SEGA Europe has opened a product page on their website for their new re-release of Mega CD/SEGA CD title Sonic CD. On the page the publisher has release five new screenshots from the console/PC version version and the iOS/Android/Windows Mobile 7 version, which we’ve shared for you here.
There are also new details revealed about the iOS and Windows Mobile 7 versions. The iOS version will feature Retina Display and GameCenter support for achievements and leaderboards, while the Windows Mobile 7 version will have Xbox Live trophies and leaderboards.
As for a release date, there is still nothing clearer than ‘Late 2011’.
You can check out the full product description and screenshots below:
It’s time to usher the past into the future in this enhanced recreation of Sonic CD!
At the end of a long adventure, Sonic travels to the distant shores of Never Lake for the once-a-year appearance of Little Planet – a mysterious world where it is said that past, present, and future collide through the power of the Time Stones that lie hidden within it.
Sonic arrives with a star struck Amy Rose in tow only to find the once beautiful world chained and imprisoned beneath a twisted metallic shell. Sonic’s nemesis, Dr. Eggman (a.k.a Dr. Robotnik), has come for the Time Stones and with them, will soon have the power to control time itself!
The fate of the world is determined by the choices you make throughout your adventure! Fight through the past, recover the Time Stones, and defeat the evil Metal Sonic in order to save the future from Dr. Eggman’s nefarious schemes!
Features:
Classically Updated:
Sonic CD has been restored to bring you a classic gaming experience in 16:9 native widescreen with gameplay optimized for today’s consoles and mobile platforms!
Play at Home…
And earn Xbox Live Achievements, PSN trophies or Steam Achievements!
Or On the Go!
Featuring GameCenter achievements, leaderboards, and Retina Display for iOS and Xbox Live trophies and leaderboards for WM7
By Popular Demand
Sonic CD now features the original, acclaimed Japanese soundtrack!
Source: SEGA Europe’s Sonic CD product page
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Five new images from the Xbox 360 version of Sonic Generations have been leaked via the game’s product page at the official Xbox website Xbox.com. The images were quickly removed, but K.K. Driller over at our very own SSMB managed to grab them beforehand.
The images show the Rival battle against Shadow the Hedgehog at the Ark from Sonic Adventure 2 and our first glimpse of Planet Wisp from Sonic Colours. We also get to see Classic Sonic battling the previously teased Eggman mech battle at Sonic 2’s Death Egg and get a peek at a cutscene which sees Modern Sonic looking at his Classic self. Finally, we have another image of the picnic scene.
You can check out all five images below:
Source: Xbox.com
Big thanks to K.K. Driller at the SSMB for grabbing the images and to Edward for the heads up!
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An update to Sonic Generations‘ product page at the official Xbox website Xbox.com has confirmed the Xbox 360 version’s Xbox Live features. The game will feature online leaderboards and support downloadable content, though whether the downloadable content support will extend beyond the Casino Night Zone pinball mini-game being given away through pre-orders in the US and via Special and Collector’s Editions in Europe is unclear.
Source: Sonic Generations Xbox.com product page
Thanks to SSMB member K.K. Driller for the heads up!
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[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JZO62aZiJw&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
We’ve got two pieces of Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games news this evening. First, we’ve got some new gameplay footage and screenshots of the Nintendo 3DS version from Nintendo’s 3DS Conference, which was held early this morning.
Check out the screenshots below:
And second, we’ve just got word that SEGA has given the EU and US website for the game a huge update. There’s not much new in terms of screenshots and videos, but you can check out some profiles and new artwork of the characters in the game, as well as their stats for the Wii version of the game.
Sources: Nintendo’s 3DS Conference 2011 website and EU & US Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games website
Thanks to Sonic Wrecks for the YouTube upload and thanks to YoshiUnity ’06 at the SSMB for the heads up on the website update!
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SEGA Japan has given a major update to their Sonic Generations website, and while there’s no new media for the console version outside of a single Rooftop Run screenshot, there are plenty of new screenshots for the portable Nintendo 3DS version.
PS3/Xbox 360
Nintendo 3DS
*Possible final boss spoiler below*
SSMB member Solofiveo also found a small image hidden in the website’s coding of what could be Sonic Generations’ final boss ‘Time Eater’, which SEGA has now removed. If you don’t want to be spoiled, don’t click the below image link.
Link
Source: SEGA Japan’s Sonic Generations Website
Thanks to Woun at the SSMB for the heads up on the website update and to Solofiveo, also at the SSMB, for finding the boss pic.
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SEGA has just officially revealed Shadow the Hedgehog as the next rival character in Sonic’s upcoming 20th Anniversary title Sonic Generations. New artwork for the black hedgehog has been released showing him in quite the angry pose. No other details or screenshots have been released at this time regarding which stage players will battle Shadow. But with the Tokyo Game Show coming up this week, hopefully SEGA will release more info and media. We’ll keep our eyes peeled.
Source: SEGA Blog
Thanks to Eternal X at the SSMB for the heads up!
