Tag: Sonic the Hedgehog

  • Sega Reveals Life-Size Sonic DNA Figure for 35th Anniversary

    Sega Reveals Life-Size Sonic DNA Figure for 35th Anniversary

    Key Takeaway

    – Sega unveils a life-size chrome Sonic statue for the 35th anniversary.
    – The statue contains a vial of synthetic “Sonic DNA” inside a Chaos Emerald.
    – It was created in collaboration with bio-art collective LOM BABY.
    – The DNA symbolizes that Sonic’s core traits will endure into the future.
    – The statue will be displayed at Sega Store Tokyo starting June 23, 2026.

    Sonic’s 35th Anniversary DNA Statue Unveiled

    As the 35th anniversary of Sonic the Hedgehog approaches on June 23, 2026, Sega is stepping things up to celebrate the Blue Blur’s birthday. The company has unveiled a life-size chrome statue of Sonic the Hedgehog that contains a vial of his “DNA” sealed inside a Chaos Emerald. This effigy, or craftsmanship piece, is life-sized and was created in collaboration between Sega and a Japanese bio-art collective. It is scheduled to go on display in Tokyo toward the end of this month. Still, the question remains: what exactly counts as “Sonic the Hedgehog genes” that have been encased in the Chaos Emerald?

    How The Statue Was Made By A Science Collective

    The Sonic effigy was created by the minds at LOM BABY, a “science collective” working under Transeeds Inc., whose experts combine art, engineering, and biotechnology into a single piece. Sega describes the Sonic statue as the result of “cutting-edge biotechnology,” stating that “the essence of Sonic—who has raced through the ages—has been brought into the real world as ‘DNA.’” Sega further stated that “the DNA encapsulated within the Chaos Emerald symbolizes that ‘Sonic’s core’ will endure, never fading, into the future.” Sega published a promotional video of the 35th-anniversary chrome Sonic statue on YouTube, which detailed Sonic’s video game history through the ages and showed labeling markers like “Velocity Cells,” “Sonic bIOS,” “Boost System,” and “Exploration DNA”—a set of traits that feel very much befitting of Sonic the Hedgehog.

    Previous LOM BABY Projects And The DNA Content

    This isn’t the first time LOM BABY has partnered with a Japanese video game company to bring gaming icons and trends to life. Previously, the collective worked on “Dragon Meat” at Tokyo’s National Art Center and recreated the T-Virus from Resident Evil in collaboration with Capcom. Based on the available information, the company appears to have synthesized a synthetic genome housed inside Sonic’s thorax, which is fitted with a Chaos Emerald. The Sonic the Hedgehog DNA Figure will be showcased at the Sega Store Tokyo on the sixth floor of Shibuya PARCO on June 23 for a limited time.

    Other Anniversary Events And Merchandise Plans

    This collaboration is just one of many of Sega’s larger anniversary projects for Sonic’s 35th birthday, which are slated to include limited-edition brand collaborations, concerts paying homage to Sonic music, and special merchandise drops. Fans are obviously hyped about the chrome design and the DNA concept, even though its all synthetic. The statue itself is a striking piece of art that perfectly captures Sonic’s fast and futuristic vibe. It will be interesting to see what other surprises Sega has planned for the big 35th celebration later this year.

    • Life-size chrome Sonic statue with DNA vial
    • Created by LOM BABY science collective
    • Showcase at Sega Store Tokyo from June 23
    • Part of larger 35th anniversary celebrations
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  • Sega Mini-Arcades Launch April 2026 – Sonic Cabinets Now $59.99 & $119.99

    Sega Mini-Arcades Launch April 2026 – Sonic Cabinets Now $59.99 & $119.99

    Key Takeaways

    1. My Arcade’s Sega mini-arcade cabinets will launch this year, starting with OutRun, which includes the original game and its sequel, OutRunners.
    2. Additional mini-arcade systems include units featuring Sonic, Shinobi, Streets of Rage, and Golden Axe, with shipments beginning in April 2026.
    3. The OutRun mini-arcade cabinet features a mini steering wheel, a 3.5-inch screen, and is priced at $49.99.
    4. Sonic mini-arcade cabinets come in two versions: a four-game “Mighty Player” for $119.99 and a two-game “Joystick Player” for $59.99, available for purchase now.
    5. The Streets of Rage mini-arcade will only include the first two games due to licensing issues.

