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Well, we’ve seen Sonic Adventure rated by South Korea, and Australia’s OFLC…but now we’ve finally got a confirmation from America’s ESRB.
Interesting thing to note here: both Sonic Adventure AND Sonic Adventure DX have been rated, individually. Perhaps both versions will be available in some way? Hopefully, we’ll find out at E3.
Source: SegaBITS
Greetings, Sonic fans! Thought you guys might like to know that Ian Flynn, the current head writer of the stellar Sonic comics, is now taking questions from his fans. This isn’t the first time he’s done this. “Ask Ian” has long been a stable of the Bumbleking forums, the forum Ian uses to interact with his fanbase. He’s had discontinue it for most of the last year due to a very busy schedule. As of Sunday, however, Flynn has decided to bring the feature back, and in audio format no less!
I skipped over advertising this feature in the past, because it was not particularly practical to copy and paste the often gigantic question and answer sessions. However, with Ian now answering his questions via audio, it will now be possible for TSS to bring these often enlightening question and answer sessions to all of you!
However, there are some rules which you must follow, which I will paste below:
#1 – ONE question per person per answer session. This is in the interest of making it easier for me to keep up and less work for the fine volunteer force.
#2 – I reserve the right to skip your question. That sounds mean and heartless, I know, but sometimes it must be done. There are some question that I just can’t answer for whatever reason, so I’ll leave them be. Just know it’s not personal.
Please note that since this thread is for the questions only, there’s a talkback thread for discussion. You may find that the answer to your question is already available, so check it out.
In addition to these rules, you also cannot ask a question on the behalf of another. You must sign up to the forum in order to participate. And, of course, please respect Flynn and follow the forum’s rules. With luck, your question be will be answered when Ian posts the audio questions.
To ask Ian your question, go to this thread.
Yes, a little late for those on the east coast, I know. I was out picking up at my local store for FCBD and I accidentally stayed longer then I should have. Regardless, when I left both stores (had to pick up an extra copy for a friend somewhere else), while the comic was still a hot item, there where plenty still there, so maybe you’ll get lucky, right? Anyway, I read the story, and while it was a little to “recap heavy”, the story was still very enjoyable, and the fith scene between Sonic and his “old enemy” was rather nice. Long time fans of the book should be pleased! If your not sure where to find a local comic book store that is taking part in this event, you can find out here, using the store locator
Anyway, posted below are the usual preview and solicitation
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG FCBD 2010 EDITION
“Hide & Seek & DESTROY!”: Dr. Eggman has vanished – or has he? As Sonic searches for clues, he stumbles across an old weapon from the bygone days of his childhood. Will Dr. Eggman allow Sonic to be destroyed by this threat from yesteryear? Will Sonic discover the truth behind his old rival’s disappearance? All the answers lie in this free issue!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Tracy Yardley! and Jim Amash
COVER: Tracy Yardley! and Jason Jensen
At Comic Shops: 5/2/2010
32-page, full-color comic
FREE
Sonic Universe #15 is out on newstands today (since Wednesday, actually, but I only just found the time to get this article done). Continuing Sonic’s adventures int he Dragon Kingdom, this issue contains the strongest written moments this arc has seen thus far. For those looking for a story with action, drama, and humor, you should be able to eat this issue up! In addition the strong story, Sonic Universe #15 also represents a big change in general for Sonic’s comics: glossy paper. The Sonic comics are finally joining the 21st century, and replacing the cheap newspaper that has been used to produce the comics since their inception in 1993, with more expensive glossy paper typically found in magazines and comics today. This is the reason for the 50 cent rise in pricing that many have noticed in the previews for future issues, it seems. Let me say, it is a very welcome change for the comic.
The 5 page preview and solicitation are, as usual, posted below.
“No Love in a Conquering Storm”: The epic “Journey to the East” story arc continues! Sonic and Tails must confront Fiona and the Destructix – but whose side are these rogue mercenaries really on? The action heats up in an all-out assault on the Raiju Clan of Lynx Ninja and the return of a character pivotal to Sonic’s success!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
PENCILS: Tracy Yardley
INKS: Jim Amash
Shipping Date: April 7th, 2010
On Sale at Comic Shops: April 14th, 2010
Newsstands: April 27th, 2010
32-page, 40 lb glossy stock, full color comic
$2.99 US
One of the UK’s most respected online gaming publications, EuroGamer, has had some time with the upcoming sequel, and have left some very positive impressions in a new preview, which you can read here. EuroGamer seems to believe that Sonic 4 is capturing the spirit of the classic games rather well. Thoughts?
