- Release Date: June 23, 1991
- Genre: Action
- Style: Side-Scrolling Platform
- Similar Games: Super Mario Bros. (Nintendo Entertainment System), Bubsy in Claws Encounters of the Furred Kind (Sega Genesis), Rolo to the Rescue (Sega Genesis)
Game Description
A blue hedgehog with red sneakers attempts to save his ensnared animal friends from the mechanistic mind of Dr. Robotnik in Sega's Sonic the Hedgehog. Sonic distinguishes himself from other mascots with his surge of speed, as the prickly protagonist races across loops, underground tunnels, and more by tucking into a ball and spinning swiftly into the next area. The object is to navigate the hazard-filled regions of six themed zones before time expires. Sonic will be able to release imprisoned animals along the way by jumping and spinning into their robotic captors. Golden rings scattered throughout each stage serve three functions: a means to earn extra lives, a gateway to rotating bonus stages containing coveted chaos emeralds, and a defense against enemies and dangers. As long as Sonic has at least one ring, he can safely absorb a hit.~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Roots & Influences
This game was Sega's faster, hipper answer to Nintendo's popular Super Mario series. Released as a pack-in with the Genesis, Sonic the Hedgehog established the blue hedgehog with an attitude as Sega's mascot. He went on to appear in numerous sequels and spinoffs, including Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and 3, Sonic & Knuckles, Sonic 3D Blast, Sonic Adventure and many more.~ Brett Alan Weiss, All Game Guide
