Leaderboards and DLC Confirmed For Sonic Generations

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!

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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SEGA Japan Updates Sonic Generations Website, New Screenshots

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.

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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ESRB Rates Sonic Generations, Reveals A Couple More Details

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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Sonic Colours’ Planet Wisp Recreated in LittleBigPlanet 2

[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.

Got something you would like to share with the community here on The Sonic Stadium? Send it in to thesonicstadium@googlemail.com, shadzter@sonicstadium.org or via Twitter at @Shadzter.

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Sonic Generations US Release Date Officially Confirmed, 3DS Date Still Unclear

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

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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Sonic Generations EU & AU Release Dates Officially Confirmed

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

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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New Sonic Generations Trailer Unveils New Stages and More

[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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First Sonic Generations Chemical Plant Zone Gameplay Video Appears

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HsKwNWYowwY&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]

German gaming website Gameswelt.de shared a new Sonic Generations gameplay video on Thursday, which until now has gone unnoticed by fans. The video is of the Xbox 360 version, and it gives us our first look at the Chemical Plant Zone in action in both Modern and Classic forms. Some new footage of the Modern and Classic City Escape stages is also available later on in the video.

What do you think about Chemical Plant Zone now you’ve seen it in motion? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

Source: Gameswelt

Thanks to Nuzamaki90 in our comments section for the heads up!
YouTube conversion courtesy of DranicTheLombaxProdu.

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Grabber Returns in New Sonic Generations Chemical Plant Zone Screenshots

Following last week’s official unveiling of the Chemical Plant Zone in the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of Sonic Generations, we now have 19 more screenshots of the stage from SEGA Japan, courtesy of Andriasang. In this set there are 10 Modern Sonic and 9 Classic Sonic images, giving us a look at some new areas and the return of the Grabber badnik. Those who have played the original Chemical Plant Zone may or may not be happy to see the return of a certain platforming puzzle involving lots of blocks.

Check out the screenshots below:
Modern Sonic

Classic Sonic

Source: Andriasang

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Sonic Generations: Chemical Plant Zone Officially Revealed For Xbox 360/PS3, Tails Art, 3DS Boxart

SEGA’s officially unveiled the Chemical Plant Zone from Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and Classic Metal Sonic Rival Battle at Stardust Speedway from Sonic CD for the PS3 and Xbox 360 version of Sonic Generations. This level and battle were revealed with a batch of new screenshots SEGA dished out today, as well as artwork for Classic Tails and Modern Tails and the boxart for the Nintendo 3DS version of the game. You can check all of that out below.

Classic Tails and Modern Tails artwork

UK Nintendo 3DS boxart

Chemical Plant Zone screenshots

Classic Sonic vs. Classic Metal Sonic Rival Battle at Stardust Speedway

Sources: SEGA Twitter and SEGA Flickr

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UK & Spanish Retailers Listing Sonic Generations Special Edition For PS3 & Xbox 360

UK retailer GAME is now taking pre-orders on their website for a Sonic Generations Special Edition for PS3 and Xbox 360. This edition of the game is priced at £37.99 for Xbox 360 and an higher price of £39.99 for PS3, which is £5 and £7 higher respectively than the game alone. What’s weird is that the Special Edition is said to contain the content GAME has recently been advertising as a pre-order bonus for the game in-store. The same content is also advertised as a pre-order bonus at US retailer GameStop. Hopefully SEGA will clear this up and announce official details about the Sonic Generations Special Edition soon.

Sonic Paradise last week reported that Spanish retailer Xtralife is taking pre-orders for the Sonic Generations Special Edition in that territory. The website also heard from SEGA Spain that the company hasn’t yet decided who will be doing the voice dubbing for the Spanish version of the game.

Source: GAME UK

Thanks to Major Ziggy at the SSMB for the heads up on the GAME UK listing!

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3 Sonic Generations Themes Hitting EU PSN Today, E3 Trailer Now on PSN & XBL

In today’s ‘‘Heads-Up’ Game Store Update’, the EU PS Blog has revealed that three new Sonic Generations themes will be made available free of charge today on the EU PS Store for you to decorate your PS3’s XMB with. The themes are listed under the Dynamic Themes section, so they should be more than just background wallpapers.

Sonic Generations
* Sonic 20Th Anniversary (free)
* Sonic 20Th Anniversary Modern Theme (free)
* Sonic 20Th Anniversary Poster Theme (free)

The Sonic Generations E3 City Escape trailer is also now available on the Xbox Live Marketplace and US PS Store. EU PS3 users will be able to download it later today when the EU PS Store updates.

Sources: EU PS Blog, US PS Blog and the Xbox Live Marketplace

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More Details on GAME UK’s Sonic Generations DLC Pre-Order Bonus

We have more details about GAME UK’s Sonic Generations DLC pre-order bonus in the above photo I snapped today of the reverse-side of their instore advertisement that we reported about on Friday, courtesy of Emerald Coast. We can confirm that it is definitely the same DLC pack GameStop is offering in the US and that the Super Sonic avatar costume is Xbox 360 exclusive (sorry, PS3 Home users).

For those who haven’t been following, the pack contains:

* Casino Night’ Pinball Stage: Play through this all-new mini-game inspired by Casino Night’ from Sonic The Hedgehog 2′, and relive some of your favorite gaming memories in stunning HD.
* Super Sonic Costume: Give your avatar the ultimate make-over with the iconic super transformation’ character.
* Theme: Give your console the ultimate Sonic experience with a theme created exclusively for this pack.

GAME is still yet to offer the bonus on their website, but we expect they will sooner or later.

