looK INside - Chapter 2
looK INside - Chapter 2
Game
Game2012
Sonic the Hedgehog 4 - Episode II
Developer SEGA
Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II is a platform game developed by Dimps and Sonic Team, and published by Sega for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, iOS, Android, and Windows in 2012. It was ported to the Ouya and Nvidia Shield in 2013. Set after Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I (2010), it follows Sonic and Tails as they attempt to once again stop Doctor Eggman and a revived Metal Sonic from using Little Planet to power… From Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
211 reactions from 2 sources (Steam reviews, Bluesky) · newest Nov 3, 2026 · last updated Nov 5, 2026 · How this works
Audience score
66
Fresh
119 positive · 60 negative
95% range 59–73%
| Source | + | − | = |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam reviews | 119 | 60 | 0 |
| Bluesky * | 3 | 3 | 26 |
* shown, not counted in the score (label accuracy below our 85% bar or not yet audited).
Steam's own rating
Mixed
961 of 1,390 reviews positive (all languages, per Valve)
What players are saying
66% recommend · 116 yes, 59 no
Counted from the reviewers’ own thumbs up/down on the 175 English Steam reviews we collected, not by the AI. Valve’s all-language rating: Mostly Positive (1,743 of 2,339 positive).
Many players find it a significant improvement over Episode I. [1][2][3][4] Some still criticize the physics, level design, and bosses. [5][6][7][8] A few reviewers mention the game is decent but not essential. [9][10][11]
Liked
Representative posts
- [6]
This is easily the worst game I've played and finished this year. Not even close. There is nothing good about this game. It's incredibly bad and I would highly advice to avoid it. Level designs are one of the worst in the series with a lot of annoying water levels or tons of levels where you die instantly by randomly falling somewhere. Screen is also very zoomed in so it's hard to tell where are you going. Boss …
- [7]
I am concerned with the state of the human race for this game having mostly positive reviews. This game was abhorrent. Some of the worst level design in a 2D space honestly. The game looks visually appealing, but underneath all the pretty graphics is a pile of trash with design that blindsides you so often, and boss fights that involve SO MUCH waiting around. Sonic Superstars got all of its bad design choices from …
- [1]
I enjoyed this game! It's significantly better than the first one. Some of the bosses were a bit rough, but the levels were enjoyable. If you are struggling, the first byte of the your save file (Sonic_save.dat) is the number of lives you have, wink wink nudge nudge.
- [5]
Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2 feels like when you order your favorite childhood meal as an adult and it’s… still kinda good, but also you’re like “Did this always taste like this??” This game really tries to channel that classic Genesis-era Sonic magic: bright levels, bouncy music. It definitely looks polished, but gameplay-wise, it’s kinda like Sonic is speedrunning through molasses Tails is back and The tag-team …
- [2]
Sonic 4 Episode 2 was an experience that i went in with rock bottom expectations and came out very pleasantly surprised, now, i'm not going to say that this game is better than Sonic CD, 2 or 3K, but I am going to say that this is a great game, the artstyle is very captivating and those zones that feel inspired by others, Oil Desert for Oil Ocean, for example, never felt like blatant reskins unlike episode 1, as for …
Summarised from 34 of the 214 public posts collected about this game; every point cites the posts behind it ([n] opens the post) and the split is counted from the posts’ own ratings. Updated Oct 12, 2026. How summaries are made
RottenBot@rottenbot · automated account
66% of the 175 Steam reviewers we collected recommend Sonic the Hedgehog 4 - Episode II. The complaint that keeps coming up: physics still feel off compared to classic games. Deal-breaker or nitpick?
Critics, per Wikipedia
Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II received mixed reviews. Review aggregator website Metacritic gave the PlayStation 3 version 63/100, the Xbox 360 version 61/100, the PC version 54/100, and the iOS version 66/100. While a moderate commercial success, becoming the fifth best-selling game on the PlayStation Store, it was noted by Ryan Langley of Gamasutra (now Game Developer) that the leaderboards weren't showing much activity, suggesting it hadn't sold as well as the first game. The game's improved physics and visuals were the most praised aspects of the game. Many reviewers considered it an improvement over its predecessor. The co-op mechanics were also praised. However, complaints were…
From the “Reception” section of Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0. Critic context only — not part of the audience score.
