Please let me know what you think of Sonic Origins Plus in the comments! And if you enjoyed the video, please leave a like and share if possible! With long videos like this, it can be hard for it to get recommended in the algorithm so please help out if possible! You guys are the best!
I like the fact that the new areas for knuckles have to be found. It makes sense for his character, especially keeping in mind what he's known for in sonic adventure
18:35 “This should’ve been the easiest home run for Sega, but they stopped just short of finish line” And we’ve been saying that for like a decade now, it really is unfortunate
I really enjoyed this review. Lol Thank you for being directly honest about the issues that made this package so underwhelming over easy solutions… I was anticipating this for the free patch quality of life improvements. I appreciate Amy being playable, and I don’t hate the inclusion of the Game Gear titles. But I don’t care about those games. The diehards that covered Origins Plus have all made amazing points that hasn’t been addressed. You would think this compilation would be a home run definitive classic era collection.
My only wish is that Metal got a playable role in the games like Amy did, given how he’s shown with the others so prominently (Robotnik being the exception as the MAIN villain)
I’m never letting go of the fact they said “New Playable Characters” and only gave us one. Metal Sonic could’ve easily been added alongside Amy, especially since it was his 30th Anniversary too, not just Amy’s.
A nice touch I don't see many talk about is the physical version's flippable cover. Being able to switch to a cover including the style of the original console is so cool, and it's even cooler that every region has their unique style of cover, as well as the genesis/mega drive name. Doesn't do anything to make the game better, but it's really neat imo.
Something I kind of wished they did was have the lives be toggable in the anniversary mode. I think that would've reduced the issue with the coins by making them a little more scarce (since I'm assuming the coins just replace all the 1 up monitors).
Origins Plus genuinely makes me upset because it’s the definition of Potential Redemption Wasted: Sonic Team had the privilege to give Origins a second chance with what could’ve been this revamped expansion that adds enough content and improvements to truly make it live up to its name as “The Definitive Classic Sonic experience,” but ended up wasting it by just not fixing enough. I’m ecstatic that Amy is a part of the main Team Sonic now, and I’m grateful to have an official way to play ALL of the Game Gear games, but you can’t tell me that the Origins team can’t fix the blurry pixels, the muffled music in S3&K, and add proper save file systems for each game (like they already had in the mobile ports)-some of these being modded in within DAYS of Origins’ release date-when the Frontiers team is doing all that and more in less time for free updates. Sonic Team had a rare second chance, and they blew it. At least the Frontiers DLC is great.
I bought this game earlier today and I love it a lot so far ! The only version of sonic 3 and knuckles I ever played was the sonic classic collection on DS (which was everything but smooth). And playing as amy feels really good ! But I understand why people would think the game feels incomplete. To be more original they could've added the advance games instead of the game gear games that every one boot up once and get bored and never touch them ever again.
I have Origins already, Amy is my favorite character, and I am happy to see her playable....but Superstars is coming out this year. I prefer to experience her in a new way, in a new game and new story. Thanks for letting us know about all these problems Sam. The only classic Sonic I played as a child was Sonic CD. So when Origins was announced, I was so happy to finally have a accessible way to experience the classic games. In a distance future, maybe when I feel the need to experience the classics again, then I will get the dlc.
A couple things in 2 got fixed that was noticeable, and one was very glaring. Rotations to the boxes in Mystic Cave have been fixed to rotate like they do in the Genesis original. The gears/cogs in Metropolis work properly now. Before, you'd get animation locked if you the pegs on the gears and couldn't jump off them, but now you can! I still agree, they should've been there to begin with, but it's good nontheless!
For the “Classic Mode” of these games… I think there’s an unfortunate explanation, and it’s all got to do with Sonic 3 and Knuckles. The reason why Sonic 3 and Knuckles was able ported onto the Mega Collection or the Wii Virtual Console is because they’re obviously just emulated, (which I think is a workaround with the music ordeal). But because Sonic Origins aims to have “remasters” as the main selling point… I guess they didn’t want to take the risk and emulate the game in it’s original form (music and all)… and it’s also affected the other mainline games for consistency’s sake. I don’t think a genuine “Classic Mode” would’ve been possible probably due to not having the original music in. I’m still not defending Sega, and I think Lives should’ve been a option that can be toggled on and off like Crash 4.
Then emulate 3 in its original form with the Genesis versions of the beta tracks for that new-retro authenticity value. Also, MJ allowed the use of the music while he was still alive because he was a true blue SEGA and Sonic fan, he died in 2009 after those ports you brought up already released with his permission.
Great review Sam! One thing to note about the original Sonic 1 still having the Spin Dash on: If you managed to complete the Surprise! Picture achievements, you’re rewarded with how to access the level select/secret codes for each game. In Sonic 1’s stage select, you have the option to turn the Spin Dash off from there. While it doesn’t completely address the issue, there’s at least an option for those who want to have a more authentic feel of the original game
Ngl, i like that Origins was kinda blurrier. Old games especially in the 90s relied a lot on CRT TV's to look good (theres hundreds of essays and comparisons on yt showing this). The blurr kinda makes the ugly sharp pixel look bit more smoothed out, although thats just my personal taste
Adding insult to injury, when I used to play S3&K for PC back in the late 90s, I later got a Final Fantasy 7 port. With it, there was the option to install a Yamaha XG Sound Font. So, there was no way I was not going to try it out in Sonic S3&K. Coming through my Sound Blaster 16 at the time, it was AMAZING! I would play Marble Garden Zone just to hear the low funky bassline in ACT 2. It rivals A.I.R. At the time, I figured that the reason that those songs were changed back for PC, was because each of those songs used custom "instruments" that cannot be found in the 128 default midi instruments. Given the release of Sonic JAM was a few months later, it may not have been an issue, yet, but probably soon after.
Amy being playable is great. Having knuckles playable in CD really made a difference. The game gear games it’s nice that they are there but they could have done a bit more to make them better.
I am so disappointed that Origins Plus even exists. I didn't need playable Amy and I didn't need a bunch of 8 bit games that aren't even part of Sonic's origin. I wanted the bugs in the original release to be fixed, I wanted all the menus and options unified so every game acted the same, I wanted proper classic mode, I wanted lives in widescreen mode. SEGA didn't do that. So I'm still not interested in buying it. And if I did want the 8 bit games, I would have wanted the Master System versions wherever possible to avoid screen crunch. And they couldn't even do _that._ I've encountered some people who absolutely insist that the Game Gear versions are better because there's more colors, and while I couldn't disagree with them more, there's no reason SEGA couldn't include both versions.
