Unleashed VS Generations - Rooftop Run

[@codified_]

"So, who wins? ME! Because I get to play BOTH games!" Truer words were never spoken

[@sonicrunn3r895]

Thank god for backwards compatibility making this true

[@bonkaddicct8620]

it's literally the "omg two cakes :D" thing

[@konstantinblumin9856]

Sonic generations win

[@Movie_Shadow]

@@sonicrunn3r895nice pfp

[@Hyp3rSonic]

​@@konstantinblumin9856agree

[@LiveHedgehog]

One little detail about the Classic version I like is that it follows the general layout of the Werehog stage - city > barrel storage > clock tower > finish on aqueduct

[@Ajakes]

Oh shit, I didn't even pick up on that. Nice observation.

[@Flippomane]

2:10 "you can just hold right to get to the end, but if you explore a bit more, you can go right even faster." LMAOO

[@Lana_305]

19:49 something I would like to point out is that during a first playthrough of Unleashed, you are forced down the punishment path because you haven't unlocked the lightspeed dash shoes by that point. You're supposed to unlock them in Shamar which is way later in the game and I think showing the trail of rings here was a good idea because it basically provokes a feeling from the player when they play through it for the first time. It's almost like they expected you to go, "How do I get those rings? They lead somewhere right?" and for existing players, they're wondering "Oh a lightspeed dash shortcut, when do I unlock it so I can come back here to get a better time?" It's small moments like that that encourage replayability for a stage in Unleashed.

[@Ajakes]

That's actually a GREAT point and I'm glad you brought it up because I only noticed it yesterday after I posted the video and was scrubbing back through my first playthrough footage. Just to speak a bit about that: I can actually see preferences on that ring trail going both ways, because on one hand, I can understand someone being frustrated that they are forced onto a punishment path while being taunted with an ability they don't even have yet. You're already having trouble navigating Sonic on your first run, and now you just KNOW you could've been doing better, but the game won't let you. However, on the other thought, I totally agree with your sentiment, as it does encourage the player to go back and re-experience those levels with your new upgrades to take advantage of new routes, almost like a Metroidvania (overused, I know) approach that we saw snippets of in the original Adventure games. It's a great discussion point, and I'm kinda pissed I forgot to include it lol, so thank you for reminding me!

[@msgameandcake628]

I feel like its worth mentioning that "Clock Tower climb as a platforming challenge" still does exist in Generations, but it is the climax of the Classic version of the stage. Really, while these two versions of the stage are definitely the most directly comparable, it would be interesting to take a look at the Classic and even SD Wii/PS2 versions of the stage to see what elements continue to overlap and what the different focuses are for each version of the level.

[@Ajakes]

True, I was thinking of getting into that but I wanted to keep the video under 30mins haha. A lot of great comparisons can be made there (after the underground barrel section, the classic route follows the EXACT pattern from Unleashed's 2D section before the clocktower, even with the same level geometry, that surprised me). I haven't played the SD Sonic Unleashed yet, but I do own it, and people have recommended it, so I'm excited to eventually try it and find more comparisons.

[@Avriel_Mimiga]

@@Ajakes tbh i would have watched 30+ minute video on one level

[@Ajakes]

@@Avriel_Mimiga ooOOooooOO dont tempt me

[@gamerdomain6618]

@@Ajakes I also would have watched a 30+ minute video on one level.

[@asafesseidonsapphire]

I also wanna point out how with the Werehog you climb the clock tower from the inside, and you do the Werehog stage prior to the day one, so you are already familiar with the clock tower.

[@ThisisTheUltimate]

This video was really cool, I didn't expect it to be so detailed I liked the jokes, the drawings, the marks on things on stage, the editing, everything was really well done! And I really didn't expect the analysis and comparison to be so good and detailed I didn't expect such a close analysis, I didn't expect the comparison of the opening animation, showing how Unleashed focuses on a closed corridor while Generations shows the tower and balloons in the background, the mentions of the first 2D section of Unleashed focusing on the rooftops above Sonic, never having him go over them, and showing the rooftops on the right while Sonic goes down to the left, the camera of the quickstep hallway being much more claustrophobic and close in Unleashed, being a bit harder to see compared to Gens, how the drift section of Unleashed gives a bigger adrenaline rush because Gens' drift is tighter and easier to turn, the roof drop, with Unleashed preventing you from seeing the fall into the horizon, the references to other stages from the same game that Generations has, etc.

[@Ajakes]

Ha, I think you got all of them! I could be over analyzing things on some degree, BUT I feel like the camera movement and tracking plays a huge role in Sonic games, so even if they feel like tiny, unnoticeable differences, I think they're all in service of each games' vibe. Thanks for the comments + watching!

[@ryukoprop]

Usually in-depth videos like this are great background noise for me but the personality and doodles made me actively watch all of it. Great work my friend

[@Ajakes]

I'm glad it kept you entertained haha, thanks for watching!

[@SoberCake]

I actually never realized that the Unleashed version lacked the festive design elements. Generations is truly a love letter to the franchise. And someone on the team loved that level specifically.

[@xXOpenYourHeart759Xx]

That’s actually the first thing I noticed about Generations’ Rooftop Run. I personally found it too different from the original at first. But the look helps differentiate the 2 levels for me

[@stanzacosmi]

it makes sense too. The original is "I have to put the world back together" but generations is essentially during a festival, i mean a festival is a giant party, and it's sonic's birthday.