Reactions
60 of 211 · most liked firstThe folks over at Obscure Gamers released a plethora of Sega-related development material recovered from a Macintosh workstation. Included in that material? Some early builds of Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II. Which has an ending cutscene we've never seen before... www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnSs...
neutral · AI labelView post →🗃️ Eleven development builds of Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II have been recovered from the massive Steam2 archive, including a Beta 2 build from 45 days before final. Full details in our latest article, linked in the replies! #SonicNews
neutral · AI labelView post →I enjoyed this game! It's significantly better than the first one. Some of the bosses were a bit rough, but the levels were enjoyable. If you are struggling, the first byte of the your save file (Sonic_save.dat) is the number of lives you have, wink wink nudge nudge.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Thanks for watching me play Episode I. Gonna be back Monday evening to play @segasky.bsky.social’s masterpiece: Sonic The Hedgehog 4: Episode II (& Episode Metal)
positive · AI labelView post →THIS IS A GOOD GAME BUT I WISH THAT THERE WAS SONIC THE EHEDGEHOG 4 EPISODE 3
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →98. Sonic The Hedgehog 4 Episode II (Replay) I lean a bit more positively on this game compared to Episode 1 as time goes on since this game did feel like an improvement. Not much of one, but still. Both episodes are irrelevant in a post Mania world, but I can at least say I enjoy Episode 2
positive · AI labelView post →Random thing of the day: Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II Part 2 of Sonic the Hedgehog 4 Many people really hate this game but I had fun with it!
positive · AI labelView post →Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2 feels like when you order your favorite childhood meal as an adult and it’s… still kinda good, but also you’re like “Did this always taste like this??” This game really tries to channel that classic Genesis-era Sonic magic: bright levels, bouncy music. It definitely looks polished, but gameplay-wise, it’s kinda like Sonic is speedrunning through molasses Tails is back and The tag-team moves are actually fun, and some of the music is great, but... The physics…
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →really wish i didn't wait so long to play it, maybe i couldve refunded it
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Leaving a positive review to counteract the other one that was posted earlier today. Sega was right to drop that streamer. There is enough hatred in the world already, platforming people who divide us further will only lead to more conflict amongst ourselves while those in power profit from our scrambling. Anyway the game is mid, go play Mania.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Leaving a negative review just for the fact Sega dropped someone in their partner program because they caved into the Twitter N@zi hate mob spreading lies and slander over said content creator. I guess Sega hates women. Not changing this until Sega smartens the fk up and stops being dictators over people's speech, maybe go back to doing your job Sega and just make video games, instead of being agenda pushing life ruiners.
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →In short, it's only worth it for the price (especially if it's on sale.) I've read a few other reviews, and they all hold up relatively well, touching up on the improvements from the first episode, but also a lacking soundtrack and some level design. The biggest gripe I have with the level design is pretty much only 2 enemies: one that freezes the water in a large area in front of it. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem, except it doesn't defrost after 20 seconds. I didn't bother to stick…
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Sonic 4 Episode 2 was an experience that i went in with rock bottom expectations and came out very pleasantly surprised, now, i'm not going to say that this game is better than Sonic CD, 2 or 3K, but I am going to say that this is a great game, the artstyle is very captivating and those zones that feel inspired by others, Oil Desert for Oil Ocean, for example, never felt like blatant reskins unlike episode 1, as for the physics, they aren't one to one with the genesis games and i don't really…
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →POSITIVES: - The games visuals look miles better than Episode 1 does in so many ways. Better looking environments in the foreground and the background. - The character models and animations are a step up from Episode 1, getting rid of that plastic-look on the characters which was a great change by far. The only animation I still don't like is the title screen itself. Might be a nitpick but.. yeah - The special stages, while not very interesting and it being the half pipe again (sort of), it…
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Way better than episode 1, still not the best though. Game play is way better, levels are a little more creative (except for the special stages), and Tails is pretty good in this game. Still not the best game though.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Sonic 4 Episode 2 Is The Strangest Mixed Bag I've Ever Played, From The Level Design To The Music There Isn't Really Anything Bad Here Necessarily It's Just Very Odd. It Is Definitely An Upgrade From Episode 1 As It Doesn't Feel As Floaty Or As Janky, Surprisingly The Game Isn't As Unforgiving As Episode 1 Either Just Takes A Lot To Get Used To. The Music As Much To Be Desired Does Have A Few Stand Out Tracks [Slyvania Castle Act 1 And 3, White Park Act 1 And 2, Oil Dessert Act 1 And 3, Sky…
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →This is easily the worst game I've played and finished this year. Not even close. There is nothing good about this game. It's incredibly bad and I would highly advice to avoid it. Level designs are one of the worst in the series with a lot of annoying water levels or tons of levels where you die instantly by randomly falling somewhere. Screen is also very zoomed in so it's hard to tell where are you going. Boss battles are awful too and your controls are not responsive. Terrible game, don't…
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →DK64 soundfont conversion 6: Boss Metal Sonic from Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II! www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hhxa...
