So, a Sonic Mania 2 wouldn’t be happening because Sonic Team wants to move away from 2D Pixel Art graphics in order to reach a wider audience. Our beloved modern Sonic game wouldn’t be getting a sequel because its art style and retro approach is too specific and niche to be used again. That sounds a bit harsh, I know, but I struggle to disagree with this statement.
Why Sonic Mania 2 isn't happening
There have been rumors of a potential Sonic Mania 2 for years now, but in an interview with Game Informer, Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka explains why we won’t be seeing a sequel any time soon.
“We’re not making a sequel to Sonic Mania because we want the next Classic Sonic game to incorporate 3D elements to reach as many people as possible,” Iizuka explains. “When we saw the success of Sonic Mania we also saw an opportunity to expand Classic Sonic games.”
Iizuka acknowledges the desire of core fans for the old Classic Sonic look and feel, so instead of making a sequel, they focused on solid controls and a representative classic Sonic game aesthetic.
“We’re not making a sequel to Sonic Mania because we want the next Classic Sonic game to incorporate 3D elements to reach as many people as possible.”
Sonic Mania developer Christian Whitehead confirms that Sonic Mania 2 was never considered, but they did experiment with a hand-drawn 2D art style and a cool Sonic prototype with 2.5D depth, which eventually became Sonic Superstars.
“There was no falling out with Sonic Team or Sega,” Whitehead clarifies. “I think people on the internet like to think there’s some big conspiracy. We just had a game that did really well and we tried some new things which made it even more successful. Then we ended up making a different game.”
So there you have it, Sonic fans. While I’d still love to see another classic-style game, I can’t deny that Sonic Superstars looks fantastic and I can’t wait to get my hands on it later this year.
Check out the entire Sonic Team interview here.
Take a look at the Sonic Superstars roster and prepare yourself for the next big Sonic release.
