News – Sonic Mania Returns Sonic To His Retro Roots

As part of Sonic’s recent 25th Anniversary celebrations, (I know talk about feeling old), Sega and Sonic Team made not one, but two new game announcements. The first of these will be a brand new 3D entry in the Sonic series. However, it’s the second that is far more interesting for us retro obsessed fans. (and if you’re a fan of sonic in general too).

This second announcement is the unashamedly retro remake entitled Sonic Mania. Sonic Mania looks to reimagine key aspects from Sonic 1, 2, 3 & Knuckles, and even Sonic CD. However, it will do this whilst blending these classic design elements with brand new stages and gameplay mechanics.

One such gameplay element being introduced is the drop-dash ability. This brand new skill will now allow Sonic and his companions to drop straight to the ground whilst at speed, as such allowing the player to reach even higher speeds. I mean what with both classic and new stages and gameplay mechanics all blended together, really what more could you ask for?

Well funny you should say that, because if you are one of this people that’s a little skeptical owing to some of Sonic’s recent outings, well Sega have a welcome surprise for you. That surprise comes in the form of Sonic mega-fan Christian Whitehead, and retro specialists Headcannon Games and Pagodawest Games. All three of which have been brought along to help Sonic Team ensure that Sonic Mania is as retro as it can possibly be.

For anyone not in the know, Christian Whitehead is best known for re-creating Sonic CD for iPhone using his own custom engine entitled the “Retro Engine”. This port caught the eye of Sega, with Sega officially releasing this port on platforms. What’s more, following this successful launch, at the request of Sega, Christian went on to also create the enhanced remakes of Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic the Hedgehog 2 for mobile devices.

As such, it’s clear to see that Sega are leaving no stone unturned when it comes to making Sonic Mania as true to the iconic character’s retro roots as possible. What’s more, Sega first announcement also includes more than just a nod to Sonic’s 25 year-old roots. That’s because Sega also revealed the first trailer for Sonic’s latest 3D adventure, one that stars both old and new Sonic, much like Sonic’s 20th anniversary title Sonic Generations.

All in all, it’s hard not to be excited for Sonic Mania despite this only being an early announcement. It’s certainly a fitting way for Sega to celebrate Sonic’s 25th Anniversary, and we here at Rings & Coins are very excited to find out more as we build up to the game’s launch. Sonic Mania will launch in Spring 2017 for PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC, and Rings & Coins will be on hand as always to keep you updated on all things old school Sonic.