'Sonic Mania' Release Date, News: Game Combines Classic 2D Render and New Features
It seems like a lot of classic titles are being remade this year, restoring their former glory and introducing the hype to younger generations. As such, the blue hedgehog Sonic is coming back strong with "Sonic Mania," and there a lot of reasons to be excited about his return.
In the 25th Anniversary Debut reveal trailer for the game, the anticipation began to build up after showing how far Sonic has come since 1991. Proving that nostalgia sells, SEGA decides to return to the very beginning of the journey and adding more to the experience.
The title retains its status as a 2D platformer, but now highly re-imagined with better graphics and response time. Sonic also gains a new skill known as drop dash, allowing him to dash immediately after falling or jumping. What's even more promising is that there are two other playable characters, namely Tails and Knuckles.
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Seeing the old stages and the animation alone inspires fondness, especially in those who played the original game. Yet to bring it to modern times, new elements were added, making it all feel new yet memorable at the same time.
In a gameplay commentary, PR head Aaron Webber walks through the familiar Green Hill Zone with noticeable improvements. The environment looks similar to the original one, with the addition of lower and higher levels, expanding the area where the player can explore further and find secrets.
The more alluring part of the rehash is the new features added. For one, Tails can be seen alongside Sonic and can be controlled by what they call a "1.5 Player Mode," allowing a pseudo-cooperative play with a younger sibling or a friend. The fire shield also allows access to new areas that give more surprises and treasures. The fact that the game runs in glorious 60fps is a dream come true in itself.
There is no specific date yet, but "Sonic Mania" is expected to arrive on PlayStation 4 (PS4), Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC within spring 2017.
