Sonic Galactic: A Sonic Mania-esque Fan Game
Sonic Galactic, a fan-made title from Starteam, evokes the spirit and style of the critically acclaimed Sonic Mania. This isn't surprising, given the enduring popularity of Sonic Mania within the dedicated Sonic fan community and its status as a beloved 25th-anniversary celebration. The game taps into the nostalgia for classic Sonic gameplay and pixel art, a style many fans still consider timeless, despite Sonic Superstars' move towards 3D graphics.
Unlike Sonic Mania, which lacked a direct sequel due to shifting development priorities, Sonic Galactic aims to fill that void. Initially showcased at the 2020 Sonic Amateur Games Expo, the project has been in development for at least four years. The game imagines a hypothetical 32-bit Sonic title, potentially envisioning what a Sega Saturn release might have been like.
Gameplay and Characters:
The second demo, released in early 2025, offers a taste of this vision. Players can control the classic trio of Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles in new zones. Adding to the roster are 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: Illusion Island.
Each character boasts unique pathways within the zones, mirroring the level design of Sonic Mania. The special stages also draw inspiration from Mania, presenting 3D ring-collecting challenges against the clock. While a complete playthrough of Sonic's levels takes roughly an hour, the additional characters currently offer a single stage each, resulting in a total playtime of a couple of hours. This is, however, only the second demo.
Key Features:
- Retro-inspired 2D Platforming: Captures the feel of classic Genesis-era Sonic games.
- New Playable Characters: Introduces Fang the Sniper and Tunnel the Mole alongside the iconic trio.
- Multiple Character Paths: Offers diverse gameplay experiences depending on the chosen character.
- Mania-inspired Special Stages: Features 3D ring-collecting challenges.
- Approx. 1-2 Hours of Gameplay (Demo): Provides a substantial sample of the game's content.
