the high-speed gameplay and exploration are highlighted as exciting aspects. The enjoyment of the game and its story also contribute to this excitement.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the game's soundtrack, creative scenarios, and gameplay mechanics. The DS version's additional content and better lore are also appreciated. The level design and overall gameplay mechanics contribute to this appreciation.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.02): Players are satisfied with the core gameplay and the ability to play the game on PC without needing to use their Wii. The updated soundtrack and the use of mods like Project Re-Rainbow to enhance the game experience contribute to this satisfaction.
- Happy (weight 0.02): Players are happy with the game's availability on Steam, allowing them to uninstall the Epic Games Store. The game's good gameplay, visuals, and music, along with the lighthearted nature of the game and nostalgic feelings, contribute to this happiness.
- Anger (weight 0.01): Players are angry about the game's poor quality and demand a refund. Specific levels and broken mechanics, such as rail grinding and setpieces, contribute to this anger. The game's crashes and poor quality are also significant sources of frustration.
- Happiness (weight 0.01): Players are happy with SEGA bringing a port for PC and find the game enjoyable and entertaining. The overall enjoyment of the game contributes to this happiness.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Players find amusement in the game's short animated cutscenes before each boss fight and the dialogue, which is considered 'so bad that it's good.' The humorous aspects of the game, such as jokes about Eggman, contribute to this amusement.
- Anger (weight 0.01): Players are furious due to the game being one of the worst PC ports and suffering from the use of Denuvo, which causes significant performance issues.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Players are annoyed by the game's stuttering issues and control problems with certain Wisps, such as the drill Wisp and frenzy Wisp.
- Surprise (weight 0): Players are surprised by the amount of 2D platforming in the game, which was unexpected and notable.
- Exhilaration (weight 0): Players feel exhilarated by Aquarium Park's immersive design coupled with the uplifting music, which creates a thrilling and enjoyable experience.}