This just in from GoNintendo, seems some Sonic fans are playing through Sonic Adventure 1 and 2 in a 24 hour marathon to raise donation money for Haiti. This event was organized by A Challenger Approaches! Charity Speed Runs, in the interest of raising at least $25 for the organization. At the moment, they are up to $8.15. You can check out their speed run below. The link you need to click to donate is under it. I will personally be donating some money later tonight
Regrettably, it doesn’t appear that we can embed UStream into this news post. You can find the live stream here. You can also join a live chat that can be seen alongside the window.
To donate, A Challenger Approaches! has provided this link and “ChipIn”. You will need a Pay Pal account to donate.
I’m sure you’re all well aware of the Sonic costumes that are coming to LittleBigPlanet; well, looks like we might be getting them soon, now. A new trailer, showing the costumes off in a Green Hill inspired environment, has just been released on the LittleBigPlanet website.
The costumes really do look great, and the Green Hill level definitely shows off how versatile the game’s level designer can be.
In addition to the trailer, it has also been confirmed by the website that the kit will be launching March 25th, for the price of £4.79/ US $5.99!
In addition to the costumes, the pack will also come with Sonic themed stickers, which can be seen below.
These stickers can be pasted onto objects, allowing you to make classic Sonic levels!
Special thanks goes to Jason the Jack Ass for sending me the tip over IM.
Well, I guess there’s such a thing as being too quick on the trigger, eh? Some of you may be wondering why the earlier news post was removed; well, it appears the screenshots were a hoax. Perhaps the most glaring flaw was the use of the Egg Dragon, which served as the final werehog boss battle from Sonic Unleashed. I suppose that particular boss battle wasn’t exactly memorable, as several sites seem to have fallen for the hoax to some degree.
Well played, hoaxers, well played! Good going on not using a boss from the Rush games either: Egg Dragon was a pretty good choice for something like this. I, for one, am glad that Microsoft’s lax security measures over at PartnerNet (the source of most of the Sonic 4 leaks) hasn’t spoiled the final boss for the rest of us: we can only hope the final boss battle will remain unspoiled until the game’s finished and out. A special request to all those with access to PartnerNet: please, don’t spoil? 🙂
And no, we are not putting the screens back up. 😛
Oh, and special thanks goes to SSMB member Dusk for bringing this to my attention! Appreciate it, man ;). I would also like to take this opportunity to push the website SEGA Bits, were I first found the hoax.. They are a great new site for SEGA fans everywhere, without the Kartel’s silly ads. I highly recommend a visit!
I’m pretty sure Sonic fans are used to horrendously low review scores to their most anticipated games. It looks like SEGA Allstars Racing is breaking that cycle. The following are the conclusions and review scores from IGN and 1up, two of the biggest game sites out there.
IGN:
Closing Comments
Sonic and SEGA All-Stars Racing may not have a whole lot in the gameplay department that it can call its own, but Sumo Digital took what worked and built a SEGA-themed experience that captures what makes the company’s games so memorable. This racer is surprisingly deep and robust, and even with its unoriginal design it’s a great time no matter which version you get.IGN Ratings for Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing with Banjo Kazooie (X360)
Rating Description out of 10 click here for ratings guide 8.0 Presentation
There’s a huge variety of characters and tracks that reference SEGA games, but it’s hard not to wonder where missing franchises are. At least there’s Banjo Kazooie for 360 owners!8.0 Graphics
The HD versions look excellent with some fantastic texture and lighting detail. Shame the framerate can’t keep up.8.0 Sound
Lots of variety in the background tunes and the character remarks during a race. The obnoxious play-by-play is hilariously Americanized British: “The crowd go crazy!” and “Tails takes a pounding.”8.0 Gameplay
Fun and tight action racing with a decent sense of speed that lifts most of its ideas from Mario Kart Wii.8.0 Lasting Appeal
Tons of single player modes, and a great focus on multiplayer, both offline and on.8.0
ImpressiveOVERALL
You can find the full review here. It should be noted that, while not all versions of the game share the same categorical scores, they all share the same overall score.
1UP:
Though it has some hiccups, unexciting party modes, and a questionable difficulty curve, All-Stars Racing is a respectable effort that makes a good kart racer at its core (and is at least much more cohesive than Sega Superstars Tennis). But, again, it’s storied Sega fans that will get the most out of the game — because, really, who else is going to recognize or care about racing as the cartoon lovers from the Japan-only House of the Dead EX?
Well, I do.
Grade: B
You can find the complete 1Up review here.
UPDATE: And rounding out the big three, GameSpot has also put up their review:
Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing Review
Smooth controls and a bunch of awesome tracks make this an exciting kart racer.
The Good
- Tight controls with a great sense of speed
- Well-designed courses with lots of variety
- Good mix of characters, from the popular to the obscure
- Racing against friends, online or offline, is a blast
- Great visual style with a steady frame rate.
