sonic the hedgehog
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See Sonic 4's Splash Hill Zone, Eggman
For those of you who have yet to decide to boycott Sonic the Hedgehog 4, Sega has released some new media of the downloadable rodent-racing platformer. Including ... the second known character to appear in the game. Okay, before more of you start boycotting, it's just Eggman (or Dr. Robotnik, or whatever). And he's shown in one of his spheroid flying vehicles, implying that he's in the game in boss capacity only. The site also features a few screens, music and a description of Splash Hill Zone, which can be summed up as "Green Hill Zone in HD." And that's a good thing, right?
Mega64 explains the appeal and letdown of Sonic ... the restaurant
If you were to ask us what to expect from most fast food joints, we'd probably tell you to look inside your garbage can and basically expect that -- but, y'know, inside of your stomach. We don't know; it's all the same pre-processed, assembly line garbage to us and we manage to successfully avoid it for the most part. But the Mega64 dudes instead find themselves in an almost perpetual, Groundhog Day-like loop when it comes to one particular establishment: Sonic. Even though each trip usually makes the guys wish they never went in the first place, the thought of returning oddly enough fills them with hope that things will be different each and every time, only to suffer the grim realization again. It's such a departure for Mega64, but we can't help but feel like there's some kind of correlation to a current gaming news item in here -- so we thought we'd post this to see what you all think they're talking about. While we think on it, head past the break and check out the video.
Sega confirms Sonic 4 developed by Sonic Team and Dimps
Sonic may not team up with other playable characters in his upcoming downloadable adventure, but Sonic Team and Dimps are combining forces to develop Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1. Sega today confirmed to Joystiq that the two developers are working together on the title, plainly stating, "Sonic 4 Episode I is being developed by Sonic Team in cooperation with Dimps." The question as to who is actually making the title for Sega was raised when Xbox.com listed Dimps as sole developer on the game's XBLA info page. This isn't the first time that Dimps has partnered with a well-known team to develop a game based on a classic franchise -- it worked with Capcom to create Street Fighter IV -- nor is it a stranger to the Sonic universe, having worked on the Sonic Advance series for GBA, Sonic Rush and its sequel for DS and level design for the Wii version of Sonic Unleashed. [Thanks to Justin for the original tip!]
Sonic Classic Collection seemingly lacks multiplayer
If the screens above are accurate, it would appear that Sonic Classic Collection has ditched the multiplayer modes present in Sonic 2 and Sonic 3. Taken from Sega Europe's Flickr account, the screens don't display the option for multiplayer in either game, unlike the title screens on the original versions of the games. Granted, the multiplayer certainly isn't the main draw of either game, it is reasonably entertaining and would be well suited to the DS' wireless multiplayer abilities. For what it's worth, the GameStop listing for Sonic Classic Collection notes the game is a single-player game. It's not too surprising that the modes were cut, as it would require additional programming beyond simple emulation of the original games. After all, you can't plug an extra Genesis controller into your DS. Still, it would have been nice to see the multiplayer as a bonus mode outside the games. Just to be sure, we've contacted Sega for the final word on the matter. [Via Aussie Nintendo]
Australia and Spain get a special Sonic Classic Collection
click to Sonic-size It's a sad fact that essentially the only good Sonic games are the old ones. Thus, we were pretty excited to find out that Sega was bringing the first three Sonic games and Sonic & Knuckles to the DS in Sonic Classic Collection. And here we are, faced with the first good Sonic game in quite some time, and Sega goes and makes a limited edition solely for Spain and Australia. The limited edition includes a tin, art cards, a nifty Sonic figurine and, of course, the game itself. Don't get us wrong, we're thrilled for Spain and Australia and hope they enjoy this wonderful gift from Sega. Our only question to Sega: Why not share the love with the whole world? %Gallery-85264%
We sure hope the new Sonic 4 isn't a remake of this Sonic 4
