Keith Stuart 

Sonic Boom – the reinvention of a gaming icon

Sega has announced a new look and a new game for its legendary hedgehog mascot. Sonic Boom is due out in the autumn on the Wii U and 3DS, and as an animated TV show, but for now, here is a selection of concept art, much of it exclusive to The Guardian, showing the revised character designs and some of Sonic's lush new world.
  
  


Sonic Boom
Here is one of the original sketches of the redesigned Sonic, showing off his more athletic persona. The athletic tape around his feet and wrists is new, and symbolises the emphasis on action. The proportions of his feet and hands have been changed to suggest that he is older than preview versions. Photograph: PR
Sonic Boom
Here is a set of sketches depicting the various expressions of Sonic's faithful sidekick, Tails. In the new game he is depicted as a pilot and inventor, with flying goggles and a tool belt. Photograph: PR
Sonic Boom
Another of Sonic's close allies, Amy Rose, has been given a more detailed and mature look for the new game, with chunky boots, and a new take on her standard red dress. Also, that is a really big hammer. Photograph: PR
Sonic Boom
Here's an early design for the Tunnel Canyon stage of the game. Early in the design process, developer Big Red Button worked closely with OuiDo Entertainment, the French studio producing the tie-in animated TV series, to ensure a consistent environmental feel. Photograph: PR
Sonic Boom
A concept study of the game's Tropical Beach area. Levels will include both 3D and 2D areas. "We wanted to have classic 2D gameplay sections, via '2.5D sets in most levels," explains creative director, Bob Rafei. "2D gameplay set ups work great for tight platforming and allow better use of suspense and surprise as design tools because of the more limited display in frame. It was important for us to incorporate it." Photograph: PR
Sonic Boom
A view of the farm area. Photograph: PR
Sonic Boom
A view of the seaside area from the Sonic Boom animated cartoon series, developed to coincide with the game. Photograph: PR
Sonic Boom
Another piece of concept art from the animated series, this time of the village centre location. “We set out to create a new branch of that universe that would have its own look, feel, and features, but would feel true to the essence of the Sonic that people know and love,” says executive producer, Evan Baily. Photograph: PR
Sonic Boom
Another sketch from the game, showing the influence of the Sonic Adventure series in terms of scale. Photograph: PR
Sonic Boom
And one final character sketch of the new Sonic. The new design also adds a scarf, and extra spikes to his head so that the character is instantly recognisable as the Sonic Boom character even from his silhouette. Photograph: PR
 

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