SONIC HEROES

SONIC makes his debut appearance on the PS2 and the XBOX with the release of Sonic Heroes.

Unlike the previous Sonics, the levels appear in 3D, from a perspective of behind the character. Also, another brand new element of Sonic is the three playable characters which have been added.

You are, therefore, in control of Sonic, Tails and Knuckles - named Team Sonic.

There is also another rival team, called Team Dark, represented by Shadow, Omega and Rouge. The levels also differ, depending on which team you decide to play as.

Each player has specific skills - eg Sonic can run fast, Tails can fly and Knuckles is strong and, by incorporating all three character abilities, you are able to successfully complete the level.

During game play you are presented with each character running alongside each other. It is then up to you to switch between each of them in order to maximise their abilities.

There are 14 levels in total, and, although it does not sound too long, the levels are huge and there is a lot to do, with the ultimate goal being to confront Dr Eggman, who has resurrected and made enhancements to Metal Sonic.

Overall, the graphics are extremely bright and colourful and the game is played so fast (like most other Sonic titles) that everything is a bit of a blur and you end up holding down forward and then jumping occasionally.

This is not a skilled game. There is really no thought involved, apart from the occasional "problem" you might come across during the later levels, which even then is simply solved.

However, it is very Sonic and, if you have been a fan in the past, then this will not disappoint.

RATING: 7/10