:Sonic Generations
{{Short description|2011 video game}}
{{Good article}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=June 2018}}
{{Infobox video game
| title = Sonic Generations
| image = SonicGenerations.jpg
| caption = Cover art, featuring the Classic (left) and Modern (right) variants of Sonic
| alt = Cover art of Sonic Generations, depicting Classic (left) and Modern (right) variants of Sonic the Hedgehog running alongside each other in a warped version of Green Hill Zone. The game's logo is seen atop of them.
| developer = Sonic Team{{efn|Nintendo 3DS version developed by Dimps. Ported to Windows by Devil's Details.}}
| publisher = Sega
| director = Hiroshi Miyamoto
| producer = Takashi Iizuka
| designer = {{ubl|Yoshinobu Uba|Daisuke Shimizu|Utako Yoshino}}
| programmer = Outa Sano
| artist = Sachiko Kawamura
| writer = {{ubl|Ken Pontac{{efn|name=2024script|The 2024 remaster features an updated script by writer Ian Flynn.}}|Warren Graff{{efn|name=2024script}}}}
| composer = Jun Senoue
| series = Sonic the Hedgehog
| platforms = {{ubl|PlayStation 3|Xbox 360|Windows|Nintendo 3DS|Nintendo Switch|PlayStation 4|PlayStation 5|Xbox One|Xbox Series X/S||Nintendo Switch 2}}
| released = {{collapsible list|title={{nobold|November 1, 2011}}|
PlayStation 3, Xbox 360{{Video game release|NA|November 1, 2011|AU|November 3, 2011|EU|November 4, 2011|JP|December 1, 2011}}Windows{{vgrelease|NA|November 4, 2011|EU|November 25, 2011}}Nintendo 3DS{{Video game release|NA|November 22, 2011|AU|November 24, 2011|EU|November 25, 2011|JP|December 1, 2011}}Sonic X Shadow Generations
Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S{{vgrelease|WW|October 25, 2024}}Nintendo Switch 2{{vgrelease|WW|June 5, 2025}}
}}
| genre = Platform
| modes = Single-player, multiplayer
}}
Sonic Generations{{efn| In Japan, the console version is known as {{nihongo|Sonic Generations: White Space-time|ソニック ジェネレーションズ 白の時空}}, and the 3DS version is known as {{nihongo|Sonic Generations: Blue Adventure|ソニック ジェネレーションズ 青の冒険}}.}} is a 2011 platform game developed by Sonic Team and published by Sega for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Windows, and Nintendo 3DS. Produced in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the Sonic the Hedgehog series, the game follows Sonic and his sidekick Tails as they form an alliance with their past selves and travel through levels from previous Sonic games. It features two gameplay styles: "Classic", which plays from a side-scrolling perspective like that of the original Sega Genesis Sonic games, and "Modern", 3D levels similar to those in Sonic Unleashed (2008) and Sonic Colors (2010).
Development of Sonic Generations began following the completion of Unleashed. Sonic Team sought to re-imagine the most popular aspects of the franchise in high-definition, and developed the game using the Hedgehog Engine. Each location and many bosses in the game are previously seen in an earlier entry in the series, with the game including numerous other references to past entries. Devil's Details and Dimps helped create the Windows and 3DS versions, respectively. The Windows version is noted for its active modding scene, where a dedicated community creates new gameplay mechanics, levels, and assets for the game.
The game received positive reviews from critics and was a commercial success, selling 1.85 million copies by May 2012. Reviewers found its visuals, audio, and gameplay to be highlights, and called it a good tribute to the franchise. It also received some criticism, mostly for its occasional frame rate and control problems. Reception to the 3DS version was mixed; reviewers criticized its short length and design, and deemed it worse than Dimps' previous Sonic games. The Classic iteration of Sonic introduced in the game has continued to make appearances throughout the franchise.
A remastered edition, {{nihongo foot|Sonic X Shadow Generations,|ソニック × シャドウ ジェネレーションズ|Sonikku × Shadō Jenerēshonzu|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} containing a new side game starring Shadow the Hedgehog, Shadow Generations, was released in October 2024 for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, and as a launch title for Nintendo Switch 2 in June 2025.
Gameplay
{{multiple image
| align = left
| direction = vertical
| image1 = Sonic Generations Classic.jpg
| image2 = Sonic Generations Modern.jpg
| caption2 = Gameplay in Chemical Plant, the game's second level. Classic Sonic's levels are played from a 2D perspective (top) while Modern Sonic's are played from a 3D perspective (bottom).
}}
Sonic Generations is a platform game in which players control two variants of Sonic the Hedgehog: "Classic" or "Modern". Classic Sonic's gameplay is restricted side-scrolling gameplay similar to the original Sonic the Hedgehog games released in the 1990s, and requires him to use moves such as the Spin Dash and the Spin Attack.{{Cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/review-sonic-generations-214666.phtml|title=Review: Sonic Generations|last=Sterling|first=Jim|website=Destructoid|date=October 31, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161129174443/https://www.destructoid.com/review-sonic-generations-214666.phtml|archive-date=November 29, 2016|url-status=live|access-date=October 22, 2017|df=mdy-all}} Modern Sonic's gameplay follows the gameplay style of Sonic Unleashed (2008), and Sonic Colors (2010),{{cite web | last=Aziz | first=Hamza | title=Preview: Sonic Generations | website=Destructoid | date=May 21, 2011 | url=https://www.destructoid.com/preview-sonic-generations/ | access-date=August 25, 2024}} featuring an amalgamation of third-person and side-scrolling perspectives and techniques such as boosting and homing attacks. Both Sonics collect rings as a form of health, and power-ups such as elemental shields, invincibility, speed shoes, skateboards, or Wisps. Players can also customize each Sonic's abilities, and purchase additional ones at a Skill Shop.{{cite web|last1=Wilcox|first1=Mike|title=Sonic Generations: The blue blur turns 20|url=http://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/sonic-generations-the-blue-blur-turns-20-20111122-1ntdn|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|date=November 23, 2011|publisher=FairFax Media|access-date=October 6, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171007105559/http://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/sonic-generations-the-blue-blur-turns-20-20111122-1ntdn|archive-date=October 7, 2017|df=mdy-all}}
The game's main hub is a realm called White Space, in which the player can explore, converse with other characters, and access the game's levels, each of which are derived from a previous entry in the series. The levels are split into three separate eras: the Classic Era (focusing on levels from games for the Sega Genesis);{{Cite web|url=https://kotaku.com/5840708/how-three-genesis-era-sonic-levels-look-in-generations|title=How Three Genesis-Era Sonic Levels Look in Generations|last=Fahey|first=Mike|website=Kotaku|date=September 15, 2011 |access-date=October 22, 2017}} the Dreamcast Era (focusing on levels from games for the Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, GameCube, Xbox);{{Cite web|url=https://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/10/the-dreamcast-era-represents-in-sonic-generations/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111010023716/http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/10/the-dreamcast-era-represents-in-sonic-generations/|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 10, 2011|title=The Dreamcast Era Represents In Sonic Generations|last=Fahey|first=Mike|website=Kotaku|date=September 30, 2011|access-date=October 22, 2017}} and the Modern Era (focusing on levels from games for the PlayStation 3, Wii, Nintendo DS, and Xbox 360).{{Cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/videos/2011/10/06/sonic-generations-modern-era-trailer|title=Sonic Generations Modern Era Trailer|website=IGN|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111008215304/http://www.ign.com/videos/2011/10/06/sonic-generations-modern-era-trailer|archive-date=October 8, 2011|url-status=dead|access-date=October 22, 2017}} Each level consists of two acts (one for each Sonic), and ten additional missions such as collecting a certain amount of rings or completing a level with the help of another character.
