Sonic Frontiers - The DF Tech Review - Every Version Tested - PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Switch!

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  • Опубліковано 10 лис 2022
  • Disadvantaged due to poor marketing, it turns out that Sonic Frontiers is actually a fantastic game! In this extended video, John Linneman explains how it works and where it succeeds, before critiquing the Hedgehog Engine technology and how it's deployed on every single version of the game.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,7 тис.

  • @TheHundrednaire
    @TheHundrednaire Рік тому +1623

    Legend has it, if you close your eyes and say "today I'm joined by my good friend and colleague, John Linneman", he'll appear before you.

    • @Green_Stache_Productions
      @Green_Stache_Productions Рік тому +59

      I tried it but instead of him showing up a homeless person named John Linneman showed up instead and now he won't leave my home :(

    • @MorganBlackwell
      @MorganBlackwell Рік тому +94

      Sounds like he's no longer homeless...

    • @M_LittleRivers
      @M_LittleRivers Рік тому +14

      You have to do it at midnight in front of a mirror

    • @hauntedhotdog
      @hauntedhotdog Рік тому +3

      Great. I can't wait to hear him to count the instances of frame pacing issues imperceptible to most people, telling me that it's "not perfectly smewth" and "not quite good enough". I also wouldn't be caught dead playing a 3D Sonic game... so I will just see myself out.

    • @sonsofliberty9630
      @sonsofliberty9630 Рік тому +1

      @@M_LittleRivers DON'T !!!

  • @superbro6413
    @superbro6413 Рік тому +258

    1:15 Part 1 - The Design
    7:06 Part 2 - The Visuals
    12:22 Part 3 - Console Testing
    21:34 Part 3.1 - Nintendo Switch
    26:03 Part 3.2 - PC
    29:17 Part 4 - The Soundtrack
    33:34 Final Thoughts
    Excellent review and report from John here. You always do great work,
    props!

    • @nahoking1
      @nahoking1 Рік тому +2

      THANK YOU SO MUCH

    • @pliable
      @pliable Рік тому +3

      Thank you for doing the lords work 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

  • @Johnathan1988
    @Johnathan1988 Рік тому +89

    Update: 60fps mode just got patched in to the Series S version a few days ago! Not sure of resolution and Sega claimed it was a bug that caused the lack of access to the performance mode on Series S (according to the patch notes anyways).

    • @MichaelVickers2007
      @MichaelVickers2007 Рік тому +6

      I’m pretty sure it was a glitch but they probably said that to cover themselves because they didn’t implement the 60FPS mode

  • @siphillis
    @siphillis Рік тому +1031

    It’s fascinating how opinions vary on this game, from “this is Sonic’s return to form” to “this game is an unfinished mess”.

    • @EJD339
      @EJD339 Рік тому +130

      I can’t recall a game that has divided people like this in a while. And it’s not about story choices

    • @RoboZombie777
      @RoboZombie777 Рік тому +200

      I honestly feel these are both true. It's the first Sonic game in a very long time where they seem to have any actual vision for where to take the series that isn't either *just* trend-chasing or meaningless nostalgic callbacks. At the same time, it's absolutely jank as fuck and unless you're an existing Sonic Pervert, I find it *really* hard to recommend.
      If they can build and iterate on this game like they did with Unleashed->Colors->Gens when "boost sonic" was the core idea, I think they could make a banger of game but as it stands, I think "fundamentally pretty bad but very promising as a way forward" is my take on it

    • @Armataan
      @Armataan Рік тому +42

      I think Skillup does a good job of explaining that difference of opinion. And I expected MVG. And John to like it. Glad to see I was right about John.

    • @Hugsloth
      @Hugsloth Рік тому +36

      People living in delusion vs People living here in reality, more like

    • @imveryangryitsnotbutter
      @imveryangryitsnotbutter Рік тому +18

      ^ Some people just want to watch the world burn.

  • @saifojio2259
    @saifojio2259 Рік тому +361

    i love how john always goes above and beyond for sonic reviews

    • @dookie_12
      @dookie_12 Рік тому +29

      He’s a man of culture.

    • @NintenJon2023
      @NintenJon2023 11 місяців тому +1

      He’s a man that I’d have a beer with, and I don’t even drink.

  • @yellowbat79
    @yellowbat79 Рік тому +157

    Alex's optimized settings section was incredible.
    Remember kids, Get High!

    • @nick13b
      @nick13b Рік тому +14

      already there *coughs* 😎

    • @goe74life49
      @goe74life49 Рік тому +4

      Smoking that good stuff, puff puff 💨💨 I swear it's just for my arthritis!!!

    • @DisgruntledDoomer
      @DisgruntledDoomer Рік тому +5

      I was gonna play my Sonic Front, but then I got High...

  • @bokkimi2528
    @bokkimi2528 Рік тому +389

    What Sonic Team does after Frontiers is in some ways more important than the Frontiers itself. Half of the work of making something good is actually recognizing that you've got something good on your hands. They must iterate from now on. Seize the good, polish it up and throw away the rest.