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SEGA Officially Reveals More Sonic Generations Details

SEGA has updated their Sonic Generations product page and added some more details, most notably in the ‘Key Features’ sections for both the PS3 & Xbox 360 versions and the Nintendo 3DS version. Those who have been tracking all of the information leaked from the PS3 and Xbox 360 demo in various forums will find the details for that version very familiar, but for those who haven’t, the page reveals that throughout the story players will free Sonic’s friends, fight some of his rivals and revisit big boss battles. After saving each of Sonic’s friends, you’ll then be able to have them join you in some of the game’s other missions.

For the Nintendo 3DS version, SEGA’s website reveals both Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic will each have a track in the game’s unlockable special stages and 2 player versus mode is said to feature ‘status points’ you earn through playing with your friends. The game’s Street Pass feature gives you the ability to collect new content and unlock bonus material, which SEGA says increases “variety, interaction and replayability”.

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. Whilst there, Sonic runs into some very familiar characters from his past including a younger version of himself! Now they must team up to defeat their enemies, save their friends, and find out who is behind this diabolical deed.

Key Features

Twice the Fun
Play as both Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic in the ultimate Sonic experience. Master the moves of each character as they race through each environment on their own specially designed track.

The Best Bits Just Got Better
Iconic environments from gaming history come to life in beautiful HD for the ultimate Sonic adventure, each revisited, recreated and re-imagined with stunning results.

All New Experience
Play some of your gaming’s most iconic environments in a whole new way with famous Sonic stages presented in stunning new stereoscopic 3D.

Unlock New Adventures
Once you complete each level and ‘free’ Sonic’s captured friends, you’ll get to go back and take on more challenges with them at your side.

Infamous Bosses and Rivals
Take on some of the most notorious characters from Sonic’s past as you fight for ultimate supremacy.

Master Your Moves
Master Classic Sonics famous spin-dash attack and utilise Modern Sonic ‘s ‘Sonic Boost’ as you complete the all new tracks.

Additional Key Features for 3DS

All New Content
With new and exclusive environments for the Nintendo 3DS, including an un-lockable ‘special stage’. Each includes two tracks – one for Classic Sonic and one for Modern Sonic – designed to showcase each Sonics’ unique features.

2 Player Versus mode
Take on your friends and earn valuable status points.

Street Pass
Collect new content and unlock bonus material, increasing variety, interaction and replayability.

Source: SEGA’s Sonic Generations product page

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Latest SEGA Europe Release Schedule Lists Sonic Generations For PC, 3DS Version Delayed?

The evidence for a PC version of Sonic Generations is really mounting up. SEGA Europe has issued a schedule for their upcoming game releases through 2011 and into 2012. Sonic Generations is down for the already known release month of November for PS3, Xbox 360 and…PC? It appears SEGA may have let the cat out of the bag again for the PC version of the game, surprising no one. What IS surprising though is the absence of the Nintendo 3DS version. SEGA Europe’s website also has no month scheduled for the portable version and instead lists it for a Late 2011 release, even though it was previously given a November release month. Could the 3DS version of Sonic Generations be getting released slightly later than the home console (and possible PC) versions?

Here’s SEGA Europe’s full release schedule:

* Virtua Tennis 4 – 8th July 2011 (PC)
* Captain America: Super Soldier – 15th July 2011 (Multi)
* CRUSH3D – 9th September 2011 (3DS)
* Rise of Nightmares (Kinect) – September 2011 (X360)
* Shinobi – September 2011 (3DS)
* House of the Dead: Overkill – Extended Cut – 28th October 2011 (PS3)
* Sonic Generations – November 2011 (PS3, X360, PC)
* Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games – November 2011 (Wii)
* Anarchy Reigns – January 2012 (PS3, X360)
* Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games – February 2012 (3DS)
* Binary Domain Shooter – Early 2012 (PS3)
* Aliens: Colonial Marines – Spring 2012 (PS3, X360, PC)
* London 2012 – The Official Video Game of the Olympic Games – 2012 (PS3, X360, PC)
* Thor Action Adventure – TBC (3DS)
* Virtua Tennis 4 – TBC (PSVita)

We’ll pass along any further details regarding both stories when they’re made available.

Sources: CVG and Eurogamer Portugal

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GAME Offering Sonic Generations Pre-Order DLC Pack in the UK

GAME will be the exclusive carrier of the Sonic Generations Casino Night pre-order bonus DLC previously revealed by U.S. retailer GameStop. Emerald Coast founder Vger spotted the above display in his local GAME store today, which reads “Sonic Generations Exclusive Stage Pack when you pre-order and purchase”. The Casino Night Zone pinball mini-game image shown on GameStop’s website is also on display, so this will likely be the exact same package.

The full contents of the pack offered by GameStop includes:

* Casino Night’ Pinball Stage: Play through this all-new mini-game inspired by Casino Night’ from Sonic The Hedgehog 2′, and relive some of your favorite gaming memories in stunning HD.
* Super Sonic Costume: Give your avatar the ultimate make-over with the iconic super transformation’ character.
* Theme: Give your console the ultimate Sonic experience with a theme created exclusively for this pack.

Source: Emerald Coast

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UK Online Retailers Already Offering Big Discounts on Sonic Generations

UPDATE: HMV has now raised the price of the PS3 & Xbox 360 versions back up from £29.99 to £39.99. All orders places at the £29.99 price should remain at the cheaper price. The Game Collection is now the cheapest price for the PS3 & Xbox 360 versions at £31.99./UPDATE END

Live in the UK and fancy yourself a copy of Sonic Generations at a low price? Well, you’ll be pleased to know that some online retailers out there are already offering big discounts on pre-orders. The Game Collection has the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions available for pre-order at just £31.99; an £8 saving. An even bigger discount on the portable edition can be found at Send It, where the Nintendo 3DS version is available to pre-order now for just £27.89; a saving of £12.10.