Oh yeah, how could I forget that SEGA still hasn't given a sharp pixel option?! And the butchered prototype music in Sonic 3? Sonic Origins was even worse than I remembered, thanks SEGA.
I get excited when I see a new game review in my feed from Sam Procrastinates! I always look forward to the funny edits and his brutally honest in-depth thoughts and opinions. Complaining to a company about what you don’t like about a game is the best thing to do to get better products.
I'm not a big fan of the game gear titles. Definitely would've preferred something else. Love that Amy is playable though. Sure hope SEGA decides to apply some updates/fixes where they are needed. Overall, great review!
These aren't the classic games, though, these are mobile remakes in the Sonic Mania engine. Re-releasing the Game Gear games specifically while leaving those other handheld Sonic games to continue to rot is still insultingly stupid of them, though.
new patch release fixed a few things you asked, Mostly Nearest Neighbour and fixed the game gears audio by adding mono! and fixed some sonic 3 bugs thats listed in the patch notes. the only thing needs to be fixed is: the music, oh and classic mode genesis games needing to be more emulated instead of cropped christain whitehead!
Yes, The filtering seems on par with Emulators Bilinear Filter now. Unlike the Genesis collection which uses an atrocious Bilinear Filter and although I didn't experience the original Filter Sega used for Origins IF the Genesis collection is anything to go by , it must have been atrocious.
Thank God for the PC FAN versions. Sega doesnt care about classic Sonic games enough to put effort into them between them and Sonic Team. Mania and Superstars needed other developers to even work.
It's frustrating that there are so many things holding Sonic Origins back because it really did have the potential to be one of the best, if not THE best Sonic collection out there. Origins is definitely not the worst collection either, however. There's still enjoyment to be had and it has a number of great things about it like the animated cutscenes, mission mode, playing as Amy and Knuckles in all 4 games (Even if Knuckles being playable in Sonic CD should've been there from the start), etc. I get the impression that this game does have soul. Just not enough of it. And it's a massive shame.
@rakanw.6258 in Advanced 3, she could only go into a ball if she hand a running start. She'd jump and would be vulnerable. Crouching and pressing the jump button made her leap forward. She was so different, but it was fun. Then again I guess that depends on pairing.
Origins+ is a ok way to play these games. But, nowhere near the best versions of these games. Use fan versions like sonic 1 forever, sonic 2 absolute, sonic 3 AIR, and thr official Sonic CD steam port, as well as emulate the game gear games (or the master system version) if you want the best experience.
Honestly, for as short as this collection falls, I'm just glad that SEGA decided to preserve the GG games right as they exited the market through the 3DS VC's closure. Sure, I would rather have the MS versions of 1, 2 and Chaos, but having the games conveniently available without having to dig out my aging GC, Wii or 3DS is nice.
Great video. I really hope people at SEGA somehow see this because I couldn't agree more, some small fixes would be SO significant but it just feels like SEGA didn't listen at all to the feedback. It's really frustrating.
I’m really glad that Amy’s finally getting more love this time around. I think she deserves it tbh she’s such an underrated character with so much potential.
I can’t believe it’s been a year holy cow and you did a very good job with the review but there is just one thing I gotta say to some up Sonic Origins Plus Nice Job Team 🤓
I think that Jim’s version of the prototype music can’t be fixed since I don’t think Jun would willingly redo the songs and Tee Lopes was busy with TMNT Shredder’s Revenge so this was the only thing they can do
I got Plus and other than Amy and Knuckles being in CD I feel that SEGA did jackshit to fix the big issues we all had. To be honest the reason I got this was to play Sonic on the Switch but on PC I recommend other fanmade options which are much better.
its crazy how we have to pay for playable amy in origins meanwhile we are getting a ton of new content for frontiers for free (including amy too in update 3)
Eh, screen crunch aside, Master System colors and it being so wire and empty looking makes them look a little uglier IMO. but no matter what, there's a compromise in both.
Everyone: Hey Sega could you use the music from the Sonic 3 Prototype? Sega: Of course! Coming right up! *Proceeds to use a way earlier version of the music from their archives for no reason instead of using the available prototype for the music*
To me this game feels like "one step forward, one step backwards" Starting from the Denuvo every good thing this game offers feels not fully fleshed out 4 classic remakes? Blurry image, no multiple save files like in the mobile games, no lives and bugs Sonic 3 remake? Awful music Physical release? The PLUS content is a code Playable Amy? No superform, just glowing Game gear games? Poor audio and lag And if they wanted to charge $55 max. they could've added QOL improvements like for example act transitions, smooth rotation, online play, etc All of this ends up being very frustrating
Am I petty for saying that I wouldn't have cared for any of these issues if they had just released the Jackson tracks? Anyway: awesome video, man. Very informative.
I don't get why SEGA doesn't just resolve the copyright issues with the Jackson/Buxler tracks. Like SEGA isn't a small indie company but a huge global one.
@@EpsilonsamaThey tried for years. It’s the reason why it took so long for S3 to get rereleased. It’s very clearly not a regular copyright issue considering that they were able to resolve the copyright issues w/ the JP Sonic CD vocal tracks, but they haven’t been able to do so for these songs.
As a fan of the original Sonic games on the genesis since 91’ or 92’ I still enjoy this collection. Sega did address some of the issues. While I can’t say this collection is a 10/10 it’s still good enough for old and new fans. I would say it’s more like a solid 8/10 collection. I would be shocked at this point if they made any other major changes to this collection but you never know. Sega definitely aren’t like 343 as they just updated Halo the Master Chief Collection and that game has been on Xbox for 9 years. It’s gotten updates longer than iPhones lol good vid Sam.
I bought the deluxe version last year, i feel as if me and others should have gotten this for free, period. They shouldn't ask me to pay 10 more dollars when i payed so much more for stuff that wasn't worth it to begin with. I genuinely hope this game gets updated to fix all of these problems that weren't fixed, even with plus, but knowing they haven't fixed the team sonic racing online servers, or sonic frontiers's pop-in, i genuinely think its unlikely, and that breaks my heart.
@@rakanw.6258 games like arkham knight had little pop in compare to frontiers(that game came out about 8 years ago) I highly doubt it's that hard to at least add a fade in effect if you get closer to stuff, just running while grass appears is jarring.
