The Thrilling Transformation: Unveiling the Epic Evolution of Sonic

Sonic the Hedgehog fans have spent numerous years immersed in the adventures of their favorite blue blur, creating countless cherished memories. However, the version of the iconic character that fans have grown most attached to varies. Since 1998, Sega has presented two different iterations of their beloved mascot, with Sonic Generations confirming the distinction between Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic. Classic Sonic represents the original design, while Modern Sonic features a sleeker, green-eyed appearance and has been more frequently utilized.

Sonic Generations served as a commemorative game for both the franchise and Sonic himself, coinciding with his birthday. From that point on, it has been established in Sonic the Hedgehog lore that Classic Sonic is essentially the younger version of Modern Sonic. Although the inclusion of Classic Sonic in the canon offers an intriguing backstory, Sega has not given this detail much attention since its introduction. Instead, due to the underwhelming sales of Sonic Forces, the separation between Modern Sonic and Classic Sonic has been increasingly emphasized, a development that may not necessarily be beneficial.

Why Giving Modern and Classic Sonic Different Identities is Good

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Prior to Sonic Generations, fans were eager for more 2D Sonic games featuring Classic Sonic, as the character redesign in Sonic Adventure had overshadowed him in various appearances for ten years. When observing games like New Super Mario Bros. Wii and Super Mario Galaxy, fans wondered why 2D games starring Classic Sonic couldn't be released alongside 3D games.

Now, after years of Sonic fans expressing their desire for the series to take inspiration from Mario in different ways, Sega has officially made this dream come true. They are currently planning to release both 2D and 3D Sonic games simultaneously. This marketing strategy began with the compilation title Sonic Origins, and new games featuring the Classic Sonic cast, such as Sonic Superstars, are now being developed alongside the 3D games. Additionally, the inclusion of neglected characters like Fang, who haven't received proper attention in decades, is a delightful surprise.

How Modern and Classic Sonic Are Limiting the Franchise

The franchise's approach to separating Modern and Classic Sonic has received mixed reviews. Although it is great to see both iterations of Sonic getting their recognition, the implementation of this separation by Sega may not be the most ideal in the long run. Despite Sonic Generations establishing that Classic Sonic is a younger version of Modern Sonic, Sega seems to enforce a rule in the Sonic comics and the Sonic Prime TV show that requires Modern Sonic to have green eyes at all times during flashbacks. This has caused confusion among fans, who question the need for this insistence after the events of Sonic Generations.

Sega's efforts to keep the two hedgehogs distinct doesn't end there. While it was a pleasant surprise to see the inclusion of Mighty the Armadillo and Ray the Flying Squirrel in Sonic Mania Plus, characters that hadn't been used in over twenty years, it also resulted in another restrictive rule. It appears that all supporting cast members are now tied to their respective versions of Sonic. This means that Shadow the Hedgehog, a cast member of Modern Sonic, will not be featured in Sonic Superstars, disappointing many fans who had hoped to see him in the game.

Coming in Fall 2023, Sonic Superstars will be available on PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.