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SSMB member Woun has scanned up two new screenshots from the Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Generations from the recently released Japanese manga based on the game. Classic Sonic’s stage is of course based on the original level from Sonic the Hedgehog 2, while Modern Sonic’s stage contains new features like a roulette wheel.
Thanks to Woun at the SSMB for the scan!
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The ESRB, the US ratings board for games, has rated the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of Sonic Generations, indicating the game’s development is now complete. The game has been given an E for Everyone rating, and in their write-up they’ve revealed a couple of interesting tidbits about the game.
*Possible spoilers ahead*
It appears the mysterious enemy force that sends Sonic back in time is actually trying to alter Sonic’s universe’s timeline. But why they are trying to alter Sonic’s timeline isn’t clear. The write-up also states the game includes a handful of boss fights and one in particular sees you “defeating a giant serpent creature by crashing into its weak points”.
You can check out the full rating write-up below:
Sonic Generations
Platform: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Rating: Everyone
Content descriptors: Cartoon Violence
Rating summary: This is an action-adventure game in which players assume the role of Sonic the Hedgehog as he attempts to stop a mysterious force from altering his universe’s timeline. As players zoom across fantastical landscapes, they collect gold rings and power-ups while using spin attacks to knock over enemies (e.g., insect- and animal-like robots); enemies disappear amid smoke puffs, and Sonic blinks and loses rings when hit. The game includes a handful of boss-fight sequences (e.g., defeating a giant serpent creature by crashing into its weak points); explosions, shrieking sounds, and close-up spin attacks accompany these battles.
Source: ESRB
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[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBN_NbBKy7Q[/youtube]
Reader mul-tec-rnb has sent in the above video of his recreation of Wii and DS game Sonic Colours‘ Planet Wisp stage using tools in the PS3 title LittleBigPlanet 2. It’s quite the faithful design, from the flowers to the construction site parts.
Check it out and share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Thanks to mul-tec-rnb for sending this in.
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At the end of today’s episode of Nintendo TV News on the UK Wii Nintendo Channel, Official Nintendo Magazine informed they will have an exclusive preview of the Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Generations in their next episode, which will be made available September 23rd. ONM hasn’t give any clues about what to expect, but given the format of the show, we should hopefully see new video footage and/or an interview with SEGA.
We’ll pass on any new information revealed.
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SEGA has updated their Sonic Generations product page in all territories with their respective release dates for the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions. Though SEGA’s ad at IGN gave it away last month, we now officially know the game will launch in the US on November 1st, and as reported earlier, November 4th in Europe and November 3rd in Australia.
EU
PS3 & Xbox 360: November 4th 2011
3DS: November 2011
US
PS3 & Xbox 360: November 1st 2011
3DS: Late 2011
AU
PS3 & Xbox 360: November 3rd 2011
3DS: November 2011
As for the Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Generations, there is no release date clearer than November to speak of, which suggests the game will release on that platform later in the month. We’ll let you know when a release date for the that version of the game is revealed.
Sources: SEGA Europe, SEGA of America and SEGA Australia
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SEGA Spain has announced via their official Sonic Tuenti page that they will be attending GAMEfest 2011, which will be held from September 29th to October 2nd in Madrid. Both Sonic Generations and Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games will be playable at the event. Fans will also be able to earn prizes in tournaments that SEGA will be holding for both games at the event, and one prize is said to be something special for collectors.
Here’s the tournament schedule:
Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 14:00:
Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games Tournament
Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 14:00:
Sonic Generations Tournament
Friday, September 30, 2011 at 10:00:
Sonic Generations Tournament
Friday, September 30, 2011 at 10:00:
Mario and Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games Tournament
Saturday, October 1st, 2011 at 10:00:
Tournament Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games Tournament
Saturday, October 1st, 2011 at 10:00:
Sonic Generations Tournament
Sunday, October 2nd, 2011 at 10:00:
Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games Tournament
Sunday, October 2nd, 2011 at 10:00:
Sonic Generations Tournament
SEGA is also attending GAMEfest 2011 in the UK September 16th-18th at the Birmingham NEC. Both Sonic Generations and Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games will be playable there, too.
Sources: Official Sonic Tuenti and GAMEfest.es via Sonic Paradise [Link 1, Link 2]
Got a news tip? Send it in to thesonicstadium@googlemail.com, shadzter@sonicstadium.org or via Twitter at @Shadzter and we’ll credit you for the find.
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Live outside of Europe and Australia and want to import the Sonic Generations Collector’s Edition revealed yesterday? Well, thanks to New Zealand retailer Mighty Ape and Amazon Germany, you can. Both retailers ship worldwide. Mighty Ape is selling both PS3 and Xbox 360 versions for $199.99 AUS, which translates to just over $165 US. Amazon Germany lists both PS3 and Xbox 360 editions for EUR 99,99, which is just under $140 US. American SSMB member, and SEGA Bits staffer Barry the Nomad tells us they ship worldwide.
We don’t know how many of the Collector’s Editions both Mighty Ape and Amazon Germany have, but the former says they have ‘limited stock’. If you’re interested, you’re best to pre-order now.