    • @NeroVingian40
      @NeroVingian40 Рік тому +26

      I really hope this will be the case here. What they have here right now is an unpolished gem, all they have to do is fixing the kinks and it’ll be a good sequel. It would be mind-blowing to see the open world sections with all the platforms, without LoD issues or pop-ins.

    • @GrimJackal
      @GrimJackal Рік тому +35

      This is SEGA we're talking about here. They've been stiffing Sonic studios on budget and resources for over twenty years. The people developing these games couldn't produce a AAA product if they wanted to. Look no further than the disastrous production of Sonic Boom, the failure of which rests squarely on SEGA placing unreasonable demands on the developer.

    • @bokkimi2528
      @bokkimi2528 Рік тому +18

      @@GrimJackal Yeah, that's the concern. SEGA didn't cheap out on the marketing for Frontiers, you got banners in Times Square and stuff, but then you look at the game and It's so underproduced in many aspects.
      Have no idea if it's a budget issue or if they simply don't have the talent. Probably both. I mean, someone DID make all those great in-game animations for Unleashed and Generations back then. Where are those people?
      If the next game is just Frontiers 2.0, that will be a huge disappointment. Well-written character interactions and some cool songs won't be enough.

    • @DanielFerreira-ez8qd
      @DanielFerreira-ez8qd Рік тому +16

      @@GrimJackal it wasn't even about "unreasonable demands", it was straight up sabotaging the developers. Like - why would you force the dev team to take their game, which was planned to be a multi-platform release for next-gen consoles, and tell them to downgrade it to the wii u, partway through development??? WHO DOES THAT?

    • @Hugsloth
      @Hugsloth Рік тому +2

      OK, except that this game costs $60, ($92 for full DD edition in my country) and the next game will also cost $60. If they put this out as a tech demo your comment would be reasonable

  • @KidAL0
    @KidAL0 Рік тому +80

    It’s pretty baffling that for all the crazy cyber-glitchy visuals going on in the game (and the fact that it’s such a core element in the story), the devs didn’t implement some kinda digital pop-in effect for assets. Would’ve easily made it look better, as obvious as the solution is

    • @srijanshukla2489
      @srijanshukla2489 Рік тому +22

      It's funny that some of the older Assassins Creed games got it right and did exactly what you're saying with NPC pop in, since those games are technically VR simulations and as such the Animus being prone to glitches.

    • @corruptedteka
      @corruptedteka Рік тому +8

      I was thinking this as well.

  • @BlumenCT
    @BlumenCT Рік тому +240

    the gameplay loop really rewards exploration in a satisfying way, which unfortunately is what draws even further attention to the pop-in,when you're searching for the next chunk of platform challenges.

    • @Ayoul
      @Ayoul Рік тому +15

      It was funny how as he's praising the game, the cracks were showing in so many clips.

    • @saricubra2867
      @saricubra2867 Рік тому +4

      This game makes me want to play Sonic Adventure for the XYth time.

    • @FlameMage2
      @FlameMage2 Рік тому +2

      @@Ayoul Exactly, at 4:48 I'm like ok ok oooof omg what was that pop-in. Then he addresses it later and I'm like thank you.

    • @SammyRenard
      @SammyRenard Рік тому +3

      That and all the times when your sonic who's running at the speed of light, goes from 1 million km/h to 0 in an instant because a single polygon in the ground disagreed

    • @VanTesla
      @VanTesla Рік тому +4

      If there was a way to fix or better mitigate the pop-in on at least current platforms. It be a nice update, though given the technical issues I don't expect that as even a possibility. So PC given time by fan mods fixing is likely the only longterm solution.
      Mind if a older gamer you can more likely ignore the aspects... I say that due to past games with bad pop-in from way back. Brain can eventually get use to it and ignore it to a degree...

  • @Judgementkiryu
    @Judgementkiryu Рік тому +216

    I gotta say, this game exceeded my expectations. This style of gameplay was meant for sonic, if they keep building upon the foundation laid for frontiers I am confident Sonic will once again rise to prominence.

    • @LeonSKennedy7777
      @LeonSKennedy7777 Рік тому +4

      I agree, I just hope they’d mix the innovations with more classic Sonic character, style, & wackiness present in earlier games. Sonic Mania captured those later elements so well.

    • @GenerationZ313
      @GenerationZ313 Рік тому +12

      I'm sure that's what a lot of fans thought after Sonic Generations released but of course we ended up getting Sonic Lost World instead so we really can't make an educated guess since Sonic Team keeps changing things up when we least expect them to.

    • @drumjod
      @drumjod Рік тому +8

      Agreed 100%. I've been seeing a lot of 7 out of 10 reviews where the description makes it sound more like an 8 or 9. It's easily a 9 or 9.5 out of 10 for me so far and I'm not even a Sonic fan.

    • @AnaMaria_2004
      @AnaMaria_2004 Рік тому +2

      Ehhh

    • @ZeitGeist_TV
      @ZeitGeist_TV Рік тому +3

      @@LeonSKennedy7777 Mania and Generations are in my top ten Sonic games and this game is definitely in that as well with nostalgia in playability and soundtrack giving me feels of being a kid again in early 90's on Genesis to as a teen in the 2000's playing on Dreamcast.

