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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Choose your first Sonic game by the kind of play you want: Sonic Origins Plus collects classic 2D games, Sonic X Shadow Generations pairs Sonic and Shadow campaigns, Sonic Superstars offers a new 2D side-scroller with local multiplayer, and Sonic Frontiers takes the series into action-adventure. There is no objectively correct starting point; these are format-based recommendations, not a comparative quality ranking.
Choose by the experience you want
| If you want… | Consider… | Why it fits |
|---|---|---|
| Classic 2D Sonic games gathered in one collection | Sonic Origins Plus | It includes four core classic games, with additional Game Gear titles and character options in the Plus package. |
| A modern package with Sonic and Shadow experiences | Sonic X Shadow Generations | It combines an enhanced Sonic Generations featuring Classic and Modern Sonic with a separate new Shadow Generations game. |
| A new side-scrolling 2D game to play locally with others | Sonic Superstars | SEGA describes it as a high-speed 2D side-scroller with 3D graphics and local multiplayer. |
| An action-adventure rather than a classic side-scroller | Sonic Frontiers | SEGA describes an action-adventure format and two control styles. |
Before buying, check the listing for your specific platform and region. Platform support can differ by game or version, and current prices, regional stock, and physical availability are not established here.
What each game offers
Sonic Origins Plus: a classic-games collection
The core collection brings together Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic 3 & Knuckles, and Sonic CD. The Plus package adds 12 Game Gear titles, playable Amy in the four core games, playable Knuckles in Sonic CD, and previously released additions. It is the clearest fit if you want to sample several classic-era games in one purchase rather than start with a newly made side-scroller.
SEGA’s product page lists PlayStation 5 and 4, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Steam, and Epic Games. The page also describes a premium physical edition with a 20-page artbook and reversible cover; check the local listing for whether that edition is offered for your platform and region.
#1 Best Overall
- A new Spin on a Classic: You've never played classic Sonic like this before!
- Multiply, swim up waterfalls, change form, and more with the powers of the Chaos Emeralds.
- lay as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Amy Rose, using their unique abilities to explore and uncover new paths and secrets.
- More Friends, More Fun: Play with up to 3 other players in local Co-op and challenge players from around the world in Battle Mode!
Sonic X Shadow Generations: two distinct campaigns
This package contains an enhanced Sonic Generations, where stages feature Classic and Modern Sonic, alongside a separate new Shadow Generations game. It suits someone who wants a contemporary package spanning both characters rather than a collection of the earliest games or a new 2D-only adventure.
SEGA’s original release announcement lists PlayStation 5 and 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, Steam, and Epic Games Store. SEGA announced availability on Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025. Confirm the exact version and current store listing for your device.
Rank #2
- READY, SET, WARP! Race across 24 tracks and warp to 15 CrossWorlds with Travel Rings, a unique gameplay mechanic that transports the iconic characters from the Sonic and SEGA universes into new dimensions. Use unpredictability to your advantage as you change the landscape of each race!
- RACE WITH THE BEST! Choose from 23 iconic Sonic characters, the largest roster of any Sonic racing game!
- MAKE IT YOURS: Mix and match between 45 unique original vehicles and 70 different gadgets to trick out your ride, level up your kart, and create the ultimate machine to match your racing style.
- GAIN THE ADVANTAGE WITH POWERFUL ITEMS! Dominate your opponents with 23 different items including returning favorites and all-new items like the Monster Truck!
- MULTIPLE WAYS TO PLAY: Gather with friends and play local split-screen in Grand Prix and the new party mode Race Park, compete against a community of players from around the world with up to 12 players online in World Match, or test your driving skills in Time Trials.
Sonic Superstars: new 2D side-scrolling
SEGA presents Sonic Superstars as a new high-speed game in the classic 2D side-scrolling format, rendered with 3D graphics. Its release announcement calls it the first title in the series with local multiplayer, making it a natural candidate if playing together in the same room is part of the plan.
The announced platforms are PlayStation 5 and 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, Steam, and Epic Games Store. Check your region’s store for the current version and availability.
Rank #3
- 🕹️ Officially Licensed: This is an officially licensed SEGA Game Console, ensuring an authentic gaming experience. High resolution 3.5” full color display.
- 🎯 Games Included: Includes Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic the Hedgehog 2. Capable of traveling at the speed of sound, Sonic is known for his speed, confident attitude and readiness for any and all types of adventure.
- 🕹️ Iconic Characters: A true hero, he calls upon his skills to save the world from Dr. Eggman. Sonic has a big heart and is always ready to help those in need.
- Headphone Jack: 3.5mm headphone jack lets you enjoy Sonic on the go on your own privately. Built-in speaker with volume control and adjustable screen brightness.
- Portable Gameplay: Powered by 4 AA batteries (not included) or by a USB-C cable (not included), this portable game lets you enjoy Sonic on-the-go.
Sonic Frontiers: action-adventure
Sonic Frontiers changes the format from a straightforward side-scroller to an action-adventure. SEGA describes two control options: Action Style, intended for accessible platforming, and High Speed Style, which features traditional high-speed controls. Those are SEGA’s descriptions of the options, not evidence that one setting or the game as a whole is objectively easiest for newcomers.
SEGA lists PlayStation 5 and 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, and PC through Steam. If you want an action-adventure experience, consider this rather than choosing solely because you are new to Sonic.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 15 years in the making. After his 1991 debut, universal video game icon Sonic returns to his high-velocity roots to create a new dimension of entertainment.
- Speed Redefined. Utilizing next-gen technologies, light bloom, and environmental motion-blur effects, Sonic's breakneck speed and dazzling world come to life.
- Amigos and enemies. Sonic is joined by friends and foes from the franchise history, as well as a new character, Silver, whose supernatural powers will wreak mayhem on Sonic's plans!
- Realistic World. Using a next-generation physics engine, Sonic's moves, attacks and environment interaction respond realistically to opposing forces.
- Two different types of stages. Town stages where Sonic will be able explore vast environments and play various sub-missions, and Action stages where Sonic's blistering speed will be utilized in full effect.
Rank #4
- Past meets present in SONIC GENERATIONS! Modern and Classic Sonic team up to defeat Dr. Eggman and the Time Eater to restore their timeline to normal!
- Spin dash through a greatest-hits collection of 3D and 2D versions of iconic stages from past Sonic games, now with updated visuals and reworked cinematics
- In this new standalone campaign, Black Doom has reemerged and threatens to take over the world. Shadow must journey into his past, confront his memories, and unlock new dark powers to save the world.
- Harness Shadow's new Doom Powers to battle hordes of enemies and tackle platforming challenges like never before. Surf on water, fly over obstacles, and stop time with the return of Chaos Control!
- Rescue Chao hiding in every level, rack up the highest pinball score in the Casino Nights zone, and check out the museum for behind-the-scenes art, music, and more!
Check these details before you buy
- Gameplay format: Decide whether you want classic games, a new 2D side-scroller, Sonic and Shadow campaigns, or an action-adventure.
- Classic or new material: Sonic Origins Plus collects classic titles; the other three offer different modern game formats.
- Local multiplayer: SEGA specifically identifies local multiplayer for Sonic Superstars. Check the current product listing for the mode and setup details that apply to your version.
- Your device: Confirm that the game and exact edition are listed for your console or PC storefront. For Sonic X Shadow Generations, distinguish the Switch 2 release from other platform versions.
- Current price and edition: Compare the local listings yourself. Prices, regional stock, and physical-edition availability can change and are not established by the product descriptions above.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