[@spartanvenom5388]

I love the appreciation Sonic Unleashed has been getting in recent years; it was my first modern Sonic game, and never stopped loving it.

[@kitsune_nbg]

I'm suprised about of how many details I didn't noticed, and of how many things I wouldn't even thought to do if I was a game designer, great video I learned a lot from it

[@Ajakes]

I was only picking up on them after playing them side-by-side for so long lol, thanks for watching!

[@SonicTheHedgehogX15]

Ngl “Importance of sonic sfx” is a must and soon Cuz i think barely are noticing such I have to hear sonics foot noises again

[@atykpod]

sonic unleashed leaves me needing a rooftop rum!

[@Ajakes]

good grief!

[@ChrisB-x1i]

Why

[@2goodsharks]

I'm still trying to figure out if this is a poor attempt at a joke or a legendary accidental misspelling

[@LukeStation]

Dude, this video was fantastic! Very detailed. Keep it up, man!

[@Ajakes]

Thank you, I definitely will!

[@RandommBoyo]

Ngl I thought I'll get some boring time waste-of a video comparing the two in the most soulless way way, but the surprise of this being an actually high quality video that I actually got hooked into watching instead of playing in the background and laughed a few times along the way was certainly a welcome one. Stuff like this is such a refresher in the times of constant spew of 20+ mins long documentaries about literally nothing and no one noteworthy. Also, I was gonna subscribe after watching the vid, but the joke at 15:47 was too real, I subscribed instantly lmao. You are great at this stuff!

[@Ajakes]

I did NOT think Generations would let me quiet Omochao down, I was VERY surprised lol. Quality of life! I'm happy the vid caught your attention, thanks for leaving a comment!

[@SpiralWaffles]

Yet another beautifully written, paced and delightfully delivered video! I’m such a big fan of the way you structure and edit your videos, they feel like a real spectacle, while also being incredibly informative and clear. I’ve always loved the camera movement and scene blocking in sonic games and I’m absolutely thrilled to hear more talk about it! Hope you’re doing well And keep the awesome video train running my man 💛

[@SpiralWaffles]

I didn’t know how to squeeze this point into my comment, but when I watch stuff like this from ya, if feels like being sat down by a close friend with a presentation they’ve been preparing to show off for weeks, about something they’re genuinely passionate about and it shows. Such a joy

[@Ajakes]

@@SpiralWaffles Thank you for such a sweet comment! I do sometimes have these jumbled gaming observations in my head but struggle to get them out to my friends correctly, so these videos ARE in service of that, and I'm glad it's coming through that way! Even Sonic Unleashed specifically, I tried demonstrating the game to my friends and thought, "I bet I could communicate this WAY better in video form" lol. I get super passionate about these Sonic videos so thanks for commenting and watching them, I'm happy to now present them to YOU. I appreciate the comment, really made my day 💛

[@SpiralWaffles]

@@Ajakeswell I’m happy to have been next in line Lmao Your video, and replies, made my day as well :] I’ll be smiling for the rest of the day my friend

[@mauriciogarcia7430]

I have to say it, i was expecting a kinda generic video essay but your editing, script, drawings and genuinely funny jokes really hooked me in, i subbed after the first 5min

[@MaltiBLT]

15:14 Just from this part I subbed. Sequelitis levels of perfect explanation in the whole video, but especially in this Aero-Chase section. Fucking great work, dude.

[@Ajakes]

Sequelitis was a massive inspiration, thank you!

[@Pig_Man06]

Holly shit the level of detail and humor in this video are peak! Definitely subscribing! I didn't even notice it was half an hour!

[@mohy_]

Man, i can't believe i just watched 25 minute breakdown of Rooftop run, this is my favorite 3D sonic level, but i never thought so deeply of it. i can definetly appreciate it more now!

[@TYP2K.]

0:30 that transition was clean my boi not even gonna lie to you

[@PiggoRBLX]

This was such an entertaining video, nuff said this is peak. I really enjoyed the humour, style and analysis of the levels

[@SonGokuuuuuuu]

One thing you should’ve mentioned was how during the alleyway set piece in Unleashed, if you hit a wall, you literally faceplant and lose all momentum. In Generations, the fences are curved forwards so even if you fail a sidestep Sonic will keep going.

[@SonGokuuuuuuu]

Great video btw

[@Ajakes]

very TRUE

[@matiosmenta]

Definely one of the best Sonic related videos I've ever watched on this platform, it made me understand better why I love Gens/Unleashed approach to level design so much, the cinematography and composition present on it is just so immersive.

[@A_Grey_Person]

it only took me to end of the video to realize you were the same guy that also made the supermega and hotdigitydemon vids years ago, oh man. no wonder the editing and presentation in this video was so good! really enjoyed this, it seriously made me apperaiacte the design and intent that went into these levels

[@chlozentimes]

i think i could watch you hyper analyze every sonic stage i swear this video is great

[@Ajakes]

that's the dream! (also tyvm!!)

[@wamirkro8545]

From the very second you discussed the literal opening frame of both levels I knew this is the kind of detailed analysis only a lego youtuber could do. (And I mean that in the best way possible!)