Upon reaching the end of the level, players are given a grade based on their performance, with an "S" rank being the best and a "D" rank the worst. After completing an era, players must defeat two bosses: a "rival" character and a main boss. Defeating each boss gives the player a Chaos Emerald,{{efn|In the 3DS version, players must complete special stages to obtain Chaos Emeralds.{{cite web|title=Sonic Generations - Mushroom Hill Special Stage Clip|url=http://www.ign.com/videos/2011/11/21/sonic-generations-mushroom-hill-special-stage-clip|website=IGN|date=November 22, 2011 |publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=October 23, 2017}}}} all seven of which must be collected to confront the final boss. In the console version, once the game has been completed, both Sonics can transform into their super forms by collecting 50 rings in a normal level. As Super Sonic, the player is invincible and their speed is greatly increased. However the Sonics lose rings while in this form, and will revert to their standard form when all the rings are gone.
Hidden around each act are five Red Star Rings. Collecting these unlocks concept art, music, or, if all five are collected, a new ability. The concept art, as well as cutscenes and character profiles, can be viewed in a Collection Room, while music can be set to play in any level, mission, or boss. The game also features two forms of online leaderboards: "Ranking Attack", which challenges players to obtain the best time and score on each level, and "30 Second Trial", which challenges players to see how far they can get through a level in 30 seconds. An emulation of the original 1991 Sonic the Hedgehog game, ported by Backbone Entertainment, can be unlocked in the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions of the game.{{cite web |last=Condit |first=Jessica |date=October 23, 2011 |title=Sonic Generations will include the original Sonic The Hedgehog (if you can unlock it) |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/sonic-generations-will-include-the-original-sonic-the-hedgehog/ |url-status=deviated |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150128172258/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/sonic-generations-will-include-the-original-sonic-the-hedgehog/ |archive-date=January 28, 2015 |access-date=July 20, 2024 |website=Joystiq}}
=Levels=
=Bosses=
Plot
After his previous defeat,{{efn|As depicted in the 2010 video game Sonic Colors}} Doctor Eggman is left stranded in outer space. A mysterious time-traveling entity known as the Time Eater appears; Eggman, realizing its potential, uses it to go back in time and team up with his past ("Classic") self. The two convert it to a robot to erase their past defeats from history. The Time Eater proceeds to attack ("Classic") Sonic as he travels through Green Hill at the beginning of the original Sonic the Hedgehog, and interrupts a birthday celebration being held for the present ("Modern") Sonic by his friends, scattering them all through different time portals. Modern Sonic awakens in White Space and rescues Tails after traveling through Green Hill.
Modern Sonic and Tails eventually meet their Classic counterparts, and form an alliance to restore their world. The two travel through locations from their past they find in White Space, restoring them to normal. They rescue many of their friends, including Knuckles, Amy, Rouge, Cream, Blaze, and the Chaotix, while battling old enemies for the Chaos Emeralds. Both Sonics eventually confront the two doctors, who overpower them using the Time Eater. However, the two Sonics use the Chaos Emeralds to transform into their super forms and defeat the Time Eater, restoring the timeline to normal. Everyone resumes celebrating Modern Sonic's birthday while Classic Sonic and Tails bid farewell and return to their time. Meanwhile, both Classic and Modern Eggman are left trapped in White Space.