Just got this for $5 at Walmart. I found 1 copy, but there was no price tag for it in case. Asked a cashier to price check it for me, and it rang up at $5.00
All 12 of Sonic's game gear titles being present here and fully playable is actually a pretty big deal. As it's the first time that they're all here without having to be unlocked. They were unlockables in SADX for the gamecube and the original PC release not the steam one. I have no clue why they didn't have an option for the ones that have a master system version. Maybe it has something to do with those being from the PAL region or maybe they saw them as not being super popular as 1,2 and Chaos were the only ones on the Wii's virtual console. Good review BTW.
The Pal region problem is solved instantly with emulation since the game can be changed to play in the NTSC region which makes the game run exactly the same as the game gear version. And the popularity problem more so seems to be sega's ignorance at the sonic emulation scene where the master system version of sonic 1 is always the one emulated and therefore more popular than the game gear version. That might be different for console gaming but that's only because Sega didn't give those versions much of a chance to shine.
@@Turbulation1 I meant popular in a sense that they might not have sold too well on Wii virtual console at the time. I don't know what the sales figures where for those games on that platform, but considering that there were only 16 master system games on the wii shop at the time. It might be an unfortunate possibility. Game gear mostlikely sold well on 3DS virtual console and that might have been why that brought those into Origins and not bothered with Master System. SEGA does have a history of disregarding things that don't do well in sales or with critics but fans enjoy them. Sonic Unleashed being one of the bestest examples of that.
@@smashbronikko The Wii virtual console space could have maybe not done too well in general for games that were not on nintendo platforms not just Master System games. Wonder if things would have turned out differently if Master System games were added to the 3DS E-Shop.
I play Origins on the Switch and for that version alone, I think Origins and/or Plus is fairly decent. The blurriness (at least for me) isn't too noticeable in handheld mode due to the lower resolution and being able to play it on the go is great... and that's about it. Amy being added is great, Knuckles in CD is great but man was I hoping we'd get a bit more than just Game Gear games. For $61.40 Australian dollars, it's a hefty price tag for the solely digital base game and expansion pack. As someone who caved and bought the Digital deluxe version of Origins, yeah, I probably paid closer to $70 dollars for the game on Switch since getting Plus. The Master system versions (of the games that had one) really should've been used as you said and adding the games that aren't ported nearly as often would've justified the price a bit better. To date, I don't think Pocket Adventure has been ported once and it's a better game than many of the GG titles. 3D Blast would've done well on this collection with the ability to use analogue sticks instead of the D-Pad alone. It's still a bit slippery but it's far easier to control and again as you said, they have Flicky Island in the menu! For those playing on PC, I recommend getting the mobile version's APK files and running them on your computer for the best Sonic 1+2 experience. (I've done this on Android, I'm not sure what the process is for iOS) Far as I know, it's not an illegitimate way to play them as you're only moving the game files from one platform to another. There's videos on RUclips on how to do it. You won't have the Drop dash but just about all the other issues aren't present. Same can be done for CD. RIP to Sonic 3air for having the base game removed from Steam. Thankfully, I bought that collection before the ROMs were removed so I have access to it and it's still the definitive way to play Sonic 3K. Hopefully Sega allows the ROMs to be available on Steam again so this fantastic project doesn't go to waste.
17:32 Not only are you correct with the file swap assumption, but I would like to add that team behind the Hidden Palace website, who uncovered and released the proptotype themselves, did offer to send the raw prototype cart to Sega in an effort to fix the tracks and obviously that didn't happen. There was no good reason for this.
As much as I personally enjoy this collection as my go-to way to play these games, I’d be lying if I said that I didn’t agree with a lot of the points that Sam brought up here Great review as always
I bought it for switch just for the convenience. since we've been having a lot of power outages and my switch would be the only thing i can use in the meantime. edit: I might be in the minority here, but I don't mind the blurriness. I actually turned on the Antialiasing mode because I believe pixels should blend together and not stick out. edit edit: You can use roms you find on emulator sites to use in AIR, you don't need the steam versions. I did it myself.
There’s a game breaking oversight with Hyper Amy in Launch Base Zone Act 2 the area underwater you can throw a hammer to pop the enemy and open the door for Knuckles’ route, which locks you in place unable to progress and you need to restarts... also beating Knuckles in Hidden Palace Zone while transformed super/hyper still softlocks the level and you need to restart, here’s a video I made ruclips.net/video/5ZczWxKh1G0/видео.html They also didn’t fix Classic Blue Sphere it still plays only in 4:3 aspect ratio unless you use a cheat code, here’s a video I recorded ruclips.net/video/bVwJSuaBaog/видео.html
I actually like a LITTLE blurriness when it comes to the classic titles. When it's sharp, it doesn't really look it's best. It just makes it look like a bunch of blocks and pixels like it actually is. But when blurred slightly, you focus less heavily on the pixels and more on the picture it's making. But it was a bit TOO blurry in Origins. Not enough for me to notice or be bothered. But in the comparison where I'm specifically looking at it to judge, then it is.
In portable mode on Switch it looks just fine but on Steam Deck the blurriness are unbearably bad. A sharper option would had been nice, they don't even need to make it default, just make it an option.
Most of these compliations have already been released before, if they would've added Sonic Adventure and Advance games, it would've been worth it but $40 for a compliation already released before is a bit too much.
16:13 remember Jun introduces me with his branded exhaust muffler. Because this is how the music sound like in Sonic 3 & knuckles. And don't get me started with the super theme. It sounds like it was came out of Sonic 4 with the Genesis Gink instead of the Genesis Twang. Looking at you oil desert one. I've whenever I think about that drum samples from Sonic the hedgehog for I always think of oil desert 1. Countless ginking. Instead of countless twanging.
I haven't bought the originally game since it first came out because of all the issues, I was skeptical on plus till it came out to see if they fixed it, they kind of did, but they still left out some old problems and created new ones in it, I'm still waiting for this game to be called the definitive way to play these games, but since you and many others still say it's not there yet. I'll wait till you blow the trumpet from the mountain tops and scream, "THEY FIXED EVERYTHING SO NOW THIS IS THE DEFINITIVE WAY TO PLAY THESE GAMES, GO BUY IT NOW!!!" I'll be waiting, but only if Sega is willing to
i just got my physical copy of the game and yeah i experienced some of these. the amy glitch in carnival night zone with the spikes, and labyrinth zone in sonic 1 where you try to get the air bubble underwater but it glitches you and makes you go into the water current animation and drags you down so you can't get it.