[@Ajakes]

my Lego KZbinr instincts are kicking in, im in over-analysis OVERDRIVE

[@kaobunn]

this video was great! id watch you do comparisons for every gens level LOL one of my new favorite channels for sure

[@Ajakes]

I'm planning to! Any levels you'd want to see compared?

[@kaobunn]

@@Ajakes id be curious to see comparisons between both seaside hills and maybe speed highway!

[@EnnGee4]

This landed in my recommended and off the THUMBNAIL, i knew it'd be good. Very insightful, very funny, would love to see more.

[@Ajakes]

Yayyyy the algo picked it up! Thanks for checking it out man, I really wanna make more, so stay tuned!

[@EnnGee4]

@@Ajakes yeah i'm going thru ur timeline video rn, i'm having a lots of fun u already have a new subscriber

[@Ajakes]

@@EnnGee4 Awesome, thanks for giving that vid a shot!

[@thelookingcat]

Fun fact, Unleashed top speed with all rings and max stats is still a little slower than Generations (except on rails, Unleashed is strangely faster on rails). But the camera makes it feel a lot faster. Even funnier: Forces is the fastest Sonic game. Let that sink in... But the camera is so static and placed in a different manner that it feels slower.

[@BlueRose28975]

I think you have it the other way around tbh

[@thelookingcat]

@@BlueRose28975 I'm a modder. I've worked with these files for over a decade now. I understand that it definitely feels opposite to many people, however, the numbers don't lie. If you refer to the Sonic Forces translation, it's a tricky one because that game manages velocity in a very different manner. However, the relationship between top ground speed and acceleration of Sonic Generations and Sonic Unleashed is simply that Generations ends up faster, but feels more controllable due to the camera being farther back, less fisheye effect, and tighter turning radius while boosting. Unleashed is almost as fast, though, often cannot be felt due to numerous speed caps throughout the game. Value wise though, you will spend more time of Unleashed going faster than Generations (you unlock speed faster than skill points to buy the necessary skills), but if you replay each level with max stats, you will find that, if each level is scaled accurately, Unleashed will be slower on ground and quickstep sections, while Generations will be slower on rail sections.

[@Ajakes]

@@thelookingcat Had no idea about any of that, thanks for the insight! Really goes to show how powerful a bit of visual trickery can be for these games, you could make the same observation about FOV in first person games too (especially for RPGs, I actually like keeping the FOV tight because it feels more immersive to me)

[@thelookingcat]

@@Ajakes you hit the nail on the head. Especially in any first person games, whether shooters or explorers or any other kind, tend to do the opposite of what Forces does for example. Forces just has a static camera, and while it allows you to more clearly see the graphics, it is not at all immersive. Whereas, having the camera simply closer, or the FOV tighter, allows a more realistic, and therefore immersive, view. Unleashed did a great job with this, though I'm not as familiar with the camera values as I am with the physics values. In a nutshell, it crops in and out while changing from a fisheye and relatively normal camera. Generations is... the same... just not as close and a little less dynamic. The values are similar overall, most differences just come from in-level triggers.

[@Vmeg17]

Dude the editing and the pacing of this video was so well done!! Keep it up man! Super enjoyable :)

[@Ajakes]

Thanks a ton! Glad you liked it

[@sonicrunn3r895]

This video is very fun, you've earned a subscriber from me (a big Generations and Unleashed appreciator). Even if I'm slightly more biased to Unleashed, I strongly appreciate the sort of approach you too acknowledging that both do things in different ways, with both approaches being valid ones (Generations' fun layered romp through references, and Unleashed's spectacle run through a tricky obstacle course)! I think the most interesting thing you covered to me in this is the Aero Chasers, it's really interesting to me that Generations introduces you to them only at the tower run up given, unless I'm forgetting, this level is their only appearance in Generations even though they probably could’ve snuck a section with them into Planet Wisp (there are a good few multi-lane Aero Chaser moments in Colours, including one multi-layered one in original Planet Wisp). No idea why at the least they didn’t make it into Generations Planet Wisp, as it's already a stage very devoid of references to Colours in terms of level design.

[@Ajakes]

I think "Generations' fun layered romp through references, and Unleashed's spectacle run through a tricky obstacle course" is a great way to sum it up, I agree completely. I did forget to mention that they show up early at the tower run (oopsie) but the real mechanic of bumping and running is referenced more in the final run, at least the tower run earlier teaches you how to avoid the lasers which is good. I haven't played Colors yet so it's difficult me to compare, but I do agree it's strange we only see the Aero Chase in 1 level. There are mechanics that are similar (Crisis City's flame tornado run has familiar lane switches), but that exact reference is only in Rooftop Run, which is crazy to me. And if Planet Wisp originally had them, that's even crazier lol. Kinda bizarre they went for a majority 2D section on that one, but again, haven't played the original, so unfair of me to say! Thanks for the comment, when I finally play Colors, I'll be looking out for those sections. Appreciate it!

