Hydrocity Zone Act 1 plunges you into a vibrant underwater city. The level is characterized by its strong currents, rotating platforms, and numerous water-based traps. Air bubbles are your best friend here, so prioritize finding them to replenish your oxygen meter.
Key Features & Hazards:
- Water Currents: These can push you in specific directions, either helping you gain speed or hindering your progress. Learn to use them to your advantage.
- Rotating Platforms: Circular platforms that spin, often requiring precise jumps to land on them or to reach higher areas.
- Spiked Balls: These are often attached to chains and swing back and forth, acting as obstacles in both air and water.
Strategy:
Speed is crucial, even underwater. Use the Spin Dash to gain momentum and burst through water. As Sonic, the Aqua Shield is incredibly useful here, as it prevents drowning and allows for a bounce attack. Tails can fly over many of the underwater sections, making his playthrough significantly easier. Always keep an eye on your air meter; if it starts flashing, find an air bubble immediately. The mini-boss for this act is a spinning drill machine.
Mini-Boss: Screw Mobile
The Screw Mobile is a drill-equipped machine that moves back and forth, occasionally extending its drills. It's vulnerable when its drills are retracted. Wait for it to stop drilling, then jump and hit its top. Be careful of the water currents it generates when moving. Three to four hits will destroy it. After defeating it, you'll continue through the aquatic labyrinth.