10 Best Sonic Games in 2025 – From Classic to Modern
The best Sonic games raised a full generation of gamers. This iconic franchise of platformers known to players worldwide. It combines high speed, adrenaline, and a recognizable character even among those who have never held a gamepad.
Since the release of the first Sonic game in 1991, the Blue Hedgehog has captured the hearts of millions of players. The adventures are available on dozens of platforms, from SEGA Genesis to modern consoles.
Which of the games is truly worth attention? Fans still argue about what’s better—the classic 2D platforms or the dynamic modern 3D hits? Whether you’re looking for old-school nostalgia, fast action, or an engaging story, you’re sure to find something interesting in our selection.
Our Top Picks for Sonic Games
The best Sonic games include many top titles that define the whole franchise. All the games offer unique gameplay, dynamic levels, and the signature Sonic speed everyone knows. From the entire list of released games, we’ve selected the top 5 that truly became masterpieces:
- Sonic Mania (2017) – the game became a true love letter to the classic best Sonic games. It combines original levels with updated pixel art, creating a perfect balance between retro style and modern gameplay mechanics.
- Sonic The Hedgehog 2 (1992) – one of the most iconic games in the series, setting the standard for platformers at the time. In Sonic The Hedgehog 2, Tails were introduced, along with iconic zones like Chemical Plant and the ability to transform into Super Sonic.
- Sonic Adventure 2 (2001) – the best 3D platformer in the franchise and a must-play for all fans of the series. This game introduced Shadow, and its soundtrack and dynamic levels made it a real hit.
- Sonic The Hedgehog 4 (2010) – an attempt to bring back the spirit of the classic Sonic games with updated graphics and modern physics. It’s a great adventure for those who love old-school 2D games.
- Sonic Generations (2011) – the perfect mix of old and new. In Sonic Generations, players can experience iconic levels from previous games, such as both classic and modern Sonic.
10 Best Sonic Games for Speedrunning
The Sonic games series includes dozens of titles, but only a few have truly stuck with franchise fans. From classic 2D platformers to modern 3D adventures, the games have set a high bar that others have struggled to surpass. It’s the unique design, high speed, rings, loops, and, of course, exciting battles with Dr. Eggman. Keep reading to find the best games for yourself.
1. Sonic Mania [Best Classic 2D Game]
| Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| Nintendo console Switch, Android, PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One, iOS | 2017 | Christian Whitehead, PagodaWest Games |
Sonic Mania is one of the top platformer games that takes us back to the roots of the whole series. This is a classic Sonic game that will be a true gift for all fans. Here, you’ll find retro graphics in the Genesis era style, perfectly complemented by modern mechanics.
You’ll encounter several familiar locations like Green Hill and Chemical Plant, as well as many new unique scenes.
This Sonic title is:
- A great game for Sonic fans – both old classics and new elements are here;
- Fast and smooth gameplay, with full control over the character, which is a fundamental aspect of any 2D Sonic game;
- Bonus levels – collect secret rings and unlock real secret zones;
- An excellent soundtrack that became a true hit and won the hearts of fans.
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2. Sonic The Hedgehog 2 [Best Old-School Game]
| Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| Sega Genesis, PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Mobile, Switch | 1992 | Sega, Sonic Team, Sega Technical Institute, M2, Backbone Entertainment |
Sonic The Hedgehog 2 is one of the most iconic games in the entire Sonic franchise. My friends told me about this game setting high standards for future platformers and they were totally right.
This is where Tails was introduced for the first time, becoming Sonic’s loyal friend and partner. Also, Sonic’s history was taken to an entirely new level here, as the main character began to transform into Super Sonic.
This Sonic game includes:
- The introduction of Super Sonic, who has incredible power and speed;
- Several memorable zones, including Chemical Plant and Mystic Cave;
- The appearance of the character Shadow, who later became one of the franchise’s icons.
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3. Sonic Adventure 2 [Best 3D Platformer]
| Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| Dreamcast, GameCube, PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS | 2001 | Sega, SEGA of America |
Sonic Adventure 2 rightfully earned the title of the best game in the entire series. Several interesting mechanics were introduced, including kart racing. Missions with Chao also became available. It is one of the most exciting adventure games due to its captivating gameplay.
Features of the game include:
- The antagonist Shadow brings a fresh perspective on the conflict between Sonic and his enemies;
- Unique Chao training mechanics to develop their special qualities;
- An excellent soundtrack – the music from this installment is still considered legendary;
- The character-switching mechanic creates a unique experience for players.
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4. Sonic The Hedgehog 4 [Best Classic-Style Game]
| Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| Android, Wii, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Windows, BlackBerry, Ouya, Windows Phone, iOS | 2010 | Sega, SEGA of America |
One of the greatest story games in the entire series, which will be appreciated by those who value a deep plot. Unlike its 3D spin-offs, this game in the series focuses on the classic style – high speed and platforming elements. It also gives you the ability to transform into Super Sonic, who has increased power and high speed.
This Sonic title features:
- A faithful return to 2D side-scrolling action, capturing the essence of the original games.
- Sonic’s homing attack from the 3D titles, adding a new layer to the classic gameplay.
- Special stages reminiscent of the original Sonic the Hedgehog, where you can collect Chaos Emeralds to unlock the ability to transform into Super Sonic.