Sonic Advance series: *exists* Sega: HERES THE SONIC GAME GEAR GAMES….AGAIN! Fans: *exhausted* Could you at least port the Master System versions for our bigger screens? Sega: NOPE! JUST GIVE US YOUR MONEY NOW!
Fun fact : even if Sonic A.I.R. is now inavilable on steam , then that wouldn't matter any way , no one was using the " Steam " rom of sonic 3 , they was just download the rom for free on the Internet , same with sonic cd 2011.
16:13 I actually watched a video that had a thread about this. Apparently, CN and IC have weird voice/sound bank issues. CN's voice bank is quite lower than its former prototype, and IC Act 1's voice bank is switched for Act 2's voice bank (which I think sounds better imo), other than that its nearly identical. Or at least that's me paraphrasing. Basically, the problems with these tracks is way simpler than it sounds, which actually makes it worse in comparison to most people. Me personally, I just think these inconvenient voice bank issues are kinda lame... Anyways, go watch Nuclear [NUKELEDGE]'s video on this, since I don't actually know what I'm talking about :))
Honestly, the only song I have issues with is Carnival Night Act 1. The rest sound fine. I played the Sonic and Knuckles Collection as a kid, so I kinda got used to it. Although I'll say I'm not a fan of the Super Sonic theme since they keep forgetting that Sonic 3 doesn't use the old thok drums
I feel like the Sonic Mega Collection is still better version. The Mega Collection already had the Genesis Version of Spinball and Mean Bean Machine, the game gear versions are so inferior, plus not to mention the original Sonic 3 Music from Carnival Night, Ice Cap and Launch Base are also in the Mega Collection. Even the Mega Collection has Sonic 3D Blast. Before you ask, yes i actually still have the Sonic Mega Collection on GCN.
They already screw up by not including Amy, Knuckles, and the Game Gear games on the physical collection (instead those are just included as download code) so I doubt they'll care to fix anything. At the very least they need to dropped the price to $25 and maybe I would buy the physical collection. My other guess as to why they didn't include the Sega Master System versions were because most of those games are PAL region meaning they only ran in 50hz so those may not work well on an NTSC system.
the game gear games are a bit smaller than the screen height in order to preserve a whole number integer scale, which if there is no option to change, should actually be the default from a purist perspective. some view scaling while ignoring the integer scale to be as much of a sin as stretching something from 4:3 to 16:9. i also personally prefer it to match the screen height though
to explore this further, open Paint and scale a sprite even while maintaining nearest neighbor and aspect ratio, there will be minor distortion. to avoid this, scale the image by 200%, 300%, and so on
It's easily avoidable if they offer options, though. People who are crazy about pixel perfect resolutions could use those, while others could fit the screen to their liking. I mean, it's something basic that thousands of emulators offer since the 2000's. There's really no excuse for them to not offer us other options for the size of the screen.
They purposely held back for the next anniversary. If this collection was perfect, then there would be no need for the next collection. It's a shady business tactic.
10:52. SEGA was probably going for an integer scale. Therefore, yes, this is as best as it can get Edit: 11:00 UGH GOD NO IT DOESNT. You just proved why that wasn't a good idea.
Please let me know what you think of Sonic Origins Plus in the comments! And if you enjoyed the video, please leave a like and share if possible! With long videos like this, it can be hard for it to get recommended in the algorithm so please help out if possible! You guys are the best!
I AGREE WITH EVERYTHING STATED IN THE VIDEO!
@@XPGamerPro360Seconded.
I think it's not worth it XD
S C A M
@@lucomc32607 not entirely but 50% of it is a scam
THANK YOU for mentioning SEGA's complete disregard of the Master System games! 👏
Master Systems Games Included now!
@@randallrutherford1384including triple trouble?
I really wanted the game gear games but with more on screen.
I like the fact that the new areas for knuckles have to be found. It makes sense for his character, especially keeping in mind what he's known for in sonic adventure
18:35 “This should’ve been the easiest home run for Sega, but they stopped just short of finish line”
And we’ve been saying that for like a decade now, it really is unfortunate
I mean, frontiers exists
@@Banana807Same w/ The Murder of Sonic and Superstars
Every time Sega handles Sonic, they always stopped short when they could had gone a bit more to the finish line.
@@VOAN They haven’t stopped w/ Frontiers, though. That game is still being improved
@@VOANtheir habit is always rushing things they don’t care all that much
I really enjoyed this review. Lol Thank you for being directly honest about the issues that made this package so underwhelming over easy solutions… I was anticipating this for the free patch quality of life improvements. I appreciate Amy being playable, and I don’t hate the inclusion of the Game Gear titles. But I don’t care about those games. The diehards that covered Origins Plus have all made amazing points that hasn’t been addressed. You would think this compilation would be a home run definitive classic era collection.
I like to see a
Sonic Advance Collection
Tails Sky Patrol is pretty good. You go through the door when it’s flat and not moving. It’s an on rails shooter type game
Not many people know that and had paly that as the game was a Japan only title.
My only wish is that Metal got a playable role in the games like Amy did, given how he’s shown with the others so prominently (Robotnik being the exception as the MAIN villain)
And Mighty and Ray, they already have fully-designed classic movesets
But yeah now Amy is in, Metal Sonic super sticks out since he's only in one of the four games, while the others are in all four!
What’s the point of having metal sonic playable ? He’s just a robot and a robotic version of sonic and dont expect to have new move sets
I’m never letting go of the fact they said “New Playable Characters” and only gave us one. Metal Sonic could’ve easily been added alongside Amy, especially since it was his 30th Anniversary too, not just Amy’s.
Nice review! I feel like Amy really carries Plus now, since she really can be broken lol
A nice touch I don't see many talk about is the physical version's flippable cover. Being able to switch to a cover including the style of the original console is so cool, and it's even cooler that every region has their unique style of cover, as well as the genesis/mega drive name. Doesn't do anything to make the game better, but it's really neat imo.
Something I kind of wished they did was have the lives be toggable in the anniversary mode. I think that would've reduced the issue with the coins by making them a little more scarce (since I'm assuming the coins just replace all the 1 up monitors).
