The physics of Sonic Superstar have been ‘fully translated’ from Sonic Mania

Sonic Superstars is the next game to feature SEGA’s mascot, and it’s taking things back to 2D — albeit with three-dimensional models instead of pixels. While it looks a lot of fun in its first trailer, there has been some concern among fans that the game’s physics may be closer to Sonic 4 than the 16-bit classics of Sonic Mania, or Hedgehog. As it turns out, those fears can be curbed.

The side-scrolling Sonic titles that everyone loves have a special feel, giving the hedgehog noticeable speed as he travels down slopes or hits ramps. It allows you to fling the character around each level like a pinball, if you know what you’re doing, and it feels great when you get into a good flow. When this gameplay style is missing, you really feel it, which is why most 3D Sonic games have less 2D parts.

Fortunately, it seems the superstars want to ensure parity with the spirit of the old games. On Twitter, fans have been making direct comparisons between the upcoming title and the Mega Drive titles, and you can tell that it’s practically identical. Here is an example:

In comparison, Sonic’s jumps are almost identical frame-for-frame. While there are very minor differences, it’s clear that Superstars will retain the gameplay that fans know and love. Christian Whitehead, who led the creation of the Retro Engine in which Sonic Mania was developed, has asked to confirm what is being differentiated here:

So, essentially, Superstar Mania and Classic will feel the same. If you were worried that the game might have its own spin on how Sonic handles, well, you needn’t be – it’s sticking to the formula.

Our own Liam Croft – hardly a fan of the series – went through with the game last week, and even he was feeling good about it, so we hope it’s another win for the Hedgehogs. Are you excited for Sonic Superstars? Dash into the comments section below.