Development
File:SonicGenerationsComparison.png in Sonic the Hedgehog (1991, top) and Sonic Generations (bottom); the stage was one of the nine levels remastered in Generations]]
Development of Sonic Generations began after the completion of Sonic Unleashed in 2008, when developer Sonic Team began discussing possible ideas for a twentieth anniversary Sonic game. The console/PC version of the game was directed by Hiroshi Miyamoto, and Yoshinobu Uba was the Lead Game Designer. Producer Takashi Iizuka wanted a game that incorporated the best of Sonic's history, and offered more replay value compared to previous games. The team eventually decided to split the gameplay into two separate playstyles: one representing the original games and another representing more recent ones.{{cite web|last1=Berry|first1=Jason|title=E3 2011 Q&A: Takashi Iizuka on Sonic Generations|url=https://www.sonicstadium.org/2011/06/e3-sonic-generations-qa-with-takashi-iizuka/|website=Sonic Stadium|date=June 14, 2011|access-date=September 28, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160329202154/https://www.sonicstadium.org/2011/06/e3-sonic-generations-qa-with-takashi-iizuka/|archive-date=March 29, 2016|df=mdy-all}} The team chose to develop on the high-definition (HD) PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles, wanting the game to re-imagine levels and aspects of previous entries with high-quality graphics.{{cite magazine|title=Sonic Generations|magazine=Nintendo Power|date=June 2011|publisher=Future Publishing}} A port for Windows was also made; development was handled by Devil's Details.{{cite web|last1=Smith|first1=Adam|title=Wot I Think: Sonic Generations|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/tag/devils-details/|website=Rock, Paper, Shotgun|publisher=GamesIndustry.biz|access-date=September 28, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729040111/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/tag/devils-details/|archive-date=July 29, 2017|df=mdy-all}} Dimps assisted with production of the Nintendo 3DS version. Sega considered making the 3DS version a port of the console versions, but instead chose to develop from scratch to make it unique and celebrate Sonic's portable history. A version for the Wii was planned, but was eventually abandoned due to hardware constraints.{{cite web|last1=Sterling|first1=Jim|title=Sonic Generations Wii 'abandoned' in favor of HD consoles|url=https://www.destructoid.com/sonic-generations-wii-abandoned-in-favor-of-hd-consoles-202072.phtml|website=Destructoid|date=May 26, 2011|access-date=March 15, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170316114241/https://www.destructoid.com/sonic-generations-wii-abandoned-in-favor-of-hd-consoles-202072.phtml|archive-date=March 16, 2017|df=mdy-all}}
The game makes use of the Hedgehog Engine, the game engine Sonic Team used for developing Unleashed.{{cite magazine | url=https://www.gameinformer.com/games/sonic_forces/b/playstation4/archive/2017/03/17/sonic-forces-extended-gameplay-reveal-demo.aspx | title=A Longer Look at Modern Sonic - Sonic Forces - PlayStation 4 - www.gameinformer.com | magazine=Game Informer | first=Brian | last=Shea | date=March 17, 2017 | access-date=March 20, 2017 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170318192455/http://www.gameinformer.com/games/sonic_forces/b/playstation4/archive/2017/03/17/sonic-forces-extended-gameplay-reveal-demo.aspx | archive-date=March 18, 2017 | df=mdy-all }} To help decide which levels would appear in the game, Sega polled all their employees and conducted an internet survey about popular Sonic stages, with the levels they found most popular being the ones that were incorporated into the game.{{cite web|last1=Rauf|first1=Raz|title=Producer Takashi Iizuka has a nice long chat about Sonic|url=https://www.destructoid.com/producer-takashi-iizuka-has-a-nice-long-chat-about-sonic-212861.phtml|website=Destructoid|date=October 4, 2011|publisher=Enthusiast Gaming|access-date=October 23, 2017}} One of the main rules Sonic Team made during development was not to use older assets or level designs, and certain levels were given a new visual element to provide a new dynamic, such as the caves in Green Hill. In choosing levels for the 3DS version, the team opted to use levels from the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS Sonic games rather than the original Game Gear games, wanting to use levels from games of more recent memory. According to Iizuka, one of the hardest parts of developing Generations was adapting 3D levels to 2D, since their "defining" elements and themes were designed to specifically work in 3D.{{cite journal|title=Interview with Takashi Iizuka|journal=Official Xbox Magazine UK|date=May 2011}} Recreating the "classic"-style Sonic gameplay using the Hedgehog Engine was also cited as challenging, since the engine was designed for 3D gameplay. The Spin Dash ability was also made quicker to use to help younger players unfamiliar with it.{{cite web|last1=Berry|first1=Jason|title=Interview: Aaron Webber|url=https://www.sonicstadium.org/2011/07/interview-with-aaron-webber/|website=Sonic Stadium|date=July 28, 2011|access-date=September 28, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160329060403/https://www.sonicstadium.org/2011/07/interview-with-aaron-webber/|archive-date=March 29, 2016|df=mdy-all}} The team faced bigger difficulties developing on the 3DS; Iizuka claimed they were unfamiliar with the system's capabilities and limitations.{{cite web|last1=Krupa|first1=Daniel|title=Sonic Generations 3DS Ain't No Compromise|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/09/01/sonic-generations-3ds-aint-no-compromise|website=IGN|date=September 2011|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004040548/http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/09/01/sonic-generations-3ds-aint-no-compromise|archive-date=October 4, 2017|df=mdy-all}}
In contrast to the casual-oriented Colors,{{cite web|last1=Sterling|first1=Jim|title=Sega: Sonic Colors is for everyone!|url=https://www.destructoid.com/sega-sonic-colors-is-for-everyone--183380.phtml|website=Destructoid|date=September 8, 2010|publisher=Enthusiast Gaming|access-date=September 17, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160807152354/https://www.destructoid.com/sega-sonic-colors-is-for-everyone--183380.phtml|archive-date=August 7, 2016}} Sonic Generations was designed to appeal to the series' core audience. While multiple characters from throughout the franchise appear in the game, only Sonic was made playable. The script was written by Sonic Colors writers Ken Pontac and Warren Graff; according to Pontac, they both had more input in the story and cutscenes compared to Colors.{{cite web|last1=Davidson|first1=Danica|title=Ken Pontac Talks Game Writing and Anime|url=http://www.otakuusamagazine.com/Games/News1/Ken-Pontac-Talks-Game-Writing-and-Anime-5382.aspx|website=Otaku USA|access-date=September 29, 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140509203120/http://www.otakuusamagazine.com/Games/News1/Ken-Pontac-Talks-Game-Writing-and-Anime-5382.aspx|archive-date=May 9, 2014|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} Sonic Team also created a new character: the Time Eater, who serves as the game's main antagonist. The game features numerous references to past Sonic games, among these being cameo appearances by several obscure characters on posters in City Escape. Fans who attended the "Sonic Boom" or the "Summer of Sonic" fan conventions in June 2011 were able to record a birthday message that appears during the end of the game's credits sequence.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.sega.com/2011/06/09/segae3-sonic-boom-was-a-blast/ |title=SEGA Blog | #SegaE3 Sonic Boom Was a Blast! |publisher=Blogs.sega.com |access-date=December 15, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120127145343/http://blogs.sega.com/2011/06/09/segae3-sonic-boom-was-a-blast/ |archive-date=January 27, 2012 |df=mdy-all }} Each version of the game also supports the option to play in stereoscopic 3D.{{cite web|last1=Fahey|first1=Mike|title=This is What Three Generations of Sonic Look Like on PC|url=https://kotaku.com/5849021/this-is-what-three-generations-of-sonic-look-like-on-pc/|website=Kotaku|date=October 12, 2011 |publisher=Gizmodo Media Group|access-date=October 13, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014083258/https://kotaku.com/5849021/this-is-what-three-generations-of-sonic-look-like-on-pc/|archive-date=October 14, 2017|df=mdy-all}} According to Iizuka, he was the only one who advocated the feature, and it took trial and error before it was implemented.
