Sonic...A measurement of speed and sound. Perhaps more relevantly a blue coloured hedgehog capable of traveling faster than the speed of light. Sonic The Hedgehog; an iconic character in the videogame industry, who has starred in many a-platform outing across many a-(mostly)-Sega and Nintendo console.

Over the past decade and a half the blue blur along and his twin-tailed side-kick have, between them (not to mention a whole roster of other characters) built up quite a reputation for themselves. In recent years, however, history has almost literally repeated itself, especifically Gamecube owners will have noticed a pattern emerging.

With several comparatively recent and 'classic' Sonic titles being re-released, since the very launch of the GC, we have had an upgraded version of the DC Sonic-sequel Sonic Adventure 2 followed by the similarly tweaked original Sonic Adventure. Also released was an all-new, but also unfortunately not exclusive, Sonic game Sonic Heroes...just don't go there... (if you a Sonic fan you'll know what I mean) plus the “ultimate” Sonic compilation Sonic Mega Collection.

As a Sonic fan I use the term 'ultimate' very loosely indeed, because however decent the compilation was, it wasn't entirely comprehensive; it did admittedly contain all the major MD titles, but what of the other titles considered MIA by Sonic aficionados? Enter Gems. Sonic Gems Collection is the latest compilation from Sonic Team, which is sure to please long-term Sonic fans (and casual gamers) due to the inclusion of some long-forgotten classics…

First and foremost we have Sonic CD, released originally in 1993 on Sega's moderately successful Mega CD. This game was the reason to own the unfortunately short-lived piece of hardware and has been regarded by many ever since as one of, if not the, best Sonic game ever created. Combining both visually stunning two dimensional and pseudo-3D perspectives with top-notch original level design inspired by previous Sonic games (1 and 2) Sonic CD is as pure as it gets. Next up on the roster is something of an obscurity, but a nonetheless very welcome addition to Gems, which I am personally glad that it's made it into the collection (as I'm sure all other Sonic fans are too);

Sonic The Fighters, until now an arcade-only release in 1995 (JP only at that), is a Sonic-themed three-dimensional beat-em-up which features familiar, recent (at the time) and obscure characters alike and pits them against each other in a fight to the finish. Incorporating impressive 3D arenas complete with various audio arrangements all based on past Sonic games; STF brings the Sonic universe to life in a new perspective.

Not quite in pole position but following closely behind SCD & STF is Sonic R; which was released way back in 1997 on Sega's Sega Saturn. Everybody's supersonic racing! In this original spin on the series is featured the structure of a 3D racer combined with established Sonic elements and gameplay traits incorporated into it. Modes comprise of a race mode with various hidden unlockables hidden throughout (characters etc.) plus the obligatory time attack and V.S modes.

Also included in the compilation are a plethora of Sonic Game Gear games; including at least six which will (most likely) vary from standard hand-held sonic games (Sonic 2 etc.) to the more obscure such as Sonic Drift (kart racing game) and the spin-offs staring Tails in varied platform/adventure style games. As with the first Sonic compilation, SGC will also include other Sonic related retro goodness in the form of artwork, video clips and extra unlockable game(s).

Overall Sonic Gems Collection is shaping up to be the definitive collection that Sonic fans have wanted all along, with an eclectic mix of past games, all of decent quality, and some (hopefully) substantial bonus features. Let's hope Sonic Team go to town on the hidden games - Knuckles Chaotix anyone?