- Updated visuals that maintain the series’ classic charm while providing a fresh look.
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5. Sonic Generations [Best Blend of Old and New]
| Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| Nintendo Switch, Nintendo 3DS, PlayStation 3 | 2011 | Sonic Team |
The game will appeal to all fans of the series – it combines both classic and modern gameplay styles. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that you can play as both Classic Sonic and his modern version. Each level in the game is a unique blend of retro and innovative ideas.
This Sonic title enables you to:
- Play as both Classic and Modern Sonic, each with unique abilities.
- Reimagined iconic environments from gaming history, brought to life in beautiful HD.
- Unlock and equip various skills to tailor Sonic’s abilities to your playstyle, enhancing replayability.
- Enjoy remastered and new tracks that pay homage to the series’ rich musical history.
6. Sonic Forces [Best Story-Driven 3D Game]
| Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows | 2017 | Sonic Team |
Sonic Forces is a game with classic mechanics, fast levels, and the ability to create your on characters. You’ll encounter new enemies, modern graphics, and a great story. The game focuses on Sonic and his friends trying to stop a secret organization of villains.
This Sonic game lets you:
- Play as Modern Sonic, Classic Sonic, and a customizable hero character.
- Design your own hero, selecting from various animal species, each with distinct abilities, and equip them with Wispons, which are special gadgets that grant unique powers.
- Join forces with Sonic’s friends to liberate the world from Dr. Eggman’s dominion, encountering new adversaries like Infinite along the way.
- Explore a variety of stages, from iconic zones like Green Hill to new areas, each offering unique challenges and aesthetics.
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7. Sonic Colors: Ultimate [Best Remastered Edition]
| Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Windows, Xbox One, Amazon Luna | 2021 | Blind Squirrel Games |
Sonic Colors: Ultimate is an updated version of one of the most popular games about the blue hedgehog, originally released for the Wii platform. This version features updated graphics and new opportunities.
As a result, it will be appreciated by both true fans of the series and new players. The graphics are bright and dynamic, and Sonic has gained new abilities called Wisps, which open up new possibilities for level progression.
This Sonic title features:
- Enhanced graphics with upscaled visuals and improved lighting.
- New Wisp power-ups, introducing unique abilities for Sonic.
- A new Rival Rush mode, allowing players to race against Metal Sonic.
- Remixed soundtrack, offering a fresh take on classic tunes.
Grab a copy of Sonic Colors: Ultimate >
8. Sonic Frontiers [Best Open-World Experience]
| Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Windows, Amazon Luna | 2022 | Sonic Team |
Sonic Frontiers offers players an entirely new gaming format – now you have a huge open world to explore, where you can move around freely, complete tasks, and fight secret enemies. I would call this title one of the most ambitious in the series, it’s truly a fresh take on the timeless Sonic platformer classic.
This Sonic title features:
- High-speed exploration across five massive overworld islands, each with unique challenges and secrets.
- An all-new battle system with skill tree upgrades, enabling strategic combat against mysterious foes and colossal titans.
- Access to Cyber Space levels featuring signature 3D platforming at Sonic speeds, offering a variety of challenges to test your skills.
- Engaging side quests, puzzles, and mini-games that enrich the overall gameplay experience.
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9. Team Sonic Racing [Best Racing Game]
| Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One, Amazon Luna | 2019 | Sumo Digital |
A non-classical game format – this is a racing perspective on the Sonic series. Unlike classic racing games, team play is extremely important here, as well as personal skill. While progressing, you can team up in groups of three and use unique mechanics to interact with each other for successful progression.
This Sonic title features:
- Team-based racing mechanics that encourage cooperation among players.
- A variety of game modes, including Grand Prix, Exhibition, Time-Trial, and Team Adventure Mode.
- Online multiplayer supporting up to 12 players per race and local co-op with four-player split-screen.
- Vehicle customization options to suit different racing styles.
10. Sonic Superstars [Best Co-op Experience]
| Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows | 2023 | Arzest, Sonic Team |
Sonic Superstars is a true return to the classic 2D games, but in a new format. The spirit of the classic Genesis titles is preserved, but new ideas are added to the gameplay. Players will have the opportunity to choose from one of four playable characters, including Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Amy Rose. Each character has unique abilities, so levels can be completed in a different way.
This Sonic title features:
- Enhanced 2D gameplay with fully 3D graphics, introducing new powers, abilities, and settings.
- A campaign mode comprising three distinct stories, each unlocking sequentially upon completion of the previous one.
- An eight-player battle mode and a time attack mode, offering diverse competitive and time-trial challenges.
- A variety of zones with unique themes, aesthetics, and challenges, enriching the overall gameplay experience.
FAQs
What is the best Sonic game?
The top Sonic game is Sonic Mania, released in 2017. It’s one of the best entries in the series, featuring classic 2D gameplay elements, modern mechanics, and unique pixelated graphics.
Which Sonic game is the most successful?
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is one of the most successful games, with over 6 million copies sold worldwide since its release. It’s one of the most memorable platformers of its time. The game introduced characters like Tails and Super Sonic for the first time.
Which Sonic game is the least popular?
Sonic the Hedgehog is considered the least popular game due to significant criticism – players faced numerous bugs, a confusing storyline, and an incomplete ending.