=Music=
The musical score of Sonic Generations was primarily composed and arranged by Jun Senoue, with contributions by Richard Jacques, Naofumi Hataya, Hideki Naganuma, Kenichi Tokoi, Tomoya Ohtani, Crush 40, Circuit Freq, and Cash Cash. The soundtrack consists of remixed versions of past tracks, alongside new material written for the game.{{cite web|last1=Hammond|first1=Joe|title=Game Music :: Sonic Generations Original Soundtrack -Blue Blur|url=http://squareenixmusic.com/reviews/joehammond/sonicgenerations.shtml|website=Square Enix Music Online|access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160331145059/http://squareenixmusic.com/reviews/joehammond/sonicgenerations.shtml|archive-date=March 31, 2016|df=mdy-all}} Several soundtrack albums were released alongside the game. History of the First Stage features music from the first levels of several Sonic franchise games.{{cite web|last1=Ponce|first1=Tony|title=Sonic Generations to get two different soundtracks|url=https://www.destructoid.com/sonic-generations-to-get-two-different-soundtracks-209872.phtml|website=Destructoid|date=August 25, 2011|publisher=Enthusiast Gaming|access-date=October 23, 2017}}{{cite web|last1=Nakano|first1=Shinji|title=セガ、「ソニック ジェネレーションズ」 「白の時空」と「青の冒険」を同時発売！ 予約特典は1stステージの楽曲を集めたサントラCD|url=https://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/news/472789.html|website=Game Watch|date=August 25, 2011|publisher=Impress Corporation|access-date=October 23, 2017|language=ja}} Sonic Generations: 20 Years of Sonic Music contains several tracks hand-picked by Sonic Team, and was sold with the collector's edition.{{cite web|last1=Dutton|first1=Fred|title=Sonic Generations ltd. edition announced|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-09-07-sonic-generations-ltd-edition-announced|website=Eurogamer|date=September 7, 2011|access-date=July 10, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004035047/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-09-07-sonic-generations-ltd-edition-announced|archive-date=October 4, 2017|df=mdy-all}} The complete, three-volume soundtrack, Sonic Generations Original Soundtrack: Blue Blur, was released on January 11, 2012, under Sega's Wave Master label.{{cite web|author1=Sega|title=SONIC GENERATIONS Original Soundtrack: Blue Blur|url=http://www.wave-master.com/ent/details/wwce/wwce31261-3/|website=Wave Master|publisher=Wave Master, Co.|access-date=October 4, 2017|language=ja|date=January 11, 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160714144948/http://www.wave-master.com/ent/details/wwce/wwce31261-3/|archive-date=July 14, 2016|df=mdy-all}} It spans three discs and features 90 total tracks from both versions of the game.
Release
Sonic Generations was first revealed in August 2009, when Sega accidentally leaked a press release including information about the game, then under the working title Sonic Anniversary.{{cite magazine|last1=Hilliard|first1=Kylie|title=Clues Point To Sonic Generations Nearly Featuring A Third Dreamcast-Era Sonic|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2015/12/12/clues-point-to-sonic-generations-nearly-featuring-a-third-dreamcast-era-sonic.aspx|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151215043317/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2015/12/12/clues-point-to-sonic-generations-nearly-featuring-a-third-dreamcast-era-sonic.aspx|url-status=live|archive-date=December 15, 2015|magazine=Game Informer|publisher=GameStop|access-date=October 22, 2017}} The company officially revealed the game on April 7, 2011, when they posted a teaser trailer on their Facebook page. The trailer depicted the two variants of Sonic running through Green Hill.{{cite magazine|last=Schreier|first=Jason|title=Nostalgic Trailer Teases New Sonic the Hedgehog|url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2011/04/sonic-generations-trailer/|magazine=Wired|access-date=December 15, 2011|date=April 7, 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111224143428/http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2011/04/sonic-generations-trailer|archive-date=December 24, 2011|df=mdy-all}} It was initially announced for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360; the 3DS and Windows versions were leaked in a Sega Sammy Holdings financial earnings report.{{cite web|last1=McWhertor|first1=Michael|title=Sega's Shinobi and Sonic Generations Outed for Nintendo 3DS|url=https://kotaku.com/5805246/segas-shinobi-and-sonic-generations-outed-for-nintendo-3ds|website=Kotaku|date=May 25, 2011 |publisher=Gizmodo Media Group|access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170719210353/http://kotaku.com/5805246/segas-shinobi-and-sonic-generations-outed-for-nintendo-3ds|archive-date=July 19, 2017|df=mdy-all}} The 3DS version was confirmed in an interview with Iizuka that was published in Nintendo Power. A demo version featuring Classic Sonic's version of Green Hill was released on June 23, 2011, the twentieth anniversary of the original Sonic game's release.{{cite web|last1=Garratt|first1=Patrick|title=Sonic Generations demo – the whole thing in HD|url=https://www.vg247.com/2011/06/23/sonic-generations-demo-the-whole-thing-in-hd/|website=VG24/7|date=June 23, 2011|access-date=October 24, 2017}} A second demo, featuring Modern Sonic's Green Hill, was released on October 19, 2011.{{cite web|last1=Dutton|first1=Fred|title=New Sonic Generations demo announced|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-10-17-new-sonic-generations-demo-announced|website=Eurogamer|date=October 17, 2011|publisher=Gamer Network|access-date=October 24, 2017}} Demo versions of the game were also playable at E3 2011 and the New York Comic Con.{{cite web|author1=Kellie|title=SEGA's Blockbuster Lineup for E3 2011|url=http://blogs.sega.com/2011/06/03/segas-blockbuster-lineup-for-e3-2011/|website=SEGA Blog|publisher=Sega|access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160330044821/http://blogs.sega.com/2011/06/03/segas-blockbuster-lineup-for-e3-2011/|archive-date=March 30, 2016|df=mdy-all}}{{cite web|author1=Kellie|title=SEGA at New York Comic Con|url=http://blogs.sega.com/2011/10/05/sega-at-new-york-comic-con/|website=SEGA Blog|publisher=Sega|access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160330053610/http://blogs.sega.com/2011/10/05/sega-at-new-york-comic-con/|archive-date=March 30, 2016|df=mdy-all}}
