Gamertell

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Price: $4.99
System(s): iPod Classic, 5G iPod Video, 3G iPod Nano
Release Date: December 18, 2007
Publisher (Developer): Apple Inc (Sega of America)
ESRB Rating: N/A
Pros: It is a faithful port and isn’t too difficult considering you play using only a click wheel.
Cons: The screen is small, and it can be a bit awkward to play initially.
Overall Score: 7.5/10

One of the latest games just released for the iPod is a familiar face from the past. The original Sonic the Hedgehog game from the Sega Genesis has been ported to the mp3 player. Surprisingly, this title fits perfectly there. Despite it’s age (the game originally came out in 1991), it looks gorgeous and runs well on the system.

Gameplay-wise, Sonic the Hedgehog remains unchanged. It is the exact same game that was on the Genesis and has appeared in the Sega Genesis Collection for the PS2 and PSP. The game is quick and entertaining. It also looks bright and vibrant on the iPod. The game is a classic, and despite its age still manages to impress.

Sega did make a few alterations for this version, but both of them are for the best. First, Sonic has infinite lives. This comes in handy in case you are interrupted while playing or you misstep while adjusting to the new controls. The second change is a new save system. You can save at any time during play and then resume playing from that point later. Both of these tweaks make the game easier to play on the go and on the iPod.

There is a downside. The controls, which do work well, are a bit awkward to adjust to. This isn’t something that tarnishes the game, because the only movements used in the game are running and jumping. It just feels strange initially. Luckily, Sega anticipated this. Sonic the Hedgehog comes with a tutorial to help players adjust. There are also two distinct control modes, one-hand and two-hand, which allow players to go with what they find most comfortable. I personally preferred the one-handed control scheme.

The only reason I would hesitate to recommend the game is if your click wheel is damaged from normal use or age. Many times the click wheel can get finicky, developing ‘sweet spots’ where only one portion registers. If your iPod’s click wheel is like that, then avoid Sonic the Hedgehog. Otherwise, go for it.

Read [Macworld] Product Page [iPod Games]