It’s truly magnetic gameplay that calls for tons of experimentation with the power-ups as you mix and match to fit the style of the song. For example, fast-paced, guitar-heavy songs can benefit from guitar-specific bonus multipliers – then mix it with the Road Rage power up that wipes notes from other tracks to help you concentrate on hitting those string notes. The discovery of what works best is absolutely rewarding and keeps you coming back for more.

On the flip side, it takes a few hours for the game to actually test your wits and utilize the strategies available, so the uninitiated may find the typical start of fighting little worms and scorpions to be an instant bore.

There’s nothing complicated here, just straight-up arcade-style racing. Punch the gas with right trigger, use the left trigger to hit the brakes or ease into a drift and press “X” while steering during air time for stunts. During air time, you’ll need to tilt back or forward to shorten or lengthen the jump to ensure a solid landing — that is unless you like eating mud. Pull off enough fancy maneuvers and your turbo meter charges. Holding down square lets the juice loose and sends your four-wheeler into full throttle.

Defend the castle walls, sire! When starting your turn in this gonzo strategy-action title, you’ll need to build various blockades on a playing field to prevent enemy forces from storming over your domain. To do so, open up your asset window with your tools of defense: towers, catapults, bombs and angry livestock are just a small taste of goodies to put into place to slow down and deter your opponent’s attack. After preparing your defenses, trumpets will blare, cuing you to literally roll out your attack.

This isn’t even including the free-roaming Stunt Park featuring two giant arenas designed to satisfy any driver’s hunger for exploration and open-world racing. Huge loops, half pipes, steep hills and ramps bring great potential for maximum air time and daredevil antics. In an effort to make sure you don’t miss a spot are skillfully placed trophies set to push your skills to the limit along with more car parts that allow for alternate builds of your vehicles. 

Well, you know the drill, gamers — this is Sonic! Run, jump and spin at top speeds to collect golden rings and reach the finish line. Much like the previous installment, the blue blur can also home in on auto-targeted enemies and objects with a simple press of the jump button. And, of course, crouch down and quickly tap the same button for the signature spin dash. This time, though, Sonic isn’t alone as his longtime sidekick Tails comes along for the ride. The “X” button is the key to teaming up for special combo moves. Press it in the air for Tails to carry Sonic to new heights or press it while grounded for a duo dash that can break specific walls and barriers.