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SEGA has officially confirmed the European and Australian release dates for the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of Sonic Generations via press releases for the game’s Collector’s Edition revealed yesterday. The European date is, as we already know, November 4th, and Australia will receive the game a day before on November 3rd. Unfortunately, no dates have been given for the Nintendo 3DS version. SEGA’s product page still says we can expect that version in November.
CELEBRATE SONIC’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY WITH THE SONIC GENERATIONS COLLECTOR’S EDITION
LONDON (September 7th, 2011) – SEGA® Europe Ltd. continues the celebrations for Sonic the Hedgehog’s 20th Anniversary with an impressive Collector’s Edition for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system versions of the upcoming Sonic Generations™ videogame.
The Sonic Generations Collector’s Edition combines limited edition collectables based on the upcoming game as well as assets handpicked by Sonic Team to celebrate Sonic’s 20th Anniversary, providing the ultimate celebration of Sonic for fans new and old.
Included in the Edition is a collectable figurine featuring both Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic, an exclusive, individually numbered commemorative “Gold Ring”, and a “20 Years of Sonic Art” book, containing never before seen sketches and images from the past 20 years. Also contained in the Collector’s Edition are the ‘20th Anniversary Sonic Soundtrack’ featuring a selection of tracks handpicked by Sonic Team, and the ‘History of Sonic: Birth of an Icon’ documentary, an exclusive collection of interviews and footage charting Sonic’s life from inception through to becoming one of the most iconic characters in videogame history. Limited Edition lenticular packaging and bonus additional downloadable content for the game are the final components that make up this unique Collector’s Edition for Sonic Generations™.
Sonic Generations™ will be available on 4th November 2011 on Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system. The game will also be released on the Nintendo 3DS™ system.
Sources: SEGA Press and OzBoxLive.com
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Amazon has become the first retailer in the UK to offer the Sonic Generations Collector’s Edition SEGA announced yesterday. According to the retailer, the RRP(Recommended Retail Price) for this item is £99.99. But fortunately, Amazon is selling it at the cheaper price of £85.52.
Choose your format and get you pre-order in now at the links below.
PS3
Xbox 360
If you’re not in Europe, see our Import Guide for the Collector’s Edition.
Thanks to BinaryRaptor at the SSMB for the heads up!
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Via the official Sonic Tuenti, SEGA Spain has revealed the box artwork for the European Sonic Generations PS3 and Xbox 360 Special Edition. The cover is lenticular and switches between Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic. Boasted on the cover is exclusive DLC for this edition of the game, which as we know from UK retailer GAME is the Casino Night Zone pinball mini-game.
You can view both PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of the box art below.
Source: Official Sonic Tuenti (via Sonic Paradise)
Thanks to frokenok3 at the SSMB for the heads up!
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Jun Senoue has today officially confirmed via the Crush 40 Twitter feed that he will be performing on SEGA’s stage at this year’s Tokyo Game Show. SEGA’s TGS website says the performance kicks off at 16:20 and ends 30 minutes later at 16:50 Japan Standard Time (08:20 GMT/03:20 EDT) on September 18th and will be broadcast via Ustream. Johnny Gioeli will not be there due to a busy schedule. Instead, Cash Cash’s Alex Makhlouf will perform alongside Senoue-san.
Sources: Sonic Paradise and Crush 40 Twitter
[EDIT: Unfortunately Alex is unable to attend, and instead JP from Cash Cash will be filling in the role! = T]
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Some of you may remember an iOS app made especially for Sonic’s 20th Anniversary that was released in Japan back in June. Well, we’ve got word that SEGA quietly released it on the iOS App Store in the west last Wednesday. For those not in the know, the app features a Sonic the Sketchhog game, Sonic 20th Anniversary news updates, iPod Touch/iPhone wallpapers and a Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 trial. Best part is, the app is free of charge.
We have the full details and screenshots available below.
Sonic 20th Anniversary
iOS iPhone
In 1991, Sonic the Hedgehog made a iconic debut with his first entry on the Sega Genesis!
2011 now marks the Blue Blur’s 20th Anniversary and in celebration, Sega is proud to offer a FREE Anniversary Companion Application for iPhone and iPod Touch! With updated news, downloadables, trials, and a NEW Sonic title, this app is a one stop shop for all Sonic fans!
—–
DRAWN TO LIFE
Simplify your Sonic experience with Sonic the Sketchhog! This all new Sonic title comes integrated with GameCenter so you can compare scores and compete against other players across the globe
NEWS ON THE GO
Keep up to date with all hedgehog related stories with Sonic’s 20th Anniversary news portal!
A DASH OF SONIC FOR YOUR DEVICE
Get access to custom Sonic iPhone/iPod touch wallpapers delivered to you on a weekly basis!
FREE TRIAL GAME
New to Sonic? Give Sonic a spin with a trial of the critically acclaimed Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1!
What’s new
Fixed minor bug.