The console versions of Sonic Generations were first released in North America on November 1, 2011,{{cite web|last1=Sterling|first1=Jim|title=New Sonic Generations out November 1, gets new screens|url=https://www.destructoid.com/new-sonic-generations-out-november-1-gets-new-screens-211366.phtml|website=Destructoid|date=September 14, 2011|publisher=Enthusiast Gaming|access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222131756/http://www.destructoid.com/new-sonic-generations-out-november-1-gets-new-screens-211366.phtml|archive-date=December 22, 2015|df=mdy-all}} followed by a European release on November 4 and in Japan on December 1.{{cite web|title=Sonic Generations Release|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/gaming/news/a327766/sonic-generations-to-launch-in-november.html|publisher=Digital Spy|date=July 1, 2011|first=Liam|last=Martin|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110701183039/http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/gaming/news/a327766/sonic-generations-to-launch-in-november.html|archive-date=July 1, 2011|df=mdy-all}}{{cite web|last=Cullen|first=Johnny|title=Sonic Generations Japanese release pushed up a week|url=http://www.vg247.com/2011/10/03/sonic-generations-japanese-release-pushed-up-a-week/|work=VG247|access-date=December 15, 2011|date=October 3, 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111206010045/http://www.vg247.com/2011/10/03/sonic-generations-japanese-release-pushed-up-a-week/|archive-date=December 6, 2011|df=mdy-all}} The Windows version was released on November 3.{{cite web|author1=Devil's Details|author2=Sega|title=Sonic Generations Collection on Steam|url=http://store.steampowered.com/app/71340/Sonic_Generations_Collection/|website=Steam|publisher=Valve Corporation|access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170929041908/http://store.steampowered.com/app/71340/Sonic_Generations_Collection/|archive-date=September 29, 2017|df=mdy-all}} The 3DS version was released on in North America on November 22, 2011, and in Europe on November 25.{{cite web|last1=Newton|first1=James|title=Sonic Generations 3DS Release Dates Finally Revealed|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2011/10/sonic_generations_3ds_release_dates_finally_revealed|website=Nintendo Life|date=October 21, 2011|publisher=Gamer Network|access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170927003348/http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2011/10/sonic_generations_3ds_release_dates_finally_revealed|archive-date=September 27, 2017|df=mdy-all}} The console and 3DS versions were made available for digital download in 2012.{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/09/sonic_generations_will_cost_usd2999_on_the_north_american_3ds_eshop|title=Sonic Generations Will Cost $29.99 On The North American 3DS eShop|website=Nintendo Life|publisher=Gamer Network|first=Damien|last=McFerran|date=September 4, 2013|access-date=September 28, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304073718/http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/09/sonic_generations_will_cost_usd2999_on_the_north_american_3ds_eshop|archive-date=March 4, 2016|df=mdy-all}} An official strategy guide for the game was published by BradyGames.{{cite book|title=Sonic Generations Official Strategy Guide|date=November 1, 2011|publisher=BradyGames|isbn=978-0744013429|df=mdy-all}} In addition to the standard retail release, a collector's edition for the console version was released in Europe and Australia. It features the game and manual in limited lenticular box art in a steelbook case, a special booklet containing various Sonic artwork, a documentary disc about the history of Sonic, Sonic Generations: 20 Years of Sonic Music, a limited and individually numbered gold ring, and a figurine of both Classic and Modern Sonic striking a pose on a ring.
Sonic Generations was delisted from Steam and the Xbox Store as a standalone game on September 9, 2024, in anticipation of the then-upcoming release of Sonic X Shadow Generations. However, the game will remain available digitally via bundles that contain multiple Sonic games, likely due to the game’s active modding community on Steam and for preservation purposes. Said mods will also remain unaffected.{{cite web|title= Sega's delisting Sonic Generations, but somehow doing it in a good way|url= https://www.polygon.com/24216961/sonic-x-shadow-generations-delisting-steam-xbox |publisher=Polygon|date=August 9, 2024|first=Michael|last=McWhertor|df=mdy-all}}
=Downloadable and unofficial content=
A pinball minigame based upon Sonic the Hedgehog 2{{'s}} Casino Night level was released as downloadable content for the Steam version of the game on December 26, 2011.{{cite web|last1=Mallory|first1=Jordan|title=Sonic Generations Casino Nights Pinball DLC on Steam Dec. 26|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/12/10/sonic-generations-casino-nights-pinball-dlc-on-steam-dec-26/|website=Engadget|date=July 15, 2016 |access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004040150/https://www.engadget.com/2011/12/10/sonic-generations-casino-nights-pinball-dlc-on-steam-dec-26/|archive-date=October 4, 2017|df=mdy-all}} The minigame was included in the collector's edition and offered as a pre-order incentive for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions.{{cite web|last1=Mitchell|first1=Richard|title=Sonic Generations: Special Edition spotted at GAME|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/07/13/sonic-generations-special-edition-spotted-at-game/|website=Engadget|date=July 15, 2016 |access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004040206/https://www.engadget.com/2011/07/13/sonic-generations-special-edition-spotted-at-game/|archive-date=October 4, 2017|df=mdy-all}}
A variety of community-created modifications ("mods") have been created for the Windows version of the game. These mods add multiple gameplay changes, such as new player characters and levels. Examples include Unleashed Project, an effort to re-create Sonic Unleashed using Sonic Generations as a base;{{cite web|last1=Petitte|first1=Omri|title=Sonic Generations mod adds most levels from console-exclusive Sonic Unleashed|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/sonic-generations-unleashed-mod/|website=PC Gamer|date=March 21, 2013|access-date=October 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021064856/http://www.pcgamer.com/sonic-generations-unleashed-mod/|archive-date=October 21, 2016|df=mdy-all}} Super Mario Generations, a mod that replaces Sonic with Mario;{{cite web|last1=Koch|first1=Cameron|title=Move Over Sonic: Mario Becomes The Star of 'Sonic Generations' Thanks to Fan Mod|url=http://www.techtimes.com/articles/102207/20151102/move-over-sonic-mario-becomes-the-star-of-sonic-generations-thanks-to-fan-mod.htm|website=Tech Times|date=November 2, 2015|access-date=October 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021065620/http://www.techtimes.com/articles/102207/20151102/move-over-sonic-mario-becomes-the-star-of-sonic-generations-thanks-to-fan-mod.htm|archive-date=October 21, 2016|df=mdy-all}} Super Sonic Generations, which expands upon the character's super forms;{{cite web|last1=Walker|first1=Alex|title=There's A Mod That Makes Me Want To Play Sonic Generations|url=https://www.kotaku.com.au/2016/02/theres-a-mod-that-makes-me-want-to-play-sonic-generations/|website=Kotaku|date=February 22, 2016|publisher=Gizmodo Media Group|access-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170901202538/https://www.kotaku.com.au/2016/02/theres-a-mod-that-makes-me-want-to-play-sonic-generations/|archive-date=September 1, 2017|df=mdy-all}} Sonic Generations First Person Mod, which uses a first-person POV camera during gameplay;{{Cite web |date=2021-06-28 |title='Sonic Generations' gets a dizzying first-person mod makeover |url=https://www.nme.com/en_asia/news/gaming-news/sonic-generations-gets-a-dizzying-first-person-mod-makeover-2980420 |access-date=2022-06-13 |website=NME |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=McWhertor |first=Michael |date=2021-06-28 |title=First-person Sonic the Hedgehog mod looks like great way to puke fast |url=https://www.polygon.com/22554090/sonic-generations-fps-mod-camera-sonic-the-hedgehog |access-date=2022-06-13 |website=Polygon |language=en-US}} and SM64 Generations, which also features Mario and implements his moves and physics from Super Mario 64.