Joystiq

Sonic the Hedgehog 4, Sonic CD coming to Ouya this month

Danny Cowan — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 15:15:00 EST

Sega announced plans to support the Android-powered Ouya console after its public launch later this month with a trio of Sonic the Hedgehog releases.

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1, Sonic 4: Episode 2, and Sonic CD will be released in the Ouya Store on June 27 for $7 each. All three games were previously released for iOS and Android devices, though the Ouya ports are optimized for the console's Tegra 3 processor, and will have free trial versions available in the Ouya Store.

Speaking to GamesIndustry International, Sega of America Director of Mobile Business David Zemke praised Ouya's "disruptive technology," and expressed the company's desire "to see what these technologies can do and be a part of it from the beginning."

Zemke also addressed the potential for future Ouya releases. "We're always looking for other titles and there may be some future titles that we'd like to bring over," he said. "For us, we're always trying to bring the best gaming experience to the right platforms. It's a delicate mix of how and when to do it."

The Ouya will launch on June 25.

Sonic the Hedgehog 4, Sonic CD coming to Ouya this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Jun 2013 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Buy the greatest song ever written (and other Sonic soundtracks) on iTunes [update]

Jordan Mallory — Sun, 13 May 2012 12:00:00 EST

The pinnacle of all human achievement, "Open Your Heart" from the Sonic Adventure soundtrack, is now available on iTunes, as are a plethora of other Sonic-related albums from across the breadth of time and space. The soundtracks to Sonic Adventure, Sonic Adventure 2, Sonic CD and others can be yours for the paltry sum of $9.99 each, which is a small price to pay for 20 to 30 tracks per album of gloriously ridiculous nostalgia-metal.

Soundtracks for Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 and Episode 2 will be available before too long, according to Sega. Head on through to the other side for a full list of what's available now and how to get it.

Update: As it turns out, these soundtracks have been available since last year or earlier. Sega decided to nest the announcement of forthcoming Episode 1 and Episode 2 soundtracks within a reiteration of the availability of its other musical offerings.

Continue reading Buy the greatest song ever written (and other Sonic soundtracks) on iTunes [update]

Buy the greatest song ever written (and other Sonic soundtracks) on iTunes [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic 4 Episode 2 'locks on' to Episode 1 to add Metal Sonic

JC Fletcher — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST

If you own Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1, you'll be able to unlock extra content in Episode 2. Owners of both get free access to "Episode Metal," which adds four new levels and a playable Metal Sonic character.

This functionality recalls the "Lock-On" technology in Sonic & Knuckles, which allowed Sega Genesis owners to connect previous Sonic games to the cartridge and replay them as Knuckles the Echidna. The difference now, of course, is that there's no cartridge to connect.

Sonic 4 Episode 2 'locks on' to Episode 1 to add Metal Sonic originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega Valentine's Day sale starts today for mobile titles

David Hinkle — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 07:45:00 EST

For some, Valentine's Day is a sweet occasion. Happy couples the world over will be lounging back, nibbling on an array of chocolate delights before partaking in the annual somersault contest that ensues. You know, like how our parents used to do before they got all old and stuff.

For us loners, the holiday is a day of self-indulgent sobbing and darkness, but it doesn't have to be. If you're in the market for some iOS or Android games, you can snuggle up to Sonic and company through Sega's Valentine's Day sale starting today and running through the 14th.

Sonic the Hedgehog 4 Episode 1 and Sonic CD lead the charge of discounted downloads for iOS and Android users, both half off, while iDevices also see considerable price cuts down to $.99 on Streets of Rage, Golden Axe and Super Monkey Ball. Gunstar Hero, Altered Beast and Virtua Fighter 2 are also on sale for a buck each.

For the full list of what's on sale, hit the source link below.

Sega Valentine's Day sale starts today for mobile titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: Anomaly Warzone Earth, Sonic 4 Episode 1 now on Android

David Hinkle — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST

The two games couldn't be more different, yet today they set aside those differences and unite on the Android Marketplace. 11 bit studios' tower offense title, Anomaly Warzone Earth, and Sega's latest downloadable addition to its tower of Sonic games, Sonic 4 Episode 1, are available on the Android Marketplace today.