    My Arcade’s Sega mini-arcade cabinets were first hinted at a year ago but then went quiet for a while. Thankfully, the company has broken its silence: they have revealed that the Sega mini-arcades will launch this year, starting with OutRun, which comes with the original arcade game, OutRunners.

    Upcoming Mini-Arcade Systems

    Additionally, there are more mini-arcade systems on the horizon for this year, including a Sonic unit that features Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic 2, Sonic Spinball, and Sonic 3D Blast. A Shinobi unit is also set to be released, which will have the original Shinobi arcade game, along with The Revenge of Shinobi and Shinobi III from Sega Genesis, plus Shadow Dancer.

    Another exciting addition is the Streets of Rage unit, which includes the first two games, and a Golden Axe unit that features the whole Sega Genesis trilogy. My Arcade shared these updates during CES 2026, with plans for shipments to start in April.

    Mini-Cabinets Revealed

    At CES in Las Vegas, My Arcade made the announcement, allowing retro gaming fans and attendees to see these mini-cabinets for the first time. The mini-cabinets were initially teased back in December 2024, just before the Christmas season.

    However, the project seemed to vanish for nearly a year, leaving many retro enthusiasts questioning if My Arcade’s mini-cabinets were just empty promises. According to GenXGrownUp on YouTube, My Arcade is now back on track and is focusing on launching its Sega lineup.

    The OutRun mini-arcade unit comes equipped with a mini steering wheel and a 3.5-inch screen, providing a tiny taste of the 1986 arcade racing experience while also including the 1993 sequel, OutRunners, which hasn’t had a proper home console release until now. This mini-arcade cabinet is priced at a reasonable $49.99.

    Sonic Offerings

    Sonic fans will be excited to learn that My Arcade is launching a full four-game “Mighty Player” version for $119.99, along with a more compact two-game “Joystick Player” version that features only Sonic 1 and Sonic 2 for $59.99.

    The Sonic mini-arcade cabinets are currently available to buy on My Arcade’s website, making them the first in this lineup to be offered. In comparison, the other systems are set to roll out in April 2026.

    Unfortunately, fans of Streets of Rage might find the offering a bit limited since they will only have access to the first two games in the series, likely because of licensing issues.

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  • Sonic the Hedgehog Joins Waze as GPS Voice Assistant with SEGA

    Sonic the Hedgehog Joins Waze as GPS Voice Assistant with SEGA

    Key Takeaways

    1. SEGA and Waze are introducing a Sonic the Hedgehog feature for navigation starting October 15, 2025.
    2. Users can activate Sonic’s voice as their GPS guide through Waze’s sidekick settings, replacing standard navigation prompts.
    3. The feature includes customizable Sonic-themed icons and the ability to change in-app vehicles to the “Speedster Lightning.”
    4. This update is free for both iOS and Android users and supports Waze’s community-focused model without in-app purchases.
    5. The collaboration is part of SEGA’s “Racing Around the World” campaign to celebrate Sonic’s 35th anniversary in 2026.

    High-speed gaming has now merged with daily travel, as SEGA and the navigation app Waze, owned by Google, is introducing a Sonic the Hedgehog feature. Starting from October 15, 2025, drivers all over the world can enjoy having the speedy blue character as their personal GPS guide.

    The two companies shared in a press release, “Prepare to feel invincible because Sonic the Hedgehog is going to take you on the ride of a lifetime with Waze.”

    Sonic Joins Waze

    Users of Waze can activate this new feature through the app’s sidekick settings, which are found in the hamburger menu on the left side. Sonic joins a list of 50 celebrity voices, including other gaming icons like Master Chief from Halo and Thrall from World of Warcraft, who replace the usual navigation prompts with Sonic’s unique and confident remarks.

