City Escape is Peak Sonic Game Design

City Escape has everything that's great about Sonic packed into a single level. Phenomenal.
I can't escape from the city if I don't have enough funds! - / zoomzike
Follow me, set me free... AT / zoomzike

[@5h0ckblock]

*Destroys every car in the beginning portion of the level* Sonic: "What did I even do?"

[@zoomzike]

Nooooooooooooooooooooooooo

[@charabill4129]

>:з

[@toasturhztoastbunz896]

Man that is deep... Almost like Sonic was coming back to his senses when he was standing there, as he slowly realizes what he had just done.

[@zeroattentiongaming820]

Shadow gets shit for being edgy, but Sonic got to murder civilians while showing off long before Shadow started shooting people.

[@TheRealPsychoetry]

"Uh yeah, does my insurance cover lightning fast hedgehog insurance?" "As long as you upgrade to our "gotta go fast" coverage option!"

[@thebigboyyay]

The level timer ends at the same time the video ends. Now that is peak video editing

[@zoomzike]

Thank you Ultimate Supreme Leader

[@petecito460]

ZoomZike hey! >:(

[@zoomzike]

@@petecito460 Sorry Ultimate Imposter, I only listen to the Ultimate Supreme Leader

[@kingangelo3838]

HOLY FUCK WHAT???

[@banyewest4756]

WHAT THE SHIT????

[@rodrickheffley4830]

Its crazy how I never realized any of these points, and i play this game frequently.

[@zoomzike]

So many details can be left unseen in levels like these, I'm glad I was able to show you some of them!

[@zoomzike]

@@londonjackson8986 Then it'd be like Smash Bros. Melee: unintentional, yet amazing nonetheless

[@IKIGAIofficial]

@@londonjackson8986 thats called accidental perfection

[@renmojito6796]

@@zoomzike You say you can't imagine a more adrenaline inducing finale yet sonic generations was a thing..

[@yuuji7158]

I am ashamed I never noticed these things either, this was a childhood favorite for me. I still go back and play it today, regardless of some of the bugs, it still holds strong today in my opinion.

[@lfan63]

Probably my favorite part about the animals in this game is that, like that hint to find them in this level, they'll only be useful to those that like to take things slower, the kinds of people who would really enjoy taking their time raising and customizing their Chao. Chaos Drives, on the other hand, are easily obtained from almost every enemy in the game, and only give direct stat boosts to one thing, making them more useful to the kind of player to speed through things, not focused as much on the appearance and specialties of their Chao.

[@TetraBitGaming]

This was a damn good video. Really is the best stage of all time

[@zoomzike]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@superiornicholas412]

Oh hey I didn’t expect to see you here tetra

[@-sgsdfhdhhdt]

DAMN

[@sonicthehedgehog7354]

Hey the man who did lost bits

[@evanmcloughlin4946]

Hello

[@patchesgaming]

"You go dude! Have a nice day" "so after killing him"

[@zoomzike]

What nooooooooooooooo He's fine

[@team3gaming749]

Garfields ass scrubber Lmao 😂😂😂

[@knuxuki1013]

Lmao, noticed that

[@MSMCanada]

In fact you save the animal imprisoned inside it :-)

[@WindyREDPanda]

Gun-bot: EXTERMINATE!!

[@talon.brigade8366]

And this is why THIS formula NEEDS TO BE REVAMPED. I played the hell out of this back in the day

[@zoomzike]

I'd love to see this formula come back.

[@talon.brigade8366]

And I don't think that's just nostalgia talking. I'd play this before forces and EVEN Mania. This one had bugs (what game doesn't?) but with a little tweaking, this would have got the 3d formula correct. I don't appreciate the boost formula all that much.

[@jacobmonks3722]

Imagine if this game was remade but had as many branching pathways as the Generations version of the stage. Same with Speed Highway if/when Sonic Adventure 1 gets remade.

[@haruhisuzumiya6650]

This formula is peak sonic adventure

[@BigGeekEmpire]

Agreed. The sonic stages in SA1 and SA2 are so amazing and can't believe we never got a game entirely built around it.

[@chrisfern4699]

To me Sonic Adventure 1 & 2 is what Mario 64 is to Mario fans.

[@zoomzike]

Fair comparison!

[@doctorwhouse3881]

In terms of nostalgia, yes. But 3D sonic never got better than SA2.

[@deanmoriarty6015]

Doctor Whouse unleashed (discarding werehog) is in my genuine opinion better than anything in adventure 1+2

[@dhgmrz17]

@@deanmoriarty6015 If only it brought back the chao garden, and removed the werehog sections. Unleashed would have been absolute fan favorite.

[@don6359]

A major classic with minor flaws fits both games

[@kaptainkarrottop5372]

City escape is engraved in my mind. I’ve played it so many times. Not because I wanted to but because I needed those rings for my chaos’.

[@zoomzike]

I don't blame you for choosing City Escape as your ring grinding area, I did the same, along with Metal Harbor.

