Sonic Rumble Rushing To iOS And Android This Winter

During the 20th anniversary of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise [40], the blue speedster’s positivity and heroism were a coping mechanism for me throughout the worst high school year of my life. During my first year of college, I continued to support his legacy by playing a few Sonic games on my fourth-generation iPod Touch, including a considerably less playable version of Sonic Dash and the remake of Sonic Jump [38] [41]. Over a decade later, Sonic Rumble has been announced within a rather captivating announcement trailer that begins with a vague reminder of Amiibo figures [46]. You may be thinking, “ANOTHER Sonic the Hedgehog game for modern mobile devices after the release of Sonic Dream Team [56] [57]?!”. Well, I understand that mobile gaming may not be up every gamer’s alley, considering how questionable some mobile games have been with some outraged microtransactions and so on [34], but let us hold no bias as we discuss what Sonic Rumble will have to offer and there can still have some competence in mobile game designing as Pokémon GO has been rediscovered after some notable updates [26]. As the force is with the Fall Guys within yet another crossover event that also goes for all four gameplay modes of Fortnite [10] [11], there is some potential regarding an upcoming party game starring Sonic, his friends and some of his foes [46].

And of course, another notable example of highly competent mobile game design would be Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp [20], which is still going strong with new seasonal and monthly events [24] [25]. How can Sonic Rumble be another [27] [36]? [46]

Aside from the chibi animation style that provides some individuality for the game, the gameplay looks quite chaotic and reminds me of a round of Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout, as well as Sonic Dash due to the usual obstacles and ring gatherings [10] [38]. There also appears to be some side-scrolling sections, like in Sonic Superstars for a little nostalgia’s sake [40] [43]. The maximum of players able to compete against one another is thirty-two, which is four times as crazy and ambitious as the eight-player mode in Puyo POP Fever [37]. Apparently, rings can be gathered throughout the course as currency for more customisation options [46], which sounds like a pretty clichéd rewards system but can still feel rewarding, nonetheless. It looks like some of these options will include Sonic and Shadow’s pirate outfits from an event in Sonic Dash back in 2021 during the franchise’s 30th anniversary [38] [48] [49]. Dressing up Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Amy, or any other playable character is not as big and creative as the avatar customisation in Sonic Forces [39] [46], but it can still provide some personalisation for a Sonic supporter to an extent. As menacing as the Joker will be in MultiVersus [19], there ought to be some explanation for the mysterious toy world created by Dr. Eggman, as diabolical as he can be [40] [46].

The “chibi” factor in this upcoming title is not as striking as the art style of Sonic & Friends but still adorable [46] [47]. You know who else is looking fashionable right now? Ken from an all-new Ken Kouture collection, which could be Kenough to be more than just Ken [4] [17]. [46]

Surely, the Angry Birds will make special guest appearances in the game for a limited time, considering how there was a Sonic Dash-themed event in Angry Birds Epic [3], along with how I recall playing as Red and Chuck in Sonic Dash around that time and the rights to Rovio were bought by SEGA nearly a year ago [27] [28]. I suppose that might occur near the launch of the official trailer for the second season of Hazbin Hotel [54] [55]. [3]

The beta testing for Sonic Rumble is yet to open to ensure what can be considered more passable than Sonic R [42] [52] [53]. And no, as a former creepypasta writer, I do not believe in the Tails Doll curse [50]. After the testing, Sonic Rumble will get a new party started on iOS and Android this Winter, possibly in December as a conclusion to an ambitious year for the Sonic the Hedgehog series [42] [44] [46], especially Shadow the Hedgehog’s big highlights in Sonic X Shadow Generations that will show his side of a story of Sonic Generations and Sonic the Hedgehog 3 that shall retell his origins as he is voiced by Keanu Reeves [14] [22] [58]. And yes, it would be important for the development crew to act upon feedback, even after the beta testing and launch as subtitles in many languages were eventually added to the cutscenes in Spyro Reignited Trilogy alongside the option to turn the toggle motion blur on or off being added to the gameplay to make the game more accessible in certain areas [1] [5] [9] [15]. Even as a former fan of the speedy blue rodent, I am glad if you currently consider him a coping mechanism for you during some difficult times, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month [35].

