Nintendo Switch 2 logo

    Nintendo Switch 2

    Discover the Roots of Sonics Legacy – Exclusive Insights!

    Sonic Origins is a 2022 video game compilation developed by Sega. It features remastered versions of the first four classic Sonic the Hedgehog platform games:

    • Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)
    • Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992)
    • Sonic CD (1993)
    • Sonic the Hedgehog 3 & Knuckles (1994)

    These games were originally released for the Sega Genesis and Sega CD. The remasters include enhancements such as widescreen support, updated visuals, and new gameplay features like "Anniversary Mode," which replaces lives with coins and introduces modern mechanics like the "drop dash" from Sonic Mania. Players can also experience a "Classic Mode" with the original aspect ratio and gameplay style.

    Key Features:

    • Gameplay Modes: Includes Classic Mode, Anniversary Mode, Story Mode (sequential playthrough of all games with animated cutscenes), Boss Rush, Mirror Mode (reversed level layouts), and Mission Mode with standalone challenges.
    • Playable Characters: Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles are playable across most games. New cutscenes bridge the stories between games.
    • Museum Content: Players can unlock artwork, music, and other content using coins earned in-game.

    Development:

    Sonic Origins was conceived after the success of the 2020 Sonic movie to make classic games accessible to new fans. The remasters of Sonic 1, Sonic 2, and Sonic CD are based on earlier Retro Engine versions, while Sonic 3 & Knuckles was remastered by Headcannon Studios. However, some controversies arose regarding bugs introduced during Sega's integration process and changes to Sonic 3's soundtrack due to licensing issues.

    Sonic Origins Plus:

    An expanded version, Sonic Origins Plus, was released on June 23, 2023. It added:

    • Amy Rose as a playable character in all four games.
    • Knuckles as a playable character in Sonic CD.
    • 12 Game Gear titles like Sonic Drift 2 and Tails Adventure.
    • Additional content such as Extreme Missions, new animations, backgrounds, and music.

    The physical edition included a 20-page artbook and reversible cover.

    The game is available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X|S, and PC platforms.