Both games will set you back $3.99, though if your particular device is running Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) you may want to hold off on Sonic 4 Episode 1 until Sega's ironed out some bugs. Sorry, one of those bugs is not the physics -- you'll need to wait for Sonic 4 Episode 2 for that.

PSA: Anomaly Warzone Earth, Sonic 4 Episode 1 now on Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic CD, Sonic 4, Generations DLC and more hit Steam today

Richard Mitchell — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST

A whole mess of Sonic the Hedgehog content has rolled onto Steam today. First up, Sonic CD, which has already debuted on PSN, Xbox Live and mobile platforms, has now made its way to Valve's ubiquitous service. Joining it is Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 and the Sonic Generations "Casino Nights" DLC that was previously scheduled to arrive on December 26.

Though it's not a Sonic game, Sega's free-to-play Spiral Knights is getting some Sonic-themed content as well. Players can pick up a Metal Sonic costume or a Tails accessory (i.e. a pair of fox tails). Spiral Knights is free, but these items are not. The Metal Sonic costume comes free with Steam copies of Sonic CD, while the Tails accessory will require an in-game energy purchase. Both items are available until February 1.

Head over to Sega's blog to check out images of the new goodies.

Sonic CD, Sonic 4, Generations DLC and more hit Steam today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic sale today on Xbox Live

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:59:00 EST

The ninth day of Xbox Marketplace holiday deals rings in several Sonic the Hedgehog discounts. The blue mammal's escapades in Sonic 4 and Sonic Adventure are 320 MSP ($4) each, a 60 percent savings, and his Genesis games are down 60 percent, at 160 MSP ($2) apiece.

The discounts are only available today, so run and catch 'em before they're gone -- just don't run like an idiotic Sonic.

Gallery: Sonic 4: Episode 1 (Casino Streets Zone)

Sonic sale today on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega discounts select PSN, iOS, XBLA games for the holidays

David Hinkle — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST

This time of year, you can count on two things: long lines anywhere you can purchase goods and/or services outside of your home, and sales at those capitals of consumerism. Sega's hitching itself to the sales star now by slashing prices on its digital wares across PSN, XBLA and iOS starting this week.

PSN's lineup includes healthily discounted classics, added savings for PlayStation Plus subscribers and a smattering of newer stuff on the cheap until January 3: Daytona USA, Sega Rally Arcade, Sonic Adventure, Renegade Ops and more. On the iOS side, classic titles make up the majority of what's on sale for $0.99; Golden Axe 2 and 3, Chu Chu Rocket, Streets of Rage 2 and 3, Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing, and Sega's newest iOS game, Brick People, are on sale until January 9.

Xbox Live Arcade users get the least amount of variety -- only Renegade Ops and After Burner Climax are on sale. You can download each at their reduced price of 800 MS Points ($10) and 400 MS Points ($5) respectively until January 2.

Sega discounts select PSN, iOS, XBLA games for the holidays originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic 4 gets permanent price drop, now $10

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:40:00 EST

If Sonic 4's original price point of 1200 Microsoft Points ($15) was a little too rich for your blood, you can cancel that transfusion you set up with your obscenely wealthy uncle. Sega will drop the price of the game to 800 Microsoft Points today, and to $10 on PSN next week.

Continue reading Sonic 4 gets permanent price drop, now $10

Sonic 4 gets permanent price drop, now $10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic 4 Episode 2 rolling into place in 2012

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:45:00 EST

Sega has apparently joined the effort forged by Valve to change the rules of how long you can go between episodic releases, while still being allowed to call said releases "episodes." In a recent interview with Eurogamer, Sonic Team's Takashi Iikuza talked about Sonic 4, explaining, "This year, 2011, is the anniversary, so we're focusing on the celebration title." He later added, "But moving forward to 2012, Sonic will still be going, so I'd hope to provide Episode 2 then."

In other news, have you guys seen this new show, Best Buds Living It Up In New York? It's this great new NBC sitcom. The first episode aired last night, and the next episode is going to air in about eighteen months.