Aside from the blue speedster’s cred in mobile gaming, rumour has it that a direct sequel to Sonic Frontiers is in development [13] [29] [33]. If that is the case, then the open-world formula ought to be enriched with perhaps a multiplayer mode featuring the ultimate lifeform as Player 2, so that he will know how Luigi feels [21]. In the meantime, rugby fans can either be on Team Sonic or Team Shadow with a new rugby attire range from Phenom Elite [23]. [45]

After the premiere of the second season of LEGO DREAMZZZ [51], I wish all the volunteers of the beta testing for Sonic Rumble the best [42] [52]. Despite another heartbreak [2] [8] [12], I shall continue to follow my passion for blogging, potentially making my younger self proud of me [16]. Be sure to keep following your passions too, whether it would be art, cosplaying or simply gaming [6] [7] [30] [31] [32]! I also wish those attending this year’s MegaCon in Manchester an amazing weekend this July [18]. [46] 

References

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Game & Watch: The Legend Of Zelda – Predicted With Potential

It looks like a new wave of Game & Watch systems is becoming a thing of the early 2020s. During the celebration of the Super Mario franchise’s 35^th anniversary, it was announced that a special Game & Watch game would be a portable adaption of the first-ever Super Mario Bros. game from 1985 and its firstly Japanese-exclusive sequel that also comes with a digital clock and a version of Ball that featured Mario and Luigi’s faces [8] [17] [18]. During the celebration of the 21^st anniversary of The Sims, I suspected that there can be a highly similar adaption of the first game in The Legend of Zelda from 1986 in association with the franchise’s 35^th anniversary [21] [22]. And what do you know? The second modern adaption of the Game & Watch series has been produced in honour of The Legend of Zelda’s 35^th anniversary [13]. I cannot believe my own prediction of a new Game & Watch port of the very first Legend of Zelda game and a little more is about to become a reality! Furthermore, I shall take a specific sword as I express my thoughts on the forthcoming handheld while the second Paris Tour is being held in Mario Kart Tour [5] [12].

As I have firstly noticed, the black box that has a Triforce on its left side could either be part of the outcome’s packaging or somewhere safe to keep the device in. [13]

The design of the forthcoming port is unmistakably pleasing. It is highly similar to the Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. [17], except with a green frame instead of a red one, which suits how Link’s signature colour is green [13]. The choice to stick to how Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. was designed seems to follow a specific theme of practically producing ports of classic Nintendo Entertainment System games that can be played enjoyably with a D-pad and two red buttons as the handheld systems they are stored in closely resemble NES controllers for the sake of old school vibes. With the D-pad placed at the bottom left corner and the “A”, “B”, “Select” and “Start” buttons at the bottom right corner, the player would feel as if he or she is holding an NES controller [8], but with their eyes on the screen in the middle and perhaps a little more comfort with the newly added “Select” and “Start” buttons above the two red action buttons. The overall outcome of playing the game on the system should hopefully be even better than playing a Game Boy Advance game on a Game Boy Micro [14].

The “select” and “start” buttons are completely absent on the device’s Super Mario Bros. counterpart [17]. I believe that the additions are to make it increase the percentage of "old school" from the original ports of The Legend of Zelda and Link’s Adventures for the NES. At least Link will not have to jump and press the circle button. [13]

What does Game & Watch: The Legend of Zelda feature, aside from the first game in the series? Well, there is also a port of Zelda II: The Adventure of Link [13], just like how Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels was included in Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros., even for Nintendo nerds who reside in the West [17]. There will also be the Game Boy version of The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening [13]. The murky palette of some shades of green adds to the nostalgia factor and matches the green frame of the device. Can you believe that there will be a Link-themed version of Vermin? Please do not let any sims in The Sims 2 find out [1]! Of course, that will be the second time Vermin got a remake as there was a remake for DSiWare that was released between 2009 and 2010 [13] [19]. I just wonder how some Nintendo nerds will compare the Link-themed remake of Vermin to the Super Game Boy and Game Boy Colours adaptions that both starred a Yoshi [19]. Lastly, there is a digital clock that has the same functionality as the digital clock in Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. [17], further enhancing the system’s credibility.