  •  Рік тому +12

    27:03 Alex's optimized settings section sure was hilarious.

  • @Solms86
    @Solms86 Рік тому +5

    Johns videos are always absurdly high in quality, informative and entertaining. Love it

  • @MichaelBjork
    @MichaelBjork Рік тому +55

    Award for best cameo in a DF video goes to DF's own, Alex Battaglia! Get High!

  • @dhivydhimanth1960
    @dhivydhimanth1960 Рік тому +12

    Absolutely loved your review John! I always prefer your videos because you tend to focus on the history of games and their lineage to be able to point out what makes these games good - controls, platforming, music, speed, stage design etc. And you're the only one who always focuses on the Music aspect of games. Sonic Frontier's Soundtrack is a real banger from the Kronos Island theme's calm sombre tone to the boss battle's heavy metal soundtrack!
    I have never been more excited for Sonic's future. They seem to have finally cracked it. A blueprint for future Sonic games. I just hope it doesn't take another 5 years for the next game (it probably won't tho). From the great Sonic Movies to this flawed but good (great compared to previous sonic titles) game, we're officially in the Sonic Renaissance! Being a Sonic fan is just a rollercoaster of emotions

  • @Ceredante
    @Ceredante Рік тому +16

    I might have to play this just for the soundtrack alone. What was highlighted in this video is incredible.

  • @MadX8
    @MadX8 Рік тому +8

    What a fantastic review! I can't thank you enough John for these "in depth" tests. Another masterclass

  • @jonRock
    @jonRock Рік тому +5

    Those last two music tracks you played are absolutely amazing. I'm a huge fan of that genre of that music.

  • @SevendashGaming
    @SevendashGaming Рік тому +91

    Can't wait to see if fans mod in a solution for the pop-in on PC. It's definitely something that would affect me.

    • @alfo2804
      @alfo2804 Рік тому +31

      Even if it's not possible to increase the rendering distance, hopefully they could at least add fade-in, so it's less noticeable.

    • @SevendashGaming
      @SevendashGaming Рік тому +5

      @@alfo2804 agreed but I think it will be possible. A lot of these limitations can be lifted in games that get modded for VR play. It's all about letting the engine know what to draw. As long this engine doesn't tie other things to the draw it should just tax systems more. Fingers crossed!!

    • @alfo2804
      @alfo2804 Рік тому +7

      @@SevendashGaming Yeah, hopefully.
      But I wouldn't put it past Sonic Team to have it turn out to be that object render distance is hardcoded or something. This is an open-world game, built on a boost game, built on a Mario 3D World clone. With that many layers of retooling and changing things, it's not impossible to believe that the engine is an unoptimised mess of spaghetti code.

    • @drumjod
      @drumjod Рік тому +12

      Pop-in usually bothers me too, but it hasn't been a problem or a distraction for me at all on PC in the first two worlds. Still looking forward to the mods for pop-in and 120 fps though.

    • @SevendashGaming
      @SevendashGaming Рік тому

      @@drumjod that's great to hear! I really appreciate you letting us know. I'm very tempted to give it a try but unfortunately the new Pokémon games are out next week to reset my graphic snob standards.

  • @TheRealShedLife
    @TheRealShedLife Рік тому +4

    So happy that music examples were included here: I'd heard so much about the music and here I got a perfect taste.

  • @clemente3
    @clemente3 Рік тому +38

    Dude this is the best sonic frontiers review I've seen yet! I'm really excited to play this game when I have the money for it and your review got me so pumped for it!
    Also thank you so much for giving us a taste of the soundtrack. I was wondering what kind of vibes it would have and the answer is all of them!😆

    • @clemente3
      @clemente3 Рік тому +4

      @@ramonandrajo6348 pardon?

    • @gamelegendalpha1737
      @gamelegendalpha1737 Рік тому +6

      @@clemente3 He's just trolling. He's replying to a bunch of comments on the video making fun of sonic fans because he has nothing better to do. Just ignore him.

    • @senatormarrero
      @senatormarrero Рік тому +2

      I was able to grab the Xbox version for $30 from Wal-Mart

    • @clemente3
      @clemente3 Рік тому

      @@senatormarrero great deal! I almost got the series S version but I saw that it doesn't do 60fps :(

  • @lewis9973
    @lewis9973 Рік тому +4

    “60fps? My eyes can’t see more than that” I spat out my pizza 😂

  • @ukigumo4557
    @ukigumo4557 Рік тому +9

    Fantastic review.
    Hats off to everybody involved.
    I really love the game so far and I'm happy that this is met with relatively positive reactions.

  • @redslumber
    @redslumber Рік тому +8

    An absolutely great review for a game that many other outlets might have written off. I appreciate how the development team took a chance with this title, and hope it acts as a solid foundation for future Sonic games.

  • @nabtah4229
    @nabtah4229 Рік тому +1

    Loved this review, thx John, Alex and all DF staff!

