Sega will launch a new branch of its Sonic the Hedgehog universe entitled Sonic Boom, which will be accompanied by a CG animated TV series, video games for the Nintendo Wii U and 3DS, new toys from Tomy, and more. To date, the character has appeared in more than 70 video game titles across a span of more than 20 years.
During a press event this past Thursday in New York City, the upcoming TV series was introduced as a character-driven comedy featuring lots of action and adventure. It consists of 52 11-minute episodes, and will debut in both the U.S. and France during the 2014 to 2015 season. “What we try to do is take the character and put them in situations where their personalities take center stage, and take us in interesting directions,” said showrunner and executive producer Evan Baily.
The Sonic Boom video games will serve as a prequel to the TV series, and both will star the characters Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Amy. All four main protagonists have been given small touches to emphasize their particular skill sets: For example, Sonic now has athletic tape around his ankles as well as a neck scarf that emphasizes his love for adventure. Meanwhile, Tails now has a tool belt to identify him as an inventor and gadget expert.
Tomy’s toy range is set to feature plush, action figures, R/C, role play, vehicles, and novelty items. There will be two-figure packs, such as Sonic and Tails or Sonic and Knuckles with an accessory both figures can use in tandem; a Sonic figure with a wheel that can be launched using either a zip cord or crank; and a 7-inch Sonic that comes to life and goes into running mode. The Tomy line, which arrives in toy aisles later this year, is suitable for kids ages 3 and up.
The Sonic Boom video games will serve as a prequel to the TV series, with Big Red Button Entertainment developing for the Wii U, and Sanzuru Games for the 3DS, in collaboration with Sonic Team. It is expected to have a different feel from previous Sonic games, incorporating exploration, combat, and collaboration between the core characters, to go with the traditional Sonic element of speed. There will be playable versions of the new Sonic games at E3, which takes place in June.