[@4swordsluver]

Haha yes! City Escape and Green Forest for me, I'll never forget the first time I made a chaos chao QwQ

[@CananaMan]

@@zoomzike metal harbour for coins , and prison lane for chaos drives

[@electrocast]

I did this with Radical Highway actually, I found it faster

[@felixputz5190]

I remember as a child whenever i was away from my Gamecube and got bored i would just close my eyes and play the level in my head wherever i was .. good memories

[@christiandavid8272]

9:47 "Nice to see something beloved get a sequel, i love that feeling" **briefly shows No Game No Life** why must you do this to me

[@zoomzike]

It hurt for me to make the joke, so we're even.

[@helios2664]

We may get season 2 sometime in the future actually

[@zoomzike]

@@helios2664 Maybe some day...

[@thebiolibrary5572]

I don’t know what no game no life is what’s the joke

[@christiandavid8272]

@@thebiolibrary5572 no season 2

[@SirBumRush]

This Level as a whole is what makes gaming an art form. Just everything being timed so perfectly and you learning how to be sonic by the end of the level, while having fun in the process. It’s like a movie, so wild how everything is timed to perfection. It’s kinda like you’re picking your friends up to go out, and you rewind your favorite song to time the best part right when your friends gets in the car.

[@pikminman13]

I had no idea sonic made comments on the level, and ive 100%ed SA2B twice. Wow...

[@zoomzike]

Ahh...the little details developers throw in their game, great ain't it?

[@raiverns9620]

this happens in A LOT of pre 2007 sonic games. It happpens in adventure, adventure 2, heroes, 06, and i think shadow the hedgehog

[@comic3491]

Me either honestly

[@Marxally]

KZbin actually recommended me a good video, wtf.

[@zoomzike]

Praise be the recommended section, doesn't happen often

[@lostsongbird423]

*NANI?!*

[@ghettokage6104]

fr

[@PokeminMaster]

It's nice to see more positivity towards Sonic Adventure 2; that game is my favorite of the series, and yet that feels like a minority as of late (where everyone calls us out for being 'nostalgia blind')... I even had some friends recently criticize the game heavily since "going fast" is apparently all Sonic needs (they enjoy Forces a lot for this reason) I also hear the argument that we only need to play as Sonic and not his friends, which is a shame since I do find then charming (though goofy, it isn't a straight serious franchise anyway) It's not like I hate the other Sonic games either, a lot of them just feel like missed opportunities to me... Adventure 2 will probably remain as my favorite title on the series, so I'm just happy that it exists at all, and I can return to it at any time

[@ultrairrelevantnobody1862]

Ruby of Blue made a video on why Sonic Adventure 2 is amazing.

[@zoomzike]

Sonic fans are very diverse with their tastes indeed.

[@edwardrobinson5470]

Ya. I like playing as Amy and metal sonic. Multiplayer playable characters is the reason I like playing it.

[@scitails]

I really wish they'd being SA1 Tails back. Several characters in that game were at least reasonably fast, and one of the things I hate about the new games is how much they've taken to heart "Sonic (and sometimes Shadow) is the only physically capable character in the series". Yes, he should be the fastest, but the gap in power level doesn't need to be so big that they become cheerleaders like in Generations. Even if the company can't use them correctly/wants to have only Sonic playable, they could at least put some effort into making them seem less pathetic.

[@edwardrobinson5470]

@@scitails true. I prefer when playing as multiple characters that way it isn't boring. Tails gameplay in sa1 was fun.

[@risingtides8956]

16:19 It may be the best shuttle loop in the franchise. But the best shuttle spectacle belongs easily to SA1's Speed Highway. It starts off by entering a building through the highest floor. Approaching a barren room, constructed fully by glass. But it cannot contain your weight so it breaks under your feet and cues in a sound akin to mechanical whirring. Your entire fucking gravitational force gets completely redirected, and forces you to fall, but you instantly correct your body to run down this entire fucking behemoth of a structure as the music blasts in a fucking rapid-fire panic attack track. The dangerous night atmosphere challenges you to an insanely fast-paced section that really stretched your reflexes to the max. The height is clearly superior, it's a 30 second nosedive that feels like it has no end the first time you play it. SA1's skyscraper makes SA2's look like a cheap condo. The speed feels leagues above SA2 with some very readable animation. And it's a controllable part of the stage with risks and rewards, unlike watching Sonic run a straight line with no consequence. All to then transition to a heartwarming city, that was captivating, yet allowed you no opportunity for respite, as police would still chase you to the rest of the level... Honestly, that's just the best level in SA1, and can very much compete with this level as a whole. Fascinating analysis, tho. Keep this shit up. Easy sub.

[@zoomzike]

That part of Speed Highway is utterly fantastic; now if you did a loop into it then you bet City Escape's one would be getting the silver medal instead of gold. Thanks!