Here are the current offers available in order of the cheapest:
PS3 & Xbox 360:
The Game Collection: £31.99 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Game Seek: £32.97 (PS3/Xbox 360)
GAME: £32.99 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Gamestation: £32.99 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Amazon: £32.99 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Play: £32.99 (PS3/Xbox 360)
DVD: £34.99 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Base: £34.99 (PS3/Xbox 360)
ShopTo: £36.85 (PS3/Xbox 360)
365 Games: £37.49 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Send It: £37.89 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Gameplay: £37.99 (PS3/Xbox 360)
The Hut: £39.85 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Zavvi: £39.85 (PS3/Xbox 360)
ASDA: £39.91 (PS3/Xbox 360)
WH Smith: £39.93 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Woolworths: £39.97 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Best Buy: £39.97 (PS3/Xbox 360)
HMV: £39.99 (PS3/Xbox 360)
Tesco: £43.97 (PS3/Xbox 360)

Nintendo 3DS:
Send It: £27.89
The Hut: £29.85
Zavvi: £29.85
ASDA: £29.91
WH Smith: £29.93
Woolworths: £29.97
Best Buy: £29.97
GAME: £39.99
Amazon: £39.99
Gameplay: £39.99
HMV: £39.99

Have you pre-ordered a copy of the game yet? Found any cheaper offers? Let us know in the comments.

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SPOILERS: Sonic Generations Level List, Items, Badniks, Music and More Leaked

This news post contains spoilers, so if you don’t want to be spoiled, then click your back button now.

The Sonic Generations demo released June 23rd on Sonic’s 20th Birthday was hacked on that very day by various community members, including those at Sonic Retro. Found within the unusually very large file was the game’s entire level list, boss list, mission list, characters, badniks, items, some music files (though nothing past Green Hill Zone) and the presence of the Chaos Emeralds and super forms for both Sonic’s.

Stages:

Green Hill (Sonic The Hedgehog)
Chemical Plant (Sonic The Hedgehog 2)
Sky Sanctuary (Sonic The Hedgehog 3 & Knuckles)
Speed Highway (Sonic Adventure)
City Escape (Sonic Adventure 2)
Seaside Hill (Sonic Heroes)
Crisis City (SONIC The Hedgehog/Sonic 06)
Rooftop Run (Sonic Unleashed)
Planet Wisp (Sonic Colours)

Casino Night – DLC Only

Bosses:

Metal Sonic
Shadow The Hedgehog
Silver The Hedgehog
Death Egg
Perfect Chaos
Egg Dragoon
“Time Eater” – Said to be the final boss.

Characters:
Tails
Knuckles
Amy Rose
Cream
Rouge
Blaze
Vector
Espio
Charmy

The items revealed include the return of elemental shields from Sonic 3 and Sonic & Knuckles. The lightning shield, fire shield and bubble shield item boxes were both found in the demo assets, along with images of how they look in-game. The Spike Wisp and Rocket Wisp powers from Sonic Colours also make a comeback. As for the Chaos Emeralds, they too appear to be an item, which suggests Classic and Modern Sonic’s Super forms will be playable in the game’s various stages.

Update: Images removed at SEGA’s request.

Sources: Sonic Retro, Sonic Wrecks and various Sonic forums, including our very own SSMB.

What do you think of the level list? Did your favourite stage make it in? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Sonic Generations Demo Now Available on Xbox Live & PlayStation Network

The Sonic Generations demo has been made available for Xbox 360 and PS3 users today on Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation Store. As reported yesterday, just Classic Sonic is playable and only in one Act of Green Hill Zone, but with plenty of routes to explore, it will keep you busy for a few replays. Don’t forget, the demo will only be available for 20 days and all downloaded copies will expire after 20 days too. As with all retail game demos, Xbox 360 users will need an Xbox Live Gold Membership to download the demo for the first week. Free Members will get the demo next week.

The Sonic 20th Anniversary bundle has also been made available for purchase on the PlayStation Store today. An Xbox 360 equivalent is nowhere to be seen, so it appears this is a PS3 exclusive. The bundle includes Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1, Sonic Adventure (and DX add-on), and the Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 dynamic theme. The bundle will be available for 20 days at the reduced price of (£13.99/€17.99/$19.99).

Have you tried out the demo? Share your thoughts on it in the comments.

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[UPDATE] Sonic Generations Demo and 20th Anniversary Bundle Available For Download Tomorrow

UPDATE: Andriasang reports that the Sonic Generations demo will be released both on PlayStation Network and Xbox Live tomorrow. The demo will include Classic Sonic’s Green Hill Zone stage and will only be available to download until July 12th, then after that date any downloads of the demo will expire, so make sure you take it for a spin before then. The demo, like the full game, is also said to support 3D TV’s.

Source: Andriasang (via CVG)
Thanks to Matriculated at the SSMB for the heads up! /UPDATE END

SEGA will be celebrating Sonic’s 20th Anniversary tomorrow in style in the digital download space. The official Sonic 20th Anniversary Twitter this afternoon revealed that the previously announced demo of Sonic Generations will be coming tomorrow. Sony then revealed details of this week’s EU PlayStation Store update, and yes, you guessed it, the demo is listed for tomorrow for all locales. There’s no word of the demo hitting the U.S. PS Store or in any region for the Xbox Live Marketplace yet, but we fully expect it to be made available on those services.

The EU and U.S. PS Blogs have also revealed a 20th Anniversary Bundle, which consists of Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1, Sonic Adventure (and DX add-on), and the Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 dynamic theme. The bundle will be available to purchase from tomorrow for 20 days at the reduced price of (£13.99/€17.99/$19.99). No word on if this bundle will be released on the Xbox Live Marketplace, but we expect it will.

We’ll update when we know more about all of this content’s availability.

Sources: Sonic 20th Anniversary Twitter, U.S. PS Blog

Thanks to frokenok3 at the SSMB for the heads up on the Sonic 20th Anniversary Twitter update!