{{cite web|url=https://gamerant.com/sonic-generations-super-mario-moveset-mod-video-clip/|title=Sonic Generations Mod Replaces Sonic With Super Mario|website=Game Rant|first=Kazuo|last=Sato|date=April 2, 2022|accessdate=June 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220402231712/https://gamerant.com/sonic-generations-super-mario-moveset-mod-video-clip/|archive-date=April 2, 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.thegamer.com/sonic-generations-mod-super-mario-64/|title=Sonic Generations Mod Adds Mario With His Super Mario 64 Moveset|website=TheGamer|first=George|last=Foster|date=April 3, 2022|accessdate=June 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220404105915/https://www.thegamer.com/sonic-generations-mod-super-mario-64/|archive-date=April 4, 2022|url-status=live}}
Reception
{{video game reviews
| MC = 77/100 (X360/PC)
76/100 (PS3)
66/100 (3DS)
| GRadar = {{Rating|4|5|}} (X360/PS3/PC)
{{Rating|3.5|5|}} (3DS)
| IGN = 8.5/10 (X360/PS3/PC)
7/10 (3DS)
| NWR = 7.5/10 (3DS){{cite web|url=https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/28519/sonic-generations-nintendo-3ds|title=Sonic Generations for Nintendo 3DS review|accessdate=November 23, 2011}}
| award1Pub = GameZone
| award2Pub = IGN
}}
The console and PC versions of Sonic Generations received "generally favorable reviews", according to review aggregator Metacritic.{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/sonic-generations/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3 |title=Sonic Generations (PlayStation 3) reviews at |work=Metacritic |publisher=CBS Interactive |date=December 8, 2011 |access-date=December 8, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120627004647/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-3/sonic-generations |archive-date=June 27, 2012 |df=mdy-all }}{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/sonic-generations/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360 |title=Sonic Generations (Xbox 360) reviews at |work=Metacritic |publisher=CBS Interactive |date=December 8, 2011 |access-date=December 8, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120627024044/http://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox-360/sonic-generations |archive-date=June 27, 2012 |df=mdy-all }}{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/sonic-generations/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |title=Sonic Generations (PC) reviews at |work=Metacritic |publisher=CBS Interactive |date=December 8, 2011 |access-date=December 8, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120623134705/http://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/sonic-generations |archive-date=June 23, 2012 |df=mdy-all }} The game was also successful commercially, selling 1.85 million copies worldwide across all platforms by March 31, 2012.{{cite web|url=https://www.segasammy.co.jp/english/ir/library/pdf/settlement/2012/20120511_hosoku_e_final.pdf#page=6|title=Appendix of Consolidated Financial Statements Year Ended March 31, 2012 - SegaSammy Group|publisher=Sega Sammy Holdings|format=PDF|page=6|date=May 8, 2012|access-date=April 13, 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160329090631/https://www.segasammy.co.jp/english/ir/library/pdf/settlement/2012/20120511_hosoku_e_final.pdf#page=6|archive-date=March 29, 2016|df=mdy-all}}
The game's presentation was well received. Nathan Meunier of GameSpot called the graphics arguably the best of the series, praising the detail put into recreating each level;{{cite web|last1=Meunier|first1=Nathan|title=Sonic Generations Review|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/sonic-generations-review/1900-6345404/|website=GameSpot|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=September 30, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004040342/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/sonic-generations-review/1900-6345404/|archive-date=October 4, 2017|df=mdy-all}} this statement was echoed by Tim Turi of Game Informer.{{cite magazine|last1=Turi|first1=Tim|title=A Suffering Hedgehog's Life Flashes Before His Eyes|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/games/sonic_generations/b/xbox360/archive/2011/10/31/sonic-generations-review-a-suffering-hedgehog-s-life-flashes-before-his-eyes.aspx|magazine=Game Informer|publisher=GameStop|access-date=October 2, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004045954/http://www.gameinformer.com/games/sonic_generations/b/xbox360/archive/2011/10/31/sonic-generations-review-a-suffering-hedgehog-s-life-flashes-before-his-eyes.aspx/|archive-date=October 4, 2017|df=mdy-all}} Jack DeVries and Brian Altano of IGN offered similar praise for the visuals, and described its remixed tracks as "cool" and its sound effects as "spot on".{{cite web|title=Sonic Generations Review|url=http://uk.xbox360.ign.com/articles/121/1211024p1.html|website=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|author1=DeVries, Jack|author2=Altano, Brian|name-list-style=amp|date=October 28, 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111201231019/http://uk.xbox360.ign.com/articles/121/1211024p1.html|archive-date=December 1, 2011|df=mdy-all}} Tom Bramwell of Eurogamer felt Sonic Generations was a worthy tribute to the Sonic franchise, though he still considered the franchise's previous entry, Sonic Colors, to be better.{{cite web|last1=Bramwell|first1=Tom|title=Sonic Generations Review|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-11-02-sonic-generations-review-review|website=Eurogamer|date=November 2, 2011|publisher=Gamer Network|access-date=September 30, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160329194328/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-11-02-sonic-generations-review-review|archive-date=March 29, 2016|df=mdy-all}}