Here's a fun little piece of 16-bit history for you -- did you know that when Sega made its big announcement last week, a game called Sonic 4 had actually been floating around for 14 years? Sure, it's not an official Sonic game, mind you -- it was merely a modded version of the classic Sunsoft SNES platformer Speedy Gonzales: Los Gatos Bandidos. 1UP recently shared the game's illicit history -- a group of Peruvian hackers known as Twin Eagle Group got their hands on the game in 1996, removed all instances of the hasty Mexican mouse, and replaced them with Sega's spiny mascot. Check out a gameplay clip of the unsanctioned Sonic 4 after the jump. Yeah, it doesn't look great -- but to be fair, Sonic doesn't whip out a gun at any point, nor does he engage in light bestiality, so we guess it has its charms. [Via Kotaku]
'Project Needlemouse' is Sonic the Hedgehog 4; episodic on PS3, Wii and 360 this summer
It's long been known that "Project Needlemouse," announced by Sega last September, was the codename for a new 2D, console Sonic the Hedgehog title. It was subsequently revealed (much to our delight) that Sonic would be its only playable character, and we now know that the game will be, in fact, a direct sequel to 1994's Sonic & Knuckles on Sega Genesis. Not only that -- it'll be (wait for it) episodic. We also know that the officially titled Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 looks like a proper Sonic game -- i.e., there's hope for it yet. GameSpot, which has a first look at the blue bolt's new downloadable XBLA, PSN and WiiWare adventure, reports that "episode 1" will be available on all three platforms "this summer." Additionally, Sega confirmed to the site that the game will support online leaderboards and motion control on Wii and PS3 (Sixaxis for the latter; sorry, "Arc"). You can watch the first trailer for Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 after the break. What do you think?
Sonic's pals rejected from Project Needlemouse
As predicted, Sega's playful countdown of playable characters that are set to feature in the upcoming Project Needlemouse has left only one anthropomorphic mascot standing: Sonic the Hedgehog. It's sad to think that Sonic starring in a Sonic game can make the news, but that's the world we live in. It's a world you have to share with Sega blog commenters like "ilcane87," who mildly castigated the publisher for turning a blind eye to super fans. "There's thousands and thousands of websites and message boards dedicated to single characters of the Sonic franchise out there," came the response, "and it's all those fans that you are going to alienate if you keep neglecting everyone besides Sonic himself, like you did in Unleashed." Not exactly Tikal'd pink, then. While ilcane87 may have lost "all interest for this game," we suspect some of you will be interested enough to view the piece of concept art posted after the break. Expect Sonic's solo return to 2D sometime in 2010.
Xbox 360 Platinum Hits lineup adds Halo Wars, Orange Box and others
Xbox.com has listed several new games as Platinum Hits, including Fable II (aka Game of the Year Edition), Halo Wars, Left 4 Dead, The Orange Box, Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts, Ninja Gaiden II, Kung-Fu Panda, Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection, Sonic The Hedgehog, and Sonic Unleashed. A Microsoft PR agent couldn't confirm the full list of new Platinum Hits (are we missing any above?), but said that if a game is listed as such on Xbox.com, it's a Platinum Hits title. The changes seem to have taken effect on major retailer sites, as GameStop and Amazon now reflect the discounted Platinum prices (if not always the the Platinum Hits branding), which range from $20–30. With Orange Box requiring only one Jackson ($20), it's now literally a crime to not own it. Conversely, if you're dead-set on committing a crime, buy someone Sonic The Hedgehog or Sonic Unleashed at $20 each. [Thanks, Stephen]
Mad Catz reveals Sonic accessories for DS and DSi
click to try on a larger image Remember those Sonic the Hedgehog gaming accessories that Mad Catz announced all the way back in 2009? The peripheral maker has now shed further light on its licensing deal with Sega, announcing a line of Sonic products for the DS Lite and DSi. First up is the microfiber soft case, which looks an awful lot like the neon, nylon wallets we used to carry back in fifth grade. In addition to snugly storing a DS or DSi, the soft case also has an extra pocket for games or related DS goodies. Next is the ArmorCase which, as the name implies, gives your DSi a tough outer shell to protect it from its natural predators. Like concrete, for example. Finally, our favorite Soniccessory, the Character Sockz. They're basically like the ludicrously priced iPod socks you may have seen, only these have Sonic on them and are somewhat more reasonably priced. The Sockz, ArmorCase and soft case are expected to retail for $12.99 each, with a release planned for this spring. Check out some pre-production images in the gallery below. %Gallery-83049%