Sonic 4 Episode 2 rolling into place in 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic Generations demo out now, gone in 20 days; iOS App out in Japan

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:36:00 EST

Sega's going all out for Sonic's 20th birthday, buying him an enormous balloon, building him an iOS App, and releasing a demo of Sonic Generations on Xbox Live and PlayStation Network. You can charge through a new(ish) Green Hill Zone with original (chubby) Sonic, and can sample the stereoscopic 3D mode while you're at it. Based on what we played, it doesn't appear as though the flipside of that level could be played with modern (skinny) Sonic. Luckily, we have 20 days to see if it's buried in there as an easter egg.

Sega released a free iOS App as well, though it's only found its way to the Japanese App Store thus far -- we've checked with Sega to make sure it's coming here as well. According to Andriasang, it'll only be available for the next six months. The app is composed of the first stage of Sonic the Hedgehog 4 Episode 1, a minigame named "Sonic the Sketchhog," a news feed, and an area for "weekly wallpaper downloads."

Sales are also kicking off on a variety of Sonic titles for XBLA/PSN, which run from today through July 28. And yes, this Thanksgiving, Sonic -- in his skinnier form -- will once again appear in the Macy's parade, taunting our turkey-swelled bellies with his simultaneously svelte and inflated figure.

Continue reading Sonic Generations demo out now, gone in 20 days; iOS App out in Japan

Sonic Generations demo out now, gone in 20 days; iOS App out in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic and Football Manager iOS games discounted for charity

JC Fletcher — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 19:40:00 EST

Speaking of iPhone ports of classic console games being discounted and the profits directed toward Japanese earthquake relief ... Sega has knocked down the prices on its iOS Sonic the Hedgehog games, including (App Store links) Sonic the Hedgehog ($1.99), Sonic 2 ($2.99), Sonic 4 ($3.99) and Sonic Spinball ($0.99), with 100 percent of proceeds going to the Red Cross through March 20. Additionally, proceeds from the $10 Football Manager Handheld 2011 will also be donated.

Normally, we'd recommend against iPhone ports of console games, but when your money goes straight to helping save lives, we couldn't recommend them enough. You get a game that you may derive some enjoyment from, and the Red Cross gets a little more help.

Sonic and Football Manager iOS games discounted for charity originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Mar 2011 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Windows Phone 7 getting six weeks of 'Must Have Games' this Spring, Fable Coin Golf in March

Andrew Yoon — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 15:45:00 EST

Microsoft is treating its phone platform like a console, planning a release "event" for its Xbox Live games on Windows Phone 7. This spring, Microsoft's mobile platform will get six weeks of "Must Have Games," including Plants vs. Zombies, Hydro Thunder, Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1, Doodle Jump and more. The press release reiterates that the games, like all Xbox Live games on the platform, include Achievements and leaderboards.

The platform will also be the exclusive home to Fable Coin Golf. Available in March, Coin Golf will let you transfer gold earned in the game to either the PC or console versions of Fable 3. Connecting the console and mobile game will also unlock "three exclusive weapons that can be used in the Traitor's Keep game add-on."

The announcement coincides with the expansion of the Windows Phone platform to another carrier in the US. Sprint's HTC Arrive is the first WP7 device for the carrier, and will be available in March.

Update: WinRumors indicates that Angry Birds will be among the WP7 releases during the "Must Have Games" promotion.

Windows Phone 7 getting six weeks of 'Must Have Games' this Spring, Fable Coin Golf in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic games -- and The Notebook -- discounted on Xbox Live

JC Fletcher — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

The penultimate day of Microsoft's Xbox Live Countdown to New Year's promotion coincides with the December 30 "surprise" listed by Sega in its winter sale announcement. You can see where this is going -- Sega games are on sale today. Specifically, the sale covers a bunch of Sonic games ... a deal that was somehow hinted by this clue: "One Foe -- A world of good vs evil." Surprise!

Microsoft is offering one-day discounts on Sonic the Hedgehog 1, 2, and 3, (now 200 MS Points each), Sonic & Knuckles (120 MSP), Sonic Adventure (400 MSP) and Sonic the Hedgehog 4 (800 MSP). The Sonic car Avatar prop is on sale for 120 MSP.

Also, The Notebook is discounted today to 380 MSP. We don't think that's part of the theme, but if you're buying all those Sonic games, you should probably go ahead and buy The Notebook to try and spot any Sonic the Hedgehog references in it. Just to be sure.