[@deathray252]

Very apt description of precisely how that portion of speed highway feels. I always wondered about that mechanical whirring sound that comes right before the music kicks in. I always imagined that Sonic’s shoes had some secret wall-clinging ability that got engaged at that moment. Also, the music that plays during the section feels like the mechanisms of ones mind rapidly coming apart... the cat meowing sounds are totally out of left field and sound totally bizarre over a choir of restless atonal electronic beeps.

[@andreaboscolocegion3104]

Sa2 is full of great level design, also tails' First stage prison lane teaches the player very well on how to play with the mech gameplay, since knuckles and Sonic's gameplay Styles are much similar knuckles' wild Canyon shows you how the treasure hunting stages are much more open and free than the Speed stages, and we can't forget how the Chao garden rewards players Who collected Animals exploring the stages and how the garden is just a playground to get used to the game physics, sa2 (and sa1) really care to teach his players on to play the game, Just like the Classics on the Genesis

[@zoomzike]

The level design throughout the rest of the game is great in its own right but there are some parts to it that don't feel as smooth as City Escape. When players first gain control of Tails in his mech, they're in a very restricted area and can't move around freely to learn the controls. I would've made the area a little more open so going through it doesn't feel as clunky; otherwise I agree with everything else you said!

[@ultrairrelevantnobody1862]

The mech stages are objectively the weakest but they're still great in their own right.

[@ultrairrelevantnobody1862]

Are you sure? m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/p2qroaB9nqqmaaM

[@andreaboscolocegion3104]

@Seraphi Grimaldi i mean tell me why

[@ultrairrelevantnobody1862]

Let me guess. Mech Stages: URGH! IT'S SO CLUNKY THAT IT'S UNPLAYABLE Treasure hunting stages: THE RADAR HAD BEEN "GIMPED" THEREFORE IT SUCKS

[@Neo-rr7xp]

This is quite the gem. I've always loved this game and specifically this level, so this is a great way to justify why it's so good. Subscribed.

[@zoomzike]

Thanks!

[@Rabbit-o-witz]

God your profile pic bring me memories

[@graysongdl]

"The lines of its polygons visible" "That was a mouthful" The word you're looking for is wireframe. Man, I haven't even played this game (grew up with the Genesis games and the modern games starting with Sonic Heroes), but now I want to.

[@zoomzike]

Wireframe is definitely the word.

[@JoshuaEisenbart]

You poor, deprived child.

[@sonicovertime]

Most levels in the adventure games including 06 feel very natural by fitting into the world and directly into the story in certain cases. City Escape is one of the best examples of this if not the best, but let's take another level like Aquatic Base for example. Aquatic Base was an underground research facility in Soleanna where the kingdom was experimenting on the energy known as Solaris which could control time. The cutscene before you play it with shadow/silver, shows all these details. When entering the level, The characters will say how advanced this technology is and will see all kinds of technology the kingdom was working on, such as the balls of particles you can attract together. You will also notice the water through the glass which is the water, that you can see around Soleanna normally since we know this facility is below the city. Adventure 1 was exploring the world, and the levels often linked up well to the environments of the hub world. Sonic Unleashed took a more sonic adventure approach on linking the levels to exploring the world. Both Sonic adventure and unleashed ended with you in eggman's territory though and conquering it. Sonic Generations and After is were levels started to not feel connected to the story or world of Sonic. Generations got away with it due to being an anniversary game, but lost world and forces the levels felt completely random and without meaning. Levels began to feel like they existed due to low budget and lazyness. Sonic Forces had a few unique level designs but why are we traveling them. We go to Chemical Plant to shut down the death egg's power supply. I'm sorry but that's such a poor excuse to go to chemical plant. Why did we go to the Mystic Jungle? I know there was some sort of reason, but I lowkey forgot that's how pointless it was. The next game really needs to fix how they connect levels to the story and world of Sonic the Hedgehog!

[@zoomzike]

Connecting levels to the overall world is something I will ALWAYS appreciate games doing!

[@blitz4506]

@@zoomzike what if we get a open world game were all the levels (themselves) are connected

[@zoomzike]

Maybe one day, hopefully.

[@JonathanRiverafrickinnice555]

Yeah I miss that a lot.

[@sonicovertime]

@Christian McKee I didn't mean that every anniversary game should get away with something like that. Generations was marketed as a huge celebration of all past Sonic things. It was the first game to actively use nostalgia and old levels. It is fine for a franchise to celebrate past stages and ideas, in very careful moderation. And as noted earlier it was the 1st time we ever saw this. It would have been perfectly fine as a one time thing, but that obviously wasn't the case... I'm not even that large of a generations fan, but I think for the time it was an ok idea. But Sega just keeps using nostalgia after it and it's ruining the franchise.

[@FeddaCheezy]

Not to mention the grade at the end, encouraging you to go back and try again for a better score! Great video!

[@zoomzike]

Yup! Thanks!