Source: AppShopper.com
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Nintendo UK has put up a product page for the Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Generations, which contains 3 new screenshots of the game’s Casino Night Zone and Mushroom Hill Zone stages. The page also reveals that the game will support the Play Coins feature of the 3DS to unlock ‘new challenges, and says that using the 3DS’ StreetPass feature will allow you to receive new unlockable content including new missions when you interact with other players. The game’s Versus Mode is said to feature a status points system, which sounds similar to the one used in Sonic Rush Adventure and the DS version of Sonic Colours.
It also appears the game will have some form of replay value involving other characters. According to the game’s description, players will rescue Sonic’s friends in each level. You’ll then be able to “see the levels in a different light”, with the friends then able to join him when replaying a level.
You can read the full description and view the new screenshots below:
It’s two decades since Sonic first sped onto your screen, and in honour of the world’s favourite hedgehog, the best of past and present have been combined in a 3D sprint down memory lane, in Sonic Generations for Nintendo 3DS. Strap yourself in for the ultimate Sonic adventure as you ‘see double’ and experience the sound barrier-breaking fun in a whole new dimension.
Strange things are afoot in Sonic’s world as mysterious time holes appear, whisking Sonic and pals back in time. Our spiky blue hero will meet all sorts of familiar faces, both friend and foe, as well as his younger self. Past and present will need to team up to fight for the future against the forces of evil.
Jaw-dropping tricks and traps await you on each inventive level, whether you’re racing round brand new courses or revisiting old favourites. You can play as either Classic Sonic or Modern Sonic, each with their own track through the levels and their own stylish skills and mega moves. You’ll use old-school spin-dash attacks with Classic Sonic, or master the ‘Sonic Boost’ move with Modern Sonic. You’ll also get to see the levels in a different light as Sonic rescues his captured friends, who can then join him in replays of the levels.
This Nintendo 3DS adventure includes an unlockable special stage as well as missions and collectables available via StreetPass. The 3D Screen display gives your Sonic experience more depth, meaning you’ll be fully immersed in the action as the levels take on glorious stereoscopic dimensions.
Whether you’re a longstanding fan of Sonic, or you’re new to his fast-paced world, Sonic Generations on Nintendo 3DS is the perfect way to experience Sonic gaming in fifth gear.
* Multi-Card Play offers a two-player Versus Mode so you can take on a friend to earn status points and compete to see who’s the fastest hedgehog on the block
* Receive new unlockable content including new missions via StreetPass as you interact with other players when you’re out and about
* Use Play Coins to unlock whole new challenges
* Legendary levels from Sonic’s history come alive in glorious stereoscopic 3D
Source: Nintendo UK Sonic Generations product page
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Though still not officially confirmed by SEGA, it appears a PC version of Sonic Generations may still be on the way. GAME and their retail partners GameStation and Gameplay are all now listing a PC version for pre-order, which is down for a November 4th release with the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions. GAME had listed it before, but later removed it, and Gameplay had previously listed it for an October release, but have updated it today to a November 4th release.
Until July, there was plenty of evidence suggesting a PC version of Sonic Generations is in the works, but we’ve seen or heard nothing since, and SEGA has still not officially announced the game for that format. With the game’s release just two months away, we should hopefully receive official word soon… if the PC version does exist, of course.
Sources: GAME, GameStation and Gameplay
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In an interview posted today at Pocket Gamer, Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka has explained why he thinks Sonic games haven’t fared too well with critics over the last several years. Iizuka says that over time Sonic’s various titles have been shared out across different teams, where each one has their own ideas of what makes a Sonic game. This is now changing, as Iizuka is taking full responsibility and control over all Sonic games going forward and hopes this will improve things.
So originally it was more or less the same team working on all the different Sonic titles, but after a few years, for various reasons, we started to delegate Sonic games to different groups of people.
And everyone in the office has their own idea of what Sonic should be, so we started to see slightly varied, slightly different directions of Sonic games.
I was conscious of this, so I’m now back with full responsibility of all things Sonic. I have control over the direction of not just Sonic Generations, but all the Sonic titles that we will develop in the future.
So I have more control, and hopefully this will provide better appearances for future titles.
When asked about what’s next for Sonic, Iizuka says we can expect more Sonic titles after Sonic Generations. As well as Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2 in the digital download space, there is going to be “a whole new adventure, of course.”
Sonic Generations sort of acts as the end of one period. After Sonic Generations, we will work on new Sonic titles. There’s going to be a whole new adventure, of course.
For the digital and mobile space, we have Sonic 4 – Episode 1 is already out, and we’ve already started creating Episode 2.
We’re going to continue to explore the reimaginationing of classic Sonic, but at the same time we will also keep looking into the gaming space around modern Sonic games.
To read the full interview, which includes information you may or may not already know about the 3DS version of Sonic Generations, head over to Pocket Gamer.
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We’ve known for a long time that the Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Generations will feature a multiplayer mode for 2 players, but SEGA has never gone into any detail about it. Now, thanks to information on SEGA’s new Tokyo Game Show 2011 website, we know that the mode will also have online functionality for 2 players.
