Why Sonic the Werehog Was a Hit

Sonic the Werehog was a divisive gimmick for Sonic, especially in the 2010 era. This era was known by many as being an experimental point in Sonic's history. It was an attempt to reinvigorate the franchise, but many of these installments fell through. Sonic Unleashed may not have reignited interest in the franchise like 2022's Sonic Frontiers would later do. However, its unique Werehog gimmick has made it an interesting point of discussion for Sonic fans.

Sonic the HedgehogPhoto byRyan QuintalonUnsplash

What is Sonic Unleashed?

Sonic Unleashed is a 2008 game developed by the Sonic Team, released on the PlayStation 2, Wii, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3. The game was developed using the Sonic Team's in-house 'Hedgehog Engine', with its early ideas rooted in 2006. The game was initially patterned as a sequel to the much-beloved Sonic title, Sonic Adventure 2, released in 2001. However, the drastic new ideas and development spun the game into a new title. This became 'Sonic Unleashed', with its Japanese name, titled 'Sonic World Adventure', providing an homage.

Sonic Unleashed was released on November 18th to a mixed reception from fans. Positive reception was given to the game's visual and fast gameplay. The negative reception, however, was focused on the 'Sonic the Werehog' concept and the jarring transition to combat. The Werehog sections were filled with tedious puzzle-solving and combat that felt uninteresting. Many people wanted Unleashed to be an early 'return' to Sonic's platforming status quo after diminishing installments. The game may not have lived up to that, but it has found a positive niche within the fandom.

Unleashed's Story

Sonic Unleashed's main story focuses on Sonic the Hedgehog again having to rescue the world from Eggman. Eggman wants to harness the power of a dangerous entity lurking beneath Earth's surface. To do this, he uses a powerful cannon to split the Earth into seven pieces. Sonic tries to intercept him but is defeated, and Eggman forcefully transforms him into Sonic the Werehog.

After being forcefully ejected back to Earth, Sonic meets an amnesiac fairy-like entity, who Sonic comes to call 'Chip'. Chip accompanies Sonic for the rest of the game, and the two develop a deep bond. Sonic has to travel to the new continents formed by the world-shattering cannon and find the Gaia Temples. These strange areas can recharge the power of the chaos emeralds, which were drained by Eggman's weapon. With the help of a new friend, Sonic's goal throughout the game is to put the Earth back together.

Cycles

Sonic Unleashed has two cycles; the day cycle and the night cycle. In the day cycle, Sonic plays as you would usually expect. The blue hedgehog speeds through various stages while fighting enemies. Sonic retains his homing shot but gains a couple of new abilities to use. Sonic can now 'drift', which lets him turn without losing his speed. Sonic can also use the 'quick step' function, dodging attacks left or right. Overall, the stages for these games are built for Sonic's usual speed runs, and keeping his momentum.

The night cycle focuses on a different aspect of the game; combat. Sonic takes on his Werehog form and slashes through anything in his way. Sonic is strong, and he uses his arms to hit enemies. Sonic the Werehog can stretch his arms far. He can cling onto objects, or use them to perform combos on crowds of enemies. Sonic has to use rings to replenish his health bar, and can also upgrade his moves with a special boost. The level design for the night cycle is slower and focuses more on taking in the scene.

Sonic's Werehog Phase was Experimental Fun

Sonic the Werehog has conflicting opinions from the fandom. Some people believe that Sonic having a 'slashing brawler' state is just too different from his usual formula. The Werehog form was a temporary change that forced new players to acclimate. It makes sense because of how Sonic's gameplay has been for years.

Sonic the Werehog is an interesting experiment the series took. It turned the heroic blue blur into a hacking and slashing menace. Sonic the Werehog is a departure from traditional gameplay, and he shines in what he does. This form has made such an impression on new fans that they want an Unleashed remaster. This would be a good opportunity to redeem the Werehog form in older fans' eyes. If you want to take a break from Sonic's normal gameplay, Sonic the Werehog may be just for you.

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This article was written by Alexander Miles.