Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Play

Screenwise Verdict

Sonic Superstars is exactly what it says on the tin: a solid, colorful 2D platformer that brings back classic Sonic gameplay with a few modern twists. The safety profile is excellent—no predatory monetization, no online strangers, just you, the couch, and up to three other people yelling at the TV.

The good: It's genuinely wholesome fun that builds coordination and problem-solving skills. The new Emerald powers add variety, and local multiplayer is increasingly rare in modern gaming, making this a decent family activity.

The reality check: The IGDB score of 70 tells the story—it's competent but not spectacular. Reviews suggest it can feel a bit repetitive and lacks the polish of standout platformers. Kids who grew up with Mario Odyssey or modern indie darlings might find it a bit basic. But for younger players or families wanting uncomplicated co-op fun without worrying about chat toxicity or surprise credit card charges, this hits the spot.

It's not going to change anyone's life, but it's a safe, reasonably entertaining option that won't make you regret the purchase.

Age Fit

Best for ages 6-12, though the difficulty curve might challenge younger players. Older kids and nostalgic parents will enjoy it, but teens may find it too simple compared to modern platformers.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

82

Classic Sonic gameplay with cooperative multiplayer that encourages teamwork. Features colorful, cartoonish action without mean-spirited content. The premise of stopping villains from harming giant animals is fundamentally heroic and pro-social. Pacing is fast but not chaotically overstimulating—it's intentional platforming challenge rather than random sensory assault.

Imaginative

68

Introduces 'all-new Emerald powers' and explores 'never-before-seen environments' in the Northstar Islands, suggesting fresh mechanics within the familiar Sonic formula. However, this is still a traditional 2D platformer following established patterns—run fast, collect rings, defeat Eggman. It invites spatial problem-solving and exploration but doesn't offer true creative expression or building. Solidly imaginative within its genre constraints but not groundbreaking.

Safe

88

Very safe profile for a game: users can interact in local multiplayer (up to 4 players) but there's no online chat, no in-game purchases, no loot boxes, and no gacha mechanics. The violence is cartoonish Sonic fare—bouncing on robots, no blood or gore. No content rating provided but IGDB score of 70 suggests mainstream acceptance. The only minor concern is the competitive nature of multiplayer could spark sibling squabbles, but that's true of any couch co-op game.

Enriching

62

Develops hand-eye coordination, timing, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving through classic platforming challenges. Local multiplayer builds cooperation and turn-taking skills. However, it's fundamentally an arcade-style action game—entertaining and skill-building but not particularly deep in narrative, emotional growth, or cognitive challenge. The IGDB rating of 70 suggests it's competent but not exceptional. It's good clean fun that builds reflexes, but won't spark profound conversations.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

No in-game purchases, loot boxes, or online chat—just pure platforming gameplay like the old days
Local multiplayer for up to 4 players means actual family couch time without screens isolating everyone
Develops hand-eye coordination, timing, and spatial problem-solving through increasingly challenging levels
Colorful, cartoonish action that's energetic without being violent or scary
New Emerald powers add fresh mechanics to the classic Sonic formula

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What to Watch For

Fast-paced gameplay can be frustrating for younger kids still developing fine motor skills—expect some 'this is too hard!' moments
Multiplayer can get competitive and chaotic with siblings—may need to mediate who plays as Sonic
The IGDB rating of 70 suggests it's good but not great—some reviews indicate it can feel repetitive or lack polish compared to other recent platformers

Conversation Starters

"Which character did you pick and why? What makes their special abilities useful?"
"When you got stuck on that level, what strategy did you try to get past it?"
"If you could design a new zone for Sonic to explore, what would it look like?"
"How did you and your sibling/friend figure out how to work together in that tricky section?"

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