The Bad
- Online play is limited to just racing
- No way to play through Grand Prix with a friend
Score: 8.0 “Great”
You can read the review in full here.
Sonic games are no stranger to leaks these days, and this latest one could very well provide another glimpse into what to expect from Sonic 4. The following screenshot, originally posted up on the Sega news site SegaBits by their resident troll Kogen, can be seen below.
Special thanks goes to SegaBit’s own Shadi for sending in the tip. Though, it should be noted that even this screen’s source is unsure of the authenticity. For the full size screen, click on the thumbnail below.
Thoughts?
UPDATE:
Seems the person on SegaBits got the pictures from Sonic Retro. Seems they where not meant to be leaked to the public yet, but where accidentally posted on Retro’s IRC channel. You can get the full story, as well as additional screenshots, at Sonic Retro’s website. It’s also been confirmed via one of these screens that the game will be selling for 400 microsoft points, or $5.
UPDATE 2: It should also be noted that these screens where leaked by Endri, proving that he has indeed confirmed the game.
Another review is in, and this ones from Germany. Here’s the translated summary:
controls:
+very simple, buttons for gas, brake, drifts and weapons.
+Drifting is essential for survival in this game, but lots of fun and works great.graphics & sound:
+ great range of vision
+ lots of detail
+ charming SEGA flair
+ great effects (when using weapons or drifting)
+ framerate doesn’t hurt & much better than in preview versions…
– … but not totally perfect (e.g. camera panning)
+ soundtrack and sound effects are awesome…
– …commentator is not (but can be turned off)more:
+ 24 tracks
+ unlock characters
+ great multiplayer
+ mission modeversion check:
+ Wii version not quite that beautiful as XBox and PS3 versions…
+ … but differences are minimal
+ PS3 version looks best, but framerate is better on XBox
+ Wii: Miis and XBox: Avatars + Banjo & KazooieLead tester:
“I liked Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing immediately. Gameplay is mostly smooth, characters are great and tracks bring back lots of good old memories. And playing as Ryo Hazuki is a good thing, as there’s still no sign of a new Shenmue game. Would have been great if there were more tracks from other IPs. To put it in a nutshell: even if there’s nothing really new to this game, it’s really a great funracer.” 9/10
You can find the complete review here and the video review here
Dimps, developers best known for the Sonic Advance and Sonic Rush series, have been listed on the Xbox LIVE Marketplace website.
This is good news indeed for anyone praying for a return of the tried and true momentum based game play from the days of Sonic’s classics. While most of the developer’s Sonic related projects have largely revolved around the infamous (but fun) speed boosting mechanics, it should be noted that only has the developer worked on a game that played very much like the originals in the form of Sonic Advance, but a few people who would later go on to found Dimps and work on Sonic Advance, also worked on Sonic Pocket Adventure for the Neo Geo Pocket, an obscure but classically designed game for SNK’s ill-fated handheld. Sonic Stadium will be doing a feature on this game later in the month.
Well, one thing people have been wondering ever since Ian Flynn became head writer over at the Sonic the Hedgehog comic is…well, what do his predecessors think? Ken Penders, who worked on the Sonic comic for over a decade, finally spoke his mind over on his forum yesterday.
Reading everyone’s comments leave me with the impression neither Mike Pellerito or Ian really know what to do with either the characters or the stories beyond regurgitating what came before.
I haven’t commented on any of this earlier because I believed it was too soon and I didn’t want to be accused of sour grapes or stealing Ian’s thunder. The fact is I get e-mail all the time asking me about this character or that storyline, and it leaves me scratching my head wondering if Ian has ever attempted going beyond what any of us did, if he’s created a character like a Julie-Su or a Geoffrey St John, or if he’s written something like an ENDGAME or THE DARK LEGION that people are still talking about years later.
The fact is I never relied on any other Archie-Sonic writer’s material for any of my stories, not even when I was working with Mike Kanterovich. I would always come up with the basic plots and Mike would throw in bits to improve them, then we would work on the dialogue. I didn’t rely on Mike Gallagher’s material to drive my stories, nor did I ever pay attention to anything Karl was doing beyond supplying him with bits of info whenever he was incorporating one of my characters into his stories. A thorough check of my work will show I never used a Karl-created character until I used Mina in SONIC #150, due more to a conversation with Mike P when working out the plot. Likewise, Athair may have appeared with the Ancient Walkers in the TAILS mini-series written by Mike Gallagher, but I had serious input with regards to Athair’s development before Mike G wrote that story, as I had with the young Knuckles story that appeared in SONIC SUPER SPECIAL #9, wherein I was handed a copy of the script and told to make whatever changes necessary in order for it to fit continuity as I saw it at the time. Otherwise, beyond the core characters established in the original games and animated DiC series in the early 90’s, as well as the settings of Robotropolis and Knothole Village, and a character or two like Lupe and Amy Rose, I pretty much engaged in serious world building to keep the series interesting in the long run. I didn’t hesitate to push for killing off Robotnik and fighting to keep him dead, thus allowing Sonic to find new adversaries and new adventures. The map of Mobius I designed for SONIC SUPER SPECIAL #2 was so I’d always have a jumping off point for Sonic to have some new adventure or a new threat to engage him.