neutral · AI labelView post →Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II arrives as a direct continuation of the classic 2D Sonic gameplay, aiming to bridge the gap between the beloved Genesis titles and the modern era. Developed by Dimps and Sega, this episode builds upon the foundation laid by Episode I, introducing new gameplay mechanics, co-op features, and refined level design. The game’s core ambition is clear: to recapture the speed, precision, and excitement of classic Sonic while injecting fresh elements to keep the…
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →This game is definitely better than Episode 1. It has better level design, better running animation and basically better quality. I really recommend playing this game if you like Sonic, though the physics didn't improve much since Episode 1, which is a shame.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Crazy Taxi Classic Golden Axe Classics Shining Force Classics Sonic CD Classic Sonic the Hedgehog 4 Episode II Streets of Rage Classic Streets of Rage 2 Classic Super Monkey Ball: Sakura Virtua Tennis Challenge
neutral · AI labelView post →I am concerned with the state of the human race for this game having mostly positive reviews. This game was abhorrent. Some of the worst level design in a 2D space honestly. The game looks visually appealing, but underneath all the pretty graphics is a pile of trash with design that blindsides you so often, and boss fights that involve SO MUCH waiting around. Sonic Superstars got all of its bad design choices from this game right here.
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →the special stages are fun the level design is way beter than sonic 4 ep 1
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →it's also good, WAY better than EP 1 though.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Better than Episode I by a long shot, fixing many of the problems it had. Music is good too, with the XPand!2 and Vacuum synthesizers. Runs great on EndeavourOS, as well.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →BEST GAME EVER MADE BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →It is somewhat decent. I do not like this game but it does have some moments, and it is an insane improvement over the abysmal Episode I. If you get it for cheap, might be worth giving it a try. That being said, I would recommend pretty much any other Dimps game besides Episode 1 and Gens3DS if you want some good 2D Sonic that isnt just the classic formula. The Advance and Rush series are qui excellent.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Now, my opinion might be controversial, but hear me out. I actually enjoyed playing this (I know, enjoyed and playing in the same sentence. Amazing). I don't know why, but I liked this game. It actually plays nice, it sounds pretty good, and unlike the first game, they didn't re-use bosses (except the Metal Sonic fight in Death Egg MK. II but that doesn't matter), and speaking of the bosses, they were pretty creative. Especially the final boss where it represents a human heart. I know many…
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Better than Episode 1 in every way and is pretty fun. Overall just a decent platformer.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Big step up from the first game. Still not as good as the first three and knuckles but much better then the first, plus you can play as metal sonic if you own the first game. Would recommend.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →It's nice with mods, and I like Episode 2 kind of better than one tho.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →This is a very good game. While the controls don't match the Mega Drive games, they aren't terrible and the graphics are some of the best i have seen in Sonic games.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →It is better than ep 1 visually but the same really. I hate how the bosses can only be hit once per opening. Makes the game a bit of a slog. Last sky sanctuary level was very fun, but the first was boring. Stage 1 is forgettable. I recommend for casual fun.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Mostly the same issues as Episode I. Some improvements were made overall. The graphics actually did look decent for 7th Gen standards. Still though, the game is still Sonic 4, but with new levels. The same philosophy applies to the levels and the plot as the previous game, so they are quite lame. It still isn't fun to play overall. Just like the Episode I, there is no real plot either. The bosses are better though. The music was also slightly better. I just wished the levels didn't still…
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →this game is actually alright
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →30. I only have an Xbox 360 because my brother and I wanted to play Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II and it wasn't coming to Wii.
neutral · AI labelView post →How can this be called a game? Besides the settings menu being so limited and shoddy that it doesn't even use ClearType, the game's graphics are so poor that it doesn't even have antialiasing (run your finger across the monitor, and it will come out cut off) and the number of bugs is deplorable. In short: This game is garbage, not even worth it if someone paid you to play it.
