New Sonic Frontier Trailer Shows off a Bit of What an Open-World Sonic Looks Like
The new Sonic Frontiers trailer shows off some of the different zones we can expect in the game. This attempt at a 3D Sonic game seems to be quite different than previous games. For one, this one will be an open-zone experience rather than straight linear levels.
Essentially, this will be a true open-world sonic experience. Now, it is easy to be dismissive of this idea. Sonic, especially 3D Sonic, doesn’t exactly have the best reputation. Jumping on the open-world bandwagon, especially so late, doesn’t exactly inspire confidence.
However, I truly think this idea can work. I’m picturing open areas where Sonic can get to full speed combined with different platforming challenges to get to new areas. The open-world could really benefit Sonic if it properly displays his speed.
Open-world games really depend on how fun they are to move around and navigate. Sonic has potential here. Now, I do have questions on how exactly the gameplay is going to carry over. Are we still going to be awkwardly trying to do a homing attack in an open-world? That would be strange.
Here is what Takashi Iizuka, Creative Officer at Sonic Team USA had to say on Sonic Frontiers:
“Sonic Frontiers is a huge leap forward for the franchise, delivering an evolved gameplay experience that can be enjoyed by longtime Sonic fans and action-adventure enthusiasts alike. With the effort of the talented developers at Sonic Team Japan, we’ve created an all-new style of gameplay experience for Sonic the Hedgehog, where players will be able to explore lush and expansive landscapes with Sonic’s signature speed and abilities. There’s sure to be lots of twists and turns around every corner in ‘Sonic Frontiers,’ and we’re excited to unveil more information about the game over the coming months.”
I have my questions about how Sonic Frontiers will play, but I choose to remain cautiously optimistic.
Sonic Frontiers is set to launch in late 2022.
Source: Press Release