Ian, on the other hand, hasn’t done any of that from what I see and hear. In fact, many of the stories that appeared in issues #160 through #175 were based off an outline I submitted to Mike Pellerito around the time I turned in the script to SONIC #157. I didn’t pay attention until I caught the issue where Antoine married Bunnie, which was either the exact issue I slated the story for or off just by an issue or two in the outline I submitted. I never bothered to mention it until now because I didn’t see the point. All I had was an outline that could be claimed by some to be written after the fact, resulting in a pointless flame war because some would claim I was jealous or resentful.
The fact is I’m extremely happy where my life has led to these days. Not everyone gets the experience I do directing a film in Hollywood with real stars and trying to sell it to the studios and networks. My tenure on SONIC alone has given me serious street credit in this town and opened some very unexpected doors. I have nothing to be resentful over and much to be grateful for.
So from where I sit, all Mike and Ian are doing is living off the work done by others that came before them instead of allowing SONIC to grow and evolve in a similar organic manner when I was on the book. I especially don’t consider anything either does with any of the echidna characters – especially Locke – to be canon as neither created the characters nor established them in stories as the viable fan favorites they’ve become. No matter what Ian writes, he can never alter the fact that in MY universe, the events of Locke’s passing as depicted in SONIC #143 is canon. Anything he writes can easily be counter-written by a better story with an alternative solution.
I would like to request that everyone posting in the comments section to keep in mind that these people actively use and read the internet. This means any flaming you do will likely be read by them. I’d like you all to respect both creators in the comments section. Thank you. I would also like to request that no one go to either creator’s forum for the expressed purpose of flaming. Be respectful, please.
Update: Flynn has since responded both on his board and the comments section of this news post, with the following:
In the interest of accuracy, I would like to contribute the following:
Mr. Penders is mistaken in his assumption that we used material he had prepared before his departure from the book. All stories and the over-all story direction was of my own creation. Specifically, the marriage of Antoine and Bunnie was the logical progression of their relationship, and was meant as a strong positive “high note” to be juxtaposed with the tragedy of STH#175.
Heres something we all know: Seaside Hill has proven to be a very popular location in the recent Sonic games: Sega All Stars Racing and Mario and Sonic at the Winter Olympics. However, with ASR coming out this month, and with the Olympics in exactly a week, one has to wonder: why is an area like Seaside Hill so popular? This fan strip tries to find the answer…
This strip is from the Sonic Eggs filler series, Sonic Egg Whites, which you can find here.
It was written by Shigamado, known around TSS as “Jason the Jackass”, and pencilled by Greg the Cat, who’s work you can find at his DA.
With the Iron Queen’s take over in #208, everything seems like a lost cause for Sonic and friends. This issue, though, we see exactly how they begin to turn the tables on the Iron Queen. I rather enjoyed this issue, Ian’s usual nice mix of action, humor, and drama. Isn’t a stand out issue either, but if you’ve been enjoying this comic this is an obvious thing to pick up. Not a very good jumping on point for newbies, though. Here’s the preview pages and solicitation:
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #209
“Iron Dominion Part Two”: The Iron Queen is on the verge of total world domination, and only a handful of heroes are free to quell the threat! Sonic and Sally must brave the unknown to rescue one of their own, but at the risk of total annihilation! Meanwhile, Monkey Khan makes a grim decision, and only Tails can stand in his way to save the life of a Freedom Fighter! The stakes have never been higher in this pulse-pounding tale!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Tracy Yardley!
Cover by Tracy Yardley!
Shipping Date: January 27th, 2010
On Sale at Comic Shops: February 3rd, 2010
On Sale at Newsstands: February 16th, 2010
32-page, full color comic
$2.50 US
In March of 1999, the world’s first Sonic fan comic website was founded by Jason “Sonic Adventurer” Torres. Over the course of the next several years, the website would balloon in popularity, playing host to some of the best pieces of fan art and fan fiction available from the (often surprisingly talented) Sonic fandom. Comics such as “Collision Chaos”, “Other-M”, “Tete-A-Tete”, “Mayshing Comics”, and “Sapphire Luna Comics” help demonstrate just what the fandom was capable of. In it’s best days, the website even ran an online based Sonic comic convention similar to SAGE, in which people from across the fandom would set up websites and show off their work, in hopes of getting both attention from the community at large, and awards from SVT. Archie creatives such as Ian Flynn and Dubs even did work for the site years before they became proffesionals on the actual, official comic. You can catch their collaboration in the short lived web comic “3B”.