  • @drBROner
    @drBROner Рік тому +195

    Thanks for talking a bit about the PC version. I'll be keeping my eyes on the mods and wait to pick this up. The Alex cameo was excellent 😄

    • @thingsiplay
      @thingsiplay Рік тому +9

      The Steam Deck version is probably the way to play it on a handheld (over Switch). And it seems the desktop PC version is the way to play it on a tv/monitor as well (over consoles, especially over old consoles). And as a bonus, you don't have to buy the game again for PC and can use the same progress.

    • @IllusiveDev
      @IllusiveDev Рік тому +2

      @@thingsiplay Do you know how to fix the fps and texture flickering problem on the Steam Deck? I really want to enjoy it there as well but those issues make it really difficult.

    • @thingsiplay
      @thingsiplay Рік тому +3

      @@IllusiveDev I don't purchased the game yet. Maybe look at ProtonDB and search for user reports there.

    • @drumjod
      @drumjod Рік тому +4

      Glad your comment reminded me about the mods. I'm enjoying it on PC now, and the pop-in hasn't been a distraction at all for me. I do want to check out the 120 fps and pop-in mods when they're ready though.

    • @chickenpasta7359
      @chickenpasta7359 Рік тому +1

      @@IllusiveDev a lot of the times you just need to try different proton versions. ive had the most luck with ProtonGE builds

  • @DeadOmega
    @DeadOmega Рік тому +15

    Appreciate you highlighting the OST .. may be an all time great for the franchise (at least in the 3D space).

  • @wolfybuilder
    @wolfybuilder Рік тому +1

    I always look forward to these videos whenever a new Sonic game releases! They've become a nice tradition for me ever since Sonic Forces, which happened to be my first Sonic game in several years.

  • @JihelJay
    @JihelJay Рік тому +1

    Great review, considering the amount of work invested in testing all the versions. Thx DF

  • @MisterTTG
    @MisterTTG Рік тому +8

    I was really noticing the Bowser's Fury comparisons as I played it, too! Really interesting way to incorporate classic platforming into an open area, and I like how both pull it off (BF is more polished maybe but its also basically a short tech demo and not a full 25 hour game)

  • @DGFTardin
    @DGFTardin Рік тому +20

    I'm happy to see yet another one who was originally skeptical enjoying the game

  • @pipgoesthepossum
    @pipgoesthepossum Рік тому +1

    One of your best vids on a new title in a while, John!

  • @RudeGerbil
    @RudeGerbil Рік тому +6

    Great work as always John! I also REALLY enjoyed Alex's Optimized Settings at 27:07

  • @CaptainScarLeg
    @CaptainScarLeg Рік тому +3

    Alex's optimized settings section was way too funny I was NOT ready.

  • @Demanufactur3r
    @Demanufactur3r Рік тому +59

    Alex's bit is hilarious with the music, airhorns and jokes! Ofcourse the whole review is beyond excellent as always!

  • @dromendus
    @dromendus Рік тому +12

    18:30 "I mean, how many people have a Series X and a One X, and have them both hooked up?"
    lmao that's exactly me. recently got a Series S and I love it, but I still use the One X for X-enhanced games that don't have FPS boost on current gen systems. or games like Halo MCC that are a solid 4K60 on One X, and a lower resolution on Series S.
    anyways I'm sad that none of my consoles will run this at 60. what a strange choice to leave Series S stuck at 30

  • @hakimmika2379
    @hakimmika2379 Рік тому +5

    Always a pleasure to listen John talking about a Sonic game.

  • @MarieStarckBeauty
    @MarieStarckBeauty Рік тому +20

    Thank you I’ve been waiting for this video to know on which console I should buy it.
    I hope the pop-in can be fixed with a patch 🤞

    • @HaloGaming08
      @HaloGaming08 Рік тому +6

      yea i been playing it on series x i absolutely ADORE this game but the pop in is defintely my biggest critique tech wise but i can look past it as i love this game so much

    • @josephgarfield3363
      @josephgarfield3363 Рік тому +1

      It was pointed out months pre release, it still wasn't fixed. I'm guessing it's an engine issue.

    • @gunner201
      @gunner201 Рік тому

      @@ramonandrajo6348 🤓

    • @nocfox3050
      @nocfox3050 Рік тому

      @@ramonandrajo6348
      The fact that you replied the eat you did to an emoji just tells everyone here that you were the one pretty salty, yourself..
      But that shouldn't really surprise anyone uwu

  • @Archaian_
    @Archaian_ Рік тому +6

    "60fps I can't see anymore than that" cracked me up omg. 🤣

  • @bradtraq1
    @bradtraq1 Рік тому

    This video finally sold me on getting this game. I especially love the focus on the soundtrack at the end. Way to highlight the entire package. At first the pre release shit talking and post release pop in talk had me hesitant, but it seems to have a cool vibe and your enthusiasm kinda got me hyped up. The pop in is still ridiculous but whatever game looks cool. Thanks for the hard work!

  • @chrilz1498
    @chrilz1498 Рік тому +1

    Thank you so much for this, John! It feels so good to be excited about a Sonic game and that feeling be shared!