Other than that little nugget, there are no other new details. SEGA will be taking the 3DS and PS3 versions of Sonic Generations to the Tokyo Game Show in a couple of weeks time, so hopefully more details and media will be revealed then.
Source: SEGA’s TGS 2011 Website (Google Translate)
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[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvYeKI1Vars&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
SEGA has opened their Tokyo Game Show 2011 website and revealed their software lineup for the event, which starts September 15th and ends on the 18th. The PS3 and Nintendo 3DS versions of Sonic Generations will be at SEGA’s booth, as well as a variety of other titles from the publisher listed below. A Sonic Generations trailer combining the old Green Hill Zone and City Escape trailers and the game’s two packshots without the logos have also been released.
Binary Domain (PS3/360)
Rhythm Thief & The Emperor’s Treasure (3DS)
Hatsune Miku Project Diva Extend (PSP)
Virtua Tennis 4 (PSV)
7th Dragon 2020 (PSP)
Anarchy Reigns (PS3/360)
Sonic Generations (PS3/3DS)
Phantasy Star Online 2 (PC)
Yakuza: Black Panther 2 (PSP)
Sources: SEGA TGS 2011 Website, Sonic Scene and SEGA Driven
Thanks to Woun for the heads up on the SEGA TGS website and YouTube conversion of the trailer!
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[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWGJpl_xheI&feature=channel_video_title[/youtube]
Sonic Retro has informed us today that Shade Vortex didn’t speak to SEGA’s Patrick Riley yesterday. The Sonic Retro and SSMB forumer was actually speaking to SEGA’s Ken Balough, as shown in the above video interview with Balough that Shade Vortex has uploaded.
The interview gives us more information about the new Sonic CD port and its importance to Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2. If you don’t have time to watch the whole video interview, Sonic Retro has gathered the main points together in text form. You can read them below.
* It’s commonly understood that Sonic 2, Sonic 3 and Sonic and Knuckles form what is called “The Death Egg Trilogy” because of the overarching story of Eggman’s Death Egg across the titles. Sonic CD was a self-contained adventure that hovered around that area with the most popular belief to be between Sonic 1 and Sonic 2, despite no true concrete evidence.
* Sonic 4 is trying to bridge all of them together more. It’s not trying to give Sonic CD a concrete place in the timeline, just say that “It happened prior to Sonic 4: Episode 1.” It does not mean Sonic CD is immediately before Sonic 4: Episode 1 and after Sonic 3 and Knuckles.
* The events of Sonic CD are important to Episode 2. You can see Metal Sonic in the ending. The idea is you’ll see how Metal Sonic comes back after his destruction in Sonic CD and his return. (Knuckles Chaotix unavailable for comment.)
* Sega is supportive on Christian “The Taxman” Whitehead’s Retro Engine, calling it “a really good piece of technology.”
* “You’ve got to work within the confines of what a publisher is and what a publisher does in order to get all the benefits as well. We as a publisher will get the benefits from working with really talented developers, and developers on the flip side get the benefits of working with a publisher and all the things and all the exposure they get and they can bring to the table, as well as working on really big brands, like Sonic.”
* On Metal Sonic: “He’s appeared in some of these [games], but we’ve never made him so integral to that continuity. We’ve had him back, but no one ever explained how he comes back after CD. He’s just there. So, we’re going make sure that we fill in some of these really nice… I almost think of it like Star Wars, right? We’re going to go back and explain this really cool era that was the Clone Wars? We’re going to go back and explain this really cool era that was the classic experience, and show you guys some really fun stuff.”
* With regards to Sonic 2 Spindash and the “HD Filter”: “Stay tuned.” He doesn’t want to confirm anything until details are more concrete. However, a filter will be present.
* On Sonic CD not being on 3DS, Vita: “We never really intended to release it yet for the Playstation Vita, or the Playstation Go, or the Nintendo 3DS… those were never really on the table. We were always talking about, ‘It was either digital console or mobile devices.’
* He’s unable to comment on why the game isn’t on WiiWare.
* The U.S. Soundtrack will not be included at this time due to licensing issues. However, there’s a couple of more surprises to be revealed later down the road.
* The trailers have nothing to do with the continuity of the games. They’re their own thing designed by Balough. The ‘detour’ talked about previously is Sonic going to the past so players can relive Sonic CD and understand its events and references in Sonic 4: Episode 2.
Source: Sonic Retro
Thanks to Sonic Retro staffer GeneHF for the heads up!
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In a post at the SEGA Forums, SEGA Brand Manager Ken Balough has cleared up the confusion regarding where Sonic CD happens in the Sonic timeline and it turns out that SEGA is NOT placing the game between Sonic 3 & Knuckles and Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1, or anywhere else either. Balough explains that while they’re not moving Sonic CD, the game’s events are very important to Sonic the Hedgehog 4, and that’s why they’re giving fans the chance to play it for the first time with this new port.
Hi Everyone!!
