Sonic the Hedgehog Influence in Bomb Rush Cyberfunk Modded Maps

Some creative modders of Bomb Rush Cyberfunk have incorporated custom levels inspired by popular Sonic the Hedgehog games. Bomb Rush Cyberfunk, developed by Team Reptile, is an indie action platformer game that hit the shelves on August 18, 2023. Players take on the role of Red, a youthful member of the Bomb Rush Crew, as they navigate the city of New Amsterdam on inline skates and other extreme sports gear, marking their territory through graffiti and outmaneuvering rival gangs. The city can be traversed by skateboarding and rail-grinding through its urban landscape.

Bomb Rush Cyberfunk draws inspiration from Sega's Jet Set Radio series, with many fans viewing it as a spiritual successor to the iconic franchise. The game's cel-shaded anime art style, rebellious punk-rock energy, and graffiti-centric gameplay all pay homage to Jet Set Radio. Given that both Jet Set Radio and Sonic the Hedgehog are Sega properties, there is a natural crossover of fans between the two series. This shared fanbase has contributed to the seamless integration of Sonic-inspired levels into Bomb Rush Cyberfunk.

Devil Artemis recently showcased some exciting mods on Twitter in two separate videos featuring levels from Sonic Heroes and Sonic Riders. The first video highlighted a map created by SBRGrandChamps, which introduced the Grand Metropolis level from Sonic Heroes as a playable map. In the gameplay, a custom Bomb Rush Cyberfunk-styled Sonic, dressed in Beat's clothes from Jet Set Radio, navigated the recreated map. Players can explore the map, grind on terrain, and leap around, although some parts of the original level may have been omitted in the mod.

Twitter article posted by Devil Artemis Animation

Devil Artemis shared a new clip featuring the first track from the multiplayer airboard Sonic racing game spin-off, Metal City, created by KyoGS. In this clip, Sonic is seen riding a skateboard instead of his usual skates, reminiscent of the hoverboards from the Sonic Riders games. The custom map only includes essential elements to fit the style of Bomb Rush Cyberfunk, resulting in a faithful recreation of the Sonic Riders-inspired level. Despite the limited textures and objects, both levels are fully playable and true to the original design.

Bomb Rush Cyberfunk-1 - Sega's Jet Set Radio is also making a comeback, as Sega announced that a new entry is in the works with the original creators back at the helm

Sega recently announced that a new Jet Set Radio game is in development, with the original creators leading the project. Details about the upcoming game are still scarce, but fans are excited to see how it will compare to Bomb Rush Cyberfunk. It would be great if Jet Set Radio includes some fun Easter eggs or nods to Sonic the Hedgehog when it finally hits the shelves.

Editor's P/S:

The integration of Sonic-inspired levels into Bomb Rush Cyberfunk is a testament to the creative power of modding communities. The seamless blending of elements from two iconic Sega franchises enriches the gameplay experience, offering fans of both series a unique and nostalgic experience. It highlights the interconnectedness of the gaming world and the passion of fans who seek to bridge the gaps between their favorite titles.

Moreover, the upcoming Jet Set Radio game has the potential to further strengthen the bond between these two beloved franchises. By incorporating Easter eggs or nods to Sonic the Hedgehog, the developers could create a cohesive gaming universe that appeals to a wide range of fans. Such gestures would not only pay homage to the shared history of Sega but also foster a sense of community among gamers who appreciate the creativity and innovation of both series.