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Sonic Generations PSN/XBLA Demo Announced

In an update to their Twitter feed, SEGA reports that Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka has announced a demo for the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of Sonic Generations at the SEGA of America’s Sonic Boom event. No details have been revealed as to when we can expect the demo to arrive on the PlayStation Store and Xbox Live Marketplace or what stage is included, but when that information is made available we’ll pass it along.

Source: SEGA’s Twitter Feed
Tweet 1 link
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E3 2011: Sonic Generations City Escape Gameplay

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fc2RMHir8nU&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdUGCIxwkRc&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]

GameSpot.com showcased a live demo of the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of Sonic Generations this evening with SEGA’s Patrick Riley and the game’s director Hiroshi Miyamoto. In the demonstration is more of Green Hill Zone as well as an unexpected showing of the newly revealed stage City Escape, which was only shown behind closed doors up until now. Like with Green Hill Zone, the stage has been revamped for both Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic, and as we told you in our eyes on preview, the GUN truck returns and is now more dangerous than before.

Anyway, what are you still reading this article for? Check out the gameplay videos of both Acts above courtesy of SSMB member Dusk Golem.

If you want to watch the whole demo, including more footage from Green Hill Zone and the full Q&A, SSMB member Woun has uploaded the whole thing to YouTube. We have that for you below.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlPkZySUPE8&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]

Thanks to Dusk Golem and Woun at the SSMB for the YouTube uploads!

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E3 2011: New Trailer Reveals 2 New Levels For Sonic Generations

SEGA has opened their E3 booth and kicked things off with a new trailer for Sonic Generations. The video reveals Sonic Adventure 2’s City Escape as a level in the game and teases another at the end, but we’ll leave you guys to discover and guess what that one is for yourselves. Lots of gameplay footage can be seen of both Classic and Modern Sonic dashing through City Escape, along with more beautiful CGI goodness. SEGA’s also unveiled the box art for the game, and it looks like the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions will be playable in 3D.

Check out the trailer below:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pe7GQ91VPNU&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]

Thanks to ArtFenix for the heads up and to BlazingTales for the YouTube upload!

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.

SEGA Reveals E3 Lineup, M&S at the London 2012 Olympic Games Dated

SEGA has just revealed their lineup of software they will be showcasing at E3 2011, which includes Sonic Generations and Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games among their various other franchises. Along with this news, SEGA’s also set rough release dates for both versions of Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games. The Nintendo Wii version will launch in November this year and the Nintendo 3DS version will be released in February 2012.

Check out SEGA’s press release with their full E3 2011 lineup below:

SAN FRANCISCO & LONDON (June 2, 2011) – SEGA® of America, Inc. and SEGA® Europe Ltd. today announced its roster of titles to be presented at the 2011 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3 2011). The company will present more than 13 new games across all major platforms, including several games in stunning stereoscopic 3D, support for PlayStation®Move for the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, Kinect™ for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Nintendo 3DS™. The lineup spans multiple genres and includes adaptations of blockbuster film franchises, an original squad-based shooter from the creative mind of some of SEGA’s most popular franchises, the first “M-rated” game on Kinect™ for Xbox360®, AAA digital titles, an all-new title from critically acclaimed developer PlatinumGames and many more!

To celebrate this year’s 20th birthday of Sonic the Hedgehog, one of gaming’s most iconic characters, SEGA will be hosting a celebratory community event featuring Sonic Generations™ on Wednesday, June 8th, 6PM PST at the Club NOKIA in Downtown Los Angeles.

The list of titles in display at SEGA’s E3 booth (South Exhibit Hall, Booth 2023) includes among others:

Aliens: Colonial Marines™ (Xbox 360®, PlayStation®3 system, PC) – Launch Date: Spring 2012
From the award-winning first-person shooter powerhouse Gearbox Software comes Aliens: Colonial Marines, the highly anticipated horror-based action FPS set in the Aliens™ universe with cooperative multiplayer at its core. Bringing new levels of bone-chilling suspense and adrenaline-filled action to the renowned franchise, the game pits players against the universe’s ultimate alien killing machines, the Xenomorphs, in claustrophobic environments guaranteed to produce horrifying shocks and surprises.

ANARCHY REIGNS™ (Xbox 360®, PlayStation®3 system) – Launch Date: January 2012
ANARCHY REIGNS is the much anticipated next title from critically acclaimed developer PlatinumGames. With ANARCHY REIGNS, PlatinumGames will be using their hallmark creativity and technical excellence to challenge the boundaries of the conventional brawler genre by allowing multiple players to get involved in heavy-hitting action simultaneously. ANARCHY REIGNS incorporates a diverse range of multiplayer modes to provide players with different challenges, including a co-op survival mode and an all-out Battle Royal mode, where players can challenge others in a full-on fight for victory. Additionally, all modes will be available as offline single-player experiences as well. In the single player campaign mode, players can choose between Jack and Leo for different story experiences.

Binary Domain™ (Xbox 360®, PlayStation®3 system) – Launch Date: Early 2012
Binary Domain is an original IP by Toshihiro Nagoshi, the creator behind some of SEGA’s most well-known video game franchises, including the critically acclaimed Yakuza series. The atmospheric squad-based shooter puts players in the middle of a fast-paced and intense battle against hordes of deadly robots, and a secret that could threaten all mankind. Fighting upward through the derelict lower levels of 2080 Tokyo into the beautiful upper city, players control an international Special Forces squad, specializing in covert ops, which sets out to battle to the heart of the crisis.