Origins Plus genuinely makes me upset because it’s the definition of Potential Redemption Wasted: Sonic Team had the privilege to give Origins a second chance with what could’ve been this revamped expansion that adds enough content and improvements to truly make it live up to its name as “The Definitive Classic Sonic experience,” but ended up wasting it by just not fixing enough. I’m ecstatic that Amy is a part of the main Team Sonic now, and I’m grateful to have an official way to play ALL of the Game Gear games, but you can’t tell me that the Origins team can’t fix the blurry pixels, the muffled music in S3&K, and add proper save file systems for each game (like they already had in the mobile ports)-some of these being modded in within DAYS of Origins’ release date-when the Frontiers team is doing all that and more in less time for free updates. Sonic Team had a rare second chance, and they blew it.
At least the Frontiers DLC is great.
Origins wasn’t by sonic team it was a remake by sega
13:26 "and that was sonic Blast"☠️
I bought this game earlier today and I love it a lot so far !
The only version of sonic 3 and knuckles I ever played was the sonic classic collection on DS (which was everything but smooth). And playing as amy feels really good ! But I understand why people would think the game feels incomplete. To be more original they could've added the advance games instead of the game gear games that every one boot up once and get bored and never touch them ever again.
That was a really good review covering all the good and bad with Sonic Origins Plus.
I have Origins already, Amy is my favorite character, and I am happy to see her playable....but Superstars is coming out this year. I prefer to experience her in a new way, in a new game and new story. Thanks for letting us know about all these problems Sam. The only classic Sonic I played as a child was Sonic CD. So when Origins was announced, I was so happy to finally have a accessible way to experience the classic games. In a distance future, maybe when I feel the need to experience the classics again, then I will get the dlc.
So Sonic Mega Collection Plus is still the definitive Classic Sonic collection basically.
A couple things in 2 got fixed that was noticeable, and one was very glaring.
Rotations to the boxes in Mystic Cave have been fixed to rotate like they do in the Genesis original.
The gears/cogs in Metropolis work properly now. Before, you'd get animation locked if you the pegs on the gears and couldn't jump off them, but now you can!
I still agree, they should've been there to begin with, but it's good nontheless!
For the “Classic Mode” of these games… I think there’s an unfortunate explanation, and it’s all got to do with Sonic 3 and Knuckles.
The reason why Sonic 3 and Knuckles was able ported onto the Mega Collection or the Wii Virtual Console is because they’re obviously just emulated, (which I think is a workaround with the music ordeal).
But because Sonic Origins aims to have “remasters” as the main selling point… I guess they didn’t want to take the risk and emulate the game in it’s original form (music and all)… and it’s also affected the other mainline games for consistency’s sake.
I don’t think a genuine “Classic Mode” would’ve been possible probably due to not having the original music in.
I’m still not defending Sega, and I think Lives should’ve been a option that can be toggled on and off like Crash 4.
Then emulate 3 in its original form with the Genesis versions of the beta tracks for that new-retro authenticity value. Also, MJ allowed the use of the music while he was still alive because he was a true blue SEGA and Sonic fan, he died in 2009 after those ports you brought up already released with his permission.
@@autobotstarscream765
You make a decent point…
Great review Sam! One thing to note about the original Sonic 1 still having the Spin Dash on: If you managed to complete the Surprise! Picture achievements, you’re rewarded with how to access the level select/secret codes for each game. In Sonic 1’s stage select, you have the option to turn the Spin Dash off from there. While it doesn’t completely address the issue, there’s at least an option for those who want to have a more authentic feel of the original game
So we got a patch for Origins Plus and well let’s just say a lot has been fixed.
Ngl, i like that Origins was kinda blurrier. Old games especially in the 90s relied a lot on CRT TV's to look good (theres hundreds of essays and comparisons on yt showing this). The blurr kinda makes the ugly sharp pixel look bit more smoothed out, although thats just my personal taste
Adding insult to injury, when I used to play S3&K for PC back in the late 90s, I later got a Final Fantasy 7 port. With it, there was the option to install a Yamaha XG Sound Font. So, there was no way I was not going to try it out in Sonic S3&K. Coming through my Sound Blaster 16 at the time, it was AMAZING! I would play Marble Garden Zone just to hear the low funky bassline in ACT 2. It rivals A.I.R.
At the time, I figured that the reason that those songs were changed back for PC, was because each of those songs used custom "instruments" that cannot be found in the 128 default midi instruments. Given the release of Sonic JAM was a few months later, it may not have been an issue, yet, but probably soon after.
the way origins is being treated vs the way frontiers is being treated is genuinely night and day
Amy being playable is great. Having knuckles playable in CD really made a difference. The game gear games it’s nice that they are there but they could have done a bit more to make them better.
It's crazy they added knuckles to CD but didn't add knuckles chaotixs which was on the same system oml
I am so disappointed that Origins Plus even exists. I didn't need playable Amy and I didn't need a bunch of 8 bit games that aren't even part of Sonic's origin. I wanted the bugs in the original release to be fixed, I wanted all the menus and options unified so every game acted the same, I wanted proper classic mode, I wanted lives in widescreen mode. SEGA didn't do that. So I'm still not interested in buying it.
And if I did want the 8 bit games, I would have wanted the Master System versions wherever possible to avoid screen crunch. And they couldn't even do _that._ I've encountered some people who absolutely insist that the Game Gear versions are better because there's more colors, and while I couldn't disagree with them more, there's no reason SEGA couldn't include both versions.
Oh yeah, how could I forget that SEGA still hasn't given a sharp pixel option?! And the butchered prototype music in Sonic 3?
Sonic Origins was even worse than I remembered, thanks SEGA.
We need a sonic advanced collection they deserve more love
Legal issues as nintendo and blimps sorta have the rights the series
Should also be noted that 3D Blast has a director’s cut that complete. Would’ve been neat
I get excited when I see a new game review in my feed from Sam Procrastinates! I always look forward to the funny edits and his brutally honest in-depth thoughts and opinions. Complaining to a company about what you don’t like about a game is the best thing to do to get better products.
Glad you like them!
I'm not a big fan of the game gear titles. Definitely would've preferred something else. Love that Amy is playable though. Sure hope SEGA decides to apply some updates/fixes where they are needed. Overall, great review!
It would be nice if they would move past the classic games and start re releasing the advanced and rush games.
These aren't the classic games, though, these are mobile remakes in the Sonic Mania engine. Re-releasing the Game Gear games specifically while leaving those other handheld Sonic games to continue to rot is still insultingly stupid of them, though.