Sonic games -- and The Notebook -- discounted on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Select Sega downloadable games on sale until January

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 06:45:00 EST

In a heartwarming, post-ghost Ebeneezer Scrooge-like manner, Sega has discounted a wide array of its downloadable titles from the PSN, Xbox Live and iOS platforms. On top of the recent, permanent price reductions applied to some of those games, purchasing titles featuring impossibly acrobatic rodents and extremely rollable simians has never been so cost-effective.

Check out the full list of discounted games -- which will remain discounted until January 3 -- after the jump.

Continue reading Select Sega downloadable games on sale until January

Select Sega downloadable games on sale until January originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 06:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega resets Sonic 4's leaderboards due to cheating

Mike Schramm — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 02:00:00 EST

Look, Sonic the Hedgehog is fast. He can run faster than the speed of sound, but even if he ran full speed through Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1's shortest level, it would still take him longer than 0'00"00 to do it. That's just physically impossible, even for an improbably proportioned and colored hedgehog. And since some hackers have posted those times and impossible scores on the game's Xbox 360 leaderboards, Sega has decided to go through and reset the whole thing.

That means you might have to go back and try to re-earn that record time you picked up on Lost Labyrinth Act 2 (no easy feat). But you might not want to grab that controller right yet -- Sega hasn't actually announced a fix, just reset the leaderboards. So there's a good chance the hackers will still hack, and there will be another reset to come. Thanks for nothing, cheaters. Can't we all just let the hedgehog run?

(Also, cheating at Sonic? Where did our innocence go?)

Sega resets Sonic 4's leaderboards due to cheating originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Nov 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic the Hedgehog tops PSN sales in October

Andrew Yoon — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 13:15:00 EST

PlayStation fans happily ignored our review of Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1, making it the best-selling game on the PlayStation Store in October. Apparently that wasn't enough to sate your appetite: the Dreamcast re-release of Sonic Adventure jumped to number 4 on the list. Meanwhile, former Xbox Live exclusives, Deadliest Warrior and Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light, made strong debuts, with Castle Crashers continuing its strong performance.

1. Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode One
2. Deadliest Warrior: The Game
3. Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light
4. Sonic Adventure
5. Echoes (minis)
6. Castle Crashers
7. My Aquarium
8. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World: The Game
9. Costume Quest
10. Final Fantasy IX (PSone)

Sonic the Hedgehog tops PSN sales in October originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega, Namco Bandai drop iOS game prices for Halloween

Randy Nelson — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 04:17:00 EST

Both Sega and Namco Bandai are out to scare up more sales of their iOS games over the Halloween weekend. The former has slashed prices on the likes of Shining Force, Sonic 4: Episode 1 and three others. The latter is offering nearly all of a 24-title batch for $0.99 each. Full lists after the break.

Continue reading Sega, Namco Bandai drop iOS game prices for Halloween

Sega, Namco Bandai drop iOS game prices for Halloween originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 04:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 review: Spin-dashed hopes

Ludwig Kietzmann — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST

Sega is giving the people what they want. Sonic's lips are sewn together tightly, his pals have been laid to rest in a shoebox somewhere in the garden, and the world is nice and two-dimensional again. This is the 16-bit sequel you've been craving for sixteen bitter years, one that sidesteps every pitfall introduced in Sonic's 3D outings. Finally, the cycle is over!

But there's a problem. If you've been on the verge of starvation for 16 years, you might be a tad too eager to swallow any crumb that's flicked your way. And if there's one thing that Sonic the Hedgehog 4 is, it's crummy.

Continue reading Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 review: Spin-dashed hopes

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 review: Spin-dashed hopes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega 'looking to improve Sonic strategy,' reducing supply of older Sonic games

Christopher Grant — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 17:40:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

There are stories emanating from the mysterious coalition known simply as "Europe" that Sega -- responsible for some of your dearest childhood memories and, maybe, your first heartbreak -- is busy "delisting" less-than-stellar Sonic the Hedgehog titles from European retailers. Jurgen Post, Sega SVP of EMEA (that's Europe, the Middle East and Africa), told MCV, "Any Sonic game with an average Metacritic has been de-listed," continuing, "We have to do this and increase the value of the brand. This will be very important when more big Sonic releases arrive in the future."

