Sonic Fan-Made Game Has Serious Sonic Mania Vibes

Sonic Galactic: A Sonic Mania-esque Fan Game

Sonic Galactic, developed by Starteam, is a fan-made Sonic the Hedgehog game channeling the spirit of the critically acclaimed Sonic Mania. This vibrant title caters to fans of classic Sonic gameplay and pixel art aesthetics.

The game's active development, spanning at least four years since its 2020 SAGEX debut, showcases a dedication to crafting an authentic retro experience. Inspired by the hypothetical scenario of a 32-bit Sonic title on a 5th-generation console (akin to a Sega Saturn release), Sonic Galactic blends classic Genesis-style gameplay with unique additions.

New Playable Characters and Expanded Gameplay:

The second demo, released in early 2025, offers a taste of this ambitious project. Players can control the iconic trio—Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles—across new zones. Adding to the roster are two exciting additions: Fang the Sniper (from Sonic Triple Trouble) and Tunnel the Mole (an original character). Each character boasts unique paths within each level, mirroring the branching level design of Sonic Mania.

The special stages are clearly inspired by Sonic Mania, challenging players to collect rings within a time limit in a 3D environment. While a complete playthrough of Sonic's stages takes approximately an hour, the inclusion of other characters extends the total playtime to a couple of hours.

Key Features:

• Pixel Art Style: Retains the beloved pixel art aesthetic reminiscent of Sonic Mania.
• Classic Gameplay: Offers fast-paced, side-scrolling platforming action true to the classic Sonic formula.
• New Playable Characters: Introduces Fang the Sniper and Tunnel the Mole, each with unique abilities and level paths.
• Substantial Playtime: The second demo provides roughly an hour of Sonic's stages and a couple of hours of overall gameplay.
• Mania-Inspired Special Stages: Features special stages similar to those in Sonic Mania.

Sonic Galactic successfully captures the essence of Sonic Mania, offering a compelling experience for fans yearning for a continuation of that beloved style. Its unique characters and level design make it a noteworthy addition to the thriving Sonic fan game community.