"Sonic CD" is known for its innovative time-traveling gameplay and unique zones. Stardust Speedway is one of the zones in the game, and the Past version of Stardust Speedway has some interesting facts:
Time Stones: In "Sonic CD," the main goal is to collect Time Stones in the Past versions of each level to prevent Dr. Robotnik (Dr. Eggman) from altering the future. Stardust Speedway is no exception. To access the Past version, you must find and destroy the Robot Transporter in the Present.
Different Music: The Past version of Stardust Speedway features a different musical track from the Present and Good Future versions. The music in the Past is often more subdued and somewhat melancholic compared to the high-energy tunes of the other time zones.
Classic Sonic Cameo: In Stardust Speedway, you can find a hidden statue of Classic Sonic, which is a nod to the original Sonic design from the early Sega Genesis games. It's a fun Easter egg for fans of the classic Sonic series.
Mechanical Aesthetics: The Past version of Stardust Speedway features a mechanical, dystopian aesthetic, with gears, cogs, and other industrial elements. This contrasts with the more vibrant and colorful themes of other time zones in the game.
Time Travel Impacts: Your actions in the Past directly affect the future. If you destroy enough Robot Transporters and enemies in the Past, you'll create a Good Future in Stardust Speedway, which is a brighter and more pleasant version of the level, with a distinct musical track.
Achieving a Good Future: To achieve a Good Future in Stardust Speedway Past, you need to destroy all the Robot Transporters and defeat enough enemies without running out of time. This adds an element of strategy to the game beyond just reaching the end of the level.
Unique Level Layout: The layout of Stardust Speedway Past is different from the other versions of the level, emphasizing exploration and careful platforming rather than speed. It encourages players to slow down and appreciate the level's design.
Time Travel Animation: When Sonic travels through time, the animation used in "Sonic CD" is distinctive. He runs through a time warp tunnel, and if you're going from Past to Present, he accelerates as he enters the tunnel, giving a sense of speed and momentum.
Hidden Messages: Some versions of "Sonic CD" include hidden messages from the game's developers in Stardust Speedway Past. These messages can be seen by waiting for a specific amount of time in certain locations in the level.
Stardust Speedway Past in "Sonic CD" is a unique and memorable level that showcases the game's time-traveling mechanics and provides players with a different experience compared to the other zones in the game.