Sonic Galactic: A Sonic Mania-Inspired Fan Game

Sonic Galactic, a fan-made title from Starteam, evokes the spirit of Sonic Mania, captivating players with its pixel art and classic Sonic gameplay. This labor of love, first showcased at the 2020 Sonic Amateur Games Expo, has been in development for at least four years. The game imagines a hypothetical 32-bit Sonic adventure, reminiscent of a potential Sega Saturn release.

The game's appeal lies in its authentic retro 2D platforming, reminiscent of the Genesis era, while incorporating unique elements. The recently released second demo offers a substantial gameplay experience.

New Playable Characters and Expanded Gameplay:

The demo allows players to experience brand-new zones as the classic trio: Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles. 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 hailing from Sonic Frontiers.

Each character boasts unique paths within each zone, mirroring the branching level design of Sonic Mania. The special stages, heavily inspired by Mania, challenge players to collect rings within a time limit in a 3D environment.

Gameplay Length and Overall Impression:

A typical playthrough focusing solely on Sonic's levels takes approximately one hour. The other characters each have a single stage, resulting in a total playtime of around two hours. Despite its demo status, Sonic Galactic delivers a satisfying and extensive experience for fans. The game's dedication to the classic Sonic formula, combined with its fresh characters and level design, solidifies its place as a noteworthy contribution to the Sonic fan game community.