While most of theSonic gamesthat were ever released are somehow playable on Microsoft’s most recent console, via backward compatibility with the Xbox 360 or a standalone remastered version or bundle, it can be hard to pick the best ones out of this decades-old catalog of Sonic games. It’s worth noting that there are some Sonic titles, like Sonic 06, Sega Superstar Tennis, Sonic Free Riders, and Sonic and Sega All-Stars Racing that aren’t playable on the system.
6 Best Sonic Collaborations in Other Games
Sega loves to show off its star mascot in different games, and these 6 Sonic collaborations have been the best so far.
Here are the best Sonic games that every fan of the franchise must play on the Xbox Series X or S while utilizing the higher graphical fidelity of these modern consoles.
8Sonic Mania Plus
A Love Letter to the Classics
Sonic Mania Plus
WhenSonic Manialaunched in 2017, it felt like the franchise had come full circle. Developed by passionate fans-turned-developers, this game captures the essence of Sonic’s 16-bit glory days while adding modern touches that feel right at home. Featuring meticulously crafted levels, Sonic Mania blends remixed stages from older games with brand-new zones, creating a nostalgic yet fresh experience.
The tight controls, pixel-perfect visuals, and memorable boss fights make it a standout entry in Sonic’s lineup, with each level feeling like a celebration of Sonic’s legacy. The addition of Encore Mode in the Plus expansion adds a new epilogue along with new characters to further the game’s replayability.
7Team Sonic Racing
Drive Fast, Together
Team Sonic Racing
Sonic has always been Mario’s rival, so it’s fair that he has his own kart racing game too. WithTeam Sonic Racing, the hedgehog shifts gears from platforming to high-octane kart racing, but it retains the franchise’s signature charm. Unlike otherkart racers, this game emphasizes teamwork, with mechanics like item-sharing and cooperative boosting, which is a fresh new element that’s seldom seen in other such titles.
The game features a colorful roster of Sonic characters, each with unique vehicles and abilities. Tracks are inspired by Sonic’s iconic locations, from Casino Park to Planet Wisp, and the dynamic music keeps the energy high. It’s the perfect pick for those looking to trade platforming for speed and camaraderie.
6Sonic X Shadow Generations
Two Hedgehogs, Two Epic Adventures
Sonic X Shadow Generations
Sonic X Shadow Generationsis basically a remastered version of 2011’s Sonic Generations, making this title the definitive version to play that game. This definitive version also bringsShadow the Hedgehoginto the spotlight, adding fresh content that highlights his iconic moments from the series. It faithfully recreates Shadow’s most memorable levels and boss fights, delivering an extra five hours of gameplay that long-time fans of the franchise will love.
While Sonic and Shadow have their own separate campaigns, the game creates unforgettable moments where their paths collide, including a breathtaking recreation of their legendary duel from Sonic Adventure 2. It’s for the faithful recreation of these setpiece moments that this title received an 80% score on Metacritic.
The Underrated Gem
Originally released for the Sega CD, Sonic CD is often considered one of the most ambitious entries in the franchise. It introduces the concept of time travel, allowing players to explore past, present, and future versions of each level. This mechanic adds a layer of depth and exploration that’s rarely seen in a Sonic game.
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The standout feature of Sonic CD is its incredible soundtrack, with different music tracks depending on the region (Japanese or US versions). The game also marks the debut offan-favorite charactersMetal Sonic and Amy Rose. Its remastered version on Xbox brings this classic to a new generation with sharper visuals and quality-of-life improvements, making it easier than ever to enjoy this hidden gem.
4Sonic Adventure 2
Battle Across Two Storylines
Sonic Adventure 2
Adventure 2 is where Sonic took a bold leap into storytelling, offering two parallel campaigns — Hero and Dark. Players alternate between characters like Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles, while the Dark campaign lets players step into the shoes of Shadow, Rouge, and Dr. Eggman.
The game’s variety is one of its strengths, with high-speed platforming, treasure-hunting missions, and even mech-based combat. It also introduces the Chao Garden, a fan-favorite side activity where players can raise and train adorable creatures. Adventure 2 remains one of the most beloved entries in the franchise, and its port on Xbox keeps the magic alive for a new generation.
3Sonic Colors: Ultimate
The Nintendo Wii Exclusive Makes its Way To the Xbox
Sonic Colors: Ultimate
Sonic Colors: Ultimate takes the original 2010 Wii game and gives it a fresh coat of paint, with enhanced visuals, improved controls, and new content. The story follows Sonic as he battlesDr. Eggman, who has enslaved alien creatures called Wisps to power his interstellar amusement park.
What makes Colors stand out is its use of Wisps, which grant Sonic unique abilities like turning into a laser or drilling through the ground. The vibrant level design, coupled with one of the franchise’s best soundtracks, makes Sonic Colors: Ultimate a dazzling adventure from start to finish.
2Sonic Adventure DX
A Cult Classic
Sonic Adventure
Sonic AdventureDX is a remastered version of the Dreamcast classic, and it brings plenty of improvements to the table. The game features six playable characters, each with their own storyline and gameplay style, from Sonic’s high-speed antics to Amy’s more puzzle-focused sections.
The Director’s Cut adds updated visuals, new missions, and unlockable content, making it the definitive way to experience Sonic Adventure. It’s often considered one of the best Sonic games of all time, and for good reason.
1Sonic Origins
The Ultimate Bundle of Nostalgia
Sonic Origins Plus
Sonic Originsisn’t just a single game but a collection of the most iconic titles in Sonic’s history. Featuring Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic 3 & Knuckles, and Sonic CD, this bundle lets players relive the Blue Blur’s golden age.
Each game has been remastered with widescreen support and enhanced visuals, and the inclusion of Anniversary Mode removes the classic “lives” system, making it an easier experience for the casual player. If anything, players have to play Sonic the Hedgehog 2, which is often considered as the best Sonic game of all time, and Sonic Origins is the definitive way to play that classic title.