[@Technonova323]

This has been my favorite video as of recent. Just love when people dissect games so thoroughly out of nothing but curiosity and passion. I appreciate all the little details you've edited here, like slowing down the music here at 2:17 to emphasize the sluggish feel of punishment paths. Can't get enough of that stuff. Oh, and btw. Some people have mentioned this already, but parts of Rooftop Run are also referenced or reused in Classic Sonic's stage. For example, this section at 18:45 is actually part of the Classic stage, with the loop and springs heading up and to the left. It's more nice details that you'll notice if you've played the OG Rooftop Run, and I think it's really neat. Props to making a great video! I hope you continue creating some awesome stuff.

[@Ajakes]

Yeah, I noticed that the classic layout was nearly identical there once people were mentioning the tower climb was referenced in Act 1. Thanks for the kind words!

[@marcusdixon5159]

“i just see two number 1s” is the funniest and realest thing ive ever heard

[@jesse1794]

bro the editing and writing in these videos is literally so good, surprise you don't have more subs dude

[@gonebons]

13:12 Sonic hitting the wall😭 I love you for these bro

[@Ajakes]

2fast... 😔😔😔

[@zanygamerx]

I watched the trailer for unleashed so many times as a kid, that i was side stepping a fraction of a second before the promps on my blind play through. Rooftop run really is the "city escape" of the boost era.

[@SchoolBoyz]

Super underrated video! This was a great analysis and comparison, hoping to see more!

[@Ajakes]

Thanks, I really wanna make more episodes and turn this into a series!

[@gomess2871]

I admit that I wasn't expecting such a good video, I had never seen this channel in my life and despite it not being professional it was a great analysis and fun. good video!

[@oreogod1985]

Gonna be coming back to rewatch this video for a long time. You did an excellent job!!

[@Ajakes]

High praise coming from another great Sonic analyzer🙇 thank you very much. (also THANK YOU for the retweet, I'm not super active on Twitter so I really appreciate it 👍)

[@oreogod1985]

@@Ajakes thank you, and of course! This is one of the best level analysis’s I’ve ever seen, can’t get enough of it. Hope this video gets big, more people gotta see this, and by the looks of it it’s already getting high up there, high hopes!

[@darkhorse744]

Fantastic video! That was really great, also I'd definitely love to see more vids on Unleashed, that was awesome!

[@Ajakes]

I can't keep myself away from Unleashed, so they'll def get reviewed!

[@Phamtheman69]

Amazing video bro, you're going to keep me entertained for hours! I love the use of sfx and vfx, this video gave me a lot of info in a fun way, and those nintendo switch menu effects sound so crisp and clean..

[@Ajakes]

Glad you liked it! The nintendo switch sound effects are always the first ones I use in any video lol, they're just so short and perfect. Thanks for the watch!

[@holydangdude9881]

This video was great! Never thought about the small details between these two stages. This video really opens your eyes to how different they are and I love that. The editing was great too! Nice work man! 😎👍

[@Ajakes]

Thanks! I never really did either, in fact before I played Unleashed, I thought they just ripped the level straight from the original game and pasted it in lol. When I started doing research is when I started really picking up on the small differences regarding design and feel. Thanks for the watch! 😎👍

[@Malao558]

Analysis videos like this are always fun because the creator’s own background means they notice things you never did. I loved your more artistically-focused analysis of shot compositions and blocking in the stages. It’s something I never thought much about, but noticing it really helped me realize how much work goes into making these shots feel cool.

[@Ajakes]

It was something I always took for granted when rushing through levels. When I stopped to really look at the shot composition, I realized they put a lot of work into blocking and setting up these huge setpieces. Thanks for watching!

[@Leo_Styrofoam]

I wasn’t expecting to be this entertained for a video about this topic. Very well done; I’m looking forward to watching more of your content!

[@Ajakes]

Stay tuned, thanks for watching!

[@drawwithme4494]

yo! that was a fun and entertaining video to sit through! Would love to see more of these kinds of videoS!

[@Ajakes]

Thank you! Any levels you'd like to see analyzed? Or Gens levels you'd want to see compared?

[@drawwithme4494]

​​@@AjakesKind of an unpopular opinion but I really love the level designs of secret rings. Pirate Storm was my favorite stage amongst them all. Going through ships, riding through a bullet bill showing the next phase of the level, ending the stage with a surfing sequence, risky alternate paths,etc. Would be interesting to see what you think of this stage.

[@Ajakes]

@@drawwithme4494 Noted, I haven't done Secret Rings yet (but did buy it for the future). I'm excited to see it!

[@bustinmayo6595]

I really liked your analysis, your editing, and plus you're funny. Great job man, definitely subbing.

[@boscorafelio]

Your sonic videos are always so engaging and entertaining, my top favorites ever, cause just from seeing all the scribbles on screen really shows me the love you have into making them.

[@Ajakes]

Oooo boy I could draw over screens all day, I LOVE IT. Thanks for watching the videos!

[@IKIGAIofficial]

Unleashed still the best boost stages till this day

[@zakariaradoine625]

I knew this video was gonna different from the rest when you analysed the opening scene of the level how the camera rotates and pointing out details i never even considered and it actually tracks out i loved your video please keep on making these videos

[@Ajakes]

Will do!

[@Pryexel]

This my first video I've seen from your channel and I already love it! Can't wait to see more from you!

[@bakedcrystal915]

This video is really well made man one of the best of this type of content I’ve seen. I feel like most people who do videos like this follow the same script so it’s refreshing to see someone doing their own thing.

