Ever since the transition to 3D, Sonic titles have strayed away from focusing on the blue hedgehog himself. With Project Needlemouse, Sega is making a much-welcomed return to the basics, confirming today that Sonic will indeed be the only playable  character in the upcoming 2D outing.

Step one is complete. Now the next task is retaining the fast-paced gameplay and charm of past Sonic installments from the Genesis era. It’s easier said than done, honestly, but assuming Sega still has a whiff of platforming magic in them, then it is almost a given that this outing will mark a return to form for the series. All the pieces are falling into place, Sonic fans.

Project Needlemouse is due out later this year on unspecified platforms.

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