Breakfast Topic: Culture permeates
One of my favorite things about World of Warcraft is how much culture seeps into the game. I don't mean the influences of Asian architecture in Moonglade, or the Native American aesthetic of the Tauren race. I mean the references to internet memes, pop culture, and literature. These little things always make me smile, and they're one of the many things I missed during the 17 days I played Aion last year. Eastern games might have been where I found my first love, but it's Blizzard's flair and style that turned me on to American game development. In fact, those little jokes are a lot like a warm blanket that keeps me toasty warm on those chilly nights... But do you know what's better than an ordinary blanket? Friends at Blizzard, please hear me out. Do you see the image above? I want one. I want one like I want a Slap Chop or a Bedazzler. I want to get on my Snuggie in the World of Warcraft. I want one for the whole guild. It would be perfect for those drafty raid instances! My ordinary tabard just doesn't keep me warm from head to toe... Okay, my absurdity level is getting out of hand.
Sega counting down Project Needlemouse's character lineup
Sega is either having a bit of fun with everyone's perception of the Sonic franchise ... or acting in line with it. The publisher posted the above image featuring a bunch of potential playable characters in the secretive downloadable Project Needlemouse, with the intention of crossing off one per day through Friday. In addition, Sega promises to cross more off in response to correct answers to Sonic trivia questions. The fact that Sega is prepared to cross off more than five characters suggests that very few of the characters will be left at the end, and many of the characters are inconsequential NPCs in other games anyway. Our guess? The publisher is playfully referring to the near-universal hatred of the extended Sonic cast, to contrast the surprise reveal that Needlemouse has only one playable character. And that character will be Froggy, the frog Big the Cat attempted to catch with a fishing pole in Sonic Adventure. Another guess can be seen after the break.
Sega discounting select Virtual Console titles for the holidays
Sega and Nintendo have teamed up to offer players a few holiday VC deals, announcing on Sega's UK blog that select Virtual Console titles will be discounted for a limited time. From December 24, 2009, until January 6, 2010, select titles will be reduced to 500 Wii Points each from down from 800 Wii Points. Titles getting the 40% off treatment include such Genesis classics as ToeJam & Earl, Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic 2, Sonic 3, Gunstar Heroes, Puyo Puyo 2, Golden Axe, Shining Force and Streets of Rage. Also, for the lump of coal types, Sega has discounted the "admit it, it stinks" brawler, Altered Beast. It's a great offer for new Wii owners, or those looking to relive their lost youth.
French magazine reportedly confirms MJ's involvement with Sonic 3 soundtrack
[OCRemix] One of the longest running rumors of the video game community is the claim that Michael Jackson contributed to the soundtrack for Sonic the Hedgehog 3 to some degree -- a claim bolstered by a number of similarities between the game's tunes and Jackson's own body of work. Now, more than 15 years after the game's release, we might have confirmation that the late King of Pop was responsible for the threequel's incredibly catchy ditties. According to a forum post on gaming music enthusiast site VGMdb.net, the latest issue of French Michael Jackson fan magazine Black & White contains an interview with composer Brad Buxer, who explains that he and Michael "did compose music for the game." However, due to the Genesis' less-than-mindblowing sound quality, Jackson reportedly asked that his name not appear on the game, as he "did not want to be associated with a product that devalued his music." According to poster's transcript of the interview, Buxer also confirmed that we weren't imagining the aforementioned melodic similarities -- Jackson and Buxer apparently managed to adapt some of their work on the game for later use in their own music. Specifically, Buxer mentioned the melody for the game's closing credits were "used as base for Stranger in Moscow." Also, "Man in the Mirror?" Totally written about Doctor Robotnik.