  • @TheGaluMoD
    @TheGaluMoD Рік тому +32

    I actually got a big boost in performance after setting shadows to low, while the visual difference is very minor. Might be due to my ageing CPU (7700K)

  • @amnril
    @amnril Рік тому +52

    John nailed this one and Alex’s cameo was spot on 👌👏
    Shame John didn’t say more about the Haptics on PS5 as I expect it could be really decent.

    • @GuerilleroX
      @GuerilleroX Рік тому

      Gimmick

    • @ericl6460
      @ericl6460 Рік тому +7

      @@GuerilleroX if you enjoy something, is it still a gimmick?

    • @amnril
      @amnril Рік тому +9

      @@GuerilleroX is it a gimmick? Would it still be a gimmick if it was in the Xbox controller? I find it adds a lot to some games especially when added to the controllers internal speaker.

    • @renofheavens2
      @renofheavens2 Рік тому +2

      @@amnril it was so dope in Returnal and Ratchet and Clank

    • @joefawley9264
      @joefawley9264 Рік тому

      I absolutely love the dual sense but sadly they aren't used much in this game

  • @jonathan3579
    @jonathan3579 Рік тому

    Love the review, John. The humorous Alex bit was a great add as well. Looking forward to the next big review!

  • @olivierpeartnoy
    @olivierpeartnoy Рік тому +1

    That Alex intervention was gold. Many good quotes in there, quite unexpected hahaha.

  • @StrengthScholar0
    @StrengthScholar0 Рік тому +10

    If they take the lessons from this game and actually give the sequel a budget and the time to reach it's full potential it's going to be something special.

  • @superluismigueL100
    @superluismigueL100 Рік тому +10

    Nice, thank you for the review.
    I'm getting the PC version since modding these recent sonic games can pretty much change the way you play the game

    • @GamingCentral3000
      @GamingCentral3000 Рік тому +1

      Same. I was debating but I think with the modding possibilities, overall perf, and portability aspects will also go PC.

  • @d1jal
    @d1jal Рік тому +1

    What an incredible video! Great work once again DF

  • @alphacompton
    @alphacompton Рік тому

    That was an incredible combination of a review and technical analysis. I'm a big Sonic The Hedgehog fan so I really appreciate the effort that was clearly put into this video. I was waiting on your upload before purchasing the game. I own all current gen consoles other than the Switch. You didn't mention if the PS5 version has any Dual Sense haptics. I might consider a console purchase for the VRR as my PC and TV setup are not compatible for VRR.

  • @juic3thetitan
    @juic3thetitan Рік тому +9

    Alex's optimized settings were lit AF!

  • @recordatron
    @recordatron Рік тому +18

    I'm not normally that fussed on Sonic games but this one has piqued my interest. I like the idea of the skilled traversal around bigger levels. Might pick this one up down the road when it's a bit cheaper.

    • @lumaseed6490
      @lumaseed6490 Рік тому +2

      I was thinking the same, I'll pick it up sooner if they fix that pop in.

    • @TheOtakuKnownAsWolf
      @TheOtakuKnownAsWolf Рік тому +2

      Walmart is having it for $30 black friday and target for $40

    • @thestripedmenace
      @thestripedmenace Рік тому +1

      Skilled traversal around big flowing levels is what Sonic should be all about - glad to see Frontiers gets it! :D

  • @kickfister
    @kickfister Рік тому +2

    I'm surprised the amped up motion blur exposure while boosting wasn't a sour point for you. The motion blur looks great, but as soon as you hit that boost button the slightest movement makes the area in front of you near indecipherable. Even as a huge fan of motion blur I had to turn it off.
    I don't expect they'll fix it but I'm playing on PC and am really hoping for a mod lol.

  • @aleixmarcelino7085
    @aleixmarcelino7085 Рік тому

    Excellent video, thanks! One question, do you recommend turning off motion blur in 60fps mode? I have read on several sites that it is the most recommended. Cheers!

  • @spinksy173
    @spinksy173 Рік тому +69

    Really enjoying this game. Feels like an evolution of Sonic Adventure 1 and 2

    • @saricubra2867
      @saricubra2867 Рік тому +9

      Not for presentation (artstyle and music). Sonic Adventure 1 and 2 still are special to this day, Sonic Adventure's controls still are unmatched combined with the Sonic level design.
      This game is better than Forces, approaching Generations, far away from the legends that are Adventure 1 and 2.

    • @CC42_
      @CC42_ Рік тому +6

      Its nothing like those games though

    • @DanielFerreira-ez8qd
      @DanielFerreira-ez8qd Рік тому +1

      @@saricubra2867 okay gotta correct you on one thing, the level design can be pretty scuffed in the old games. You're not wrong, it just feels like you're giving it a tad too much praise

    • @saricubra2867
      @saricubra2867 Рік тому +2

      @@DanielFerreira-ez8qd Nope. I also hate the lack of spindash for frontiers

    • @DanielFerreira-ez8qd
      @DanielFerreira-ez8qd Рік тому

      @@saricubra2867 A spin dash is kinda mechanically redundant when you have both the boost and the dropdash there tho

  • @theyouth2000
    @theyouth2000 Рік тому +10

    This review has got me interested in the game. Gonna get it.

