Sonic Fan-Made Game Has Serious Sonic Mania Vibes

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 the critically acclaimed Sonic Mania. The active Sonic fan community consistently produces sequels and spin-offs, and Sonic Mania's enduring popularity makes it a prime target for homage. While a true sequel never materialized due to Sonic Team's shift away from pixel art and the developers' own pursuits, Sonic Galactic fills the void for fans yearning for a classic Sonic experience.

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 blends authentic retro 2D platforming with a unique twist.

Gameplay and Characters:

The recently released second demo (early 2025) features the classic trio—Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles—in new zones. It also introduces two new playable characters: Fang the Sniper (from Sonic Triple Trouble), seeking revenge against Dr. Eggman, and Tunnel the Mole, a character originating from Sonic Frontiers.

Similar to Sonic Mania, each character boasts unique pathways within each zone. The special stages maintain the Mania aesthetic, challenging players to collect rings within a time limit in a 3D environment. A typical playthrough focuses on Sonic's stages (approximately one hour), with the other characters offering shorter, single-stage experiences. The total playtime for the demo is around two hours.

Key Features:

• Pixel Art Style: Retains the beloved pixel art aesthetic of Sonic Mania, appealing to fans of retro graphics.
• Classic Gameplay: Offers fast-paced, classic Sonic gameplay reminiscent of the Genesis era.
• New Playable Characters: Introduces Fang the Sniper and Tunnel the Mole, adding depth and variety to the gameplay.
• Multiple Character Paths: Provides unique routes for each playable character within each zone.
• Mania-Inspired Special Stages: Features special stages reminiscent of Sonic Mania's 3D ring-collecting challenges.

Sonic Galactic successfully captures the essence of Sonic Mania, providing a satisfying experience for fans seeking a modern take on classic Sonic gameplay.