[@JEK_VaNNNNN]

Those ranks are probably the biggest thing that makes SA2 the most replayable 3D Sonic game. They can be pretty strict and actively challenge you to master the ins and outs of the level design and the way each character plays and moves. The ranking system in the new games is terrible. There are tons of levels where they will basically give you an S rank just for not dying.

[@TheGreatCraigWyvern]

@@JEK_VaNNNNN I remember dying so much in an Unleashed stage where you have to do quick time events in a session. I made it to the end and got an S Rank. ?

[@dashyyy]

I'm a simple man. I see a good sonic video. I subscribe.

[@zoomzike]

I'm a simple man. I see a good comment. I like.

[@dashyyy]

@@zoomzike I would love to see an analysis of the final story from you. Because it's really the best story climax of every sonic game.

[@zoomzike]

The ending is very memorable, definitely worth looking into.

[@deathray252]

Haha, I’m in the same boat

[@CyriakHarrisBiggestFan]

i love when people can get so passionate and appreciative of something, just listening to you gush with joy was so nice and uplifting

[@zoomzike]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@Drawthhhhh]

Now you sir, know what's up. City escape is by far my favourite opening to any game, and this video perfectly explains why. Excellent analysis.

[@zoomzike]

City Escape's awesome, thanks!

[@dink7458]

I didn't think I could love city escape more than I already do. but you've proved me wrong

[@zoomzike]

Glad to have done so!

[@IronicSonic83]

The only thing I don't like of this level, is invincibilty and speed music breaking escape from the city. Great analysis!!

[@zoomzike]

Oh I hear ya. I can forgive the invincibility jingle in this level if only because it ends the moment you jump off the last horizontal bar (at least for players going at an average pace). Thanks!

[@SantaFishes101]

"You go dude, have a nice day!" ... *SO AFTER KILLING HIM-*

[@zoomzike]

HE'S FIIIIIIIIIIINE

[@sadtoast6122]

I remember playing the demo in toys R us over and over and being amazed at the graphics they seemed like the graphics we have now adays it blew my mind I got goosebumps watching this

[@zoomzike]

There was a demo back in the day? That sounds like a cool experience! Thanks for sharing!

[@Professor_Utonium_]

Same thing here, the demo was on Tails' second stage, which really blew my mind at the time since the last Sonic game I had played was Sonic 3.

[@mondocool5670]

What's crazy about this too is that the original Dreamcast games have better graphics and audio quality compared to the Gamecube version, I've been watching a lot of comparison videos from originals to ports, you lose so much trying to transition a game to a different console! :O

[@nicekid76]

Just finished the video. I didn't know any of this story and I think I played this level 1000 times (I blame sharing a console with siblings and cousin for that). This really makes me want to go back to play this game over again. Was already one of my favorite games. Soundtrack alone was legendary. Can't wait to see / remember what the story was

[@zoomzike]

It's totally worth playing again, just don't be surprised if a few mechanics in the non-speed sections feel a little outdated, have a good time if you play it again though!

[@jaydox3836]

Wait we're NOT supposed to hit every car to make a sick carvalanch?

[@zoomzike]

I MEAN YOU COOOOOOOOULD...

[@dylanzlol7293]

Sonic commiting mass murder after escaping away from the authorities moment

[@RoronoaDLuffy-iu4yx]

No wonder why City Escape is so iconic of a level, they nailed it. If only all 3D sonic levels were this good...

[@zoomzike]

I wish!

[@guzma9851]

City Escape is the best level ever. Idc what people say.

[@zoomzike]

It's pretty great!

[@eastbeast1379]

Idc what lies ahead

[@edwardrobinson5470]

I agree

[@alexcrowell7303]

Radical highway 💯

[@edwardrobinson5470]

@@alexcrowell7303 That's my favorite Shadow level.

[@veturwinter]

This video gave me a massive new appreciation for sa2 great job man keep it up

[@zoomzike]

No problem, thanks!

[@moonraven6145]

I've played this game for years and honestly never knew about Sonic commenting "What did I do?" during City Escape.

[@zoomzike]

It always makes me happy learning about little details I may have missed from levels I played in the past, so I thought I'd try and make other people the same way here.

[@moonraven6145]

@@zoomzike Yeah it's a neat touch, and I liked the video overall going over parts I may of just blasted through without really thinking of the level design.

[@kieranstark7213]

Sonic Adventure 2's levels are a big hit-and-miss for me. Like, the speed stages (ex: the starting level! Who saw that easily coming?!) as well as the early Knuckles stages (I would go with Knuckles' gameplay as a whole, bit even if I tried my best, I could still be highly frustrated with going throight he stages past Aquatic Base), but the mech stages and the Rouge the Bat stages, on the other hand, could be highly frustrating and/or clunky (not all of them, some have the same fun as the majority of the game, let alone the OG Dreamcast version of SA2), except for the car stages.

[@hugoflores1093]

My Favorite stage is Metal Harbor But you really nailed the video SA2B is One of my Favorite games And according to the ingame counter, i no joke have played city escape 457 times

[@zoomzike]

Metal Harbor's pretty great in its own right. 457 sounds close to the amount of times I've played the level, probably more since making this video, haha.