Captain America™: Super Soldier (Xbox 360®, PlayStation®3 system, Wii™, Nintendo DS™, Nintendo 3DS™) – Launch Date: (US) July 19; (EU) July, 15, 2011; 3DS in Fall 2011
Become Captain America™, the ultimate Super-Soldier, in the darkest days of World War II as you face the Red Skull and his army in this epic third-person action adventure. Wield Captain America’s legendary shield to take out multiple enemies at once, deflect incoming fire back at your enemies, solve puzzles, and scale walls. Above all, hurl yourself shield-first into the fray, with the superior force of the world’s first Super-Soldier at your fingertips. Engage in devastating open combat and acrobatic platforming to infiltrate Hydra’s massive and mysterious castle complex and battle the infamous Iron Cross, the forces of Hydra, and a host of nefarious enemies serving the Red Skull in an all-new Captain America story and adventure.

CRUSH3D™ (Nintendo 3DS™) – Launch Date: (US) September 6, (EU) September 9, 2011
Redesigned for Nintendo 3DS, CRUSH3D is the unique platform game that gives you the ability to change perspective from 2D to 3D as you try to solve brain-teasing puzzles. Built on the foundation of the award winning CRUSH™, CRUSH3D features a host of exciting new features specifically designed for the Nintendo 3DS system, including new locations, characters and an intuitive hint system. Navigate across the surreal platforms of Danny’s mind by ‘crushing’ your way from a 2-dimensional to a 3-dimensional world and back again whenever you need to.

Guardian Heroes™ (Xbox LIVE® Arcade, PlayStation®Network & Steam) – Launch Date: Late Summer 2011
Coming exclusively to Xbox LIVE® Arcade, get ready for more swords and sorcery than you can shake your magical staff at. An ancient evil threatens the world after years of peace. Step into the shoes of one of five mighty heroes; each with their own unique attacks and customizable stats. As you fight through forests, graveyards, castles and volcanoes, your every decision will decide the ultimate fate of the world. Do you have what it takes to be a Guardian Hero? Due out this summer, Guardian Heroes features Co-Op and Online play for you and your friends, multiple game modes, optimized graphics, and brand new achievements for Xbox LIVE®.

House of the Dead: OVERKILLExtended Cut (PlayStation® Move for PlayStation®3 system) – Launch Date: (US) October 25, (EU) October 28, 2011
The pulp-style reinvention of the classic light-gun shooter comes to the PlayStation®3 in this exclusive Extended Cut with an avalanche of new content including brand new levels, weapons, mutants and more. Experience the over-the-top, mutant blasting madness with your PlayStation®Move motion controller for PS3 all in stunning 3D and re-mastered HD graphics.

Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games™ (Wii™, Nintendo 3DS™) – Launch Date: November 2011 (Wii™), February 2012 (Nintendo 3DS™)
Mario™ and Sonic™ will once again join forces on the Wii™ home video game system and, for the first time ever, on Nintendo 3DS™ as the much loved duo head to London to participate in the officially licensed Olympic-themed video game, Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games™. A host of exciting new headline events, including Football and Equestrian will debut on the Wii version appearing alongside classic Olympic disciplines, such as Athletics, Aquatics and Table Tennis. The new handheld system from Nintendo will bring a whole new dimension to the Mario & Sonic universe with glasses-free 3D visuals and around 50 original Olympic themed events playable using the unique control systems of the Nintendo 3DS.

Renegade Ops™ (Xbox LIVE® Arcade, PlayStation®Network, PC digital download) – Launch Date: 2011
Created by Swedish developer Avalanche Studios, Renegade Ops will unleash unprecedented mayhem and exhilarating destruction. Players are sent behind enemy lines in a mobile commando unit to defeat Inferno, a madman intent on global domination. Defeat enemies across a range of stunning environments using a wide variety of vehicles and weapons, from dispersing electromagnetic shock waves to the deployment of a huge Gatling gun armed to the teeth. Players have the choice to fight alone in single-player mode, team up offline with two-player split screen or join the dynamic 4-player online co-op experience.

Rise of Nightmares™ (Kinect™ for Xbox 360®) – Launch Date: TBA
Rise of Nightmares offers a spine-tingling horror experience unique to the massively successful Kinect. Using their whole body the player will experience fear and tension as never before in this first-person horror adventure. Fight off hordes of undead creatures and mad scientists in this uniquely horror themed adventure that sees players desperately searching for their kidnapped wife.

SEGA Rally Online Arcade™ (Xbox 360®, PlayStation®3 system) – Launch Date: Out Now on Xbox LIVE® Arcade, Coming Soon on PlayStation®Network)
When was the last time you enjoyed getting dragged through the mud? Race through five different types of terrain in more rally-bred vehicles than a baker can shake his dozen at – including the Ford Focus RS, the classic Lancia Delta Integrale and the ferocious Bowler Nemesis. Play through a slew of modes including Time Trials, Single Races, and Championship Events. Cut to the chase and face off online in a variety of 6 Player multiplayer racing events – isn’t it about time you showed your friends who’s numero uno?

Shinobi™ (Nintendo 3DS™) – Launch Date: September 2011
Shinobi for the Nintendo 3DS sees the eagerly anticipated return of the legendary Shinobi. We follow our hero, Jiro Musashi, through a wide variety of exotic locations as he battles his way past hordes of enemies using magical Ninja powers in this intense action-filled title. Shinobi will include some classic gameplay elements found in previous Shinobi titles, while introducing several exciting new features and experiences specifically designed to take advantage of the technology offered by the Nintendo 3DS system.

Sonic Generations™ (Xbox 360®, PlayStation®3 system, Nintendo 3DS™) – Launch Date: Holiday 2011
Delivering the definitive gaming experience for Sonic fans old and new and part of the celebrations for Sonic the Hedgehog’s 20th Anniversary, Sonic Generations sees Sonic the Hedgehog playable as both the much loved classic 1991 character, and the modern day video game hero he has become. In this exciting new fast paced adventure set across three defining eras from 20 years of Sonic the Hedgehog, you can now speed through some of the most iconic environments, playing as Classic Sonic in re-imagined 2D side scrolling levels, and as Modern Sonic in all new, stunning 3D levels.