The gameplay was also positively received; critics praised its level design and replay value. Bob Mackey of 1UP.com appreciated the variation between each level and their challenges and letting the player choose the levels they would like to play.{{cite web|last=Mackey |first=Bob |title=Review: Sonic Generations Shows That Sega's Learned From Their Mistakes |url=http://www.1up.com/reviews/sonic-generations-xbox360-ps3 |website=1UP.com |publisher=IGN |date=October 31, 2011 |access-date=December 11, 2016 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20160329203544/http://www.1up.com/reviews/sonic-generations-xbox360-ps3 |archive-date=March 29, 2016 |url-status=dead }} DeVries and Altano considered the "classic"-style gameplay to be a successful revival of the 1990s Sonic games and the "modern"-style to be similarly enjoyable, though they offered minor criticism of the former's floaty physics and the latter's reliance on speed. Justin Towell of GamesRadar praised the level design to be among the best, claiming the Chemical Plant level gets "more fun with every play".{{cite web|last1=Towell|first1=Justin|title=Sonic Generations review|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/sonic-generations-review/2/|website=GamesRadar|date=October 31, 2011|publisher=Future Publishing|access-date=October 2, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004040107/http://www.gamesradar.com/sonic-generations-review/2/|archive-date=October 4, 2017|df=mdy-all}} Bramwell found the 3D levels surprisingly enjoyable. Famitsu favorably compared the sense of speed to that of racing games and praised the "nimble" camerawork, describing the overall experience as addictive.{{cite web|last1=Gifford|first1=Kevin|title=Japan Review Check: Mario Kart 7, Sonic Generations|url=http://www.1up.com/news/japan-review-check-mario-kart|website=1UP.com|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=October 2, 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160401070511/http://www.1up.com/news/japan-review-check-mario-kart|archive-date=April 1, 2016|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}
Some aspects of the game were criticized, however. Mackey criticized its occasional framerate issues and on-rails sections. Bramwell felt that Generations still suffered from problems present in prior games, and found its controls laggy and criticized certain segments requiring split-second precision. DeVries and Altano found the boss fights to be limited and weak, wishing the game had the special stages seen in previous games. Empire considered the game's weak storyline to be its only problem.{{cite web|title=Sonic Generations Game Review|url=http://www.empireonline.com/gaming/sonic-generations/|website=Empire|date=August 11, 2011 |access-date=October 2, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004043322/http://www.empireonline.com/gaming/sonic-generations/|archive-date=October 4, 2017|df=mdy-all}} Famitsu wrote that the game as a whole successfully delivered the series' traditional high speed and exhilaration. DeVries and Altano determined that Sonic Generations was accessible to everyone and gave it an Editor's Choice Award. Meunier felt that the game combined the best elements of old and new Sonic games well, and concluded that "Sonic Generations doesn't skimp on the speed or the fun".
= 3DS version =
In contrast to the console and PC versions, reviews for the 3DS version were "mixed or average", according to Metacritic,{{cite web|title=Sonic Generations for 3DS Reviews|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/sonic-generations/critic-reviews/?platform=3ds|website=Metacritic|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=October 2, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120626102016/http://www.metacritic.com/game/3ds/sonic-generations|archive-date=June 26, 2012|df=mdy-all}} with Jack Devries of IGN stating that "for the first time in a decade, the handheld Sonic is not the best". Several reviewers pointed out the fact that there are little difference between the gameplay of classic and modern Sonic, since both are limited to 2D movement.{{cite web|last1=Towell|first1=Justin|title=Sonic Generations review (3DS)|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/sonic-generations-3ds-review/|website=GamesRadar|date=November 18, 2011|publisher=Future Publishing|access-date=February 19, 2023}} James Newton of Nintendo Life described it as "short and unambitious" and compared it unfavorably to the then-recently released Super Mario 3D Land.{{cite web|last1=Newton|first1=James|title=Review: Sonic Generations|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/2011/11/sonic_generations_3ds|website=Nintendo Life|date=November 25, 2011|publisher=Gamer Network|access-date=October 2, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004040742/http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/2011/11/sonic_generations_3ds|archive-date=October 4, 2017|df=mdy-all}} Dan Whitehead of Eurogamer agreed, criticizing the handheld game's lack of variety, replay value, and inconsistent design and calling its levels "a pain to explore", though he offered praise for its visuals and recreations of classic Sonic moments. Both DeVries and Turi considered the 3DS version to be a rushed tie-in with the console version, and agreed that, while not a bad game, it was below the standard of Dimps' previous Sonic games.{{cite web|last1=DeVries|first1=Jack|title=Sonic Generations Review|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/12/06/sonic-generations-review-2|website=IGN|date=December 6, 2011|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=October 2, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160402143100/http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/12/06/sonic-generations-review-2|archive-date=April 2, 2016|df=mdy-all}}{{cite magazine|last1=Turi|first1=Tim|title=Sonic Generations Review: Dimps' Reliable Quality Skips A Generation|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/games/sonic_generations/b/3ds/archive/2011/11/22/sonic-generations-review-dimps-reliable-quality-skips-a-generation.aspx|magazine=Game Informer|publisher=GameStop|access-date=October 2, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160401072330/http://www.gameinformer.com/games/sonic_generations/b/3ds/archive/2011/11/22/sonic-generations-review-dimps-reliable-quality-skips-a-generation.aspx|archive-date=April 1, 2016|df=mdy-all}}
Legacy
In 2017, GamesRadar named Sonic Generations the seventh best game of the Sonic series,{{cite web|author1=GamesRadar Staff|title=The best Sonic games of all time|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/best-sonic-games/2/|website=GamesRadar|date=May 19, 2017|access-date=January 2, 2018}} and USgamer named it the tenth best.{{cite web|title=Gotta Go Fast: Ranking All of The Sonic The Hedgehog Games|url=http://www.usgamer.net/articles/gotta-go-fast-ranking-all-of-the-sonic-the-hedgehog-games|website=USgamer|date=August 18, 2017|access-date=January 2, 2018|archive-date=August 21, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170821165925/http://www.usgamer.net/articles/gotta-go-fast-ranking-all-of-the-sonic-the-hedgehog-games|url-status=dead}} Following the reemergence of "Classic" Sonic, Sega would later begin to include him in other modern Sonic games, such as Sonic Dash (2013){{cite web|last1=Lyons|first1=Zak|title=Sonic Dash Gets a New Stage and Character to Celebrate Download Milestone|url=http://twinfinite.net/2016/07/sonic-dash-new-character-and-stage/|website=Twinfinite|date=July 23, 2016|access-date=May 5, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170216103308/http://twinfinite.net/2016/07/sonic-dash-new-character-and-stage/|archive-date=February 16, 2017|df=mdy-all}} and Sonic Runners (2015).