Sting

About

Sting is a 1998 platformer that leans heavily into the Sonic and Kirby playbook. Play as a nimble blue hedgehog who runs, jumps, and darts through candy-colored levels filled with hazards and enemies. Defeat foes to absorb their abilities, which grant temporary power-ups for later challenges. Throw rocks like in Super Mario Bros 2 and bounce off springboards to navigate the game's varied environments. The core loop is straightforward: collect items, avoid traps, and chain moves to clear each stage. While the mechanics are familiar, the game’s charm comes from its vibrant art style and fluid animations. The game’s biggest appeal is its visual polish. Levels pop with bright, detailed backgrounds that feel alive, even if the story remains a mystery. Community feedback often calls it a hidden gem, with many praising its accessibility despite the age. Though the difficulty rarely spikes, the tight controls and steady pace keep it engaging. While not impressive, Sting stands out as a nostalgic throwback to late-90s platforming that still holds up for a quick, colorful run.