[@IKIGAIofficial]

emerald coast and unleasheds rooftop run are my fav.

[@ilikepie19921]

My old memory card had something like that. So don't worry, you're not alone

[@BakedBanana]

12:07 Holy crap I never knew about that, and I’ve been playing the game since it first came out.

[@zoomzike]

Now you knoooooooow!!

[@rooban989]

And knowing is half the battle!

[@superspectacularstubby]

GI JOE!

[@CoffeeandCherryPie]

oh?

[@Triset908]

Sonic Adventure 2 is my favorite Sonic game, and one of my favorites of all time. Just nostalgia from playing my old dreamcast. I've played City Escape the most of any levels

[@ultrairrelevantnobody1862]

It's my favourite Sonic game as well and I don't have nostalgia goggles (I used to think it was just okay when I was 11).

[@edwardrobinson5470]

Though I've only played the gc version of it it still my favorite.

[@zoomzike]

I've played City Escape more times than I can count, oh wait, they have a counter for how many times you've played it so I could just check that haha

[@PongPowerSRB]

I used to play this Level every day 1-2 times when i was a kid! I remember that i played this Level 450 times! :)

[@LittleMissZackyVee]

Mine too. It’s just so much fun

[@baggelissonic]

Yes finally someone gets it!! The brilliance of City escape. You are the first people I have ever seen on my life acknowledging the many ways (that the first Sonic section after the skateboarding one) can be overcome!! Level design should offer different ways to tackle the same object and this section as well as the rest of the level does it perfectly!! You have earned yourself a subscriber!

[@zoomzike]

Me feeling the same way you did is what caused me to make this video in the first place; I needed people to see how great it was at doing what it was setting out to do. Glad you enjoyed!

[@baggelissonic]

@@zoomzike Yeah man it was awesome. I always wanted to make a blog or video about Sonic level design and highlight City escape. I've also gone ahead and seen a couple of your videos and it's clear to me that you know what you are talking about or you at least try your best. It's also clear that you are not just a person who just blunders mentioning obvious stuff. You try to actually make a proper case and hold the interest of the viewer, with some comedic relief and trivia thrown just for fun. I am honestly surprised your channel is still that small... but you will steadily grow as long as you keep posting quality stuff

[@zoomzike]

I try to help people acknowledge details they may have missed in games/shows I enjoy. I do other stuff too of course but that feels like a trend. I'll be here to post quality stuff whether I grow or not, here's hoping growth does occur though! Thank you a bunch for the kind comment!

[@seannproductions2733]

I've restarted this game so many times just for this level

[@zoomzike]

I don't doubt plenty of people replayed this level a ton.

[@GervasiusMC]

"nice to see something beloved get a sequel!" that genuinely hurts.

[@zoomzike]

It hurt me and I was the one that made the joke!

[@mayonnaiz-7990]

I like that the level ends on 21:13, just like the video. This is a great look at how well constructed this stage and game is and I'd like to see more videos like this. If only Generations' city escape were this good

[@zoomzike]

Oh dang it ends at the same time, what a coincidence! Generations' City Escape is alright on certain aspects, but it forgets some key parts that made the original so great.

[@Masterofcandy4]

Just imagine SA2B's level design was how the real world looked We would all be dead

[@zoomzike]

Yeeeeeeeeeeeah.

[@masterofpasta95]

Especially radical highway, how the fuck is traffic gonna work on a shuttle loop

[@SgtSega]

I wonder what's causing those platforms to levitate in mid air above open pits that are so deep you can't see the bottom?

[@Kriskirby1992]

How does this have only 400 views

[@zoomzike]

Cuz I'm a small KZbin boi and Sonic Adventure 2 isn't a hot topic right now

[@terrorfried4743]

@@zoomzike your a little youtube boy in the big blue sea

[@YoshifreakZX]

I randomly got this video recommended to me lol

[@neurofunkie]

1 week later its at 19k

[@thewarroirtaco]

27k now. Nice

[@genbyte3646]

I love this game, and I love this level. Even more now that you've picked it apart and shown me why I should love it. It's clear that you're excited by this level, it makes you happy. It's this kind of excitement and passion that I love to watch. I might be commenting on a year old video but I don't regret a thing. Loved it!

[@The-Black-Fang]

You didn't convince me I already agreed with you.

[@wearevenomyouaredinner433]

City Escape Is By Far My Most Played Level Of Any Game Ever! You Sir, This Video, & SA2B Are Awesome!

[@zoomzike]

Add your comment to that list too, thanks!

[@cinnabread9306]

"It let's you know what kinda _person_ Sonic is..."

[@zoomzike]

_Person_

[@dalkymomo]

THIS NEEDS MORE VIEWS, GUYS!