SEGA will be located at BOOTH 2023 in the South Exhibit Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center. To schedule an appointment with SEGA at E3 2011, please contact media@sega.com.

Source: SEGA Europe Blog

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Sonic Generations Officially Announced for 3DS, Coming November 2011

SEGA has just officially announced the Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Generations, which was previously unveiled by Nintendo Power. Along with the announcement of this portable edition of the game, SEGA also announced a rough November release date for the 3DS version and the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions.

Check out the press release below:

LONDON & SAN FRANCISCO (June 1st, 2011) – SEGA® Europe Ltd. & SEGA® America, Inc., today confirmed Sonic Generations™ will be released on Nintendo’s new handheld system, Nintendo 3DS™ in November 2011. Set across three defining eras from Sonic the Hedgehog’s twenty year history, Sonic Generations™ for Nintendo 3DS will see SEGA’s mascot speeding through new stereoscopic 3D levels designed exclusively for the handheld console.

“Sonic Generations for Nintendo 3DS will combine brand new technology and twenty years of Sonic the Hedgehog videogame heritage” commented David Corless, Global Brand Director for Sonic. “Couple this with the ability to play as both Classic and Modern Sonic and you have the perfect gaming celebration for the landmark anniversary of our much loved mascot”

The specifically designed Nintendo 3DS environments, based on iconic levels from popular Sonic the Hedgehog titles, will include an exclusive unlockable ‘Special Stage’ allowing players to become even more immersed in Sonic’s world. Sonic Generations for Nintendo 3DS will also take advantage of the StreetPass™ feature by enabling players to collect new content and unlock bonus material each time they pass another player. In addition to this, the new two-player versus mode means fans can battle it out across some of the most recognisable Sonic environments in a completely new way.

Sonic Generations for Nintendo 3DS follows the same storyline as the previously announced platforms, with Sonic and his friends pulled back through time due to a mysterious new power which is causing chaos throughout the universe by creating strange “time holes”. Sonic Generations will be available for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and Nintendo 3DS system in November 2011.

For more information please visit www.sonicthehedgehog.com/generations

Source: SEGA’s website

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New Issue of OXM UK Reveals More Sonic Generations Details

Some pieces of new information about Sonic Generations have arisen in a new four page preview in the new issue of Official Xbox Magazine UK, which includes a short interview with Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka.

New details from the feature are below:
* Current story details are:
“A mysterious new nemesis (Sega isn’t saying more than that at this time) arrives on the scene and immediately sets about eradicating the very fabric of space and time, as you do when you want to impress the new neighbours, The net result is that modern-day Sonic falls through a wormhole and winds up back in 1991, where he comes-to-face with his younger, squatter, flatter self.

1990’s Sonic isn’t much of a conversationalist, but since the entire world around them has suddenly been drained of colour, it doesn’t take a 30-minute PowerPoint presentation for the two of them to realise that something has gone desperately wrong. Hence, the two ‘hogs combine forces to form what Sega is calling a ‘Dream Team’ partnership, with the aim of restoring colour and vitality to some of Sonic lore’s most famous zones by besting them in both 2D and 3D.”

* Iizuka tells OXM that like Green Hill Zone’s new cave section, every classic level will feature a new visual element to keep things fresh.

* “One of the main rules Sonic Team has abided by during Sonic Generations’ development is that there would be no re-using of old assets or level designs – these are brand new courses with a stunning HD lick of paint.”

* While OXM feels Sonic 4: Episode 1 is an excellent platformer in its own right, they think Sonic Generations feels more like a true follow-up.

* “Sonic’s jumps are weighted perfectly and the sense of speed is as breathtaking as it was 20 years ago.”

* When asked how past levels were selected for the game, Takashi Iizuka responded:
“We took a democratic approach. We only get to celebrate Sonic’s 20th birthday once, so we wanted to make sure everyone got a say. What we did was poll every Sega worker – including those in Europe and America – and asked them to nominate their favourite Sonic levels of all time. Then we did some research with the core fanbase and we were able to draw up a shortlist from there.”

* OXM also asked Iizuka if it was harder to reverse-engineer 3D levels to work in 2D, or vice-versa, to which he answered:
“It was definitely harder to get the 3D levels working in 2D, because some of the famous contraptions – the things that define those levels – have been designed to work freely in three dimensions. It was a real challenge to get them to work recognisably in a 2D plain. Of course, many modern 3D stages also have 2D sub-sections within them, but Sonic has a different moveset in Generations than he did in those games, so that was another thing we had to take into consideration.”

* When asked if Sonic’s friends will be making an appearance, Iizuka replied:
“Of course, because they’re a big part of Sonic history! But they’ll only be making cameos, be it as part of the story or in the backgrounds. Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic will be the only two playable characters in the game.”

You can check out the full interview and the rest of the preview by grabbing the new issue of Official Xbox Magazine UK in stores now, or order a subscription online at myfavouritemagazines.co.uk

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Sonic ’06 TGS ’05 Trailer Theme Music Found

Via Mefiresu from the Russian Sonic community, fellow fansite Sonic Scene has received an MP3 file of what is believed to be the theme music played in the Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) TGS 2005 trailer.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k59_cHorjNk&feature=related[/youtube]
When compared to the faint music heard in the highest quality version (it was never made available outside of camera recordings) of the trailer on YouTube recorded by Kikizo (above), it does sound identical.

You can grab the full 4 minutes and 58 seconds long track over at Sonic Scene.

Thanks to Woun for the heads up!