  • @Iheartdrumzz
    @Iheartdrumzz Рік тому +1

    Thanks for being the first to make this video! Seems like I'll just go with the standard Xbox One version since all versions seems to have frame drops anyways..

  • @skootdiggity1301
    @skootdiggity1301 Рік тому +2

    Any time DF starts focusing on "inconsistent frame pacing", I stop watching the frame time graph and start focusing only on the the game play footage to see if I can see it. Unfortunately, like most times this comes up, I just can't see it myself, and to be honest, I'm glad. As long as I'm not getting hard micro stutters or shader cache compilation, I really don't notice it. Obviously playing at 60 fps vs 30 is night and day, but for me, playing at 30 fps @ 33 ms vs 30 fps with incorrect frame pacing is a minor difference at best.

  • @9thhokage364
    @9thhokage364 Рік тому +176

    This is the first Sonic I’ve played since Sonic adventure 2 and I’m really loving it. I’m absolutely shocked at how much I enjoy this game especially after the skillup review had me ready to skip it.

    • @IllusiveDev
      @IllusiveDev Рік тому +84

      It’s crazy how many people were taking that review as gospel. People need to learn how to be able to form their own opinions like you have.

    • @ThiagoJaqueta
      @ThiagoJaqueta Рік тому +42

      After his Lost Judgement review, I learned to not take everything he says seriously LUL.

    • @andrizzleton
      @andrizzleton Рік тому +51

      Between his Sonic Frontiers review and his overly hyperbolic God of War Ragnarok review I think it’ll be a while before I click on one of his videos

    • @drumjod
      @drumjod Рік тому +7

      Similar experience for me as Sonic Adventure was the only one I loved, except I occasionally dabbled in a few other Sonic titles, but didn't play for long.
      This game is an absolute blast and, surprisingly, I keep look forward to playing it much more than GoW: Ragnarok.

    • @MatheusMarti
      @MatheusMarti Рік тому +10

      After his review of Cyberpunk 2077 and then the game launching, I've lost trust on him and never watched a single video of him anymore

  • @Mycarisloose
    @Mycarisloose Рік тому +24

    Soundtrack sounds absolutely God tier. Might purchase just based off that.

  • @willwunsche6940
    @willwunsche6940 Рік тому +1

    Thank you Alex. With your optimized settings my PC is higher than ever before

  • @devan_danger
    @devan_danger Рік тому +1

    The new console badges for the framerate measurements look great. Happy to see that even DF is investing more in its cross gen development.

  • @dsidebotham
    @dsidebotham Рік тому +46

    John, your videos are masterclass quality for this type of content. Tell Rich you need a raise. DF wouldn't be the same without you. Keep up the great content.

    • @joejoe2658
      @joejoe2658 Рік тому

      then he could afford something to stop him touching his glasses every five seconds...... super annoying.

    • @ketrub
      @ketrub Рік тому +12

      @@joejoe2658 no it wouldnt be the same

    • @ShadowMKII
      @ShadowMKII Рік тому

      He cuts people off and hijacks conversations enough in DF Weekly that he should get a *demotion* - getting replaced by Oliver, if anything.

    • @richardtucker5938
      @richardtucker5938 Рік тому

      @@ShadowMKII he does seem to have gotten better recently, i feel he somehow is not aware he does it.

  • @FierceElements
    @FierceElements Рік тому +6

    I've been 5 minutes in and you seem relatively positive in exposition! This is a big win for Sonic Team!

  • @marvin8559
    @marvin8559 Рік тому

    I truly wish there was more music during general traversal of the world. All the music that's in is so good i wanted more smh.
    Thanks for your great work again!

  • @mhjmstultiens
    @mhjmstultiens Рік тому

    Haha, that Alex cameo. Lovely DF review! Might get the game, the switch to open zone doesn't bother me too much at all. :)

  • @Insill
    @Insill Рік тому +47

    That heavy pop-in is infuriating. It even happens on current-gen consoles with super-fast SSD's, and they shouldn't have any kinds of bottlenecks with streaming assets.

    • @goldmemberpb
      @goldmemberpb Рік тому +24

      Probably an engine issue more so than a streaming issue. Maybe they can patch it.

    • @helloguy8934
      @helloguy8934 Рік тому +4

      Increasing draw distance would increase gpu usage by a lot.

    • @TerrorOfTalos
      @TerrorOfTalos Рік тому +4

      Hardware ain't shit if the competency and talent isn't there to utilize it, always remember that.

    • @VitorHugoOliveiraSousa
      @VitorHugoOliveiraSousa Рік тому +4

      @@helloguy8934 that is why you use LOD levels, and SSD allows you to have greater numbers of LOD levels because you can streaming assets more fast to the GPU memory from "disc". They simply don't have any LOD levels as stated in the video. This probably is about they being a smaller team with less resources (Destroy All Humans 2 Reprobed has similar issues with pop-up but in cutscenes every time the camera change viewpoint, and the loading times are atrocious by PS5 standards given the small size of the maps of the world need to load) or SEGA rushing it to come out before christimas.