    The voice of Sonic in Waze is provided by long-time voice actor Roger Craig Smith in English, with a French version also accessible. Sonic gives directions that are full of his characteristic style. For example, he might say, “Alright, let’s roll, keep your eyes on the road, never know when a loop-de-loop or spike trap will be in the way” for general guidance and “Turn right, excellent handling, no notes from me whatsoever” when making turns.

    Customizable Features

    In addition to voice navigation, this partnership also improves the Waze experience with Sonic-themed icons that can be customized, which adds a personal touch to the app’s social mapping features.

    Drivers can replace their in-app vehicle with the “Speedster Lightning” car, taken straight from Sega’s new game, Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, which was released on September 25, 2025. By choosing the “Energetic” mood option, users can change their avatar—visible to other Waze users on the community map—to show a face inspired by Sonic.

    This free update is accessible worldwide for both iOS and Android users who download the latest version of Waze. It is easily found through a noticeable Sonic banner in the app’s left-side menu and does not need any extra in-app purchases, reinforcing Waze’s community-focused model.

    Celebrating Sonic’s Legacy

    This collaboration comes as a highlight of Sega’s “Racing Around the World” campaign, a year-long global initiative by Sonic Team to mark the franchise’s 35th anniversary in 2026. The campaign began in June 2025 and includes a long-term partnership between Sonic and McLaren Racing.

    The initiative has also led to a Sonic-themed redesign of an AirAsia jet’s interior, featuring elements from Sonic Racing: Crossworlds and the soon-to-be-released battle royale game Sonic Rumble, which is set for November 2025.

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  • Sonic the Hedgehog Joins Olympics in Sega’s New IOC Deal

    Sonic the Hedgehog Joins Olympics in Sega’s New IOC Deal

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sega and the International Olympic Committee have a multi-year licensing deal starting October 7, 2025, for Sonic the Hedgehog merchandise featuring the Olympic rings.
    2. Sega has regained the rights to the “Olympic Games” license, with new Sega-themed Olympic products set to launch in 2026.
    3. The partnership aims to combine storytelling and innovation to connect with fans of all ages through Sonic and the Olympics.
    4. This agreement builds on past collaborations, notably the “Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games” series, which began in 2007.
    5. Future games, including “Mario and Sonic at the Winter Olympics” in 2026, are anticipated with confirmation pending from Sega.

    Sega has teamed up with the International Olympic Committee for a multi-year licensing deal, starting from October 7, 2025. This agreement will see the launch of Sonic the Hedgehog merchandise that includes the Olympic rings. Additionally, Sega has regained the rights to the “Olympic Games” license, with a full range of Sega-themed Olympic products set to debut in 2026.

    Exciting Partnership

    Elisabeth Allaman, the Deputy Managing Director of IOC Television and Marketing Services, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership. She stated that the IOC is excited to join forces with Sega for this new venture, which aims to harness storytelling and innovation to connect with audiences around the world. By merging the iconic Olympic rings with the much-loved character Sonic, they hope to offer fans of every age a chance to enjoy sport and play in fresh and unforgettable ways.

    Sonic’s Values

    Shuji Utsumi, who is the President, COO, and Representative Director of Sega Corporation, shared his thoughts on the collaboration. He noted that this partnership reflects the IOC’s dedication to showcasing values such as excellence, unity, and perseverance on the world stage—qualities that Sonic represents through his speed, determination, and resilience. Utsumi also mentioned the unique designs that will combine the recognizable Olympic rings and Sonic, and he is excited to share this initiative with fans globally.

    A Rich History

    This new licensing agreement builds on previous collaborations between the IOC and Sega, particularly the Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games series, which started back in 2007 on the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo DS. Following that were titles like Mario and Sonic at the Winter Games (2009) for the same platforms. Further installments featuring events in London, Sochi, and Rio were released on the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS. The most recent game was launched in 2019 for the Nintendo Switch, along with freemium games for iOS and Android, plus arcade versions in 2020.