[@zoomzike]

^ THIS COMMENT NEEDS MORE LIKES TOO

[@ryjoy]

I love this earnest and enthusiastic analysis of this level's design. I think you did such an excellent job of tapping into what makes this such an iconic and beloved experience for so many people. So well made and I look forward to more (especially if it's about SA2)!

[@zoomzike]

There will definitely be more analysis videos in the future, once I'm in another SA2 mood then I may decide to make another on it.

[@WhaleSharkQueen]

I will always remember the day I first played SA2B on my 6th birthday and how exciting and fresh an experience it was, as well as so immediately being blasted by such amazing characters, music and just...everything when the only other games I'd seen at that point were the first resident evil and old tomb raider games. I fucking love Sonic

[@bmsoundtrack]

This channel is a blessing; thank you for existing

[@zoomzike]

I sure hope so! Thank you for existing too, and thank you for all the kind words!!

[@Pioxys]

"Don't want this first robot doing anything crazy right? So he's doing his purpose. You go dude. Have a nice day!" *A milasecond later* *"So after killing him-...."*

[@zoomzike]

SOMEONE REPAIR HIM!

[@DARamosYT]

Sonic fan game designers take note.

[@zoomzike]

Please.

[@Gnidel]

Noted.

[@starryskies7002]

David Ramos and also Sega themselves :’-)

[@robbiewalker2831]

Retendo Yes, but SEGA became apathetic about it after the Dreamcast died.

[@YourCrazyDolphin]

@Retendo Though this doesn't carry over to their modern games. There isn't much to do if you aren't running straight forward, and when you are... Aside from jumping a couple ledges you aren't doing much.

[@r34dood]

The video is 21 minutes and 13 seconds.... Sonic finishes the level in 21 minutes and 13 seconds... *Coincidence? I think not!*

[@zoomzike]

NAAAAAAAAAAAAH, *totally* a coincidence...

[@arctix6113]

"...also, Burger." 11/10

[@ThatMetroidGuy]

I keep telling people but no one ever believes me. Sonic Adventure 2 has the best Sonic levels, period.

[@zoomzike]

You gotta back up your points if you want them to believe you!

[@alanbareiro6806]

Pffft... the ones in the first Adventure game are waaaay better.

[@ilikepie19921]

I liked Adventure 1's a lot more. I thought Adventure 2 only had 1 truly outstanding Sonic level, and that is Final Rush. I think Pyramid Cave is average, Metal Harbor and Green Forest are good, City Escape and Crazy Gadget are very good, and Final Rush is outstanding. Though I feel like Twinkle Park, Speed Highway, Red Mountain, Lost World, and Final Egg are all outstanding levels.

[@alanbareiro6806]

@@ilikepie19921 Yeah, I find SA2 level design way too linear with the exception of Final Rush (and that is mostly rails). SA1 featured more expansive level design full with alternative paths and platforming, like in the classics. Hell, even Generations does this to an extent and it gets much flak for being a boost title. Not to say SA2 Sonic's and Shadow's levels are bad, but they comprise of only one route most of the time if you go for the goal ring.

[@scitails]

Growing up on it, I've always been biased towards SA1, but trying to be objective, I think it does a really good job of putting a lot of atmosphere into its levels, which I think makes a big difference.

[@maskofice9432]

"Nice to see something beloved get a sequel. I love that feeling" (Shows No Game No Life) I actually laughed out loud at that

[@zoomzike]

AND I CRIED.

[@Adventureruler]

SA2 Is one of my favorite video games of all time. I really appreciated your in depth analysis on the level! You even taught me a few things I never realized like the animal in the pipe and the voices! :)

[@zoomzike]

I greatly appreciate the game too, thanks!

[@CounterFlow64]

I like it when I find a KZbinr that actually spends a lot of time reading comments and answering them, not many people do that!

[@Sakaki98]

You’re such an honest geek about this and I love it.

[@zoomzike]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@TheMrSONIC4]

Very well analyzed! I’ve been playing this level for over a decade and you showed me things I’ve never seen before in City Escape! I would love to hear what your take on the Generations versions of City Escape

[@zoomzike]

That'd be an interesting follow-up video at some point in the future, thanks for the idea.

[@milkabutterfly]

What pisses me off in the Generations version is that the modern stage is too short and feels incomplete, i still like it but it just upsets me. The Escape From the City remix is so fucking good tho.

[@KaizerDerp]

Great video. Also as a lifetime SA2 fan that thumbnail reeled me in like a fish.

[@zoomzike]

It reeled me in too and I'm the one that made it!

[@TheDen-ec9xe]

Finally a worthwhile video from a sensible Sonic fan. I hope you get more views, dude. You deserve it.

[@zoomzike]

While I don't like the implications of calling other people insensible Sonic fans, I appreciate your comment nonetheless!

[@TheDen-ec9xe]

@@zoomzike You're welcome ! It's just that there's so little well-thought videos on Sonic games these days.

[@zoomzike]

I don't blame ya, some of them don't feel right, it's hard to describe.