    • @alfo2804
      @alfo2804 Рік тому +6

      It's an engine issue. The engine is built to handle linear 2D stages with fixed camera angles, not huge, open environments.

  • @dodgykebaab
    @dodgykebaab Рік тому +1

    I really like the inclusion of the Music tracks being examined.
    Music never gets the praise it deserves.

  • @joshuau.
    @joshuau. Рік тому

    Great in depth review! From the trailers I wasnt sure if i would like the game, but after playing it on ps5 , it seems to work and I have been having fun! Love the speed levels you can reach in the open levels.

  • @Triplemathics
    @Triplemathics Рік тому +10

    This video single-handedly made me change my mind about Sonic Frontiers and I will buy it when I get the chance. Absolutely stellar tech review.

  • @AL2009man
    @AL2009man Рік тому +7

    I'm trying to watch a DF analysis of Sonic Frontiers, but the music is making me dance! What gives?!

  • @Dibeaulieu
    @Dibeaulieu Рік тому

    Awesome video thanks a lot for this !!

  • @rabbitenjoyer6320
    @rabbitenjoyer6320 Рік тому

    Thanks for touching on the soundtrack. I dig the hardcore boss battle tracks!

  • @l3rvn0
    @l3rvn0 Рік тому +3

    It runs great on Steam Deck...but at 30FPS, also some settings on High gets very glitchy
    So you want to set it to Low Settings and turn back On all the features it disables when you set it to low.
    Also, restarting the game after changing the graphical options fix all the glitchs

  • @drumjod
    @drumjod Рік тому +6

    Fantastic review as always, John.
    I am absolutely loving Sonic Frontiers on PC. Not a huge Sonic fan in general, but I haven't enjoyed a Sonic Game this much since the original Sonic Adventure on Dreamcast, which was state of the art and incredibly impressive at the time it came out.
    Pop-in hasn't been a distraction in my experience of the first two worlds so far, fortunately. I highly recommend this game to anyone who enjoys platformers and a bit of adventure. There are still the occasional trademark Sonic janky moments and camera issues, but it seems to be greatly improved compared to recent Sonic games. Replaying the last 30 seconds or so and knowing how to approach the section quickly resolves any death caused by jankyness or camera, and the game is very forgiving. Like John said, most of the game isn't too challenging (so far, except maybe a few bosses) and the greatest challenge comes in trying to master each level, which is a joy.
    PS: Alex's optimized settings section was absolutely hilarious 😂 Well done sir, you made my day.

  • @AltimaNEO
    @AltimaNEO Рік тому

    Imma wait 20 years for the DF retro review

  • @joesterling4299
    @joesterling4299 Рік тому

    I think the music pushed me off the fence into buying this game. Thanks so much for showcasing it, and for the thorough review.

  • @corinful
    @corinful Рік тому +3

    Excellent review John.... I'll leave the Switch version and get the Ps5 version .
    Do you think Sega could alleviate some of the pop up issues with a patch maybe ?👍👍

  • @DrLilo
    @DrLilo Рік тому +8

    Switch version still looks better than a modern Pokemon game tbh.

  • @mutosui
    @mutosui Рік тому +1

    The comparison with NFS most wanted is just genius. Great video as always!

  • @Nolasco.
    @Nolasco. Рік тому

    Thanks John, i was really skeptical about this title but after seeing your coverage i really looking forward to add this game to my collection..........the whole game is on disc i hope? 😅
    Thanks my dude 😁👍

  • @crowkid5553
    @crowkid5553 Рік тому +5

    i feel like the unfinished aspect of this is a positive, as i feel like this is just a playground for us to play and explore on, test sonic's gameplay in an open zone, so hopefully in the future will improve on this.

  • @maximusaralieous1728
    @maximusaralieous1728 Рік тому +4

    I was waiting for this video to see how they pulled it off. Besides the pop in, the game is gorgeous. I've really been enjoying it a lot. I would never play it on the Switch though lol.

  • @henrahmagix
    @henrahmagix Рік тому +1

    What happens to Sonic at 21:12 when he seems to hit a boulder? Does his whole model rotate immediately from the hit, and then slowly rotate back even though it’s on level ground for quite a while??

    • @henrahmagix
      @henrahmagix Рік тому

      Absolutely LOVE your videos btw!!! So much technical detail and I adore hearing it!

  • @Al-dq5vy
    @Al-dq5vy Рік тому +1

    Amazing review as always John. You are a treasure!

  • @balaam_7087
    @balaam_7087 Рік тому +4

    @John I’m surprised at your review on this one. Your opinions generally mirror my own in just about every way (a large part of the reason I really trust your recommendations), but we differ on this one. I thought the cyberspace sections were considerably more appealing than the other open zone areas, but you evidently feel the opposite.

  • @FlagshipFighter
    @FlagshipFighter Рік тому +48

    DF your coverage never disappoints thank you

  • @halfwayglad
    @halfwayglad Рік тому

    Alex's optimized settings outro was perfect.

  • @lumirairazbyte9697
    @lumirairazbyte9697 Рік тому +2

    Metal Gear Rising, the Persona series, are clear examples how the music can carry the overall gaming enjoyment. Also the Mitzuguchi games like Tetris Effect and Rez. It could be the first Sonic game since Heroes that I want to try soon.