Ok so I’m at PAx right now showing off Sonic CD to every lucky person who’s attending the show (by the way if you are here – it’s at the MSFT booth.)
But I have a few minutes and I’ve seen some confusion about Sonic CD being a prequel – and it is!! Just as you imagined it.
which is basically my way of saying – allow me to illuminate the situation.
Remember back during Ep 1, I was saying we had outlined a great story for the Sonic 4 Saga? It all come back to that Cliffhanger at the end – where we brought back Metal Sonic. Sonic CD was never really tied to the numberical Sonics in any significant way back in the 90′s. Sonic 4 is going to change that, and bridge these adventures together in a meaningful way.
While we are not taking away “when CD happened” in relationship to the numerical versions, we can tell you that the events in CD are very important to 4 (as you can imagine from us bringing Metal Sonic back)
So before we take you to Ep 2, we’re gonna give all you fans a chance to experiance CD for the first time in years – and with a terrific presentation in wide screen. And yes the physics are fine!
So as you can see from the Trailer we created – Sonic took a slight detour into “The Past”, and later will be propelled back into the future to resume the Sonic 4 Saga
And if your at PAX come say Hi!
Cheers,
Ken
Source: SEGA Forum (via Sonic Retro)
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[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJa-4tMqVNc[/youtube]
Christian Whitehead (aka The Taxman) confirmed to Sonic Retro upon the official unveiling of the Sonic CD port on Thursday that his Retro Engine is powering the game. Whitehead also says the game will feature a proper looping soundtrack and an option to play using the original Sonic CD Spin Dash or one similar to Sonic 2. You can see the Retro Engine running a proof of concept demo of Sonic CD on an iPod Touch in the above video Whitehead recorded back in 2009.
UPDATE: Sonic Retro has informed us that it was actually SEGA’s Ken Balough that was interviewed below, not Patrick Riley.
In other news, SSMB and Sonic Retro forum member Shade Vortex attended PAX 2011 and interviewed SEGA staff member Ken Balough about this new Sonic CD port and got some interesting bits of information. You can read the full details below courtesy of Sonic Retro.
SONIC 2 SPIN DASH AND MUSIC
Regarding the functionality of the Sonic 2 spindash, Riley said that the feature could still be removed from the final game if it is found to cause problems within the game, going on to say that developers shouldn’t talk about features so early on for this reason.
More on that point, when asked about the inclusion of the U.S. soundtrack, Riley stated that it is not currently planned for use in the full release, due to licensing issues in using Spencer Nilsen’s soundtrack. However, Sega is trying to work around that and come up with a solution. Meaning, if an agreement is reached, this may include paid DLC, if the game can support it. For now, the game is International soundtrack only.
DOING THE TIME WARP IN THE TIMELINE
When asked about the curious use of Sonic 4 assets in the reveal trailer for the game, Riley confirmed that Sega has retrofitted Sonic CD‘s place in the timeline as after Sonic 3 and Knuckles but before Sonic 4: Episode 1. The rationale behind this was that Sonic CD’s developers never put any direct mention of Sonic CD‘s place in the timeline.
Even if a slight nod to its place exists within the original game itself.
So how exactly does this work? When Sonic CD is released later this year and Sonic 4: Episode 2 is announced, there will be a trailer where Sonic escapes from his time-travelling detour. In all the Sonic 4 trailers, Sonic is chasing Eggman from the left of the screen to the right. In the Sonic CD trailer, there’s a signpost instead, and when he hits it, he takes a detour and does the story of Sonic CD. Once his CD adventure is over, his detour ends, and he goes onto Sonic 4: Episode 2, coming out sometime next year.
Wait… so Sonic 4: Episode 1 happens, Sonic CD, then Sonic 4: Episode 2? I guess this fits with the whole “after Sonic 3 and Knuckles” thing, but wouldn’t this technically make it a side-sequel to Sonic 4: Episode 1 then? Just hit me with the Hazama cameo. Blast you and your odd time travel logic, Sega!
Opinion injection aside, there’s one more point that was tackled.
SONIC 4: EPISODE 2 RUNNING ON THE RETRO ENGINE?
With The Taxman’s earlier details revealing that Sega now owns a license to his Retro Engine, used to power the popular fan game Retro Sonic Nexus, fan speculation rocketed if Sonic 4: Episode 2 will throw away the criticized physics engine it used in favor for the Retro Engine.
And with the precision of Sonic shooting down one of Eggman’s many airships, Riley responded with a flat “No,” continuing by saying that Sonic 4 “will never” use the Retro Engine because the code base is incompatible with the existing Sonic 4 engine, which they are still using for Episode 2.
Hopefully with quite a few tweaks and lessons learned from Sonic Generations. I know, opinion injection again. My apologies.
Special thanks to Shade Vortex for conducting the interview because some of us couldn’t make it to PAX this year.
Source: Sonic Retro – Link 1, Link 2
What are your thoughts on this information? Let us and others know in the comments section below.