[@ThisGreenDingo]

Cool af analysis, makes me wanna finally try Unleashed!

[@Ajakes]

You totally should, it's a crazy game!

[@theperfectpixl]

Great comparisons here! I’d love to see you cover more stages like this, from Sonic Generations, Shadow Generations, Mania, whatever.

[@notaspider4084]

Great video. You have a clear passion for these levels. Subscribed

[@xenotiic8356]

This was one of the best analysis videos I've ever seen. And for just one* stage, too! *ok two stages but still

[@odnguy]

As soon as I finished this video I replayed Generations rooftop run, and my first attempt got a new best time. Great video!

[@Ajakes]

Congratulations!

[@odnguy]

@@Ajakes thanks

[@Stungun48]

I'd like to think that since Generations is a revisit of stages that Sonic has gone through, Rooftop Run in Generations goes faster because he's already familiar with the area compared to Unleashed where it's his first time. Great video!

[@Ajakes]

I've also heard another theory that Sonic is running through a different part of Spagonia for the Generations stage. While I think some setpieces betray that, it's a really fun headcanon!

[@andraw4003]

​@@AjakesI like to think it's Sonic's memory being slightly innacurate to the original stage, hence why the level design is modtly the same, but slightly different.

[@_SSCJ]

Great video! Some of these things I never thought about and it really opened my eyes to how great these levels are even more!

[@inxanityblxde8493]

dude, you're hilarious and unironically one of the smartest sonic fans, i hope i see more of your content and i want to become a loyal subscriber!! nice stuff man

[@Ajakes]

Appreciate it dude, thanks for subscribing! 👍👍

[@Kelps.mp4]

This analysis is actually pretty good, there's a bunch of things I have never even noticed that you pointed out even though I have played both stages a trillion times at this point lmao.

[@hugobryan399]

such a cool and well-produced video! im glad i met your channel, and i hope there's more sonic contenton the way!! great video man :)

[@Ajakes]

There sure is, stay tuned!

[@DigDannyBoy]

1:02 I love how he says he loves both stages yet still makes it clear that Generations wins by giving it a gun here

[@Ajakes]

bulletproof boxing gloves bro, never knew what hit 'em

[@therealdatenshi]

I am so glad I gave this channel a chance your style is so awesome

[@rocketrifter]

Editing and analysis is *phenomenal*. Great work! The visual differences between Unleashed and Generations is so interesting. The lighting in the former really makes everything so cohesive, like they all belong with each other. Whereas things in Generations *pops* more, more "gamey" by comparison. The way the building looks in 13:27 and 13:32 is an example of what I'm talking about. I think in general, Generations does seem to have higher quality assets; some parts of Unleashed can look a bit dated if looked more closely. But it's remarkable how *good* the games look even to this day, a level of detail that I still think goes unmatched in the rest of the series(though Shadow Generations may finally take the throne!).

[@Ajakes]

Yeah the part you linked is a great example. It's funny, Generations shadows are soooo dark, but I think that's why they went for a higher contrast on the rest of the design, to help the scenery stick out more, where like you said, Unleashed is keeping this a bit more muted and cohesive (with that added depth of field, which signatures a lot of Unleashed's vibe). I love the look of both. Especially for games that released more than 10 YEARS ago. I legit can't believe Unleashed came out in 2008, with the 60fps boost it felt like something designed today. I think it's focus on the "cinematic" look also helped in that regard, ha. Thanks for the comment!

[@coltonk.3086]

Excellent analysis and impeccable execution. I love your style of humor. Subscribed!!

[@Silly_kiwii]

This video is so good! I love how you make things simpler and easier to understand while also giving us a fun time watching it! And all the drawings you put throughout the video are gorgeous, even if they are super simple, they show great composition and help us understand better what you're talking about This is actually an amazing video

[@Ajakes]

I love making the doodles for these videos, so I'm glad other people are getting a kick out of it haha. Thanks for the kind comment and for watching the video!

[@keygelleop3072]

That transition was amazing 🤩 0:28

[@KlexisBlaze]

Well now you HAVE to talk about the other Gens levels compared to their originals 😂 this was an amazing watch!

[@Ajakes]

Haha, thank you! Any Gens levels you'd like to see compared?

[@KlexisBlaze]

@@Ajakes i could say ALL realistically 😅 but Planet Wisp for sure since it seems to be uniquely remixed with most Acts of Colors' Planet Wisp instead of just 1 Act, and then Speed Highway and City Escape to see if they live up to the hype of their originals!

[@Ajakes]

@@KlexisBlaze Good suggestions, stay tuned! (I gotta play Colors first lol 😬)

[@LateefA519]

Wow that’s some sick sonic level analysis. This video was a ton of fun makes me remember how good the boost can be

[@Ajakes]

boost was something I was not expecting to love as an older Sonic fan. Now I'm all about it

[@pixelga1962]

One of the best videos I’ve seen in ages dude, nice!

