Top 10 Zones from Modern Sonic Games

The best modern stages from Adventure forward.

The Top Ten

  1. Final Rush (Sonic Adventure 2)

    The atmosphere, art direction, and music are all exceptional. It has very well-designed platforming sections and multiple routes to complement that. Each time you play it, you can discover something new. The rail grinding is pushed to its absolute limits as well. Overall, it just gets your adrenaline pumping.

  2. Sky Sanctuary (Sonic Generations)

    The scenery is breathtaking, and even more so is the level design. Many hidden routes and areas make replaying the level so worth it. The gimmicks with the clouds and switches are great. It has some memorable set pieces too.

  3. Seaside Hill (Sonic Generations)

    Between this and Sky Sanctuary, it was tough since they have so many similar advantages. The gimmicks like kart racing and water running are handled so well, and it is just so visually stunning.

  4. Crazy Gadget (Sonic Adventure 2)

    This is how you do 3D Sonic gimmicks right, and all the gravity stuff is simply amazing. The progression of the level makes you love it even more. It all leads to a great section with the colored gravity blocks in open space. Also, Eggman commentary is excellent.

  5. Lost World (Sonic Adventure)

    Despite some big problems, I can't help but love the stage. The set pieces are definitely some of the most memorable. Getting past the camera problems with the snake, it was still a decent section, and I personally love the stuff with the mirrors and gravity panels.

  6. Rooftop Run (Sonic Generations)

    A very solid stage with many great set pieces. It is one of the most visually appealing stages, and the way the stage flows without big interruptions from point A to B is satisfying. Once mastered, this stage is a playground to be blazed through.

  7. City Escape (Sonic Adventure 2)

    Not for nostalgia, but because the stage really is great. It is undoubtedly the most iconic 3D Sonic zone, with moments like the snowboard or the crazy semi. The platforming is certainly great and gets you well adjusted to how Sonic will play in 3D.

  8. Chemical Plant (Sonic Generations)

    Similar to Rooftop Run from the same game, they are fine-tuned to be boost courses where you can just rip through sections. Still, it's so entertaining, and with great platforming, what else would you need? Love the music.

  9. Pyramid Cave (Sonic Adventure 2)

    Once again, some of the best 3D Sonic gimmicks with the timed doors and platforms, ghosts, and pole swinging. Great atmosphere too, with super cool flashy moments.

  10. Frog Forest (Sonic Heroes)

    One of the few levels that is enjoyable from start to finish in Heroes. Gimmicks like the frogs and vines are great. The mellow atmosphere really works well.