Christmas Nights
Christmas NiGHTS is a bit of a curiosity. Playing like a short demo version of NiGHTS into Dreams, it was a Christmas present from Sega to its fans around ‘96/’97 and was distributed in various manners depending on territory. On the face of it, the game looks like a simple reskinning of the original NiGHTS and, for the most part, you’d be correct as it’s based on a single level from the original story; Spring Valley from Claris’ dream. All the controls and gameplay mechanics are identical to NiGHTS so those familiar with the original will settle right in. The genius behind this version, however, is by using the Saturn’s internal clock, Sonic Team programmed Christmas NiGHTS to change depending on the time of year you play it! Throughout the year it’s titled NiGHTS: Short Version but come November things start to change and it becomes Winter NiGHTS. You’ll now witness subtle differences in backgrounds and scenery depending on the time of day you play. The game takes on more subtle changes throughout December, when it becomes Christmas NiGHTS, until Christmas day when the characters dress in Christmas costumes and all sorts of merry effects are realised, all accompanied by a wonderfully festive Jingle Bells rendition. Even Santa can be seen riding his sleigh around. On completion of the level you are whisked away to confront Gillwing, who looks quite snappy sporting his little Santa hat. It’s almost a shame to attack him. The amount of surprises crammed into what is essentially a freebie doesn’t stop here. There are also changes on New Years day, Valentines day and April Fools day and the list continues to include Christmas presents, a karaoke mode to unlock, Time Attack mode and a music player! Incredibly, the game also features the ability to unlock Sonic the Hedgehog: into Dreams which gives you the opportunity to complete the level as Sonic (on foot) and then face off against Robotnik! There is so much to discover in this game and it cries out to be explored. Give it go this December and enjoy the festivities.