{{cite web|last1=Jones|first1=Elton|title='Sonic Runners': Top 10 Tips & Cheats You Need to Know|url=http://heavy.com/games/2015/06/sonic-runners-tips-tricks-cheats-guide-ios-android-mobile-games/|website=Heavy|date=June 30, 2015|access-date=May 5, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902231810/http://heavy.com/games/2015/06/sonic-runners-tips-tricks-cheats-guide-ios-android-mobile-games/|archive-date=September 2, 2017|df=mdy-all}} The 2017 game Sonic Forces follows a similar premise to Generations, featuring both Classic and Modern iterations of Sonic as playable characters,{{cite web|first=Mat|last=Paget|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/two-new-sonic-games-announced-seek-to-recapture-th/1100-6442097/|title=Two New Sonic Games Announced, Seek to Recapture the Glory Days|website=GameSpot|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=October 3, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160724205219/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/two-new-sonic-games-announced-seek-to-recapture-th/1100-6442097/|archive-date=July 24, 2016|df=mdy-all}} and also uses an updated version of Generations{{'}} game engine.{{cite magazine | url=https://www.gameinformer.com/games/sonic_forces/b/playstation4/archive/2017/03/17/sonic-forces-extended-gameplay-reveal-demo.aspx | title=Sonic Forces: A Longer Look at Modern Sonic | magazine=Game Informer | first=Brian | last=Shea | date=March 17, 2017 | access-date=March 20, 2017 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170318192455/http://www.gameinformer.com/games/sonic_forces/b/playstation4/archive/2017/03/17/sonic-forces-extended-gameplay-reveal-demo.aspx | archive-date=March 18, 2017 | df=mdy-all }} Some journalists initially believed Forces was a sequel to Generations,{{cite web | url=http://kotaku.com/and-this-is-basically-sonic-generations-2-1784169174 | title=And This Is Basically Sonic Generations 2 | work=Kotaku | publisher=Univision Communications | first=Mike | last=Fahey | date=July 23, 2016 | access-date=September 17, 2016}} but Iizuka later clarified that it was a separate game.{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/it-sure-looks-like-sega-is-making-a-new-sonic-generations-376598.phtml|title=It sure looks like Sega is making a new Sonic Generations|website=Destructoid|date=July 23, 2016|access-date=June 21, 2017|archive-date=February 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228082612/https://www.destructoid.com/it-sure-looks-like-sega-is-making-a-new-sonic-generations-376598.phtml|url-status=dead}}
Years after its release, the game has remained as a strong seller for Sega.{{cite web|url=https://www.gamereactor.eu/sonic-the-hedgehog-still-shifted-44-million-units-in-the-last-fiscal-year-despite-a-lack-of-new-releases/|title=Sega Sonic Fiscal Year|website=GameReactor|date=May 18, 2021 |access-date=October 22, 2021}} On April 10, 2018, the Xbox 360 version was made backward compatible with the Xbox One, and was later extended to the Xbox Series X/S.{{Cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-xbox-one-backwards-compatible-game-now-availab/1100-6458159/|title = New Xbox One Backwards Compatible Game Now Available}} An update to the Xbox 360 version in November 2021 added support for 4K visuals and an increased frame rate when played on Series X/S.{{cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2021-xbox-360-games-and-fps-boost-are-a-match-made-in-heaven|title=Xbox 360 games and FPS Boost are a match made in heaven|last=Linneman|first=John|website=Eurogamer|date=27 November 2021|accessdate=18 January 2021|df=dmy-all}}
=Remaster=
{{Further|Shadow Generations{{!}}Shadow Generations}}
During a PlayStation State of Play livestream on January 31, 2024, Sega announced Sonic X Shadow Generations, a bundle containing a remaster of Generations and a Shadow the Hedgehog-centric side game, Shadow Generations, the story of which occurs parallel to the events of Generations.{{cite magazine |last1=Shea |first1=Brian |title=Sonic X Shadow Generations Brings The Greatest Hits Package To Modern Consoles |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/state-of-play/2024/01/31/sonic-x-shadow-generations-brings-the-greatest-hits-package-to-modern |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240131222433/https://www.gameinformer.com/state-of-play/2024/01/31/sonic-x-shadow-generations-brings-the-greatest-hits-package-to-modern |url-status=live |archive-date=January 31, 2024 |magazine=Game Informer |access-date=31 January 2024 |language=en |date=1 November 2011}} The remaster includes the Casino Night pinball DLC and features additional content, such as hidden Chao to rescue in each stage and the addition of the Drop Dash ability first seen in Sonic Mania.{{Cite web |date=2024-06-07 |title=Sonic x Shadow Generations launches October 25 |url=https://blog.playstation.com/2024/06/07/sonic-x-shadow-generations-launches-october-25/ |access-date=2024-06-08 |website=PlayStation.Blog |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=calvintrilles |date=2024-06-13 |title=Sonic x Shadow Generations release date: Be spin-dash ready {{!}} ONE Esports |url=https://www.oneesports.gg/gaming/sonic-x-shadow-generations-release-date/ |access-date=2024-06-18 |website=www.oneesports.gg |language=en-US}} The game's script was also updated and re-recorded for the remaster.{{cite web | last=Tu | first=Trumann | title=Sonic X Shadow Generations Leaks Two Weeks Before Launch | website=Game Rant | date=October 12, 2024 | url=https://gamerant.com/sonic-x-shadow-generations-leaked-spoilers/ | access-date=October 21, 2024}}
Sonic X Shadow Generations was released for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows on October 25, 2024. Players who preordered the game received a Modern Sonic skin based on Sonic's 3D model from Sonic Adventure.{{cite web |last1=Anderson |first1=Robert |title=Sonic X Shadow Generations is Up for Preorder |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/sonic-shadow-generations-preorder-guide |website=IGN |access-date=June 9, 2024 |date=June 9, 2024}} Additionally, players can obtain a Classic Sonic skin based on Sonic's 3D model in Sonic Jam via free DLC.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-02 |title=Sonic Jam legacy skin for Sonic X Shadow Generations shown off |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/sonic-jam-legacy-skin-for-sonic-x-shadow-generations-shown-off/ |access-date=2024-07-03 |website=VGC |language=en-GB}} A port for Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be released as a launch title for the system on June 5, 2025.{{cite web | last=Reynolds | first=Ollie | title=Sonic X Shadow Generations Is Confirmed As A Launch Title For Switch 2 | website=Nintendo Life | date=April 23, 2025 | url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/04/sonic-x-shadow-generations-is-confirmed-as-a-launch-title-for-switch-2 | access-date=April 23, 2025}}
Notes
{{Notelist}}
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
{{Wikiquote}}
- {{Official website|http://www.sega.com/games/sonic-generations%E2%84%A2}}
{{Sonic the Hedgehog}}
{{Sonic Team}}
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