While that certainly sounds ominous, we asked Alan Pritchard - newly instated veep of sales and marketing for Sega US and the man who held Mr. Post's spot until just a couple month's ago - to clarify what it means for Europe, for Sonic and (jingoism be damned!) for North America.

"I think perhaps Jurgen's comments have somewhat been taken out of context," Pritchard told Joystiq. "It's not quite as drastic as what Disney do for example. They bring out Lion King and all of a sudden there's a cut-off date, and you can't buy Lion King for another six months. It's not quite as drastic as turning the tap off completely. We want consumers and retailers to defocus from the back catalog, the older titles and focus more on the new-release titles."

Continue reading Sega 'looking to improve Sonic strategy,' reducing supply of older Sonic games

Sega 'looking to improve Sonic strategy,' reducing supply of older Sonic games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NintendoWare Weekly: Sonic 4, Ivy the Kiwi Mini

JC Fletcher — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 10:03:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

It's sort of a Yuji Naka day on the Wii and DSi shops today, with Naka's old game series (Sonic the Hedgehog) receiving a new entry WiiWare, and his latest series (Ivy the Kiwi?) marching onto DSiWare.

Also on DSiWare this week: games about protecting the world as a superhero, and protecting information as a data-gathering robot. Sonic is also joined on WiiWare by a trio of jumping sports.

Gallery: Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 (WiiWare) (10/11/10)

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: Sonic 4, Ivy the Kiwi Mini

NintendoWare Weekly: Sonic 4, Ivy the Kiwi Mini originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Buy multiple versions of Sonic 4, get a Sega shout-out

Richard Mitchell — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Sonic the Hedgehog 4, you may be aware, will be available on several different platforms. All told, the blue blur will appear on the PS3, Xbox 360, and Wii, in addition to the iPhone, on which it is now available. Should you be die-hard enough to purchase more than one version of the game, Sega has something special in store. Specifically, the company is asking fans to submit picture proof of multiple Sonic 4 ownership, and will reward users accordingly.

Those who pick up two or more versions will have their names featured on a sticky thread on the Sega and Sonic 4 forums. The list will also be posted on Sega's blog and the Sonic 4 website. Those who snag three versions will receive "a special call-out on the SEGA Blogs and the Sonic 4 website's news feed, and special placement in one very cool spot, to be revealed!" Finally, anyone that purchases all four versions will be featured in a special video shout-out from Sega community manager Aaron Webber and Ken Balough, brand manager for Sonic 4. The video will be posted on Sega's YouTube page and "all across SEGA's realms here on the internets."

It's certainly an ... interesting reward for what amounts to $55 worth of loyalty. Then again, internet fame is always an enticing proposition. Especially considering how hard it is to get your name on YouTube.

Buy multiple versions of Sonic 4, get a Sega shout-out originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic 4 iPhone trailer spin-dashes into view

David Hinkle — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 22:30:00 EST

It's odd: even though the iPhone version of Sonic 4: Episode 1 is due to launch tomorrow, we've yet to see any footage of the game in action -- well, until now.

Continue reading Sonic 4 iPhone trailer spin-dashes into view

Sonic 4 iPhone trailer spin-dashes into view originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic 4's 'Mad Gear Zone' isn't what we thought

JC Fletcher — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 13:40:00 EST

We're not going to lie. We were disappointed to find out that Sonic the Hedgehog 4's "Mad Gear Zone" didn't take place in Final Fight's Metro City, with Mike Haggar teaming up with Sonic to eliminate the Mad Gear Gang.

Instead, we get an industrial-type level with pistons and gears and such, kind of like Sonic 2's Chemical Plant Zone. That's pretty neat, too. We guess. Check it out for yourself after the break. We're sorry we mentioned our Final Fight idea, because now you're as doomed to disappointment with the real thing as we are.

Continue reading Sonic 4's 'Mad Gear Zone' isn't what we thought

Sonic 4's 'Mad Gear Zone' isn't what we thought originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 spin-dashes to consoles this October

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 09:32:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Sega's 2D platformer Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 will launch across multiple platforms in mid-October. IGN received the pricing and launch details from the publisher, which are:

iTunes App Store (iPhone, iPod Touch): October 7
Wii Shop Channel: October 11, 1500 Wii Points (Oct. 15 EMEA)
Xbox Live Arcade: October 13, 1200 MSP ($15)
PlayStation Network: October 12, $14.99 / £9.99 / €12.99 (Oct. 13 EMEA)

Check out our recent preview and video of the game's obligatory casino zone to see if Sega's back-to-roots gamble is paying off. Remember -- you can't blame Sonic's pals if things go wrong this time.