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Nintendo Wii owners may have noticed that while SEGA’s new port of Sonic CD is coming to many many download platforms, WiiWare isn’t one of them. SEGA has told GamesRadar that the reason for this is that the CD quality sound won’t fit within Nintendo’s strict 40MB file size limit for games on the platform.
In an excuse that carries a whiff of that old “the SNES doesn’t have the technology to render blood” chestnut, Sega has explained that the WiiWare platform lacks the chops necessary to replicate the CD-quality sound of the technologically-mindblowing-circa-1993 original – so, no Sonic CD for Wii owners.
Unfortunate for Wii owners. But at least if you’re not fussed about the new additions or Japanese soundtrack, there is still the option to play the original game on the GameCube title Sonic Gems Collection.
Source: GamesRadar (via GoNintendo)
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A Sonic Generations preview from Digital Spy and SEGA’s latest batch of screenshots left us wondering if Sonic & Knuckles‘ Flying Battery Zone would feature partially within the game’s Rooftop Run stage. Now, thanks to a new preview from PlayStation Universe, we know that is not the case.
Before we talk about Classic Sonic, I want to clear something up. Other previews have been vague on what happens at the end of the Classic Sonic version, and some fan sites have suggested that you may see other old levels within levels due to this. This is simply untrue in Roof Top Run, which we’ll explain in due time.
The preview then goes on to detail exactly how the section with the airship plays out.
Due to the amount of classic and even modern levels that Sonic Team has not been able to directly include in the game, recreating all these stages from scratch for each Sonic allows them to take inspiration from other sections. In City Escape and Roof Top Run, Classic Sonic sees the return of the floor springs from Sonic 2 (the ones where you run over them and they cause Sonic to spring up and do a barrel roll in the air), and a platforming section reminiscent of the boss in Labyrinth Zone of Sonic 1 awaits the Blue Blur as he makes his way up the Clock Tower.
Some Sonic fans may remember you had to do this with the Werehog in Unleashed, but let us assure you, it is nowhere near as frustrating or fiddly. Once at the top, the “airship” is in range, and you rev up a Spin Dash to go into it, only to exit it a moment or so later, the camera tracking Sonic from outside the airship as he zips around it from left to right, implying he’s damaging it as he goes. As he steps onto a platform at the base of the airship, he sprints towards the goal post in a set piece based on the bombing run in Sonic 3’s Angel Island Zone.
It certainly sounds like an interesting set piece. Hopefully we’ll see footage of it soon at any of the various upcoming gaming events Sonic Generations will be playable at in the next month.
Source: PlayStation Universe
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According to a listing for a Sonic Generations strategy guide at Play.com, the game will feature bonus items and locations you can unlock by collecting rings. Could the finished game contain bonus levels we don’t already know about from the leaked demo content, or just extra Acts?? The rings referred to are likely the red special rings you can gather 5 of from every Act. The red rings in Sonic Colours unlocked new content in that game, so they will no doubt do the same thing in Sonic Generations.
The ultimate celebration of 20 years of Sonic gaming. Sonic Generations delivers the definitive gaming experience for Sonic fans new and old. Sonic’s universe is thrown into chaos when a mysterious new power comes into force, creating
“time holes” which take Sonic and his friends back in time. Now they must team up to defeat their enemies, save their friends, and find out who is behind this diabolical deed.
The walkthrough guides you through every level and past each boss
Collect every ring and unlock bonus items and locations
Learn about Sonic and his friends, past and present
If you’re interested in getting yourself the strategy guide, it’s available to pre-order at Play.com for £9.99 and Amazon.co.uk for £11.69.
Source: Play.com
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Want something to keep your head warm this Winter? GAME Australia has revealed their pre-order bonus for Sonic Generations and it’s a Sonic hat. Judging by the pic of GAME Australia staffer Ed modelling the hat, it appears to be the same one the retailer gave away with Sonic Colours pre-orders last year, so many people may already have the hat. If you haven’t got one though, this is a good chance to get one for your merchandise collection.
If you’re interested, you can pre-order the game at the below links:
PS3: $88.00
Xbox 360: $88.00
Nintendo 3DS: $69.95
In other news, GAME Australia’s also been running a charity event called The Amazing Sonic Quest, in which staff member Ed is trying to collect games from Sonic’s 20 year history with the help of the public. If you have a game that Ed doesn’t already have on the list, then you can trade your copy for a $50 GAME Gift Voucher and a promotional copy of Sonic Generations when the game releases. Once Ed has all 45 Sonic titles, he will then auction them off with the proceeds going to charity.
For more information, head over to GAME Australia’s The Amazing Sonic Quest page.
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Wondering if Sonic Generations will be getting an original soundtrack release? Well, wonder no more. The game will be getting not 1, but 2 original soundtrack CD releases. Both are titled History of the 1st Stage, and one will cover the PS3/Xbox 360 version of the game (White Edition), the other will contain tracks from the 3DS version (Blue Edition). No word on the track lists yet, but we’ll let you know when they’re revealed.