[@cherrypopscile3385]

I cannot justify it, but the one in generations just... feels more hollow to me than Unleashed. It feels like a sample of the real thing, but it always, always makes me think "man, I wish I was playing unleashed" Like, while I was playing Generations, I was motivated to set up an emulator, get unleashed working, and actually play it on my PC because I wanted to play it so bad. It isn't bad, I don't dislike the generations level (I've s ranked it, found all the red rings, and done all the chao for it in X Shadow), but it just always makes me yearn for generations. It's not even nostalgia, I didn't fully play either of these games until like 4 years ago as a full grown man. (Although I did play Unleashed first). I genuinely cannot explain it, and I have not had this feeling for any of the other levels.

[@Ajakes]

I think Unleashed's RR length could be a big reason for that, it's one of those rare 5 minute boost stages, and like I said in the vid, it makes Spagonia feel HUGE cause you feel like you're going through all of it

[@drbunidev]

Your analysis videos are on point, and I love the little drawings. It is interesting to see that behind the "gotta go fast" there is a lot of thought put into the level design of (some) Sonic games. Btw, that stretched footage of Sonic Heroes looked atrocious.

[@humzahhassan7982]

Loved this side by side comparison! I also loved the comedy and way you edited, keep it up! Hope to see a seaside hill video one day!

[@Ajakes]

Seaside hill is one of my Generations favorites! It's also my 2nd fav Heroes level, so I know I gotta tackle it. Thanks for watching!

[@Lanosplaylist]

I WILL subscribe and I WILL watch all of your videos. Great analysis and video that kept me engaged. Personally: Unleashed is my favorite game in all of Sonic, I grew up focusing on the speed and reacting to what was in front of me. It was the most fun I’ve ever had because it felt like when I played and missed a jump it had consequences. Both are incredibly thrilling, and I can’t wait to play Generations again soon

[@Ajakes]

Dude same, even though I'm literally replaying Generations right now, I'm still hyped for the remaster lol. That game does something to me. And now I know Unleashed scratches that itch as well! Truly some of my Sonic favs. Thanks for the comment!

[@hisho_isa]

Great analysis. I think the mark of a video like this is that you impart me with some info I can take into my own design work. Giving me something to think about.

[@hisho_isa]

Especially the things in the distance at the beginning.

[@Ajakes]

Glad it could help! Slowing down Sonic levels and seeing how they work is a great little lesson in both design and feel, IMO.

[@NoNamex1412]

Personally I think rooftop run from the sonic unleashed Java game is best, yall are uncultured 😔😔

[@Ajakes]

oh god I knew I forgot SOMEONE

[@NoNamex1412]

@@Ajakes 💀💀💀💀💀

[@NoNamex1412]

@@Ajakes how the hell are you analyzing that 😭😭

[@Ajakes]

@@NoNamex1412 with a time machine, probably!

[@NoNamex1412]

@@Ajakes good luck finding the time eater

[@justbobbeh]

Love the video man, earnt my sub almost immedaitely with your humor and detailed editing. Deserving of 100k+ Subs easily!

[@peyton5914]

dude you are absolutely underrated, how you arent more popular is beyond me. Keep up the good work man

[@Ajakes]

Thanks, will do!

[@zyposts]

OMG somebody else who obsesses over shots and camera movement in these games !! This is awesome ^_^

[@zyposts]

camera movement in forces and frontiers doesnt hold a candle i swearrrr

[@Ajakes]

I thought I was the only freak drooling over camera angles, im learning now im not ALONE, ive found my people

[@betterthanbrooklyn5806]

I watched this whole video without multitasking or anything. You are incredibly skilled at making a video as engaging as possible for and for a whole half hour at that! You really made me appreciate the stages in these games and I've come to kind of understand why they haven't done these longer boost stages anymore. They seem like very intentionally built stages that require a lot of work for (what most gamers feel is) not much substance. I am sad to see them not come back to these style of stages but I've come to an understanding. Outstanding video!

[@Ajakes]

Yeah, I'm at the stage now where I really want an Unleashed 2 / Generations 2 (which we're kinda getting now!) But still, would love them to give Unleashed's high intensity / difficulty another shot. I never played Colors, and I hear that's a boost game also, so I do have that waiting for me. Thanks for the kind words!

[@TheMetalHeadMan]

you finally got me to find all the chaos and red star rings in this stage

[@SaveManual]

Omg your drawing is so good. I'm amazed by your content. Let me ask you, where do you edit your videos? This is so... CRISP. Keep up the amazing work, I'm loving it!

[@Ajakes]

Dude, thank you so much! For the drawings, I'm just doing them in Photoshop with a specific brush, but for video editing, I'm a Premiere guy, it's where I learned and never really left. I'm currently using the CC version (subscription based, which is very very lame lol), and I make all the motion effects myself and just save them as presets to use in the future. Thanks again for watching, excited to do more!

[@Sithedd]

This was a joy to watch. Thank you.

[@Snoc75]

Was just gonna comment something as simple as "Peak" and leave it at that, but even that alone doesn't do this video nearly enough justice, like seriously, it's crazy how well-edited this is with so much of your signature style coursing through every other frame (especially your art, which always puts a smile on my face), as you simultaneously do such a fantastic job lowkey recontextualizing how I view these levels in ways I haven't once thought of in my many years playing them. Adore your videos so much, man - they never fail to make my day! Your passion and creativity with these projects are truly one of a kind, and I hope the best for you. Also glad you finally picked up the HD version of Unleashed, I hope you enjoyed your journey through it as much as I did lmao

[@Ajakes]

Eyy your back! Very grateful for you comment, love hearing your thoughts ever since the last video. This video is picking up way more than I was expecting, so I'm hoping to do more since it was so fun to make. Any excuse to get me drawing again lol (and yapping about Sonic). I was so excited to finally attempt Unleashed, I will admit it was rough at the start! But overtime I grew to adore those daytime stages and they're getting as much replay as Adventures and Generations. In terms of future episodes, do you have any levels you'd like to see analyzed?