  • @E_Sunbro
    @E_Sunbro Рік тому +62

    This is the first Sonic game that has actually grabbed me. I’ve been playing it on my Steam Deck and I’ve really been enjoying it. Needs some patches to fix some bugs and performance, but otherwise it’s great. I’m looking forward to playing it on my home PC when I am able.

    • @joejoe2658
      @joejoe2658 Рік тому +2

      WATCH SKILLUP'S VIDEO ON IT. IT IS A LAZY, AWFUL DUMPSTER FIRE. AVOID!!!

    • @KrazyBean14
      @KrazyBean14 Рік тому +27

      @@joejoe2658 WTF lol. If they enjoy it then they don't care about Skill Up's opinion 🤣

    • @coleG112
      @coleG112 Рік тому

      This feels like a perfect game for cloud gaming tbh. Shame it’s not on Xcloud or anything. It’s more racing game of anticipating timing, vs an action game of reacting quickly, so latency is predictable and tolerable

    • @soliduswasright678
      @soliduswasright678 Рік тому +10

      @@joejoe2658 Do people work for SkillUp or something?
      Everytime someone says they like the game, there's some guy going UHM WATCH SKILLUPS VIDEO GAEM BAD

    • @MatheusMarti
      @MatheusMarti Рік тому +6

      @@joejoe2658 ah yes, you should totally believe ShillUp reviews, heh.

  • @Renk1
    @Renk1 Рік тому +10

    I'm happy Frontiers turned out to be a "good 7/10". Already bought the Xbox version with a sweet Steelbook, can't wait to play!

  • @kaalionrjest1059
    @kaalionrjest1059 Рік тому

    Always appreciate you guys, thanks much for the awesomeness! Also those tracks...damn they're good. I am curious though, how's the Denuvo garbo? That's been the travesty of many a game...is it trashing the PC port at all?

  • @665Iron
    @665Iron Рік тому +2

    What the hell. John you completely sold me this game. It wasn't even under my radar as a Sonic enthusiast but now I'm truly considering to get it. Popping could be an issue but I've red they're commited to solve a lot of issues. I think i'm getting this for christmas :)

    • @brandonnel6905
      @brandonnel6905 Рік тому +2

      I got used to the pop-in within 20 minutes. The game is great, don't let the people who haven't even played it yet tell you otherwise.

    • @665Iron
      @665Iron Рік тому +1

      @@brandonnel6905 I'll play it on December. It's freaking expe sive on my country at this moment so I'll wait. Now I'm pretty sure I'll have a blast :)

  • @mattmaas5790
    @mattmaas5790 Рік тому +8

    Haven't watched the video yet, but im glad they covered this game and I've been using CheatEngine to unlock 120 fps and widescreen. IF they would just fix those limitations and allow less pop in for stronger PCs it would be a beautiful product. It already is a beautiful game.

    • @tuberoyful
      @tuberoyful Рік тому

      I own a strong PC and can play on Ultra all day ($3000 2 & a half years) but, even slightly un-strong ones should still play frontiers better than console 🤫

  • @winterhell2002
    @winterhell2002 Рік тому +4

    The optimized settings were the bomb!

  • @rugan0723
    @rugan0723 Рік тому +1

    So as far as the pop-in is concerned, is this a limitation of the engine handling models or is it something that Sonic Team could address in the future (At least on the current gen systems)?

  • @ahsankhan-zg6gr
    @ahsankhan-zg6gr Рік тому +2

    That PC setting section was hilarious !!!

  • @zinoelgato
    @zinoelgato Рік тому +3

    I had absolutely zero interest in getting this game until I saw this video, now I’m for sure getting it….it actually look, despite the pop in, really fun. Thanks John for this very in-depth review.

  • @neocaron87
    @neocaron87 Рік тому +17

    Pretty sure the 60fps mode on Series S not being here is gonna be fix pretty soon like for most Series S games. It sucks they didn't put it in from the get go though.

    • @RockstarMazy
      @RockstarMazy Рік тому

      right. honestly that's the only reason I haven't bought it yet. I only have a series s and I heard it was 30fps. once it's patched I'll definitely dive in

    • @TheBean87
      @TheBean87 Рік тому +1

      You can make it 60fps on the series s, change your display settings to 1080p on the console itself an it unlocks the 60fps. Don’t know why they have a work around for that though.

    • @wolf0491
      @wolf0491 Рік тому +3

      @@TheBean87 I mean he said he tried that in the video and it didn't work. unless they just fixed it very recently.

    • @UFCWWE69
      @UFCWWE69 Рік тому

      Who actually has a series L tho?

  • @onepiece190993
    @onepiece190993 Рік тому

    Oh John you have done it again, you have sold me the game better than any other UA-camr

  • @TheNino36078
    @TheNino36078 Рік тому

    I almost stopped watching after the 3rd part thinking the video was about over. I'm glad I stayed for the music.

  • @rick3421
    @rick3421 Рік тому +3

    Ok,the Soundtrack is crazy good