Quality content.
Sonic Mania is a great game. Not just a great Sonic game, but an all-around great addition to any collection. So when Sega announced they were adding some cheap DLC and offering fans a chance at a physical copy complete with art book and reversible Genesis-style cover, it only made sense. The additional content added might be minor in the grand scheme, but what Sonic Mania Plus does is appease fans of the series with just the right amount of fan-service.
First, let’s look at the new characters. We have Ray, who is a flying squirrel. His mechanics bring something new to every level in Sonic Mania. He can glide up and down, which changes things dramatically. Imagine adding just a little more height to any jump. The speed runs are going to be insane.
MSRP: $29.99 (retail) DLC $5 (add-on)
Platforms: XB1 (reviewed), PS4, Switch, PC
Price I’d Pay: $29.99
Then we have Mighty the Armadillo. Most likely the lamest Sonic character one could imagine. This character essentially breaks the game, as they are immune to most damage when rolling in his ball. He also has a ground pound technique that does area of effect damage. Basically he is easy mode.
This $5 DLC also brings new modes. Encore mode is incredibly fun. This mixes up stages from the previous game and shines a new light on them. Playing through with the new characters or even the original ones feels both fresh and fun. It is like getting a whole new game for next to nothing. This mode also changes up the dynamic of lives and characters.
There are still two onscreen, but players can switch between them with the press of a button. Lives are also earned from boxes as opposed to score and rings. There is also a randomization item that mixes up which characters are currently playable. It can become chaotic, but that is sort of what Sonic Mania is all about.
Like any good DLC pack though, this game also has some tweaks and fixes for the core game. Sure it was great, but it wasn’t perfect. Some mechanics have been altered and a few of the bosses have been tweaked. This really feels like the definitive version of the game. For those that already own it, the $5 for the DLC is a no-brainer. For fans wanting a physical copy, the additions and price are outstanding. Sonic Mania Plus is the best version of a great game. It feels good to be talking about Sonic in a positive light once again.
Review copy of game provided by publisher.