Great review!
new patch release fixed a few things you asked, Mostly Nearest Neighbour and fixed the game gears audio by adding mono! and fixed some sonic 3 bugs thats listed in the patch notes. the only thing needs to be fixed is: the music, oh and classic mode genesis games needing to be more emulated instead of cropped christain whitehead!
Yes, The filtering seems on par with Emulators Bilinear Filter now. Unlike the Genesis collection which uses an atrocious Bilinear Filter and although I didn't experience the original Filter Sega used for Origins IF the Genesis collection is anything to go by , it must have been atrocious.
Thank God for the PC FAN versions. Sega doesnt care about classic Sonic games enough to put effort into them between them and Sonic Team. Mania and Superstars needed other developers to even work.
Don't worry, there was a patch that fixed the game gear audio with a switch to mono in settings and now all the games have nearest neighbor filter
Oh! It's Sam Mastur- I mean, Procrastination Station! Good video!
It's frustrating that there are so many things holding Sonic Origins back because it really did have the potential to be one of the best, if not THE best Sonic collection out there. Origins is definitely not the worst collection either, however. There's still enjoyment to be had and it has a number of great things about it like the animated cutscenes, mission mode, playing as Amy and Knuckles in all 4 games (Even if Knuckles being playable in Sonic CD should've been there from the start), etc. I get the impression that this game does have soul. Just not enough of it. And it's a massive shame.
That’s what I think for origins of having the potential to be good but it’s sad
It is SEGA after all and they don’t really care all that much don’t they ?
@@rakanw.6258 it feels like it
I think Amy should of been like her advanced counterpart. She couldve been hardmode. No spin dash, no ball form when jumping, and slower.
Nahhhh that’s gonna make her sonic one an absolute pain especially on mirror mode
Also wdym by no ball form ? That has nothing to do with her move set
@rakanw.6258 in Advanced 3, she could only go into a ball if she hand a running start. She'd jump and would be vulnerable. Crouching and pressing the jump button made her leap forward. She was so different, but it was fun.
Then again I guess that depends on pairing.
"Fuck Advance"
-J-Zuss
They did fix ONE thing about Sonic 3's music: the special stage music properly speeds up now
*sigh*
Origins+ is a ok way to play these games. But, nowhere near the best versions of these games. Use fan versions like sonic 1 forever, sonic 2 absolute, sonic 3 AIR, and thr official Sonic CD steam port, as well as emulate the game gear games (or the master system version) if you want the best experience.
Or just wait for a huge price drop on the pc version, use mods to fix those issues and you also got your self a modded definitive version
Can’t really consider those the best versions either when they’re only on PC and Mobile
Honestly, for as short as this collection falls, I'm just glad that SEGA decided to preserve the GG games right as they exited the market through the 3DS VC's closure. Sure, I would rather have the MS versions of 1, 2 and Chaos, but having the games conveniently available without having to dig out my aging GC, Wii or 3DS is nice.
Great video. I really hope people at SEGA somehow see this because I couldn't agree more, some small fixes would be SO significant but it just feels like SEGA didn't listen at all to the feedback. It's really frustrating.
That’s how they’ve been like for ages since 2006 with sonic 06 and also how the hell are they gonna see his videos ?
Sonic Origins Plus: Powerful enough to have it all. Too weak to take it!
I’m really glad that Amy’s finally getting more love this time around. I think she deserves it tbh she’s such an underrated character with so much potential.
Hardcore agree.
I can’t believe it’s been a year holy cow and you did a very good job with the review but there is just one thing I gotta say to some up Sonic Origins Plus Nice Job Team 🤓
I think that Jim’s version of the prototype music can’t be fixed since I don’t think Jun would willingly redo the songs and Tee Lopes was busy with TMNT Shredder’s Revenge so this was the only thing they can do
I got Plus and other than Amy and Knuckles being in CD I feel that SEGA did jackshit to fix the big issues we all had. To be honest the reason I got this was to play Sonic on the Switch but on PC I recommend other fanmade options which are much better.
its crazy how we have to pay for playable amy in origins meanwhile we are getting a ton of new content for frontiers for free (including amy too in update 3)
My opinion on Origins:
If you want Classic games on Consoles, get it.
If you want Classic games on PC, dont.
Eh, screen crunch aside, Master System colors and it being so wire and empty looking makes them look a little uglier IMO. but no matter what, there's a compromise in both.
That music comparison tho…
Look, I’ve seen Squidward play the wrong versions of these themes enough times to not need that comparison, Sam! lol
Everyone: Hey Sega could you use the music from the Sonic 3 Prototype?
Sega: Of course! Coming right up! *Proceeds to use a way earlier version of the music from their archives for no reason instead of using the available prototype for the music*
To me this game feels like "one step forward, one step backwards"
Starting from the Denuvo every good thing this game offers feels not fully fleshed out
4 classic remakes? Blurry image, no multiple save files like in the mobile games, no lives and bugs
Sonic 3 remake? Awful music
Physical release? The PLUS content is a code
Playable Amy? No superform, just glowing
Game gear games? Poor audio and lag
And if they wanted to charge $55 max. they could've added QOL improvements like for example act transitions, smooth rotation, online play, etc
All of this ends up being very frustrating
While your criticisms are valid, Super Tails and Super Knuckles just glow too.
@@SMSCovers yeah but Amy's a hedgehog, sonic, shadow and silver become yellow
Nice job team
The beginning of the video is all I needed, to know how I should feel about this game.
I think I’m the only sonic fan out there that actually loves this title. Idk lol , just me.
I love this title too 😊
Am I petty for saying that I wouldn't have cared for any of these issues if they had just released the Jackson tracks?
Anyway: awesome video, man. Very informative.
I don't get why SEGA doesn't just resolve the copyright issues with the Jackson/Buxler tracks. Like SEGA isn't a small indie company but a huge global one.
@@EpsilonsamaThey tried for years. It’s the reason why it took so long for S3 to get rereleased. It’s very clearly not a regular copyright issue considering that they were able to resolve the copyright issues w/ the JP Sonic CD vocal tracks, but they haven’t been able to do so for these songs.
