Sonic 4 seems like a rushed product. Although the landscapes have been retouched with gorgeous 3D graphics, the movement of Sonic and his enemies appears artificial and rigid. Sonics’ legs no longer blur at high speeds (on the iPhone version), and when he loops the loop the stage moves with him rather than seeing him defy gravity. The synth-driven soundtrack is also tacky and irritating compared to previous instalments. Thankfully on the iPhone you can turn off the music and use your iTunes library.

The thing that is the most disappointing is how much everything has been recycled. Most of the levels are re-named copies of the zones in previous games and the enemies and bosses are literally the same. The exclusion other characters such as Tales and Knuckles are also a huge let-down. The game is also far too short. With only four words, avid gamers will have it finished in half an hour. Rather than earning your way into special zones you can merely select them in the menu. However it has been given the tag of ‘Episode 1’ so perhaps they will allow a free download in the near future to extend the miniscule length.

At $12.99 from the iTunes store, Sonic 4 really is not worth its high price tag when you can buy the originals for half the price and twice the enjoyment. There are some fun moments, but it’s just not the same. It will keep you entertained for a small period of time, but unlike the classics, you won’t have the urge to keep coming back for more.

- Scott Thompson