Well, excuuuuuuuuse me, vermin [24]! [13]

Let us expand on what is available on the upcoming Game & Watch system before I receive that last piece of the Triforce. Surely, Zelda II received some mixed reception, but I guess the difficulty that caused it to be considered a “black sheep” is the device’s answer to the intense difficulty in Super Mario Bros. 2 included in its Mario counterpart [15] [18]. In addition to how there is a playtime clock that combines a digital clock with the gameplay aspects of The Legend of Zelda, there is also an interactive timer centred around Link’s Adventure, which is two bonus time-related features for the price of one [13]. I am impressed that the next rehash of Nintendo gaming from the 1980s in line has to offer as it appears to be just like the outcome of the grand return of the Game & Watch franchise in honour of Mario’s 35^th anniversary with a few step-ups [16] [17], leading to the possibility of the new wave continuing with rehashes of other classic Nintendo games. Do you think there will be a Game & Watch: Metroid with a blue frame featuring Samus Aran as the playable character in quite a quirky adaption of Helmet [16]?

Arguably, some of us would prefer the Game Boy Colour version of Link’s Awakening to be featured for the sake of a more varied and vibrant colour palette during the gameplay [11]. Nevertheless, the original version is still a nice extra. [13]

I am more than delighted at how I was able to predict the Legend Of Zelda counterpart of Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros [13], much like how I was ecstatic to hear that I have successfully predicted the concept of a Tomb Raider anime being brought into action back in January [22] [24]. Aside from how manifique Luigi looks as an artist in the second Paris tour of Mario Kart Tour [4] [12], what else do we Nintendo nerds have to look forward to? The sequel to Legend of Zelda: Breath of The Wild is on its way to expanding on Link’s legacy in 2022 [7]. In quite a stylish new set of armour, Samus deserves a brand new chapter in the main Metroid franchise, Metroid Dread in honour of female empowerment in gaming [6]. Could you master the microgames in WarioWare: Get It Together [10]? Hopefully, a brand new interpretation of Peach’s Birthday Cake will not be a lie in Mario Party Superstars [3] [5]. The Legend of Zelda: Game & Watch will be released this November as a nostalgic conclusion of the franchise’s 35^th anniversary [12]. Too bad it is highly likely that it will only be sold for a limited time from November 2021 to March 2022 [17], but I guess that still makes it extra special.

Selling the next new Game & Watch for a limited time only can add to its collector’s value. I hope my fellow Nintendo nerds continue to have a blast celebrating the 35th anniversary of The Legend of Zelda franchise, including the HD remake of Skyward Sword for the Nintendo Switch next month [9]. [13]

References

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4. mariokarttourEN. (2021). Available: https://twitter.com/mariokarttourEN/status/1405044971065982977. Last accessed 16th Jun 2021.
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Paper Mario Is Yet To Face The Origami King

Would you believe that a spin-off series of the Mario franchise that introduced our red-hatted plumber in paper and embraced the essences of the role-playing genre is two decades old now [24]? In association with a great 20^th anniversary celebration, there is a brand new addition to the series that is set to be released for the Nintendo Switch in July 2020 [6] [11] [26], which seems like another way to bring Super Mario into the beginning of a new decade, along with the upcoming LEGO Mario sets for Nintendo nerds who are fond of LEGO and interested in re-creating a run-of-the-mill platforming adventure with Mariobob Plumberpants [32]. Some of us may believe the Paper Mario series jumped the shark to a degree [17] [25], but at least the next time could be the charm. It was interesting enough that the Paper Mario and the Mario & Luigi series did a crossover together for the Nintendo 3DS back in late 2015 and early 2016 [20]. As a Nintendo nerd, I am more than interested into analysing what a new chapter of the Paper Mario has been cut out to show in order to bring the series to the Switch era in quite a refreshing way.