Unfortunately, SEGA can’t do anything about that due to the fact that those songs are heavily copyrighted
As a fan of the original Sonic games on the genesis since 91’ or 92’ I still enjoy this collection. Sega did address some of the issues. While I can’t say this collection is a 10/10 it’s still good enough for old and new fans. I would say it’s more like a solid 8/10 collection. I would be shocked at this point if they made any other major changes to this collection but you never know. Sega definitely aren’t like 343 as they just updated Halo the Master Chief Collection and that game has been on Xbox for 9 years. It’s gotten updates longer than iPhones lol good vid Sam.
😂😂😂😂got my laughter today tails flipping the bird
Here for the algorithm boost 🎉
I bought the deluxe version last year, i feel as if me and others should have gotten this for free, period. They shouldn't ask me to pay 10 more dollars when i payed so much more for stuff that wasn't worth it to begin with. I genuinely hope this game gets updated to fix all of these problems that weren't fixed, even with plus, but knowing they haven't fixed the team sonic racing online servers, or sonic frontiers's pop-in, i genuinely think its unlikely, and that breaks my heart.
Frontiers is an open world game and pop in is always a common issue in these games that can’t be fixed easily
@@rakanw.6258 games like arkham knight had little pop in compare to frontiers(that game came out about 8 years ago) I highly doubt it's that hard to at least add a fade in effect if you get closer to stuff, just running while grass appears is jarring.
Just got this for $5 at Walmart. I found 1 copy, but there was no price tag for it in case. Asked a cashier to price check it for me, and it rang up at $5.00
I loved this review! Because you spoke nothing but truth.
All 12 of Sonic's game gear titles being present here and fully playable is actually a pretty big deal. As it's the first time that they're all here without having to be unlocked. They were unlockables in SADX for the gamecube and the original PC release not the steam one. I have no clue why they didn't have an option for the ones that have a master system version. Maybe it has something to do with those being from the PAL region or maybe they saw them as not being super popular as 1,2 and Chaos were the only ones on the Wii's virtual console. Good review BTW.
The Pal region problem is solved instantly with emulation since the game can be changed to play in the NTSC region which makes the game run exactly the same as the game gear version.
And the popularity problem more so seems to be sega's ignorance at the sonic emulation scene where the master system version of sonic 1 is always the one emulated and therefore more popular than the game gear version. That might be different for console gaming but that's only because Sega didn't give those versions much of a chance to shine.
@@Turbulation1 I meant popular in a sense that they might not have sold too well on Wii virtual console at the time. I don't know what the sales figures where for those games on that platform, but considering that there were only 16 master system games on the wii shop at the time. It might be an unfortunate possibility. Game gear mostlikely sold well on 3DS virtual console and that might have been why that brought those into Origins and not bothered with Master System. SEGA does have a history of disregarding things that don't do well in sales or with critics but fans enjoy them. Sonic Unleashed being one of the bestest examples of that.
@@smashbronikko it’s really stupid honestly,
@@Turbulation1 From a business perspective it makes sense but it's still so dumb.
@@smashbronikko The Wii virtual console space could have maybe not done too well in general for games that were not on nintendo platforms not just Master System games.
Wonder if things would have turned out differently if Master System games were added to the 3DS E-Shop.
Sonic Origins is fine for console gamers but for PC players you're better off using the Kega Fusion emulator.
The Bilinear Filter is definitely superior to the Ones Sega provides for their classic game ports, Origins Included
I play Origins on the Switch and for that version alone, I think Origins and/or Plus is fairly decent. The blurriness (at least for me) isn't too noticeable in handheld mode due to the lower resolution and being able to play it on the go is great... and that's about it. Amy being added is great, Knuckles in CD is great but man was I hoping we'd get a bit more than just Game Gear games. For $61.40 Australian dollars, it's a hefty price tag for the solely digital base game and expansion pack. As someone who caved and bought the Digital deluxe version of Origins, yeah, I probably paid closer to $70 dollars for the game on Switch since getting Plus.
The Master system versions (of the games that had one) really should've been used as you said and adding the games that aren't ported nearly as often would've justified the price a bit better. To date, I don't think Pocket Adventure has been ported once and it's a better game than many of the GG titles. 3D Blast would've done well on this collection with the ability to use analogue sticks instead of the D-Pad alone. It's still a bit slippery but it's far easier to control and again as you said, they have Flicky Island in the menu!
For those playing on PC, I recommend getting the mobile version's APK files and running them on your computer for the best Sonic 1+2 experience. (I've done this on Android, I'm not sure what the process is for iOS) Far as I know, it's not an illegitimate way to play them as you're only moving the game files from one platform to another. There's videos on RUclips on how to do it. You won't have the Drop dash but just about all the other issues aren't present. Same can be done for CD.
RIP to Sonic 3air for having the base game removed from Steam. Thankfully, I bought that collection before the ROMs were removed so I have access to it and it's still the definitive way to play Sonic 3K. Hopefully Sega allows the ROMs to be available on Steam again so this fantastic project doesn't go to waste.
17:32 Not only are you correct with the file swap assumption, but I would like to add that team behind the Hidden Palace website, who uncovered and released the proptotype themselves, did offer to send the raw prototype cart to Sega in an effort to fix the tracks and obviously that didn't happen. There was no good reason for this.
Also, this is a pretty fair review. Well done as usual (:
They literally refused to take the raw songs? wow.
"Nice job team!"
Sonic origins plus is pretty good tbh. Kinda wish we got playable metal sonic and more extras though. Like the covers of the idw comics.
As much as I personally enjoy this collection as my go-to way to play these games, I’d be lying if I said that I didn’t agree with a lot of the points that Sam brought up here
Great review as always
I bought it for switch just for the convenience. since we've been having a lot of power outages and my switch would be the only thing i can use in the meantime.
edit: I might be in the minority here, but I don't mind the blurriness. I actually turned on the Antialiasing mode because I believe pixels should blend together and not stick out.
edit edit: You can use roms you find on emulator sites to use in AIR, you don't need the steam versions. I did it myself.
There’s a game breaking oversight with Hyper Amy in Launch Base Zone Act 2 the area underwater you can throw a hammer to pop the enemy and open the door for Knuckles’ route, which locks you in place unable to progress and you need to restarts... also beating Knuckles in Hidden Palace Zone while transformed super/hyper still softlocks the level and you need to restart, here’s a video I made ruclips.net/video/5ZczWxKh1G0/видео.html
They also didn’t fix Classic Blue Sphere it still plays only in 4:3 aspect ratio unless you use a cheat code, here’s a video I recorded ruclips.net/video/bVwJSuaBaog/видео.html
I actually like a LITTLE blurriness when it comes to the classic titles. When it's sharp, it doesn't really look it's best. It just makes it look like a bunch of blocks and pixels like it actually is. But when blurred slightly, you focus less heavily on the pixels and more on the picture it's making. But it was a bit TOO blurry in Origins. Not enough for me to notice or be bothered. But in the comparison where I'm specifically looking at it to judge, then it is.
