In what can be seen as a serious lifeline for a beloved franchise that has struggled over the last few years, Sega has announced a new direction for the Sonic the Hedgehog series.
The new venture called Sonic Boom (try not to think of Guile right now…bet you can’t) is describe as a new branch of the current universe, which will debut “…a new look for Sonic and friends and launch their first-ever CG animated television series, new videogames for Wii U system and Nintendo 3DS hand-held system and a new toy line.” Says Sega.
The new toy/video game/tv show trifecta is Sega’s plan at rejuvenated the franchise on three different fronts. The the upcoming show (premiering on Cartoon Network) is described as “…an ensemble comedy consisting of 52 x 11-minute standalone episodes packed full of high-adrenaline action,” with the games themselves taking place before the events of the show (essentially acting as a prequel). TOMY will be handling the toy licensing and merchandise, which will showcase the new designs of the characters.
Sega’s Chief Content Officer Hiroyuki Miyazaki touted the new steps they are taking with the series, stating that, “SEGA is constantly looking to feed the appetite of Sonic fans, new and existing alike. The various pieces of the Sonic Boom project, such as its unique look, mix of comedy, and action and its focus on the whole ensemble with Sonic as the star, offer another exciting part of that universe for people to explore and enjoy. It will be at once familiar but also new.” He said.