Sonic Blast (1996)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Sonic Blast: A 3D Adventure That Breaks the Mold

Released in 1996, Sonic Blast was the last Sonic game for the Game Gear. It was also ported to the Sega Master System in Brazil in 1997, making it the last game ever made for that system. While it shares a similar name to Sonic 3D Blast, the two games are very different. They share no enemies, levels, or bosses, and their stories are completely different.

Sonic Blast is a 3D adventure that puts you in the middle of the action. You’ll control Sonic as he runs, jumps, and spindashes through a variety of colorful and vibrant levels. The game’s graphics are fully rendered, which was a major technical achievement for the Game Gear at the time.

The story of Sonic Blast is simple but engaging. The evil Dr. Robotnik is after the Chaos Emeralds, and it’s up to Sonic to stop him. Along the way, Sonic will rescue innocent Flickies, small birds that Robotnik is trying to turn into robots.

Sonic Blast features a variety of gameplay elements that make it a unique and enjoyable experience. In addition to the standard running and jumping, you’ll also be able to use Sonic’s spindash to plow through enemies and obstacles. You’ll also be able to collect power-ups that will give Sonic new abilities, such as the ability to fly or shoot lasers.

One of the things that makes Sonic Blast stand out is its level design. The levels are varied and creative, and they offer a good mix of challenge and exploration. You’ll race through loop-de-loops, jump over bottomless pits, and navigate through treacherous mazes.

The bosses in Sonic Blast are also memorable. Each boss has its own unique design and attack patterns, and they provide a significant challenge. Defeating the bosses is essential to progress through the game, and it’s always a satisfying experience.

Sonic Blast was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its graphics, gameplay, and level design. The game was also a hit with fans, and it remains one of the most popular Sonic games on the Game Gear.

Innovation and Legacy

Sonic Blast was a groundbreaking game for the Game Gear. It was the first Sonic game to feature fully rendered 3D graphics, and it set a new standard for handheld gaming. The game’s innovative gameplay and level design also helped to push the boundaries of what was possible on the Game Gear.

Sonic Blast had a significant impact on the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. It was the first Sonic game to be developed by STI, a new development studio that would go on to create several other Sonic games. Sonic Blast also introduced several new gameplay elements that would become staples of the franchise, such as the spindash and the homing attack.

Sonic Blast is a classic Sonic game that still holds up today. It’s a fun, challenging, and visually impressive adventure that’s sure to please fans of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of Sonic Blast:

  • Use the spindash to your advantage. The spindash is a powerful move that can be used to plow through enemies and obstacles. To perform a spindash, hold down the down button and then press the jump button.
  • Collect power-ups. Power-ups are scattered throughout the levels, and they can give Sonic new abilities. Be sure to collect as many power-ups as you can to make your journey easier.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore. The levels in Sonic Blast are full of hidden secrets. Take your time to explore each level and you’ll be rewarded with extra lives, power-ups, and other goodies.
  • Be patient. Sonic Blast can be a challenging game, but it’s also very rewarding. If you’re patient and persistent, you’ll be able to overcome any obstacle and defeat Dr. Robotnik.

Conclusion

Sonic Blast is a classic Sonic game that’s still worth playing today. It’s a fun, challenging, and visually impressive adventure that’s sure to please fans of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. So if you’re looking for a great Game Gear game to play, be sure to check out Sonic Blast.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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