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Sonic Generations Demo Approved For Australia

Australia’s Classification Board today approved a demo for Sonic’s new PS3 and Xbox 360 title Sonic Generations. The board rated the demo ‘General’, which deems it fit for all audiences to play. With the demo being rated now and the full game not due out until the holiday season later this year, could we be getting to download a sample of the game sooner rather than later?

A demo for Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) was released on Xbox Live Marketplace in September, rather than around the full game’s November release, as with most game’s demos. There’s always the possibility that this could just be a rating for a demo being shown to the press and/or public at various events though, so don’t get your hopes too high.

Sonic’s 20th Birthday is June 23rd and we’re sure a demo release around then would be a welcome surprise for fans.

Source: Australia’s Classification Board (via Siliconera)

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New Hi-Res Sonic Generations Green Hill Zone Screenshots

Some more screenshots of upcoming PS3 and Xbox 360 game Sonic Generations have hit the net. Most of them are new, while a few are old, but are now available in hi-resolution. The screens show us more of both Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic speeding through the Green Hill Zone, and we can even see Classic Sonic displaying the return of both of the classic ledge balancing animations. How cool is that?

Check out the screens and individual artwork of Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic below.

Sources: Sonic Scene and Aussie Gamer

Thanks to Woun for the heads up!

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Sonic Generations Announced For Japan, 2 New Screens & Artwork

Andriasang reports that SEGA has announced that Sonic Generations will be released for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in Japan this Winter. Along with the announcement, SEGA’s shared four screenshots (two old, two new) and a piece of artwork featuring both Modern Sonic and Classic Sonic. You can check out the new screenshots and artwork below.

Source: Andriasang (via CVG)

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3 More Sonic Generations Green Hill Zone Screenshots

It appears GameSpot managed to grab three more Sonic Generations screenshots after the game’s proper unveiling on Monday. The three images show more of the Green Hill Zone in both Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic versions and the above screenshot in particular really shows how pretty the game is graphically.

Source: GameSpot

Thanks to Blue Blood at the SSMB and Rickyrick in the comments of a previous article 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.

Classic Sonic Won’t Be Saying a Word in Sonic Generations

SEGA’s RubyEclipse has revealed in some posts at the SEGA Forums on Monday that pudgy ‘ol Classic Sonic will not be gaining a voice box in the new game Sonic Generations.

Johnny_Boy at the SEGA Forums pointed out that Classic Sonic appears to have a short voice clip in the new Sonic Generations gameplay trailer, but RubyEclipse answered with the below post:

Actually, that’s just the modern voice being used in the trailer during classic gameplay.

Worry not, Classic fans. 🙂

Link

The voice clip appears to be an error made during the trailer’s production:

No, I’m not sure why it was added in the trailer. 🙂 I’ll poke somebody about the nuances of including modern Sonic’s voice alongside gameplay of Classic Sonic.

Link

RubyEclipse goes on to explain the reasoning behind the decision to make Classic Sonic mute:

It’s a big deal for some because Classic Sonic never really spoke in the old games. Save for Jaleel White, who voiced our blue hero in the old Sonic Cartoons, it’s generally taboo to have Classic Sonic speaking. Hope this explained a bit!

Link

Finally, RubyEclipse gives a straight confirmation of Classic Sonic’s silence and acknowledges how much it means to some people out there.

There’s a lot about the game that remains secret. Much of the gameplay is still in that realm, so I can’t offer new tidbits of info you may not have already seen there.

As to voices, it’s been already confirmed that Classic Sonic doesn’t talk, so I was happy to clarify – it means a lot to some people!

Link

What do you think about SEGA’s decision to keep Classic Sonic silent in the voice department? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Thanks to KCG at the SSMB for the heads up!

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[UPDATE] Sonic Generations Getting Multiple Dubs In Europe

UPDATE: Sonic Paradise has heard confirmation of the Spanish dub from SEGA Spain and Gamereactor has heard confirmation of the German dub from Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka. [Thanks to MarcelloF at the SSMB for the Gamereactor news.]

Original story:
According to a report over at Gamekyo, SEGA Japan has confirmed that new Xbox 360 and PS3 game Sonic Generations will be dubbed for each European country. The website also says that SEGA France has informed them that the game will be dubbed into French with the voices of their respective country’s Sonic X voice actors. If this report is true, then this will be the first time a Sonic game has been dubbed outside of the English and Japanese languages and shows SEGA is really pulling out all of the stops for fans to mark Sonic’s big 20th Anniversary celebration.

SEGA’s not confirmed this information through any of their official websites or social media outlets, but if we hear anything we’ll update you.

Source: Gamekyo (via Sonic Paradise)

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New Sonic Generations Gameplay Video Confirms Classic Music

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmN0Z6GAfj0&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]

Spanish gaming website Meristation has posted a new video interview with Sonic Team head in which he confirms other characters will appear in Sonic Generations, but he wouldn’t say whether they would be playable or limited to the story. Plenty of direct-feed gameplay footage is also included in the video, which confirms the original classic Green Hill Zone music will play during classic Sonic’s stage, while a remix of the same music will play during modern Sonic’s stage.

Source: Meristation

What do you think of the game so far? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Thanks to Ferr at the SSMB for the heads up and to Woun at the SSMB for the YouTube upload!

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.

Sonic Generations Previews and Interview With Iizuka

With the official announcement of Sonic Generations comes the first batch of hands-on previews and an interview with Sonic Team’s Takashi Iizuka from the internets top gaming websites revealing more details about the game. We’ve dissected a few of the features below if you just want the main points.