[@TheDen-ec9xe]

@@zoomzike To name some who mostly raise good points, there's Cooper Castille, Em.Bani, Victor Bluerush1992, and Retropolis Zone. They're definetely worth watching imo.

[@Prime_Legend]

Ruby of Blue is also great.

[@luigitime9592]

to be honest, i never realized that the small things can make big changes in people's thoughts and this is an example of a stage of where the game will reward u for what ever the reason

[@hamnerheads6770]

y’know, i’m not a big sonic fan, never really got the chance to play the games but god dAMN is your enthusiasm for this level so infectious!! hearing you excitedly break down every part of this level in detail that only a dedicated could puts the biggest smile on my face!

[@zoomzike]

I'm not that big of a Sonic fan either, I just find the franchise's way of handling itself very interesting. Glad you enjoyed!

[@AgileDumpling]

Incredibly well put. 18:08 Hmm. Alien, or maybe even... mystic.

[@zoomzike]

One could say you have to play a melody to activate it too...

[@novae57]

'You go dude! Have a nice day.' *half a second later* 'So after killing him-'

[@zoomzike]

He's okaaaaaaaaaaaaaay.

[@novae57]

Suuuuuuuruuuuuure...

[@WhoElseButZane]

8:05 You go dude. Have a nice day So after killing him...

[@zoomzike]

He's alllllllll gooooooooood...

[@SuperBeastlyMario]

Whats weird is that this video breaks down all the emotions i feel about this level and explains why I actually enjoy it as much as i do. I really like it

[@zoomzike]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@Vegedow]

I've got tears in my eyes because of how beautiful the desing is. Thanks for making this video.

[@zoomzike]

No problem, it deserved it!

[@Thebes342]

"You go, dude! Have a nice day!" "So _after killing him-"_

[@zoomzike]

He's allllllllllll good!

[@FaviMarzo]

2:33 lady reporting: suspect heading south sonic: *YEA, IM GOING TO PRISON*

[@zoomzike]

*NOT IF I RUN FAST ENOUGH*

[@donovanthefrog138]

Zoomzike out of context: "You go, dude! Have a nice day. ...so after killing him, you'll notice..."

[@marsvin55]

greatest opening to a game ever. Super much insight and points you make, you deserve alot more subs!

[@zoomzike]

Thanks a bunch!

[@4swordsluver]

This video made me so giddy, as you walked us through the level. I was hearing every sound effect in my head and my thumbs kept wanting to play the game 😩 city escape and sonic sa2 are such a huge part of my childhood, the muscle memory I have from this game is nuts

[@nicekid76]

Best song EVER. Probably my most listen to Video game song of all time! 2nd to maybe Dire Dire Docks from Mario but I doubt it

[@zoomzike]

It's absolutely timeless

[@andrewarren4157]

Same here man

[@Introbulus]

And don't forget - the level ends you perfectly at the exact spot you're about to fight your first boss!

[@zoomzike]

I didn't even think about that! YET ANOTHER POINT!!

[@lpfan4491]

It's very much a diffrent place tho?

[@ThePurpleCheeseMan]

Great video! I always knew this stage was brilliant but I don't think I'd ever taken such a thorough look at it. Being the type of player who would rather blast past everything than look for collectibles, I never thought about how much care went into designing the level for *every* playstyle and teaching you how to play. This game is the bees knees!

[@SonnyFRST]

The moment you realize: He timed the in-game timer at the end to match the video's length.

[@goodbyemixer4093]

Thank you. Best Level Ever Best Game Ever

[@zoomzike]

No problem!

[@potatohead5701]

city escape lore

[@tastyboi2163]

Great job, subscribed. but I just wanted to say, dont be afraid of going more in depth! First thing I noticed was you took note of many posters and many subtle mechanics early in the level but didnt mention that the poster of sonic grinding with the sonic team logo was a great way to let players know that they can grind if they didnt try it on the first rail behind them. I would have loved to see you go more in depth with the first chao box at the top of the stairs with enemies on the high ground of the stairs, with also the first intro to a flying enemy, the section that follows with the golden one and the chao box next to it, and the third one you said you can jump on to get the invincibility. also how the area with the second chao box is followed by a choice between a spring, exploration or enemies. the area with the 3rd chao box is also a huge part of the level for me because i remember wanting to learn how to nail homing attacks with the row of enemies but i messed up so i was forced to take the path with the moving platforms, now this time the fall is much more detrimental. and later on beforethe truck you are given the 3 choices, run up stairs, grind up the stairs or take the moving platforms/swing pole all while being shot at by punishing enemies.... anyway, just wanted to share that with you, videos like this are totally granted longer play times, in my opinion! Keep it up ZZ

[@zoomzike]

I wanted to keep the video as concise as possible while covering as many points as I could. Repetition was something I wanted to avoid. I see what you mean with what you said though, the sequential homing attacks by the third Chao box would've been a great point to bring up. Thanks!