In portable mode on Switch it looks just fine but on Steam Deck the blurriness are unbearably bad. A sharper option would had been nice, they don't even need to make it default, just make it an option.
@@VOAN That’s true. I feel like options in games would really raise the quality simply by giving people a choice.
Most of these compliations have already been released before, if they would've added Sonic Adventure and Advance games, it would've been worth it but $40 for a compliation already released before is a bit too much.
16:13 remember Jun introduces me with his branded exhaust muffler. Because this is how the music sound like in Sonic 3 & knuckles. And don't get me started with the super theme. It sounds like it was came out of Sonic 4 with the Genesis Gink instead of the Genesis Twang. Looking at you oil desert one. I've whenever I think about that drum samples from Sonic the hedgehog for I always think of oil desert 1. Countless ginking. Instead of countless twanging.
I haven't bought the originally game since it first came out because of all the issues, I was skeptical on plus till it came out to see if they fixed it, they kind of did, but they still left out some old problems and created new ones in it, I'm still waiting for this game to be called the definitive way to play these games, but since you and many others still say it's not there yet. I'll wait till you blow the trumpet from the mountain tops and scream, "THEY FIXED EVERYTHING SO NOW THIS IS THE DEFINITIVE WAY TO PLAY THESE GAMES, GO BUY IT NOW!!!" I'll be waiting, but only if Sega is willing to
i just got my physical copy of the game and yeah i experienced some of these. the amy glitch in carnival night zone with the spikes, and labyrinth zone in sonic 1 where you try to get the air bubble underwater but it glitches you and makes you go into the water current animation and drags you down so you can't get it.
Sonic Advance series: *exists*
Sega: HERES THE SONIC GAME GEAR GAMES….AGAIN!
Fans: *exhausted* Could you at least port the Master System versions for our bigger screens?
Sega: NOPE! JUST GIVE US YOUR MONEY NOW!
Me: Fine! AM'MA KEEPIN' ME MONEEH! 😡🤬
Did they end up patching the things he complained about?
Yes
When you mentioned Naka going to prison, I audibly laughed because I remember that even though I probably shouldn't have.
Fun fact : even if Sonic A.I.R. is now inavilable on steam , then that wouldn't matter any way , no one was using the " Steam " rom of sonic 3 , they was just download the rom for free on the Internet , same with sonic cd 2011.
They probably don’t want to change the s3 music bc they don’t want jun’s work to just be gone
16:13 I actually watched a video that had a thread about this. Apparently, CN and IC have weird voice/sound bank issues. CN's voice bank is quite lower than its former prototype, and IC Act 1's voice bank is switched for Act 2's voice bank (which I think sounds better imo), other than that its nearly identical. Or at least that's me paraphrasing.
Basically, the problems with these tracks is way simpler than it sounds, which actually makes it worse in comparison to most people. Me personally, I just think these inconvenient voice bank issues are kinda lame...
Anyways, go watch Nuclear [NUKELEDGE]'s video on this, since I don't actually know what I'm talking about :))
Honestly, the only song I have issues with is Carnival Night Act 1. The rest sound fine. I played the Sonic and Knuckles Collection as a kid, so I kinda got used to it. Although I'll say I'm not a fan of the Super Sonic theme since they keep forgetting that Sonic 3 doesn't use the old thok drums
I quite enjoy sonic origins plus. It's not perfect but still.
Nothing in the sonic series has been perfect anyways
@@rakanw.6258 True
I got rid of Origins Plus last week and I've no regrets. The rom hacks and fan remasters are so much better!
I feel sad that you wasted your money
That's alright. I appreciate your sympathy!
@@LeeOsburn no problem man
I feel like the Sonic Mega Collection is still better version. The Mega Collection already had the Genesis Version of Spinball and Mean Bean Machine, the game gear versions are so inferior, plus not to mention the original Sonic 3 Music from Carnival Night, Ice Cap and Launch Base are also in the Mega Collection. Even the Mega Collection has Sonic 3D Blast. Before you ask, yes i actually still have the Sonic Mega Collection on GCN.
Is knuckles chaotix actually ported on to anything yet? Such an expensive game so would love an official port.
Man SEGA fumbled the bag with this one. It could have been a really great collection but.....
That intro was clean tho
They already screw up by not including Amy, Knuckles, and the Game Gear games on the physical collection (instead those are just included as download code) so I doubt they'll care to fix anything. At the very least they need to dropped the price to $25 and maybe I would buy the physical collection. My other guess as to why they didn't include the Sega Master System versions were because most of those games are PAL region meaning they only ran in 50hz so those may not work well on an NTSC system.
the game gear games are a bit smaller than the screen height in order to preserve a whole number integer scale, which if there is no option to change, should actually be the default from a purist perspective. some view scaling while ignoring the integer scale to be as much of a sin as stretching something from 4:3 to 16:9. i also personally prefer it to match the screen height though
to explore this further, open Paint and scale a sprite even while maintaining nearest neighbor and aspect ratio, there will be minor distortion. to avoid this, scale the image by 200%, 300%, and so on
It's easily avoidable if they offer options, though. People who are crazy about pixel perfect resolutions could use those, while others could fit the screen to their liking. I mean, it's something basic that thousands of emulators offer since the 2000's. There's really no excuse for them to not offer us other options for the size of the screen.
@@SMSCovers yeah it's bullshit
"NICE JOB TEAM!" 🤓 LOL.
They purposely held back for the next anniversary. If this collection was perfect, then there would be no need for the next collection. It's a shady business tactic.
THANK YOU SO MUCH SEGA FOR SONIC ORIGINS PLUS! :)
I LOVE IT! :)
0:08 So do I, Sam. So do I.
Hey sam just a remider sonic frontiers and orgins plus is nominated at the japan game awards this year
10:52. SEGA was probably going for an integer scale. Therefore, yes, this is as best as it can get
Edit: 11:00 UGH GOD NO IT DOESNT. You just proved why that wasn't a good idea.
TIL sonic blast had a master system port