    Future Games

    In the past year, a developer who previously worked on Mario and Sonic mentioned that there won’t be any new Mario and Sonic games for the Paris 2024 Olympics. The Olympic Video Game license was then held by nWay Games, which put out “Olympics GO! Paris 2024,” a free-to-play game that includes microtransactions and NFTs.

    Now that Sega has the Olympic Games rights, fans can look forward to Mario and Sonic at the Winter Olympics in 2026, which will take place in Italy, followed by a potential Summer Olympics game in Los Angeles. However, we will need to wait for an official announcement from Sega for confirmation.

    Recent Collaborations

    In addition to this new licensing deal, Sega recently worked with Puma to launch a Capsule Collection featuring three colorways showcasing Sonic, Tails, and Shadow.

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  • LEGO SEGA Genesis Controller Set Rumored for September Release

    LEGO SEGA Genesis Controller Set Rumored for September Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new LEGO gift-with-purchase set, numbered 40769, features a replica of the SEGA Genesis controller and will be available starting September 8, 2025, for purchases over €130 at selected LEGO stores.
    2. The set includes 260 LEGO pieces, targeted at adults aged 18 and over, making it appealing to retro gaming fans and collectors.
    3. The LEGO set showcases a true-to-size model of the SEGA Genesis controller, complete with a red LEGO stand and artwork featuring the Sonic the Hedgehog logo.
    4. The replica measures 15 by 10 centimeters and may include a mini version of Sonic’s Green Hill Zone, referencing the original 1991 game.
    5. This release is part of LEGO’s ongoing collaboration with SEGA, following previous Sonic-themed sets, and could coincide with another larger Sonic set in the future.

    Retro gaming fans and collectors have some exciting news coming their way, as a recent leak has generated buzz in the SEGA and LEGO communities. Online images reveal a new LEGO gift-with-purchase set numbered 40769, showcasing a LEGO brick replica of the famous SEGA Genesis controller, known as the SEGA Mega Drive in the UK.

    Release Date and Conditions

    According to various rumors floating around, this promotional item, themed around Sonic the Hedgehog, is set to be available starting September 8, 2025, for those who spend over €130 at selected LEGO stores.

    Set Details and Audience

    So far, it looks like the set will come with 260 LEGO pieces, catering specifically to adults aged 18 and over, which makes it an enticing option for collectors and fans of retro consoles alike.

    The leaked images display the LEGO box set featuring the classic three-button “A B C” layout of the SEGA Genesis controller, along with a striking red LEGO stand. Additionally, the promotional box artwork prominently displays the Sonic the Hedgehog logo in the lower right corner, alongside the SEGA Genesis and LEGO logos on the cover.

    Size and Special Features

    Reports indicate that the SEGA Genesis LEGO replica will measure 15 by 10 centimeters, making it a true-to-size model that would be a fantastic display piece for retro console lovers. More leaks hint that the front panel of the SEGA Genesis controller can be opened to reveal a mini version of Sonic the Hedgehog’s famed Green Hill Zone, possibly featuring a vibrant landscape with loops, nodding to the original 1991 Sonic the Hedgehog game.

    The SEGA Genesis launched in North America in 1989 and was referred to as the SEGA Mega Drive elsewhere. It sold an estimated 30.75 to 40 million units globally, with 20 million in the U.S. alone, making it SEGA’s most successful console. However, it didn’t quite match Nintendo’s SNES, which sold 49.1 million units worldwide.

    LEGO and SEGA Collaboration

    LEGO’s exploration into SEGA’s gaming legacy has been ongoing, with the company having released various Sonic-themed sets, including the 21331 Ideas Sonic The Hedgehog – Green Hill Zone, which also features minifigures.

    Rumors suggest that this GWP LEGO set could be released alongside another larger, yet-to-be-announced Sonic The Hedgehog set, but it’s wise to take these rumors lightly.

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