Sonic Galactic: A Sonic Mania-esque Fan Game

Sonic Galactic, developed by Starteam, is a fan-made Sonic the Hedgehog game channeling the spirit of Sonic Mania. The active Sonic fan community consistently produces sequels and spin-offs, and Sonic Mania, a 25th-anniversary celebration, stands as a particularly beloved example. While a true sequel never materialized due to Sonic Team's shift away from pixel art and the developers' own pursuits, Sonic Galactic aims to fill that void.

This project, in development for at least four years (first showcased at the 2020 Sonic Amateur Games Expo), imagines a 32-bit Sonic game, akin to a hypothetical Sega Saturn release. It strives for authentic retro 2D platforming reminiscent of the Genesis era, while incorporating unique elements.

Gameplay and Characters:

The second demo, released in early 2025, features the classic trio – Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles – in new zones. Joining them are two new playable characters: Fang the Sniper (from Sonic Triple Trouble), seeking revenge against Dr. Eggman, and Tunnel the Mole, hailing from Illusion Island.

Each character boasts unique pathways within each zone, echoing Sonic Mania's design. Special stages, inspired by Mania, challenge players to collect rings within a time limit in a 3D environment. A complete playthrough of Sonic's stages takes roughly an hour, with other characters offering a shorter, single-stage experience. The total playtime across all characters adds up to a couple of hours.

Key Features:

• Pixel Art Style: Retains the classic pixel art aesthetic of Sonic Mania, appealing to fans of retro graphics.
• Classic Gameplay: Offers fast-paced 2D platforming reminiscent of classic Sonic games.
• New Playable Characters: Introduces Fang the Sniper and Tunnel the Mole, expanding the roster beyond the familiar trio.
• Multiple Paths: Provides diverse gameplay experiences with unique routes for each character.
• Mania-Inspired Special Stages: Features 3D special stages that require ring collection within a time limit.

Sonic Galactic successfully captures the essence of Sonic Mania, offering a compelling experience for fans of classic Sonic gameplay and pixel art.