With it announced that Archie would no longer be the publisher of Sonic comics, I decided to see just how many original Sonic comics they published out since 1993. These aren’t counting reprints or compilations. Jul 1993 – Dec 2016 290 Feb 2009 – Jan 2017 94 Nov 2014 – Sep 2015 11 May 2007 […]
Ah, looks like the other foot has dropped!
Sega has partnered with IDW Publishing for the future of Sonic comics after stopping with Archie. Full statement below:
Today SEGA revealed that Sonic the Hedgehog and his friends have joined forces with IDW Publishing, the leading publisher of licensed comic books, to begin a thrilling new chapter in the Blue Blur’s adventures in 2018.
Creative teams are currently being formed, and a publishing plan is now underway with more details to come at a later date. Writers and artists will be bringing their considerable talents to the comic book world of Sonic.
“We’ve been speaking with beloved Sonic fan-favorite creators and new creators alike, and are excited to be able to spread specifics about our plans for the comic in the near future,” said Chris Ryall, IDW’s Chief Creative Officer.
“We are ecstatic about this partnership with IDW,” said Ivo Gerscovich, Chief Brand Officer for Sonic the Hedgehog. “We know they’ll serve as a good home for the new adventures of Sonic, his friends and foes.”
With the cancellation of Archie, it makes sense for Sega to announce this just days later. It's very likely they had this ready for some time and waited for SDCC. 2018 is also not far off. It's not clear if Ian Flynn, Tracey Yardley and others will reprise their roles but the statement seems to indicate some familiar faces will return. We should learn soon.
In a tweet posted on the official Sonic Twitter account, we've now learned what was likely the case: Sega is ending their partnership with Archie.
An important update from SEGA regarding Sonic comics: pic.twitter.com/qy9BKkmIvA
— Sonic the Hedgehog (@sonic_hedgehog) July 19, 2017
If the text is too small, here it is again:
After 24 years of memorable storytelling, SEGA of America will conclude their Sonic the Hedgehog publishing partnership program with Archie Comics. This does not mark the end of Sonic in comics, but signifies SEGA of America's decision to take a different direction for the series that will be announced at a later date. SEGA would like to thank Sonic's amazing fans for their loyalty and passion over all the years. SEGA looks forward to providing more information soon.
While this isn't really surprising, it's still shocking as it's been a long 24 years. Hopefully we'll learn the future of Sonic comics very soon. I have a feeling they wanted these two announcements to be very close together.
Here’s a recent talk from the game designer for the original Sonic games. It’s mostly about game design in general, but he talks a little bit about designing Sonic 1 and 2 near the beginning. He shows some never-before-seen concept art, including the original Green Hill level map (drawn on draft paper!) and scrapped concepts […]
E3 has dawned upon us once again. We’ve waited nearly a year for news about Project Sonic 2017, now known as Sonic Forces. You’ll be going up against Dr. Eggman with Sonic and your own custom made character. Eggman isn’t alone this time, he’s teamed up with Chaos, Shadow, Metal Sonic, and a new mystery villain. The trailer will leave you shouting for Sega to take your money. We also got to see a look at the Green Hill Zone Act 2 boss. Special thanks to Blue Paradox for getting this from the Twitch stream.
We’ve been treated to a new trailer and this time it’s Chemical Plant Act 2. The purple goo appears to now be blue (that can be turned green) with interesting repelling characteristics. Check it out below:
We finally now know the release date for Sonic Mania. It will be released August 15th 2017. It will also retail for $19.99 in the US and £14.99 in the UK. There is however a Steam sale knocking off 10%. This lowers it to $17.99 and £13.49 respectively. If you’re interested in the collector’s edition, […]
Sega today has released two trailers showcasing the mysterious third character teased before. As rumored, it is indeed a custom character you'll be able to create for the game. The second trailer shows 2D game play.
He's still looking a bit pink.
Today Sega released more gameplay of Flying Battery Zone and this time we're able to see Knuckles peruse through Flying Battery in a 1 minute video shown below (plus screenshots including Sonic and Tails).
Sonic Boom, the cartoon, has gained general appeal amongst Sonic fans. Episodes are chopped up into 11 minute episodes and usually one 11 minute episode airs each Saturday per week. There has also never been any continuation from episode to episode. Sure, maybe you'll see some of the same robots or quick references but that's it. That changes this weekend.
This Saturday, we'll get the first of a 4 parter, "Robots from the Sky."