Sonic Galactic: A Sonic Mania-esque Fan Game

Sonic Galactic, a fan-made title from Starteam, evokes the spirit and style of the critically acclaimed Sonic Mania. Capitalizing on the enduring popularity of Sonic Mania and its pixel art aesthetic, Sonic Galactic delivers a classic Sonic experience for fans yearning for a true sequel. The game's development, spanning at least four years, culminated in its second demo release in early 2025.

This isn't just a rehash; Sonic Galactic offers a fresh take on the formula. It imagines what a 32-bit Sonic game might have looked like on a 5th generation console—a "what-if" scenario centered around the Sega Saturn. The game retains the feel of classic Genesis titles while incorporating unique elements.

New Playable Characters and Expanded Gameplay:

The demo introduces two new playable characters alongside the iconic Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles:

• Fang the Sniper: The fan-favorite from Sonic Triple Trouble joins the fight against Dr. Eggman.
• Tunnel the Mole: A brand-new character hailing from Sonic Frontiers' Illusion Island.

Each character boasts unique level paths, adding significant replayability. The special stages, heavily inspired by Sonic Mania, challenge players to collect rings within a time limit in a 3D environment.

Gameplay Length and Overall Impression:

While a complete playthrough of Sonic's levels takes roughly an hour, the inclusion of other characters extends the overall playtime to a couple of hours. This second demo provides a substantial taste of what Sonic Galactic has to offer, leaving fans eager for more. The game's dedication to pixel art and classic Sonic gameplay makes it a compelling experience for nostalgic players and newcomers alike. It successfully captures the essence of Sonic Mania while forging its own identity.