Sonic the Hedgehog Part 4 guide covering gameplay tips, level secrets, and character abilities. Learn how to replay Story Mode and switch rails.
Walkthrough
1
Speed Chip Upgrade: The Speed Chip Upgrade for Silver mentioned in the Prima Guide did not make it into the final version of Sonic the Hedgehog.
2
Shops: The shops in New City and Forest are represented by Yellow Monitors. Unlike the shop in New City, they do not have people standing next to them. Detailed shop locations are described in the Town Area Section of this guide.
3
Replaying Story Mode:
Xbox 360: Due to only one save per Xbox 360 account, you must create a new account or delete your previous save to replay Story Mode. Creating a new account is the recommended method. All cutscenes can be rewatched in the Extras Menu in the Theater Room. The very end of Story Mode can also be replayed for upgrades.
4
PS3: Information on replaying Story Mode on PS3 is not yet available.
Changing Language: You can change the in-game voices and sub-titles to Japanese by adjusting your console's language options. Japanese is the only other language available on the English version disc of Sonic the Hedgehog.
Switching Rails: To switch rails in Sonic the Hedgehog, you need to jump and then perform a Homing Attack or land on the next rail. This is more challenging than in previous Sonic 3D games.
Unlockables: Rumored features such as unlocking other characters, Free Mode, a day and night feature, and Super Form in regular levels are not unlockables in Sonic the Hedgehog. Their availability may depend on future downloadable content (DLC (downloadable content — extra missions or items released after launch)) from SEGA.
Downloadable Content (DLC): Several DLC packs are available for Sonic the Hedgehog. Refer to the Downloadable Content Section for more details, as this guide is updated for each download.
Wave Ocean Switch with Tails: On the beach with the lighthouse, the switch is located on the highest raised platform. First, fly to the lower platform, then the camera angle will shift, allowing you to fly to the higher one. After defeating the robots, the switch is found under some boxes. Hidden switches exist in later parts of the game and are detailed in the walkthrough.
Boost Ramp Issues (Wave Ocean & Radical Train): To avoid being thrown off Boost Ramps into an abyss, enter them from the left side. This method helps for an unspecified reason.
White Acropolis Snowboarding Section: To pass the last ramp in the snowboarding section, press and hold the Jump button, then release to perform a long jump. Aim to release in the middle of the ramp, not at the very tip. This maneuver was referred to as a "trick" in previous games.
Aquatic Base Door with Tails: To open a door with Tails in Sonic the Hedgehog's Aquatic Base, you must defeat flying enemies over the gap using Dummy Rings as you fly, or perform a Dummy Ring Snipe by landing on a platform and holding the Attack Button to aim.
Silver's Tropical Jungle Path: When Silver states, "I wish I could go up," levitate straight ahead to the platform with two robots. Look to your right to find a hanging Flower Bud, which will lead you to the correct path.
Dusty Desert Ball Puzzle (Silver): To solve the Dusty Desert Ball Puzzle, push the ball using the Attack button and steer it from behind. Do not move the boxes in front of the holes, as they help prevent balls from falling in. Push the ball diagonally between holes on opposite sides of the course. Only push the ball when absolutely necessary to change its direction, as excessive pushing counts down until its destruction. Pushing too hard can cause the ball to go out of control. The ball will reappear if destroyed or if it falls into the wrong hole.
Kingdom Valley Container (Silver): When Silver says, "This container can help me move forward" in Kingdom Valley, stand on the container and press the Special Action Button (RT or R1) to levitate it with you on it, allowing you to reach higher and farther distances.
Shadow's Kingdom Valley Third Key: To find the third Key in Shadow's Kingdom Valley, climb onto the giant stained glass window and press the Attack Button to plant a bomb on it. This will cause it to explode, granting access to the room inside.
Shadow's Dusty Desert Hovercraft: To progress in Shadow's Dusty Desert Hovercraft section, follow the pillars. After passing between each set, two more will appear ahead. You must make all pillars appear to open a door.
Shadow's Story Archeologist: When the Archeologist in Shadow's Story mentions "Priest's Prayers" and "Dark Light," go to the Fountain of the Priest. NPCs will guide you in the right direction. Hit the four pillars surrounding the fountain with Chaos Spear.
Story Summary:
The story of Sonic the Hedgehog begins in Soleanna, the city of water. During the Sun Festival, Princess Elise is abducted by Dr. Eggman, who has sinister motives. Sonic rushes to Soleanna to rescue her, but is interrupted by a mysterious white hedgehog named Silver, who believes Sonic to be the "Iblis Trigger." The mystery of the Iblis Trigger and the "Flames of Disaster" that Dr. Eggman seeks unfolds as Sonic speeds through the kingdom.
Character Profile:
Sonic the Hedgehog Age: 15 Description: The world's fastest hedgehog.
Tips
When dealing with Boost Ramps in Wave Ocean and Radical Train, approaching from the left side can prevent you from falling off.
For the White Acropolis snowboarding section, mastering the long jump by releasing the Jump button in the middle of the ramp is crucial for clearing the final ramp.
In the Aquatic Base, remember that Dummy Rings can be used offensively against flying enemies to open doors.
The Dusty Desert Ball Puzzle requires precision; avoid unnecessary pushes and use the boxes strategically.
For Shadow's Dusty Desert Hovercraft section, focus on making all the pillars appear by following them correctly.