Gallery: Sonic 4: Episode 1 (Casino Streets Zone)

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 spin-dashes to consoles this October originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic 4: Episode 1 preview: Trying my luck at Casino Streets

David Hinkle — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST

Every Sonic game needs a casino level, so it is written in the Sonic Gaming Bible[TM]. In Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1, that need will be filled by Casino Streets Zone, the latest complete area revealed for the game. Like every other locale, it's split up into three progressively tougher acts, followed by a boss battle with the rotund Eggman.

I couldn't pound on Sonic's portly nemesis, but the three acts I was able to explore offered a mixture of precision-based platforming segments and, uh, cannons. What sort of casinos have you been visiting, Sega?

Gallery: Sonic 4: Episode 1 (Casino Streets Zone)

Continue reading Sonic 4: Episode 1 preview: Trying my luck at Casino Streets

Sonic 4: Episode 1 preview: Trying my luck at Casino Streets originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic 4: Episode 1 lets it ride on the Casino Streets Zone

David Hinkle — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Sega's pulled back the curtain on the latest Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 area: Casino Streets Zone. The new level is classic Sonic, inviting the iconic blue ball-o-speed to zip through this Monte Carlo-esque gambling paradise, replete with over-sized novelty playing cards and shining neon lights.

Head past the break for the official reveal trailer.

Gallery: Sonic 4: Episode 1 (Casino Streets Zone)

Continue reading Sonic 4: Episode 1 lets it ride on the Casino Streets Zone

Sonic 4: Episode 1 lets it ride on the Casino Streets Zone originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog 4 - Episode One

Richard Mitchell — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 22:40:00 EST

There really isn't a lot to write about Sonic the Hedgehog 4. It's everything Sega promised it would be: just Sonic without all the cruft. I got to play through the game's Splash Hill Zone, and it's pure, unadulterated Sonic the Hedgehog 2, with a new coat of paint and a handful of new features. And there's no Tails, of course (not in Episode One at least).

There are a few new wrinkles. Sonic has his homing attack from Sonic Adventure, for example. As with most of the 2D Sonic titles, there are also a few interesting locomotion mechanics sprinkled throughout the levels: vines to swing on, ziplines and, of course, the beloved corkscrews and loops.

Gallery: Sonic the Hedgehog 4 - Episode One

Continue reading Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog 4 - Episode One

Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog 4 - Episode One originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 22:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega: Sonic is the only playable character ... 'in Episode 1'

Richard Mitchell — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 17:10:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Visiting Sega's booth for a little hands-on time with Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1, a representative told us something that fans may find a little disconcerting. Someone asked the representative if Sonic was the only playable character, to which the rep replied that Sonic is the only playable character "in Episode 1." While he wouldn't confirm if future episodes will have other playable characters, he certainly hinted at the possibility.

Consider our fingers crossed for Big the Cat.

Sega: Sonic is the only playable character ... 'in Episode 1' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic 4 delayed until late 2010, will be released on iPhone

JC Fletcher — Thu, 20 May 2010 18:00:00 EST

Sega just dropped two items of information about Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I, one slightly disappointing and one ... interesting? First for the kind of bad news: it's been delayed from its original "summer" release to "late 2010."

"The additional time will allow the Development Team to focus on ensuring overall high-quality throughout the game by continuing to tune, balance, and maintain the kind of polish that an important title like this demands," the press release reads, "and ultimately providing fans with an unrivalled classic Sonic feel."

The other news: as many suspected, the downloadable game will be released not only on PSN, XBLA and WiiWare, but for the iPhone / iPod Touch as well. You'll have the choice of portability or buttons!

