Sonic X Shadow Generations is finally coming out this week, and it’s another big release for the Sonic franchise that’s sure to delight fans.
Even though 2024 is not yet over, it’s fair to say that this year is a huge one for Sonic fans, especially those who love Shadow the Hedgehog. After all, even before this game’s release, fans got treated to the awesome Tokyo Game Show 2024 booth and showcases, as well as the three-part Dark Beginnings animated series prologue which gave us more insight into Shadow’s past.
Then, there’s the fact that Shadow is finally making an appearance in the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie this December. Voicing Shadow is none other than Keanu Reeves.
Because the movie is finally coming out in just two months, now is the perfect time to jump into Sonic X Shadow Generations. Before you start playing though, here’s all you need to know about this exciting new release.
Is Sonic X Shadow Generations an All-New Game or a Remaster?
This game’s title implies that this is a remaster of Sonic Generations. In a way, it’s a remaster of Generations, letting players experience the collection of classic Sonic levels with enhanced visuals, cutscenes, and additional mechanics.
To be exact, this game is not just a straight-up HD remaster as even those who have played Generations a decade ago will have a fresh experience. This is thanks to the Drop Dash mechanic to Sonic which has become a fixture in games over the years.
Another thing to look forward to is being able to rescue Chao. In all the game’s levels, there is a hidden Chao that players can rescue, adding an extra layer of challenge and replayability to the game’s chapters.
These new additions aren’t the biggest new aspect of the game though. That’s because this game also features Shadow Generations, an all-new campaign where players take on the role of Shadow as he grapples with a familiar foe.
Essentially, this is a brand-new game where Shadow goes through various iconic levels that are reworked to better fit his playstyle. Yes, in this game, players can access various unique abilities as Shadow.
Specifically, these powers include Chaos Control, an ability that lets Shadow pause time to freeze objects. This is helpful not only to get through obstacles but also to access hidden paths.
Then, there’s Shadow’s Doom Powers such as Chaos Spears which he can use to hit enemies. Shadow also can fly over obstacles and surf on water, both of which help reach various hidden areas or complete specific challenge objectives.
Where Shadow Generations Sits on the Sonic Timeline
The Shadow Generations campaign sees Shadow grapple with his past while dealing with Black Doom who is once again hell-bent on taking over the world.
This campaign’s story happens at the same time as the Sonic Generations campaign. Thus, it explains where Shadow was during the adventure of Classic and Modern Sonic against the Time Eater.
While there’s no official Sonic timeline, the fact that Shadow Generations happens alongside Sonic Generations means its events take place before the War to Take Back the Planet. This means the new campaign happens before Sonic Forces.
Can You Play Sonic X Shadow Generations as Your First Sonic Game
Given that this is Shadow’s first major game appearance in quite some time, Shadow Generations promises to be a big treat for long-time Sonic fans.
What’s more, the game also features reworkings of iconic Sonic levels, all while bringing back beloved bosses from past games. This makes it a proper throwback experience for many fans.
This begs the question though: Can you start with Sonic X Shadow Generations? Well, the answer is a definite yes!
Even though it has lots of moments that long-time fans will love, it like pretty much all Sonic games, is an enjoyable standalone experience. It also helps that the game has a useful “Shadow’s Story” prologue which gives fans a rundown of Shadow’s past. Watching this alongside the Dark Beginnings animated prologue should be all that you need to enjoy the game’s story.
In fact, for Sonic fans who didn’t really play the other entries involving Shadow, this is a great game to play so that they can finally appreciate Shadow’s story and personality.
Where to Play the New Sonic X Shadow Game
Sonic Generations was released back in 2011 for the seventh-generation consoles, including the PS3 and Xbox 360. It has also received a 3DS version along with a Windows PC version.
Finally though, players on modern consoles can experience the Sonic Generations levels, complete with a fresh coat of paint. That’s because this game launches on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. Plus, this game is also coming out on PC.
The Complete PC System Requirements
For players on PC, here are the system requirements:
Minimum
- OS: Windows 10
- Processor: Intel Core i3-2120 or FX-6300
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 550 Ti, 1GB or AMD Radeon HD 5770, 1GB
- Resolution and FPS target: Low 720p @ 30 FPS
Recommended
- OS: Windows 10
- Processor: Intel Core i7-2600 or AMD Ryzen 5 1400
- Memory: 12 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780, 3GB or AMD Radeon RX 470, 4GB or Intel Arc A310, 4GB
- Resolution and FPS target: High 1080p @ 60 FPS
Is Shadow Generations Connected to the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Movie?
The Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie made waves this year following its trailer, along with the reveal of the internet’s favorite actor Keanu Reeves as his voice.
In case you’re wondering, the Sonic live-action movies have their own continuity, meaning there’s no crossover between the movie Sonic and Classic/Modern Sonic from the games. This also means there’s no connection between Shadow Generations and this upcoming film.
Still, playing Shadow Generations is highly recommended before watching the movie. After all, while they exist in different continuities, they share similar traits and likely histories. Given that Shadow Generations also serves as a great introduction to Shadow for many newer fans, it’s also a good idea to experience it to better enjoy the upcoming movie.
What’s more, the game will also get a special Sonic 3 Movie Pack DLC which will include a Shadow skin that’s based on his movie appearance, along with voice lines from Keanu himself. This DLC will be available for Digital Deluxe Edition and Digital Deluxe Season Pass owners.
Sonic X Shadow Generations will be available worldwide on October 25, 2024. Meanwhile, players who own the Digital Deluxe Edition have early access to the game beginning October 22.