Both CD’s are planned for a December 8th release in Japan alongside the game’s release. You can pre-order them over at Amazon Japan at the below links. The White Edition will be bundled with PS3 and Xbox 360 copies of Sonic Generations (thanks CyberLink420) and will set you back ￥ 6,230, while the Blue Edition, which isn’t bundled, costs just ￥ 4,445.
History of the 1st Stage Original Soundtrack White Edition (PS3 listing)
History of the 1st Stage Original Soundtrack White Edition (Xbox 360 listing)
History of the 1st Stage Original Soundtrack Blue Edition (Nintendo 3DS listing)
Source: Sonic Scene – Link 1, Link 2
Thanks to Woun for the heads up!
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[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjF6kq4MFlo&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
Four days later and the new port of Sonic CD revealed on Monday has been made official. The Mega CD/SEGA CD title will be making its way to many platforms this Holiday season, which include Xbox Live Arcade, PlayStation Network, iPod Touch, iPhone, iPad, PC Download, Windows Phone and Android Phone.
The game is said to feature widescreen graphics, the original Japanese soundtrack, special iOS features, Xbox LIVE Achievements, PSN Trophies, PC Achievements and more. Interestingly, SEGA also says this game is a prequel to Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1. A trailer, press release and artwork have also been released, which we have shared for you here.
Check out the press release below:
METAL SONIC! AMY-ROSE! ROBOTS! IT CAN ONLY BE SONIC CD
LONDON & SAN FRANCISCO — 25th August, 2011 —SEGA® Europe Ltd. and SEGA® of America, Inc. today announced that Sonic CD™ will debut on mobile phones and consoles everywhere. Originally released for the MEGA CD™ system in 1993 and with Metal Sonic and Amy Rose making their introduction, Sonic CD is coming to digital platforms with music from the original Japanese soundtrack. The beloved prequel to Sonic The Hedgehog 4 ™ Episode I is coming to iPhone® and iPod® touch, iPad®, Xbox LIVE® Arcade for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation® Network, PC Digital Download, Android and Windows Phone 7 and will be available for download this winter.
“Ask any Sonic fan to name their favourite games, and Sonic CD always ranks near the top of their lists,” said Haruki Satomi, Vice President of Digital Business at SEGA. “Sonic CD marks an important chapter in Sonic’s history, bridging the gap between his oldest adventures and his new digital exploits like Sonic The Hedgehog 4 Episode I. We’ve made sure the re-mastered edition has everything that Sonic fans want to see with all of the original colourful classic zones.”
Following the classic story of the original, Sonic CD sees Dr Eggman plan to cause chaos and take control of the future by stealing Times Stones from the Little Planet. Sonic must speed through levels and travel through time whilst fending off Eggman’s robots to recover the Time Stones, and save Amy Rose from his mechanical twin, Metal Sonic! This fast-paced game will return with brand new features including enhanced widescreen graphics, iOS features, Xbox LIVE Achievements, PSN Trophies, PC Achievements and more.
For more information on Sonic CD, please visit http://www.sega.com/
Source: SEGA Blog
Thanks to Jemma in our comments section for the heads up and to Woun for the YouTube upload!
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3 new images of Sonic Generations have been released by SEGA Japan today. One gives us our first look at the previously revealed picnic scene from the opening of the game, and the other 2 give us our first look at Sonic Generations 3DS’ Casino Night Zone, as well as a previously unknown stage, which looks to be Emerald Coast from Sonic Adventure. Apart from some Mega Drive/Genesis stages, the Nintendo 3DS version has been said to celebrate the Sonic the Hedgehog series’ handheld history, so for a Dreamcast era stage to be in there is quite odd.
Check out the screenshots below and let us know what you think in the comments section below.
Source: Sonic Scene – Link 1, Link 2
Thanks to Woun for the heads up!
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SEGA Japan has unveiled the Japanese box artwork for all 3 versions of Sonic Generations, which is very similar to the US and EU art minus the 20th Anniversary logo. A December 8th release date for all versions in that territory has also been revealed.
Source: Sonic Scene – Link 1, Link 2
Thanks to Woun for the heads up!
The Sonic Stadium may link to retailers and earn a small commission on purchases made from users who click those links. These links will only appear in articles related to the product, in an unobtrusive manner, and do not influence our editorial decisions in any way.
The Sonic Stadium may link to retailers and earn a small commission on purchases made from users who click those links. These links will only appear in articles related to the product, in an unobtrusive manner, and do not influence our editorial decisions in any way.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XN2ODzSbdtc&feature=feedu[/youtube]
Gamescom 2011 has kicked off today and SEGA has released the above new trailer for the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of Sonic Generations. As well as more footage of Chemical Plant Zone, we get the official unveiling of Rooftop Run from Sonic Unleashed and Seaside Hill from Sonic Heroes. More CGI footage is included in the video too, with quite the little surprise at the end (well, for those who didn’t look at the leaked stuff anyway).
Thanks to SSMB member VEDJ-F for the heads up and to Woun for the YouTube link!
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