Gallery: Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1

Sonic 4 delayed until late 2010, will be released on iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 May 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Leaked Sonic 4 mine cart footage is all yours

Randy Nelson — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST

Adding to last week's leaked footage of Sonic 4's Splash Hill Zone is a new clip (embedded after the break) from the downloadable game's Lost Labyrinth Zone. There's more to be seen at the source, but we singled out one clip in particular because it served as the best evidence that Sonic 4 really is drawing a lot of inspiration from the 16-bit era -- after all, how else would you explain a mine cart level? (In case you'd forgotten, they were outlawed by a U.N. resolution passed in 1998.)

So hey, if some random people on the internet can get their hands on Sonic 4, it shouldn't be too long before we can, too. Right?

[Thanks RPK!]

Continue reading Leaked Sonic 4 mine cart footage is all yours

Leaked Sonic 4 mine cart footage is all yours originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Sonic 4 screens capture sundown in Splash Hill Zone

Randy Nelson — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:15:00 EST

Click to enlarge

Feeling blue today? Maybe it's because you sensed that Sega was going to make your eyes tear up (in a good way) with these razor-sharp new Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 screenshots. Or maybe you're just down in the dumps; in which case, we're sorry to hear it -- and we really hope these screens cheer you up.

The new images feature the already revealed Splash Hill Zone, this time with Sonic racing through it at sunset. Of course, without any more information, we don't know if this is a later act in the stage, or if the time of day will change dynamically mid-level. We can tell you that we think the lighting looks great, even if Sonic's true blue coloring appears to be unaffected by it (probably due to a clause in his contract).

Check out the full set of screens in the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1

New Sonic 4 screens capture sundown in Splash Hill Zone originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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See Sonic 4's Splash Hill Zone, Eggman

JC Fletcher — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 23:00:00 EST

For those of you who have yet to decide to boycott Sonic the Hedgehog 4, Sega has released some new media of the downloadable rodent-racing platformer. Including ... the second known character to appear in the game. Okay, before more of you start boycotting, it's just Eggman (or Dr. Robotnik, or whatever). And he's shown in one of his spheroid flying vehicles, implying that he's in the game in boss capacity only.

The site also features a few screens, music and a description of Splash Hill Zone, which can be summed up as "Green Hill Zone in HD." And that's a good thing, right?

See Sonic 4's Splash Hill Zone, Eggman originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonic fans remix Sonic 4 intro, get way too excited

Mike Schramm — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 23:30:00 EST

Oh, Sonic fans. Every time a new Sonic is announced, you joke about not getting fooled again and you promise that, this time, you won't be taken in. And we believe you -- why would you go back to Sonic after everything he's done to you? But then a few weeks go by, and suddenly we click a link and find you remixing the 10 seconds of intro screen music that's been revealed from Sonic 4.

Seriously? Did you have to create a rock version, an 8-bit version and even a Dreamcast-style version? Sure, they're cool, and sure, we've embedded them after the break, but isn't this exactly the kind of excitement we all agreed we wouldn't have for the new game? Yes, we're glad to see that longtime Sonic musician Jun Senoue has been announced as the composer for new game, and we're looking forward to hearing more music when the Sega blog releases it. But as your history teacher said, those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it. Let's wait until we play the game before we start remixing it 10 seconds at a time.

Continue reading Sonic fans remix Sonic 4 intro, get way too excited

Sonic fans remix Sonic 4 intro, get way too excited originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'Project Needlemouse' is Sonic the Hedgehog 4; episodic on PS3, Wii and 360 this summer

Randy Nelson — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:16:00 EST

It's long been known that "Project Needlemouse," announced by Sega last September, was the codename for a new 2D, console Sonic the Hedgehog title. It was subsequently revealed (much to our delight) that Sonic would be its only playable character, and we now know that the game will be, in fact, a direct sequel to 1994's Sonic & Knuckles on Sega Genesis. Not only that -- it'll be (wait for it) episodic.

We also know that the officially titled Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 looks like a proper Sonic game -- i.e., there's hope for it yet.

GameSpot, which has a first look at the blue bolt's new downloadable XBLA, PSN and WiiWare adventure, reports that "episode 1" will be available on all three platforms "this summer." Additionally, Sega confirmed to the site that the game will support online leaderboards and motion control on Wii and PS3 (Sixaxis for the latter; sorry, "Arc").

You can watch the first trailer for Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 after the break. What do you think?

'Project Needlemouse' is Sonic the Hedgehog 4; episodic on PS3, Wii and 360 this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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