Sonic: Lost World

Sonic: The Lost World is a bit of a change of direction for SEGA's blue blur, but one that aims to stay true to the series' roots.

While SEGA is sticking to Sonic's tried and tested fast-paced platforming formula, the developer has opted for a floating level design in which stages are made up of airborne platforms and areas. That means lots of big jumps and a bit of freefall, as well as some weird and interesting level design. The most obvious comparison is Nintendo's Mario Galaxy, but given that Lost World is only available on Nintendo platforms the company probably isn't too worried by the similarities. Besides, the faster play style of Sonic has always meant that platformers starring the spiky speedster have felt different to games starring the heroic Italian plumber.

SEGA has made one small but important tweak to the way the game plays, however. Sonic's default way to move is now walking. Players can still sprint round levels at high speeds to their hearts' content with the push of a button, but the fact that Sonic can now take things a little easier means players are more able to explore levels and search for different routes.

Overall, the game has a whimsical, carefree design that doesn't take itself too seriously and should have plenty to delight old hands and younger fans alike.