Besides stickers from Sticker Stars and colours from Color Splash [17] [25], we shall take a look at something new from Origami King. [26]

The trailer begins rather in a suspenseful manner [6] [11], even in the majestic interior of the main hallway in Princess Peach’s castle we have recognised and admired since the release of Super Mario 64 back in the Nintendo 64 days [8]. The princess of Mushroom Kingdom in her new origami form for the upcoming chapter of the Paper Mario series acts quite out of character and bleakly asks Mario to be an origami too. Unfortunately, when he simply refuses, she tells him that his answers are all “paper thin”. Ha ha! Get it? But puns aside, she bids him a rather compassionless goodbye and watches him fall through the floor art of a sun that is now suddenly a trapdoor, which honestly made me believe he could become an origami at first just before I watched the rest of the trailer. At least we do not have to listen to the River Twygz music from Super Paper Mario during such tension and at least we did not have to witness Shadow Queen possessing Peach [22] [27], which was an E for Everyone video game equivalent to The Exorcist [5]. Aside from those, let us keep analysing the trailer with strong hopes...and caution.

Ba dum tiss! [6] [12]

“I’ll see you in another castle [9].” [6] [12]

I like how the upcoming instalment is introducing interpretations of iconic characters as origami. First we saw Yoshi in his own world of yarn back in late 2015 [11], now we see several enemies as origami who call themselves “Folded Soldiers” [18]. It brings out the creative aspect of origami coming to life from the fantastic stop-motion film from 2016, Kubo and the Two Strings [2] [3]. The only difference is that the origami thing is mostly from the dark side. Additionally, it has proven that creativity can always come out of the designers’ noggins, besides a few duds [30] [31]. It was quite ironic to witness a yellow Shy Guy fold into a mysterious new character, which would explain Peach’s out-of-character attitude towards Mario we saw at the beginning of the trailer [6] [11]. Wait a minute! That means the origami of Peach must be an impostor, meaning the real Peach must have been kidnapped (again) [9] [10]! Who could have been disguised as her? On second thought, is the Origami Peach the real Peach…who is brainwashed [18]? As long as there is something new to bewilder plenty of Nintendo nerds, The Origami King ought to do the series justice in Summer 2020 with marvellous designs of the origami characters [6] [12] [26].

Since the usual cartoony style for the paper cast is still present [24], it looks like the game’s premise is “Paper Cut Outs VS. Origami.” [6] [12]

Wow. I did not know that oversized Goombas like to eat wooden houses. Anyway, there are also characters as papier-mâché creations, which can enrich the premise of a Paper Mario featuring a new type of art form to a degree. [6] [12]

Let us look further into some other hints about the overall premise. The giant ribbons of paper may be colourful, but they seem like some seriously bad news as they were summoned to imprison Peach’s castle by the new character who was disguised as a Shy Guy, King Olly [6] [12] [19]. As for Mario suddenly rising the Koopa Clown car with a flying image of Bowser, this must mean that the two arch enemies will suddenly team up in the situation. I suppose they have no choice but work together as a paper plane crashes into Bowser’s doom ship at some point [6] [12]. Surely Bowser...as a folded sheet of paper...kind of gets a taste of his own medicine, but we are yet to find out if King Olly can be just as bad as he is. We are also introduced to Olivia, another new character [23]. How she appears to be a new ally of the red-hatted plumber, even if she is the younger sister of King Olly is a sign that not all origami folks in the game are evil [6] [12] [23]. According to the forthcoming chapter’s title, the new antagonist is a king who is referred to as “The Origami King” [19].