[@Snoc75]

@@Ajakes Haha yeah, Unleashed's such a trip. I actually didn't really care for it too much when I was younger, but it's grown to be one of my absolute favorite Sonic titles in recent memory. It's the closest thing this franchise has gotten to a true grand triple-A video game with it's full potential entirely realized, no strings attached, and I'll always respect it for how much it was able to successfully accomplish in such a fresh, exciting, competent way. Honestly, I'd just love to hear you talk about whatever stages you're personally passionate about! Go wild with whatever ideas you've got floating in your head and that's enough to sell me on any of the videos you decide to make. Plus, my personal favorite Sonic levels are Kingdom Valley from 06, Night Palace from Secret rings, ...and White Park from Sonic 4, so I'm certainly not the best person to ask about Sonic levels that are actually good 🤣 If I were to recommend any places to look though, outside of Unleashed's boost levels since you just made a video about how hyperfixated you were over them for a time, I'd say 3&k is another really substantial goldmine for levels that are awesome without any strings attached, so I recommend those if you're looking for some real Sonic greatness. My personal highlight throughout my many playthroughs of that game has always been the portion of it that spans from Lava Reef Zone - the end of the game, it's the most consistently jaw-droppingly epic section of a Sonic game ever to me, with every setpiece and detail of those levels sticking with me like a warm hug. Adventure games' speed stages are also some real classics, with my personal favorites being Red Mountain, Speed Highway and Emerald Coast from SA1, and Metal Harbor, Radical Highway, and Crazy Gadget from SA2. Regardless though, I fully encourage you to cook up any video you please, as long as you're passionate enough about it. Even if it's like 7 videos about Jungle Joyride 😂

[@Ajakes]

@@Snoc75 7 Jungle Joyride videos, don't tempt me man. Yeah after playing Unleashed I left thinking, "damn, they REALLY tried with this one, like all the way," lol, which is what kept me coming back. I want to review some individual levels there too, so we shall see. When Sonic X Shadow Generations comes out, I'm very interested in doing a level comparison there too, and Kingdom Valley was already something I was eyeing... so prepare yourself. I admittedly don't have the same BIG love for classic sonic as I do for modern Sonic, but people have already been mentioning Mania comparisons, and that really perked my ears up, since I love that game, and as you said Lava Reef is prime real estate there. Regardless, glad you're always able to watch them, and for leaving such nice and detailed comments! Thanks dude!

[@EthanMastercrafter]

I didn't think someone was crazy enough to make a full In dept detailed analysis of unleashed vs gens roof top run while being fully edited. Good stuff man

[@Ajakes]

you run so many rooftops, the video starts editing itself, I SWEAR

[@cerberuspsycho]

27:00 it is sonic's birthday

[@Ajakes]

happy birthday sonic! 🎉🎉

[@Wiiezner]

Yo, I almost never comment on KZbin vids, but this one was fire! The analysis was on point and the commentary and editing were hilarious. I was cracking up the whole time! Keep up the good work, man!

[@Ajakes]

Thanks for commenting! I appreciate the kind words, I hope to make more of these

[@jinxyjangle]

i love this editing style and ur commentary is awesome. humour is neat too! subbed :D

[@PhysicsGamer]

8:29 Huh, I never noticed that before. That's actually pretty great to know!

[@Ajakes]

I only noticed AFTER I filmed all my shots 🤦

[@santy09]

I need more videos of you analyzing sonic games and levels you actually understands sonic and I love it!!

[@Ajakes]

I'm planning to make more, so get ready! If you have any level's you'd like to see analyzed (doesn't have to be comparisons), please let me know!

[@santy09]

@@Ajakes a lot of people have already talk about it but I think it could be interesting your point on sonic frontiers islands/zones :D

[@Ajakes]

@@santy09 With Sonic x Shadows Generations including Chaos Island, I can def see that happening...

[@Chuxlol]

Ah, nice to see a video on not only my favorite level in generations but also the one I suffered trying to get a S rank with in unleashed :D

[@Ajakes]

I would always end up getting hit at that ending chase section and lose my S rank 😔

[@Chuxlol]

For me the rail would mess me up near the end cause I’d get hit by the lazer

[@LazSpec]

Great video. Anyways since you mentioned you're going to play the Wii version of Unleashed, the bit at 7:37 reminds me of how you can literally splat Sonic on walls if you're not careful enough in that game. It's a funny yet interesting punishment of how Wii Unleashed makes its segmented boosts very commit-able. I also wanna mentioned about the wii version's boosting mechanic (that people miss out on) is that in 3D sections Sonic can boost where the camera points rather where he's looking. It's strange but you'll notice this the most in hallways where if you accidentally hit a wall and need to go around it; if you boost before Sonic steers clear of the wall and faces in the camera's direction, he'll boost directly forward and go SPLAT! Sonic Unleashed Wii was my childhood game so I feel the need to talk about it :) Last note: i may (personally) prefer using Classic Controller than the gamecube controller as for the Werehog gameplay, punching is on the face buttons with the Classic Controller rather than the shoulder buttons on gamecube controller (it feels awkward after playing the 360 version).