Though the website fell into disrepair years ago, it seems SVT is finally ready to return from the grave, complete with a new team of people ready to lead it into the next decade. If you guys feel like helping them out, be sure to let them know on their forums!
Now, I’d like to leave you with a page from Collission Chaos, a comic from Fireball20xl’s own Hyper, currently available on SVT:
Not the best example of the website’s art or writing, but when it came to the best single page I could use to try and get you guys over there, this was the one the came to mind.
This Sonic Archives contains something special. No, not the final appearance of Mobie the Cavebear. This Archive contains the first two parts of one of the most (in)famous arcs in Archie’s history: End Game. It also has the conclusion to Knuckles Quest and the issue where Antoine grows a spine. I highly reccomend this Archive for anyone looking for something to see what Archie was all about back in the day. Love it or hate it, the End Game arc was loaded with many (sometimes stupid or weird) twists, turns, and plot twists. Don’t be fooled by the first few pages: yes, issue #45 is still bad, but what follows it is more or less what Archie Sonic is known for. You’ll have to wait for Archives #13 for the rest of the story, though, which is coming out later this year. Preview pages of the first, and worst, story in the collection, as well as the solitication, are below as usual.
The Sonic Archives series has emerged as one of Archie’s best-selling trade paperbacks, as fans both new and old can relive the glory days of Sonic the Hedgehog in these high-quality, digitally-restored graphic novels, complete with all the classic Sonic stories from the 1990s! Now with Sonic Archives Volume 12, Sonic lovers can add issues 45-48 to their collections, stories which are almost impossible to come across now. And best of all, the colors are completely remastered to give the issues a brand new look! Stories include: “Guerilla Thriller”: Everyone’s favorite cave-bear, Mobie, returns… but he’s unsuspectingly making a home for himself in the middle of a Robotnik stronghold! Can the Freedom Fighters warn him before it’s too late? “Countdown to Armageddon”: a sabbatical in the woods to reflect on recent events goes from relaxing to taxing as friendships are strained and loyalties questioned, setting up the dramatic events yet to come in the “Endgame” storyline. Guest-starring Lupe and the Wolf Pack from the animated series! “Endgame: Taking the Fall”: The most talked-about Sonic saga ever unfolds as King Acorn vows to finish the war with Robotnik and regain the kingdom… but could he have predicted the enormous cost? The “death of Princess Sally” sent shockwaves through Sonic fandom, and now you can relive the events leading up to this milestone event. “Sonic the Fugitive”: Not only has Sonic suffered a great loss in the passing of Princess Sally, he’s also been framed for her murder! Now he must battle friend and foe alike as he seeks the real killer to clear his name!
PLUS: The “Knuckles’ Quest” saga continues, with the intrepid red echidna searching for answers to his origin and the mystery behind the Sword of Acorns.
SCRIPTS: Angelo DeCesare, Ken Penders, Kent Taylor
ART: Dave Manak, Art Mawhinney, Ken Penders, Nelson Ortega, Manny Galan
Cover art by Patrick “Spaz!” Spaziante
Shipping Date: January 20th, 2010
On Sale at Comic Shops: January 27th, 2010
On Sale at Newsstands: February 9th, 2010
112-page, full color paperback
$7.95 US
This story arc has been a nice little throwback to the Knuckles stories of old. Though, as with all good things (including the original Knuckles series), this story arc must come to an end. But what a smashing end it looks to be! See for yourself in the preview pages and solication below.
SONIC UNIVERSE #12
“Echoes of the Past Part Four of Four”: This is it – the grand finale! Angel Island is about to be conquered, and our heroes are powerless to stop it, having been captured and at the mercy of the Dark Egg Legion! Will a last minute revelation save or doom our hapless heroes? It all ends with the fight you’ve been waiting for: Knuckles vs. Dr. Finitevus in a knock-down, drag-out, no holds barred ruckus! Don’t miss the explosive final chapter to Knuckles’ return to the spin-off scene!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Tracy Yardley!
Let’s-get-ready-to-rumble cover by Tracy Yardley!
Shipping Date: January 13th, 2010
On Sale at Comic Shops: January 20th, 2010
On Sale at Newsstands: February 2nd, 2010
32-page, full color comic
$2.50 US
Well, this is my first community post. And what better way to commemorate this occasion then to show you a fun little piece of fan work I found on a great little Sega site I like to visit, Sega Shiro. For any SEGA fan who’s tired of the Kartel nonsense over at Sega Nerds, this site offers a nice replacement! Anyway, here it is:
Let us know what you guys think of it in the comments section below. From what I’ve been told this image has been getting everywhere on the internet, but SegaShiro’s source for it is a German Sega Site, SEGAPortal.