IGN
Classic Sonic plays as you remember him from the 16 bit days
“On the other there’s the dynamic 3D acrobatics of modern Sonic, complete with homing jump, dash attack, and an added sense of speed.”
IGN give the impression that this game embraces the classic Sonic games better than Sonic 4: Episode 1 did.
Takashi Iizuka responds to IGN’s criticism of Sonic 4: Episode 1 and says this game will have different physics to that game: “In [Sonic the Hedgehog 4] Episode I, we didn’t actually return to the old physics, and nor did we try to create something totally new,” Iizuka says, “What we tried to do was respond to the voices we heard in the fans, and create something based on the feedback we were receiving from fans. On this occasion, with Sonic Generations, we’ve created a game with a totally different game and with completely different physics.”
Momentum gameplay returns in Sonic Generations.
IGN says this game’s levels are all from the series’ 20 year history.
“It’s not a pixel-for-pixel remake”
“There have also been a few concessions to the modern generation”
Speed runs are encouraged
Checkpoints throw up a split time, letting the player know how far down they are on their personal best time, making online leaderboards very likely to be featured in the final game.
In reference to Modern Sonic: “Thankfully, Sonic Generations seems to be taking many of its cues for the 3D sections from Colours, and it shares the Wii games hyperactive imagination. In a handful of short minutes Sonic is spun and sped through the chequered hills with breathless pace, at one point taking a detour through a dank cave which he’s chased out of by a giant chomping robot fish.”
All levels are playable by both Sonic’s.

Gamespot
Current playable demo has the game’s first two levels
“The game will encompass the 20 years of Sonic’s history and will be set across three defining eras: the 2D Mega Drive/Genesis era, the introduction of 3D in the Dreamcast era, and the modern-day HD graphics era.”
“Instead of creating new levels, the developers have re-vamped a bunch of iconic stages throughout these eras in HD and have given players the choice of playing each stage in either classic side-scrolling 2D or in modern-era 3D”
Classic Sonic’s gameplay style and move set is from the classic era, while modern Sonic plays as he does in his respective era, “meaning the spin dash and spin attack for classic Sonic and the homing attack and sonic boost for modern Sonic.”
Green Hill Zone was played in both classic and modern
“Our head spun as we watched Sonic get back into old form in the classic mode, zipping around the various springs, slopes, and loops, jumping for rings, avoiding spikes and generally becoming reacquainted with all his old abilities (the spin dash is a favourite). It’s fast, but it’s nothing compared to what comes next.” From this we can assume that the spin-dash hasn’t been nerfed like in Sonic 4: Episode 1.
Modern Sonic has the camera follow closely behind him, as shown in the trailer and screenshots.
Modern Sonic can use homing attack
“This incarnation of the level also introduced zip lines, which Sonic glides across to avoid pits and large bodies of water. We also saw an underground part that has Sonic sliding across a zip line through a cave while being pursued by a giant mechanical fish. Things got crazy when Sonic decided to use his boost while zipping: it took the game from supersonic to hypersonic with no remorse for the poor sod watching (us).”
Multiple paths return for modern Sonic.
“Our demo was over before we knew it, but it left us feeling giddy with excitement. Or maybe just giddy.”

Gamespot also has an interview with Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka.

Sonic Generations uses the Hedgehog Engine used in Sonic Unleashed
A “playable menu” lets you pick between classic Sonic and modern Sonic and their respective levels.
“Moving forward we would like to continue creating, and ensure Sonic is enjoyed by as many people as possible, not just in games but in other media as well.”
Iizuka says the team is trying to bring everything from Sonic’s 20 year history for all kinds of Sonic fans to enjoy in this new game.

Other previews can be found at Joystiq and Kotaku.

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SEGA Officially Announces Sonic Generations for Xbox 360 and PS3

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tV1Osnkr5Nc&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]

SEGA has just officially announced the title of their new Sonic game for Xbox 360 and PS3. As leaks and rumours suggested, the game is titled Sonic Generations and will be released Holiday 2011. SEGA’s also issued a press release revealing details about the game and its plot, as well as some screenshots and a trailer.

Check out the press release below:

Celebrate 20 years of Sonic the Hedgehog with Sonic Generations™

LONDON & SAN FRANCISCO (April 18th, 2011) – SEGA® Europe Ltd. & SEGA® America, Inc., today announced details of Sonic Generations™, the highly anticipated video game title in development to celebrate Sonic the Hedgehog’s 20th Anniversary. Delivering the definitive gaming experience for Sonic fans old and new, Sonic Generations™ sees Sonic the Hedgehog playable as both the much loved classic 1991 character, and the modern day video game hero he has become in this exciting new fast paced adventure. Sonic Generations™ will speed into stores for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system for Holiday 2011.

Set across three defining eras from 20 years of Sonic the Hedgehog video game history, the instantly recognisable environments of Sonic Generations™ have been re-built in stunning HD and are now playable in both classic side scrolling 2D from 1991, as well as modern 3D style found in Sonic’s most recent adventures. Each incarnation of Sonic in Sonic Generations™ comes complete with his trademark special move, Spin Dash and Spin Attack for Classic Sonic, and Homing Attack and Sonic Boost for Modern Sonic. An innovative new interactive menu system allows for complete immersion in Sonic’s universe with favourite characters and hidden treasures gradually being revealed throughout the game.

“Sonic Generations will certainly be a fitting celebration for Sonic’s 20th Anniversary” commented David Corless, Global Brand Director for Sonic. “By having the classic 1991 Sonic that many fans know and love team up with his modern day incarnation, we are bringing back the nostalgia of the early days of Sonic and combining it with the innovation and stunning HD technology of the modern gaming era. Sonic Generations will bring to life the last twenty years of Sonic’s universe in a truly unique and imaginative way”

Sonic’s universe is thrown into chaos when a mysterious new power creates ‘time holes’ which pull him and his friends back through time. As a result he encounters some surprises from his past history including Classic Sonic, Sonic as he appeared in 1991. Modern Sonic and Classic Sonic must defeat this strange new enemy, save their friends, and find out who really is behind this diabolical deed…

Screenshots can be seen at the games product page at SEGA’s website.

Source: SEGA of America Blog

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