Sonic Rushes Back To Mobile Platforms In Upcoming Game ‘Sonic Runners’

A New iPad Is Seen Following A Presentation At Apple Headquarters — IN PHOTO: A new iPad is seen following a presentation at Apple headquarters in Cupertino, California October 16, 2014. Reuters/Robert Galbraith

After an abysmal console showing with the panned “Sonic Boom,” it looks like Team Sonic is set to make things right for the blue hedgehog by heading back to mobile platforms. A report from Touch Arcade has confirmed the latest Sonic game to hit mobile platforms: “Sonic Runners.”

Rumours of this game and its premise have been prominent for about a month, as Team Sonic’s original announcement for the game was vague and mysterious. Sega and Famitsu only officially announced it recently, confirming that it is a brand new mobile game.

“Sonic Runners” isn’t Sonic’s first foray into mobile gaming, though; the blue hedgehog has also made appearances in “Sonic Dash,” “Sonic Jump,” “Sonic Jump Fever” and “Sonic 4.” There have also been mobile remakes of Sonic’s early games in the Sega Genesis, including the critically acclaimed “Sonic CD,” which featured everyone’s favourite hedgehog time travelling and fighting an evil robot version of himself.

Judging by the trailer released, it appears that “Sonic Runners” will take a different approach from previous mobile instalments. Though the trailer only showcases older Sonic games, this could be a hint towards what the game will be about. It seems that “Sonic Runners” will be a brand new 2D side scroller similar to the original Sega games, rather than an endless runner like “Sonic Dash.” Sega has also stated on their teaser site for the game that “Sonic Runners” will be free to play, with Sega making their money off the premium items that will be available for purchase with real money.

The game will reportedly be playable using only one hand, according to Polygon. Sonic will apparently be running through the game, with the player tapping the screen so he can jump over obstacles and attack certain enemies. The game will also be a return to form, bringing back older game mechanics like ring collecting, stages with loops and boss fights with Dr Robotnik or Dr Eggman, his previous name. Tails and Knuckles, who look to be playable characters, will also join Sonic as the game is set for a spring 2015 release for Apple and Android devices.