Ranking Summer 2017's Video Games From Worst To Best

1. Sonic Mania

Of all the old-school properties to make a comeback in 2017, Sonic's is the one handled with the most heart, care, passion and purpose. From the exemplary soundtrack to gameplay that iterates on the vintage 'feel' of Sonic in a way that feels fresh and modern, this fan-turned-official release gets every last thing right.

It just feels perfect, and is single-handedly the beginning and end of any conversation surrounding why Sonic is one of gaming's most recognisable icons, coming complete with some of the best platforming levels you'll play this decade.

Remarkably, lead designer Christian Whitehead (a former fan-modder who Sega recruited to helm the game) manages to create a sense of speed and flow that feels lightning fast and visually enjoyable, but always under your control.

Such a thing was what put many people off the more challenging older instalments in Sonic's canon, but here it's up-rezzed to gorgeous HD, gives Sonic, Tails and Knuckles the best feel of control they've ever had and tops it off with enough secrets and easter eggs to hold your attention for hours on end.

All I'll say is: "Secret Mean Bean Machine boss". Sonic Mania is exemplary.