3 Most Iconic Sonic the Hedgehog Levels

Sonic the Hedgehog

Sonic the Hedgehog is known for its fascinating storytelling, music, and gameplay. However, level sages are another factor in the franchise’s decades-long run. Sonic has numerous iconic stages across the series and many fan favorites. The characters ran laps around unfamiliar grounds humans could only dream of. Space stations, deserts, rooftops, temples, and castles are only some of the areas Sonic has graced. This list counts three of the best stages in the Sonic franchise.

3. City Escape

We cap off number three with City Escape, debuting in Sonic Adventure 2. City Escape is the first stage in the game’s Hero Mode and puts you in Sonic’s shoes. Sonic is on the run, and the forces of the United Federation, GUN, are after him. GUN’s droid and their large truck serve as obstacles in Sonic’s path. The military organization believes Sonic stole the Chaos Emerald. Shadow the Hedgehog was the real cause, stealing the jewel from the city’s bank.

City Escape is an adrenaline rush through the large city and from GUN’s forces. In the last portion, GUN chases you with an armored truck. The front-facing camera action in this stage creates a memorable experience. Escape From The City further enhances this level in ways. Escape From The City is a pop-heavy rock theme that plays through the stage. Its laidback energy fits the stage’s intense chase scene. City Escape’s music, level design, and gameplay make it a fitting stage for the series.

2. Stardust Speedway

Sonic the Hedgehog
Screenshot from Sonic CD, courtesy of SEGA.

Stardust Speedway hops into our number three spot, debuting in Sonic CD. Stardust Speedway pits Sonic the Hedgehog against Metal Sonic, making his debut in this title. Earlier in the game, Metal Sonic kidnaps Amy Rose and keeps her hostage. Now, Sonic gets to pay his loathsome metal copy payback. In this stage, you race against Metal Sonic to rescue Amy Rose. Whoever reaches her first is automatically the winner. Motivating you further, Eggman follows you with a trailing death laser behind him.

Sonic CD is a popular title and another sequel to the original Sonic the Hedgehog. CD’s art style and levels make it a standout pick for the Sonic series. Stardust Speedway is a great example due to its simple design and memorable appearance. Stardust Speedway’s music makes it an unforgettable addition to Sonic’s gallery of stages. In addition, it creates an iconic antagonist in Metal Sonic. This stage is your last showdown with the character before the game’s ultimate stage. Even if he is not the first, Metal Sonic is the most popular of Eggman’s mechanical replicas.

3. Green Hill Zone

Green Hill Zone makes its iconic debut in our number-one spot. Green Hill Zone is a lush environment with palm trees, lakes, and cliffs. The area is filled with forest critters and interesting vertical loops to increase Sonic’s speed. Green Hill Zone has a sunny, upbeat track that revs your engine. The optimistic tune helps set your mind for playing the story. Sonic the Hedgehog’s original act layout features three acts. In the third act, you fight against Eggman’s latest invention: a mace attached to his hover machine.

Green Hill Zone is an integral piece of Sonic the Hedgehog’s identity in stages. It inspires later locations like Emerald Hill Zone from 2 or Seaside Hill Zone from Sonic Heroes. The area’s legacy even lives on through the movies. It inspires both Sonic’s old home and the city of Green Hills. Green Hill is Sonic’s first stage and is synonymous with his character. It stands the test of time as one of the most famous video game stages worldwide.

Sonic’s Diverse Environments

These three are only a percentage of Sonic the Hedgehog’s best stages in the franchise. Fans also enjoy Rooftop Run, Emerald Coast, and Chemical Plant Zone. Overall, Sonic is home to many fascinating stages to play, and many more are soon to come out. The franchise continues to make advancements in gameplay and stage development. Many stages in the Sonic franchise depend on perspective. With the good always comes the bad, and Sonic the Hedgehog has plenty of it. Sonic hosts many different environments, and not all levels are guaranteed favorites. Fans dislike Starlight Carnival and Scrap Brain Zone. If you are curious about these levels, check out their original games.

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