I have to say, even though the Iron Dominion Saga started out incredibly slow, the story has become really engrossing! Even though the solicitations tend to ruin the surprises, this saga is still probably the best I’ve ever read in Archie. This excellence looks like it’s going to continue in the latest issue! You can see for yourself in the five page preview and solicitation posted below.
“Iron Dominion Part One”: The unthinkable happens as the Iron Queen finds a way around New Mobotropolis’s defenses! It’s a full-scale invasion by the forces of evil, and it’s up to Sonic and Tails to save the day! But what hope do they have when yet another of their friends falls prey to the Iron Queen’s powers?
Writer: Ian Flynn
Penciler: Tracy Yardley!
Senses-shattering cover by Patrick “Spaz!” Spaziante
Shipping Date December 30th, 2009
On Sale at Comic Shops January7th, 2010
On Sale at Newsstands January 19th, 2010
32-page, full color comic
$2.50 US
As a huge Knuckles the Echidna fan, I can express nothing but sheer fanboyish excitement over having Knuckles in his own comic again, albeit only briefly. The arc enters it’s second half as Knuckles is forced to work together with the echidna who decimated 90% of his race, threw his grandfathers into the Twilight Zone, and killed his father. Should prove to be a fun time, huh? Below is the cover, the five page preview, and the solicitation. Enjoy!
“Echoes of the Past Part 3″: New mysteries arise, along with new faces – both good and evil! But is everyone really who they say they are? It’s up to Knuckles to figure it all out and rescue Angel Island before it’s too late! This issue also features the long-awaited return of the Downunda Freedom Fighters and Knuckles’ most unlikely ally – Dr. Finitevus?!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Tracy Yardley
Colossally chaotic cover by Yardley!
Shipping Date December 16th, 2009
On Sale at Comic Shops December 23rd, 2009
On Sale at Newsstands January 5th, 2010
32-page, full color comic
$2.50 US
Every year since 2007, in early May, Archie Comics releases a free issue of Sonic the Hedgehog for the Free Comic Book Day event. For the last two years, the comics haven’t been original stories, but rather throwbacks to the comic’s history. Next year, the original stories return in “Hide & Seek & DESTROY”. The cover and solicit are below.
“Hide & Seek & DESTROY!”: Dr. Eggman has vanished–or has he? As Sonic searches for clues, he stumbles across an old weapon from the bygone days of his childhood. Will Dr. Eggman allow Sonic to be destroyed by this threat from yesteryear? Will Sonic discover the truth behind his old rival’s disappearance? All the answers lie in this free issue!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
PENCILS: James Fry
INKS: Jim Amash
At Comic Shops May 1st 2010
All new, 32-page, full color comic
FREE
Seems the cover art TSS posted a few weeks ago was right on the money: not only was it the final cover art most versions of the game, but Rare’s legendary platforming (and driving) duo, Banjo and Kazooie, are in!
SEGA has just now released cover art for all versions of the game, and the 360 version has something special:
No word yet on how this effects the 360 version’s roster, though it’s worth noting that no other versions of the game have an exclusive character featured. You can see the rest of the covers on the game’s page. This is more then likely the big ASR announcement SUMO was talking about, though nothing has been confirmed.
Special thanks goes to Shadi Wulf for bringing this to my attention.
More Phantasy Star news, guys! Phantasy Star Portable 2, the sequel to the smash hit original Phantasy Star Portable for PSP, has arrived in Japan, and it’s numbers are almost as good as the original’s.
At 202,000, the game comes in slightly under the original’s 217,000. Of course, the original didn’t have to contend with New Super Mario Bros Wii and Gundam vs. Gundam (also for PSP), which may have contributed to the small fall in sales. SMBW sold 400k while GvG sold 150k.
Critically, PSP2 has faired a bit better then the original title, scoring a 34/40 from Famitsu, compared to PSP’s 33/40. Only time will tell if PSP2 will be able to out sell it’s predeccessor’s first week sales, which reached 340k. We’ll be sure to update you once the numbers became available.
PSP2 hasn’t been confirmed for a US release as of yet, though the game’s US release was mentioned in the Sony leaked document back in August.
Another entry in Archie’s popular series of Sonic Archives, a series of paperbacks which collect the old Sonic comics and reprint them on higher quality paper with improved colors, has been confirmed, given a date of August 4th, 2010 by Amazon.
Amazon has been incredibly reliable with Archives entries in the past, and given the success of the Sonic comic book, a new entry shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. The real news here, is the date. August 4th is a long way away from the next release, Sonic Archives #12, which is scheduled to arrive in comic shops January 27th, 2010.
