Sonic has always worked well in two dimensions, the fast paced nature of the games along with the mechanics and level design is projected perfectly in the second dimension and offers a much purer and more enjoyable experience. It's of no surprise then that after the variable amount of success Sonic Team had with the third dimensional titles starring the blue blur from the original adventure games onward that they opted to stick to what they know best for the company mascots first dual screened outing.

As a result of keeping the series fixed firmly in the second dimension, Sonic Rush became a resounding success upon its original release as was very much a return to form for the series. Now a couple of years on and Sonic Rush Adventure is set to continue the high standards set by its predecessor; as the saying goes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" it would seem that Sega have gained an understanding of this phrase the second time round.

Plot details are based upon the age old formula of traversing a world separated into Zones and acts in order to obtain the gems known as the Chaos Emeralds before they fall into the wrong hands. This time around Dr Eggman (aka Robotnik) isn't the main adversary but instead that role falls to new character "Captain Whisker" an evil Pirate who sails the seas of the vast aquatic world which you explore, getting in Sonic's way at every opportunity.

Visually, audibly and technically this latest incarnation is set to be the same as Rush but just that little bit better; featuring many subtle effects that further enhance the effortlessly effluent style of 3D sprites moving along 2D backdrops at a pace thats suitably frenetic and complements the stylishly kinetic nature of the on screen action.

Taking on the spirit of the original and inheriting its will Sonic Rush Adventure has a promising premise indeed. With returning alternative character Blaze the Cat, blisteringly paced brand new zones, three dimensional fixed-axis boss battles, touch based speed sailing sections between destinations and even online multiplayer and leader boards; the Sonic series may have just found its new zenith. Oh and did I mention that zone names are now appropriately alliterated? I'll say no more other than this has all the hallmarks of a classic Sonic title.