Sonic Fan-Made Game Has Serious Sonic Mania Vibes

Sonic Galactic: A Sonic Mania-Inspired Fan Game

Sonic Galactic, developed by Starteam, is a fan-made Sonic the Hedgehog game channeling the spirit of the critically acclaimed Sonic Mania. The game caters to fans of classic Sonic gameplay and pixel art, a style many consider timeless despite Sonic Superstars' shift to 3D graphics.

This isn't Starteam's first rodeo; initially showcased at the 2020 Sonic Amateur Games Expo, Sonic Galactic has been in development for at least four years. The game imagines a hypothetical 32-bit Sonic title, perhaps even a Sega Saturn release, blending authentic retro 2D platforming with unique twists.

New Playable Characters and Expanded Gameplay:

The recently released second demo introduces fresh content, including new playable characters. Alongside the classic trio of Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles, players can now control Fang the Sniper (from Sonic Triple Trouble) and the all-new Tunnel the Mole, hailing from Illusion Island. Each character boasts unique paths within each zone, adding replayability. The special stages, reminiscent of Sonic Mania, challenge players to collect rings within a time limit in a 3D environment.

Gameplay Length and Availability:

While the demo is still in its early stages, it provides a substantial gameplay experience. Completing all of Sonic's stages takes approximately one hour, with each of the other characters offering about one stage each. The total playtime for the demo amounts to a couple of hours. This makes it a compelling taste of what the full game could offer.

The game's homage to Sonic Mania is evident in its gameplay and aesthetic, providing a satisfying experience for fans seeking a continuation of the classic Sonic formula in a pixel art setting.