It should be noted, however, the Amazon’s accuracy in confirming the new Sonic Archives before Archie does, does not extend to the release dates. Archives #12 has always been, and is still listed with a release date of October 29th, despite never actually going on sale. Hopefully, Archie’s planned release for the next Archives is somewhat sooner then Amazon’s projected date.
Sonic Archives #13 will cover issues #48-#52, and will cover the second half of the End Game story arc, and it’s immediate aftermath.
The Iron Dominion Saga continues this week, with the Iron King attempt an attack on New Mobotropolis’s power source, in a bid to take down the shield and leave the city defenseless! We get a larger batch of preview pages then usual for this issue, and a confirmation the first name of Antoine’s late father, Armand! Preview pages and the official synopsis can be found below. If you don’t have a comic book store near you, the comic book will be available on newstands next week.
“Blackout”: The Iron King wants the force-field over Sonic’s home city gone, so he heads to its power source: the radioactive remains of Robotropolis! This could spell doom for our heroes – not to mention the surrounding environment! As Sonic races to the rescue, Princess Sally finally comes to a pivotal personal decision.
PLUS: “The Iron Queen:” The second half of this intriguing new villainess’ thrilling origin is revealed!
SCRIPTS: Ian Flynn
ART: Steven Butler
Shipping Date: November 25th, 2009
On Sale at Comic Shops: December 3rd, 2009
Newsstands: December 15th, 2009
32-page, full color comic
$2.50 US
Australia’s video game rating classification database has confirmed what many have been speculating: Sonic Classic Collection is indeed coming to the DS.
This game marks the first time such a collection has appeared on the DS. No word yet on when the game compilation is set to come out, but we’ll be sure to let you know as soon as there is an official confirmation.
In a recent interview with the website Original Sound Version, Sumo Digital’s Steve Lycett, aka S0L, has recently confirmed new details regarding the music and sound of the game, which should have both Sonic and racing fans salivating.
First off, he’s confirmed that the game will contain music beyond the Sonic Heroes tracks:
To this end we’ve got classic tracks from many, many games. If we take just the Sonic courses, we’ve got music from Sonic Heroes, Sonic CD, Sonic R and many more. Outside of Sonic, we’ve raided official sound tracks to get new arranged versions of music. We’ve even managed to get a Crush40 track in there!
He also confirmed that there will be an in game shop where new tracks can be bought with the game’s in game currency, “Sega Miles”. In addition to classic tracks, Mr. Lycett also cofirmed that there will be all new material, composed by classic SEGA composers:
We’ve pulled in some familiar names to record us new material. So we’ve got Richard Jacques very much involved. We love Rich, we hope he loves us too! It wouldn’t have that All-Star feel without his involvement, so we’re very happy that he’s recorded new music for the game.
Expect to hear some brand new tracks from other respected artist too, you will spend the next few weeks humming and whistling them!
For those of you who don’t know who Richard Jacques is, he composed the award winning soundtrack for Sega’s Headhunter, and also composed music for Jet Set Radio, Jet Set Radio Future, Outrun 2, Metropolis Street Racing, Daytona USA Circuit Edition, and of course, Sonic R. Overall, Lycett says the music selection will be much bigger in this game compared to Superstars Tennis.
The sound design goes beyond the musc, though. In the interview, Lycett confirms the amount of effort put into the engine sounds, announcer commentary, and character voice overs. Check out the interview to see the rest!
Phantasy Star 0, the newest entry in Sonic Team’s long running RPG series, has finally arrived in stores. While it technically shipped on Tuesday, it has only just recently begun arriving in stores over the last few days. The game is an online RPG for the DS, created in the same vein as Sonic Team’s renowned Phantasy Star Online series, featuring four player online co-op, complete with a chat function so you can talk during battles. The launch trailer is posted below:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nku8A4pAp4o[/youtube]
Just now, SEGA has released a trailer for Sonic’s 2010 outing. The game, currently untitled, is code named Project Needlemouse. Rather then spoil the surprise for you, I think I will just link to the trailer, posted by GameSpot, and let you guys see for yourselves. There is no game play in this trailer, or even a clear look at Sonic himself, but it does tell you exactly what this game is going to be.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxwdVwtbnHM[/youtube]
You can view the HD version here!
I’m excited. Are you?
You can also read an interview about the game here.
On a not so subtle note, TSS would also like to wish the Dreamcast a happy tenth anniversary! Great gift, huh?
UPDATE: The link to “needlemouse.com” has been removed, as it has proven to be the link to a fan game. I deeply apologize for the mistake.