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Wow! So good! Thank you Dr. Eggman!
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Good game but the multiplayer is so bad
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →It's not winning awards for best 2D Sonic game, but it's a hella upgrade from Episode 1.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Just get Sonic Mania instead of this mediorce garbage.
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →56. Sonic the Hedgehog 4 - Episode II (revisit) It doesn't come close to the classics, and being called Sonic 4 probably wasn't the best choice, but as a game in it's own right, I still find enjoyment out of it even with it's problems. I still think the soundtrack has mostly underrated melodies.
neutral · AI labelView post →Honestly, going into Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II I was expecting it to be a slight upgrade in comparison to the atrocious Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I. And while Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I was an absolute joke in comparison to the original classics, this superior sequel actually has a few things that make it STAND OUT compared to the classics. For one, I really like the Tails Combo moves and how they're utilized throughout certain levels throughout the game, as even if sometimes…
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →this is better than Sonic Superstars
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →It seems Sonic isn't my thing. I prefer platformers with slower gameplay and/or where you can explore in peace. No controller support. No change keybinding. The main problem with all Sonic games, at least the 2D ones, is Sonic. Sonic is a speedster, but the levels are designed in such a way that they rarely let you feel like one, due to obstacles constantly throwing you off-kilter, completely stopping you in your tracks. If you play the game like a typical platformer, you might even start to…
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →It has great graphics and gameplay, totally recomend it!
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →This game isn't that bad as people intend it to be. Fun special stages, great gameplay, and a good plot.
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →NOW this is WAYYYY better than the first one
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Playing this game with a controller is a hassle. It wound not connect with ps4 or switch or whatever. I got a refund. I don't have time for this BS., I have a family now. Figure it out or don't sell this half completed crap. SEGA offers other great Sonic games you and your children can enjoy. I managed to buy this on the PS3 game store in 2025. That was insane. The game is great for young children and you can play together as sonic and tails. Buy this on PS3 store while you can, it going…
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Thank God there isn't an episode 3 of this crap.
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →WHERE IS MY EPISODE THREE SEGA
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →An improvement over Episode 1 but not enough of one. It looks better though, and the Tails mechanics are fun, and I like that you can play as Metal Sonic in his own little side story. I really like how unique the boss designs are, they should do designs like that again, all that being said...the music is just as bad if not worse (had to mute it), the bosses, although cool looking, are mostly awful and take way too long, ESPECIALLY the final boss god what a cool idea that got totally wasted.…
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →This game was a promising improvement from Episode 1, but it's still far too flawed to be considered a good game. The physics still don't feel good like the classic games. Sonic still has no real sense of speed to him and it's jarring going from the classic games to this. The levels are more original this time around, being sort of mashups of zones from Sonic 2 and 3, which I appreciate more over the mindless rehashes of older zones from Episode 1, but it still doesn't feel distinct enough…
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →I love this game!
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Unlike Episode 1, this sequel is a huge improvement. New bosses, and Tails returns, and the graphics of Sonic 2 zones and the new ones were incredible. Now this is Sonic 4. The Steam version is basically the XBox version, which buffs Special Stage 7, from the initial goal of 450 rings to 500 rings. It may not seem much, but 50 rings is a big gap. I've played this much less, because I've been busy with other things. It's like GD, where you must collect Secret Coins in the RobTop levels. Instead,…
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →THOSE BOSSES GRRAHGTHGRHGRHRRHHGGGG
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →only fun with classic sonic mod ngl
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →This is a large improvement over Episode 1. It's not perfect by any means with some clunky physics still getting in the way once in a while, but the graphics are surprisingly nice and there are a lot of fun stage gimmicks this time around. I have mixed feelings on the team up moves as I'm not a fan of how much the animation for them can slow down the pace of the game. The special stages are pretty much the same as Sonic 2. I actually like the ones from Episode 1 a little better, but I'm so glad…
positive · reviewer's own thumbsView post →I would probably recommend having a wank over playing this game 5/10
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →Soooo Foqin BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOORING
negative · reviewer's own thumbsView post →
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