In 2017, SEGA commemorated their mascot’s 25th anniversary by unleashing Sonic Mania. Paying homage to the classic SEGA Genesis games, Sonic Mania’s remake is certainly surprising. Nevertheless, the game was a massive hit among fans and critics. The game brought to life one of the best side-scroller platformer games of all time to the current-gen, and it was perfectly executed.
You see, Sonic Mania is not just your typical remake; it is in fact, a fusion of both classic and modern platforming elements. SEGA managed to retain the classic Sonic the Hedgehog gameplay fans loved and added a modern twist into the game’s entire gameplay mechanics by redesigning traditional levels and optimizing the definitive version to fit the requirements of current players. In other words, it was a remake done right.
Just as you thought the game could not get any better, SEGA unleashed Sonic Mania Plus the next year. Just like its predecessor, It was highly acclaimed by both critics and gamers alike. That said if you are wondering what makes the Plus version even better than the original, well then, we have five reasons for you.
New Characters
The game adds two new classic characters in the Sonic Mania roster: Mighty the Armadillo and Ray the Flying Squirrel. For those new to the series, this is the second video game appearance of both characters. Their first appearance was in the 1993 SEGA arcade game called SegaSonic the Hedgehog. Nevertheless, you will be at the forefront of getting to know two newly designed characters for the series. Getting Sonic Mania Plus will allow you to try out and exploit the various skills and abilities of both styles.
Sonic Mania Encore Mode
Encore Mode is a brand new addition to the play. This mode is an exclusive mode all for the plus type. In this version, players are taken to a new adventure that takes place after the events of the game’s Mania Mode and the conclusion of Sonic Forces, thus the name encore.
This mode will allow the player to experience all the zones in Mania Mode. The main difference is that this mode will come with new rules, color palettes, areas, and object placements. Think of it as an expanded version of the Mania Mode complete with new features like the party and lives system.
Expanded Multiplayer and Optimized Boss Fight Difficulty
Another improvement seen in Sonic Mania Plus is the multiplayer mode. Compared to Sonic Mania, Sonic Mania Plus comes with an expanded multiplayer feature that can accommodate a maximum of four players. Adding more excitement to the game are the new bonus stages and optimized difficulty for boss fights.
Improved User Interface
Sonic Mania Plus also comes with a new and improved user interface that displays the player’s precise time for each act. This further improvement also includes showing the players’ total completion time, which now consists of both bonuses and special stages.
Sonic Mania Physical Release
Unlike Sonic Mania, which was only available in digital, the plus type got a physical release. This means that collectors can own and buy the physical format of the game. Also, people can add it to their Sonic the Hedgehog collection of games. The best part is that the physical version features a holographic cover with a reversible sleeve design that follows the classic Genesis box. The package also includes a 32-page art book perfect for all Sonic the Hedgehog fans out there.
In a nutshell, the Plus version is a buffed version of the game. Still, the new game is a good recommendation title for you to check out. The game is currently available physically for the PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. You can also get the game the PC and Steam version in digital.