[@amirgarcia547]

The fact that you pointed out so many minute details about this level that I hadn’t even noticed despite beating it dozens of times proves how amazing it is.

[@jonathanacevedo4335]

This hits so hard since i’ve learned the hard way how much work and planning goes into a game. Amazing video.

[@zoomzike]

Appreciating the effort that goes into games has become something I've been paying more attention to. Thanks!

[@TheDeleater]

I feel that no game no life not having a sequel reference

[@zoomzike]

Glad others share my sorrow, it'll come out...someday...

[@CuriousGuy_]

15:51 I discovered your little secret It goes something like this: "Not to many people actually take the time to find the little secrets of this video" Man I only saw your Lost Valley video and this one and this is just peak Video Quality, I still can't believe the fact that people that stare at a camera saying shit about sonic games have more recognition than this.

[@zoomzike]

I'm glad you enjoy my stuff dude!

[@ZLGNF]

Q U A L I TY V I D E O While I still prefer SA1 overall, you made me appreciate City Escape a lot more. It's so refreshing to see videos praising good game design of Sonic games instead of the same old criticisms.

[@zoomzike]

SA1 has parts worthy of praise in its own right! I'm glad you appreciate praise in general. It feels like people rip on stuff constantly to garner attention sometimes.

[@yokoelf]

This stage is legendary.

[@zoomzike]

It's had so much staying power over the years, everyone remembers it!

[@ChaosAad22]

You deserve way more subs man. This video made me remember why I like City Escape and the Sonic Adventure games in general

[@zoomzike]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@user-we7eh1lh2x]

I LOVE THIS GAME AND THIS LEVEL

[@zoomzike]

SAME.

[@FanZ2626]

Me: *looks at title* "Well, yeah... was that not obvious?" I've always thought that one of the biggest reasons so many people (myself included) have such fond memories of Sonic Adventure 2, despite its many significant flaws, is that City Escape, most players' very first level, is one of the best levels in ANY Sonic game ever made, a shining jewel of near-perfect game design that remains fun to play no matter how many times I go through it. This video didn't even focus on the amazing sense of flow and speed you can achieve when you go through with all the upgrades and doing everything right, which is my own favorite part.

[@zoomzike]

Flow is _everything_ in Sonic to me, and City Escape is _full_ of it. I'm glad you share the same kind of passion for it as I do!

[@fernando98322]

Yes you good sir I want you to analyze everything in SADX and SA2B for the internet to finally learn these 2 games are some of Sonic's best (and for some people, our favorites). Great analysis of the level. If an Adventure 3 or a remake of these were made I want them to have bigger splitting paths like the Classics so we get the perfect Sonic experience. Maybe next time you can talk about how treasure hunting is actually amazing and perfect.

[@zoomzike]

I don't know if I have the willpower to make a 12 hour analysis video on these entire games, but there are definitely other parts of them worthy of praise! Treasure hunting's neat.

[@fernando98322]

@@zoomzike Whatever you feel you wanna do my man. I'd love to hear your thoughts on other aspects of the Adventure games. Earned a new sub anyways, interested in the Mario Party luck video as well :)

[@ez6791]

I loved this game so much growing up. I didn't even realize it was a platformer until you mention it. It feels so different than every platformer game

[@zoomzike]

It is a bit different from others, now that you mention it...

[@esthergosling6231]

Mate your video presentation is beautiful, my favorite game and you have done this breakdown justice, and your little quips had my laughing all the way through

[@zoomzike]

I've been working on my presentation for a while now, glad it's paid off! Glad that you enjoyed it!

[@XeNes3D]

City Escape is such an amazing level it was the reason I found out, on my own, that you could grin on those rails in Sonic Advance 1! Seriously, when I realized that I could do that in Sonic Advance, my mind was blown. Thank you SA2 for having one of the best 3D Sonic levels.

[@PolarPhantom]

Would be nice if someone modded this version of the level into Generations. Not that it's needed, since the Generations version stands on its own.

[@zoomzike]

It kinda does yeah. There's a lot of little details it misses that I wish it had, but it gets the major points down for the most part.

[@pandziendobryniesubowacalb5480]

13:53 It's over Sonic we have the high ground Sonic: but it's not star wars Enemies : Oh no

[@zoomzike]

Enemies: _Die_

[@ELSTINKO.]

Very well put, it's quite hard to perfectly explain levels designed well but done subtly. (especially in a game franchise as infamous as sonic). Great video man I'll make sure to stay tuned for more of your stuff.

[@zoomzike]

Thanks for all the kind words!

[@DiggitySlice]

I love I never noticed some of these because the level pumps you up so much I alway zoom ahead.

[@zoomzike]

I tend to zoom as well.

[@COZMICETERNITY]

2:49 That transition tho.

[@zoomzike]

Glad ya caught it!

[@alienxotic5028]

You should have a lot more subs. This video is fantastic and reminded me why i enjoyed sa2

[@zoomzike]

Maybe some day!