[@Ajakes]

I also have the Wiimote and Nunchuck, alongside the Wii Pro controller and Gamecube controller. Do you think the motion controls is a better way to experience the Wii version? Or should I stick to a normal controller? (Thanks for the Unwiished tips, excited to start that one)

[@LazSpec]

@@Ajakes For me, playing this game with motion controls may make it more of a chore. Daytime stages only uses motion for boosting while werehog is where it becomes intensive. Werehog gameplay is more "button-mashy" as, unlike the 360 version, instead of having a combo list of commands you mostly just alternate two buttons to swing the left arm to the right arm and using both is assigned to another button. So with motion controls, it'll be swinging the nunchuk to wiimote left to right or vice versa. Without spoiling much, expect to do some rapid waggling for werehog qte's. If that's what you're willing to deal with, that's fair but i recommend sticking to regular controls for a more comfortable playthrough.

[@Ajakes]

@@LazSpec Gotcha, thanks for the heads up. For daytime stages I'll try both just so I don't miss anything / see if the motion adds a lot to it.

[@saffie_taffie]

first-time watcher here and just wanted to say, your video style is extremely fun and engaging!! I loved the little drawings, the editing, the humor, it all worked so well!

[@Ajakes]

Thank you very much!

[@Kaizoku234]

Earned yourself a new sub. Brilliant content.

[@crazysk8rboy]

I enjoyed very much you detailed review of this levels, wanna see more!

[@Ajakes]

More to come, stick around!

[@supersomeone9032]

Fire video, I’m glad I tuned in

[@StevenDaze]

11:23 Bro missed the opportunity to call it, "The Rooftop Drop"

[@Ajakes]

GOD DAMN IT

[@VTRcomics]

I'm really glad you talked about the camera work because it's bar none the one thing that sells Sonic Unleashed back to me the most. Realizing I try to go for cool looking set pieces and shots in manual camera games or really any games through risk/reward gameplay (Smash, Monster Hunter, or never skipping the slowmo in Arkham titles), this video was something of an awakening to me. Sonic games made me love that. Through diverse camera angles, the set pieces always shined regardless of quality-- okay yeah, except for 06... But I never realized how powerful the framing and cinematography was in the alleyways for Unleashed, and that higher sense of speed and naturalistic beauty is why I prefer Unleashed. Especially including content. I won't say Generations was bad, that's just stupid and I'm even in the minority of kinda loving Planet Wisp if not just because Rayman Legends and Donkey Kong games make me appreciate 2D platforming way more. But beat for beat level gimmicks and framing of shots almost always find me more exhilarated in the original games barring the masterpiece that is City Escape. That's probably Generation's one "perfect" level, but even that breaks down sometimes when you have the speed up skill. Either way, thank you for putting into words just how wonderful Unleashed's lighting and blocking is. I've never been able to pinpoint how any Sonic game really captures the hype, so I'd adore to see how you talk about Dragon Road or really any other level in the franchise.

[@Ajakes]

Oooo man I can talk about all the Unleashed levels forever but Dragon Road and Jungle Joyride especially, MMM. When I let all my friends try Unleashed for the first time, even if they were cursing the controls, their one positive takeaway was that it felt very "cinematic," which made me clue into the camera angles more. When I realized that the blocking was intentionally guiding your eyes around the setpieces, I knew I had to make this video lol. This is kind of a stretch, but a lot of the FromSoft games do a great job with camera angles by always pitching your camera UP when you lock onto bosses, making them feel so much larger than you. Little things like that can have such a large impact on gamefeel, so even if it's minor, I think its important. Thanks for the great comment and for checking out the video!

[@eggsandbacon892]

This video was actually really entertaining lol. It'd be cool if you could compare more different versions of Sonic stages if you can!

[@Ajakes]

I'd love to! Anything you'd like to see?

[@eggsandbacon892]

@@Ajakes I've been replaying Mania quite a bit and Chemical Plant was giving me some extreme deja vu compared to other returning stages. Hydrocity too. However, if we're still sticking to Generation, it'd be really cool to compare some of the stages mentioned in the video! Speed Highway and Seaside Hill especially caught my eye

[@Ajakes]

@@eggsandbacon892 Would love to do Speed Highway or Seaside Hill, mainly cause those stages are some of my favs ha. Classic comparisons could be interesting too, I'll keep it in mind, thanks for the suggestions dude!

[@Sonicfan3874]

In that one part of Windmill Isle day where you have to go under those walls, you feel like you’re going really fast when you do it perfectly. I did it once, and I felt so happy once I did, ngl.

[@Sonicfan3874]

Also, this is my first video I’m watching from your channel and I really enjoyed it, so I subscribed. 🦔💨🔵

[@Ajakes]

Yeah Unleashed is great with those "near miss" moments. When I get to Windmill Isle, I'm def bringing it up

[@Sonicfan3874]

@@Ajakes Awesome!