Sonic X Shadow Generations makes a return for fans, bringing the iconic Blue Blur back to life with a remastered experience that reimagines some of his most beloved levels. This time, Shadow embarks on his own journey, adding a refreshing twist that distinguishes his gameplay from Sonic’s.
One notable aspect of this game is that Sonic’s segments remain largely unchanged. In particular, the level Crisis City may evoke some frustrating memories from Sonic 06. However, new collectibles have been introduced, so let’s dive into finding them!
How to Achieve S Rank in Crisis City
As is characteristic of the game, Crisis City can be quite challenging. The color palette can blend together, enemy hitboxes may feel unfairly tricky, and molten lava threatens from every angle. A misplaced jump or poorly executed Homing Attack can easily lead to defeat. Let’s explore some strategies for obtaining an S rank.
Crisis City Act 1 S Rank
In Act 1, Classic Sonic faces additional hazards tailored for his slower pace, but maintaining speed is still key.
- Begin the level by gaining as much speed as possible. As you approach the collapsing highway, jump when you see it lean to snag the Dash Rings above. Once in the elevated area, perform a Spin Dash to gain further height.
- After passing the next checkpoint, bounce off three flying enemies to continue on the higher path. You’ll soon encounter a bent piece of rebar, where you should keep jumping to ascend.
- In the rotating building section, attempt to dash along the shaky platforms and bounce off the enemies on the wall to hurry through this segment.
- In the area with flying enemies and moving platforms, take the rightmost platform upwards to an elevated route and some Speed Shoes. After defeating the fiery worm enemy, time your jumps carefully to bounce between pieces of debris and flying foes for elevation.
- In the external areas with unstable debris, tread lightly, as some debris can cause unexpected falls.
- Finally, as you near the goal, it will begin to move further away. You must chase it down while being cautious of gusty winds that can impede your movement.
Important Tip: Avoid traversing areas engulfed in the firestorm, as touching it will result in instant defeat and hinder your chances for an S rank.
There are no shortcuts here, so proceed cautiously. Keep in mind that jumps may require a larger run-up than anticipated. Aim for a finish time under 3:50 with a score of 50,000 to earn an A rank, and a Perfect Clear will secure you the S rank.
Crisis City Act 2 S Rank
In Act 2, Sonic’s control feels significantly improved compared to his previous outings, making it easier to navigate the treacherous terrain.
- After the initial Trick Ramp, opt for the left path; it’s riskier but can save you precious seconds. Jump across platforms and debris to reach the highway quickly.
- When you reach another large lava section, aim for the Dash Rings centrally. This involves navigating some platforms that tend to collapse quickly but will lead you upward effectively. Use your Homing Attack on nearby flying enemies to ascend to their platforms.
- After breaking through some crates upon landing on collapsible platforms, follow them upwards to skip most of the upcoming section.
- On the final highway, sidestep to dodge the ruined cars and debris around you, and aim to climb the hill on the right for a Speed Ramp that propels you toward the goal more swiftly.
To complete Act 2, take less than 3:00 and achieve a score of 50,000 for an A rank; a Perfect Clear will promote you to an S rank.
Finding All Red Star Rings in Crisis City
Just like in the original Sonic Generations, Red Star Rings are back, with a total of ten to collect in each location—five for Sonic and five for Shadow.
Crisis City Act 1 Red Star Rings
- Red Star 1: After the collapsing highway, use a Spin Dash to reach a higher area with this star.
- Red Star 2: Follow the high route after acquiring Speed Shoes to find this star in a building.
- Red Star 3: In the first major outdoor area with firestorms, bounce off flying enemies to reach an elevated path where the star is located.
- Red Star 4: In the segment where the storm impacts movement, head downwards to locate this star.
- Red Star 5: Close to the finish line, this star can be seen on a floating billboard above a yellow spring.
Collecting these grants you the Hercules Muscle skill.
Crisis City Act 2 Red Star Rings
Modern Sonic also has five Red Star Rings to gather:
- Red Star 1: After the initial loop highway, opt for the left slanted path over the flying enemies to collect this star.
- Red Star 2: In the side-scrolling section over lava with two flying enemies, use your Homing Attack on them to reach the star above.
- Red Star 3: After breaking through boxes onto collapsible platforms, follow them bouncily upwards to uncover the star.
- Red Star 4: At the top of a lava plume, this star floats alone—watch out for the ceiling!
- Red Star 5: Ride the grind rail right next to a Speed Ramp as you approach the goal.
Obtaining these rewards you with the Serial Homing skill.
Finding Hidden Chao in Crisis City
A new collectible has been introduced to Sonic X Shadow Generations: Chao, with six hidden in each level, totaling three per Act.
Crisis City Act 1 Hidden Chao
Here’s where to locate Classic Sonic’s three hidden Chao:
- Hidden Chao 1: After the rotating building segment, catch it at the end of the large rebar you glided down.
- Hidden Chao 2: On the lower route after re-entering an interior section; use a Spin Dash to reach it from a floating platform.
- Hidden Chao 3: Soon after the first checkpoint in the firestorm section, this Chao will be running away from you. Chase it down!
Crisis City Act 2 Hidden Chao
Modern Sonic can also discover three hidden Chao:
- Hidden Chao 1: Before using the spring up to the new lava area leading to a big building, this Chao is next to the spring.
- Hidden Chao 2: After transitioning from one side-scrolling area to the next, find the Chao behind the checkpoint near the edge of the building.
- Hidden Chao 3: Just before reaching the goal ring, you can find this Chao on the lower level of the platform.
With that, you should have all the hidden treasures from this chaotic city. Good luck as you move on to the next level!