Sonic Classic Collection announced for DS
Sega will continue exsanguinating Sonic's past by re-releasing the hedgehog's first four 16-bit adventures on one DS cartridge. Launching in March 2010, Sonic Classic Collection will include Sonic the Hedgehog 1-3 and Sonic & Knuckles. The collection will have a "save anywhere" feature, along with extra video and picture content. Who's ready to buy Sonic the Hedgehog for the umpteenth time in 20 years? ... Ludwig, put your hand down!
Sonic fans asking for relief
No, not from Sonic games! Earlier this year, the fans at The Sonic Stadium held Sonic Relief 2009, an event through which the forces of Sonic fan art were used for good. The group has announced a second Sonic Relief drive for 2010, promising donations to charity for each work of Sonic fan art submitted. The group is also asking for fans to use their creativity in another way: by planning their own Sonic-related fundraisers and adding the donations to the main total. This is where your "Watch Me Play Sonic Riders" marathon comes in. "Alternatively," the organizers note, "this system will also allow anyone to just simply make a donation should they wish!" This is where the proceeds from selling your copy of Sonic Riders come in. It's nice to be reminded that fans can band together for something other than boycotts. The drive will run from January to March. [Via Sonic City Blognik]
Reminder: Sonic 2 is Xbox Live Deal of the Week
Hey, remember when we reported that Sonic the Hedgehog 2 was slated to be the Xbox Live Deal of the Week for the week of November 30? Well, guess what? It is the week of November 30! Sure enough, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 can now be downloaded for a mere 240; otherwise known as three dollars. That's two bucks off, making It a pretty good deal, especially if you conveniently forget how many times you've purchased the game over the years. Barring that, you can always shamefully push the purchase button anyway. Shortcut: Add Sonic the Hedgehog 2 to your 360 download queue [Via Major Nelson]
BBFC: Sega compiling Sonic games for DS
The BBFC classification site lists a "Sonic Classic Collection" coming to DS soon. Normally, with these ratings, we'd be left to speculate as to the identity of the games on the collection -- however, the BBFC helpfully provided a list of games on the cart! According to the rating, it'll feature Sonic 1-3, plus Sonic and Knuckles -- with the ability to virtually "Lock-on" and play as Knuckles in the older games. Also included in the shockingly specific list of in-game content: Sonic Chronicles and "The History of Sonic" video content and the art gallery. We can only hope it turns out better than Sonic the Hedgehog Genesis on GBA. [Via Kombo]
LittleBigPlanet getting bluer, blurrier with Sonic costume pack
We're usually hesitant to spend real-life money on virtual clothing, but you can bet we'll spring at the chance to purchase the recently revealed Sonic the Hedgehog costume pack for LittleBigPlanet. See, if we dress ourselves up like the series' speedy, cerulean protagonist, then play one of the many, many Green Hill Zone stages crafted by the LBP community, we can pretend that we're playing a decent, current-gen Sonic platformer. We've contacted Media Molecule to try and find out the North American release date and price for this costume pack. We shouldn't let the developer hear us say this, but we'd pay anything for that beautiful illusion. [Via Siliconera]
MS announces incoming Games on Demand, Deals of the Week
Heading into the Thanksgiving weekend and the beginning of the holiday season, Microsoft has revealed the upcoming additions to Games on Demand and Deals of the Week. On November 23, Games on Demand will see three new entries, Saints Row 2, LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures and Battlefield: Bad Company. The same week, there will actually be three Deals of the Week. The Fable II DLC "See the Future," normally 560 ($7) will be knocked down to 400 ($5). Meanwhile, Death Tank, usually 1200 ($15), will be reduced to 800 ($10). As The best deal, however, will be the excellent puzzler Peggle, which will shoot from 800 ($10) to 400 ($5). Pair that with the recently released Peggle Nights expansion (400), and you've got a lot of sweet, sweet Peggle for only $10. As revealed earlier, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 will the Deal of the Week starting November 30. It will be reduced from 400 ($5) to 240 ($3).