Here’s a new interview regarding Sonic and SEGA All-stars Racing from GamesCom. It may interest you all to know it answers a vital question: why is Sonic in a car? Watch it to find out the answer to that, as well as other questions!
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7dRveE5Hvs[/youtube]
The hedgehog’s game quality may not be what it used to be, but one things for sure: his popularity hasn’t abated. According to Wedbush Morgan Securities’ report on the game industry, Sonic the Hedgehog came in at number eleven in a list of the top 30 most profitable brands of 2008. Apparently, these sales are largely attributed to two games: Mario and Sonic at the Olympics, and Sonic Unleashed.
The iconic blue hedgehog came in ahead of Gears of War, and behind Star Wars.
You can catch the full top 30 list over at the source, Sega Nerds.
Metal Sonic is probably one of the most famous and endeering badniks Sonic has ever had to face. As a long time fan favorite, it was only a matter of time until he finally got some merchandise.
On June 17th, Toys “R” Us will be selling a Metal Sonic vinyl blow up toy for $17. The toy will also be at next month’s Comic-Con.
Frankly, I think this is the single coolest piece of Sonic kit to come out in awhile. The toy is being made byJazwares as part of their JUVI line up. Jazwares has made other Sonic related merchandises that have also been sold at Toys ‘R’ Us exclusively, mostly recently a werehog figure and a Sonic and the Black Knight figure.
Source: Sega Nerds
Sonic the Hedgehog, as a comic book character, has been able to defy the odds. He has had a multitude of comic book series and spin offs, all of which have lasted longer then the typical video game licensed comic, and licensed comic books in general. Sonic the Hedgehog, it’ multitude of spin offs, Sonic X, and Sonic the Comic (counting the reprints, which went from 185 to the final issue, 223) together amount to nearly five hundred and fifty issues, making Sonic’s comic book career far more extensive then any other video game character to date.
In fact, according to Archie, with the launch of the 200th issue, Sonic the Hedgehog is now 76 issues away from beating the longest lasting licensed comic series ever made. What has allowed for this kind of sustainability? I will be going over that in the review, which will be posted in a few hours. Until then, take a look at the preview pages below. Apologies for the late news, by the way.
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #200
200th ISSUE SPECTACULAR
“Turnabout is Fair Play”: The epic anniversary issue you’ve been waiting for is finally here! Back in Sonic #50, Sonic managed to win against his arch-rival, Dr. Robotnik. In Sonic #175, the doctor got his revenge! Now they duel for the fate of the world! Will freedom come to Mobius? Or will the Eggman Empire rule forever more? Place your bets – but be ready for the startling conclusion! Don’t miss this cranium-creasing, brain-bending, mind-blowing saga!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
PENCILES Tracy Yardley!
INKS: Jim Amash
Dimension-crossing cover by Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
Shipping Date: May 6th, 2009
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: May 13th, 2009
On Sale on Newsstands: May 26th, 2009
32-page, full color comic
$2.50 US
Review:
In trying to write this review, I have found it will take my far longer then I had planned. It will need to wait a few more days.
Those rumblings of more downloadable content has appeared to pan out. SEGA has today released three new levels and three new missions for Mazuri on Xbox Live. Like past DLC packs, this pack costs 250 points. You can get a look at what the content looks like below, in video provided by the Youtube user 1stkirbyever. Why don’t you tell us what you think of this content below?
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DIShwa8Gu4[/youtube]
Sonic Universe’s Shadow Saga continues with Part 3, “Old Soldiers”. After last months disappointing Sonic Adventure 2 adaption, Sonic Universe #3 looks to get back to the here and now with the introduction of Omega and the resolution of Gamma’s long hanging plot thread. Will Shadow be able to save Gamma from Robotnik’s wrath, or will both robots share Metal Sonic’s fate? Find out in this comic! Below are the sample scans and official solicitation:
“Old Soldiers”: Shadow is sent into the remote mountains to find E-102 Gamma. At the same time, Dr. Robotnik launches the over-powered E-123 Omega to hunt down and destroy the rogue robot! It’s a race against time to see if Shadow can save Gamma and offer him asylum – if Gamma even wants to be saved! It’s the latest installment of this exciting new series presenting unifying continuity while spotlighting the many characters from Sonic’s various video games and animated series.
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn.
ART: Tracy Yardley.
Shipping Date: April 22nd, 2009
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: April 29th, 2009
On Sale on Newsstands: May 12th, 2009
32-page, full color comic
$2.50 US
From what I can gather, the opinion regarding last month’s Sonic Universe #2 is near unanimous: the story was not very good. It’s pacing was a mess, and it didn’t have a very coherent narrative. Sonic Universe #3, going by these pages, appears to be a lot better. I personally look forward to reading the story later today. I will update this news post with my thoughts later.