Here comes trouble! DUN DUN DUUUUUUUUUUUN! [6] [12]

It appears we will also see allies from the previous Paper Mario games return in a new chapter, including Bob-omb [26]. [6] [12]

Since gameplay and creativity are the most important aspects of a Nintendo game, I can see that there are at least some new aspects the Paper Mario experience has to offer [6] [12]. There seems to be a section of Mario driving a shoe-shaped car across purple hills, which could be a sign of some gameplay variety. We also get a few glimpses of the usual battling against foes we see in RPGs [15] [24]. The difference is that the origami Hammer Bros are surrounding Mario in an arena that can be rotated under the player’s control [6] [12] [26]. The same applies for a gang of origami Boos who have the confidence to not look away, compared to how the regular Boos were in the main Mario games [7] [8], but they simply get pounded on by Mario. It is bewildering to see Paper Mario’s arms become origami-like after springing out from his white papery force field [6] [12] [26]. They can be used to pull down a piece of a house’s wall to use it as a platform, which I think is a great example of thinking outside the box [6] [12]. Lastly, there might be the return of experience points for those who were disappointed in Sticker Star and Color Splash [17] [25].

It looks The Origami King may still have a hold of those RPG essences [24]. Trust me, I played Angry Birds Epic on my iPad Air a few years ago [15]. [6] [12]

[There will also be some gameplay that involves steering a boat to increase the sense of adventure in Paper Mario: The Origami King. [6] [12]

The way the majority of the graphics were made out of paper used for origami is outstandingly beautiful. The location that highly resembled an Abraian desert with eye-catching neon signs on the buildings reminds me of The Sand Kingdom in Super Mario Odyssey [10], even though the culture within that location was inspired by Mexico [21]. Even the waterfall that a boat rowed by a Toad goes down and a splash in the ocean made by a Cheep Cheep capture that creatively majestic element of an origami world in splendidly cartoonish detail [6] [12]. Other pleasing details include:

•       Mesmerising flames of candles
•       Origami paper planes soaring in the sky
•       Some good shading and lighting in a temple
•       Some ancient Egyptian-styled artwork of a Toad’s head on a realistic body
•       An island that is shaped like a question mark
•       A pile of gravel that covered up a giant origami being

And what the heck?! Paper Mario gets to wear an oversized papier-mâché version of Samus Aran’s helmet at some point in the game [6] [12] [26]?! What a remarkable Easter egg! With colourful and detailed graphics, the new chapter of the Paper Mario series ought to further enlighten the library of first-party Nintendo Switch games [26].

No argument here, Olivia. [6] [12]

As for the scene of Mario being chased by a cog-shaped boulder, it screams “Indiana Jones” [4]. [6] [12]

It will not be long until plenty of Nintendo nerds out there unfold the secrets while our fellow Western Pokémon trainers who are proactively striving in the eighth generation of the Pokémon franchise watch the English dub of Pokémon Journeys on Netflix [13] [14]. Despite my slight disapproval of Dr. Fire Mario and Dr. Fire Peach from Dr. Mario World [30] [31], I suppose that maybe Nintendo will not always be scrapping the bottom of the barrel in this new decade. Despite the ongoing determination from the company to this day, I wish they would at least have kept many fanmade games based on their franchises legal a few years ago as I strongly believe fanmade games are under fair use, as long as credit goes from the developers to Nintendo for the use of their properties and there is strong acknowledge of them being fanon [16] [28]. Nevertheless, along with how I wish the glamourous and timeless cartoon starlet, Betty Boop a happy 90^th anniversary [1] [29], I wish the Paper Mario series a delightfully happy 20^th anniversary as a longtime Nintendo nerd and it is highly likely that I will always be one [24].

Look at the striking origami-styled font below that Paper Mario logo. It sure is stunning. [6] [12]

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