Sonic the Hedgehog, Sega's iconic mascot, is celebrating 35 years since the launch of its original game in 1991. The franchise has evolved from its 2D beginnings to a successful film series, which has collectively grossed over $1 billion at the global box office.
Takashi Iizuka, who joined Sega in 1992 and worked on Sonic 3, has served as the series producer for nearly two decades. He considers Sonic the Hedgehog 2, released in 1992, to be one of the best classic titles, noting the importance of its two-player mode.
Ivo Gerscovich, chief business and brand officer for Sonic the Hedgehog, highlighted the franchise's reach beyond gaming, citing the film series and partnerships like the ongoing collaboration with McLaren Racing as evidence of Sonic's broad appeal.
Iizuka also played a key role in the modernisation of the Sonic brand, taking creative lead on the Dreamcast open-world platformer Sonic Adventure. He emphasised the challenge and necessity of transitioning Sonic into a 3D gaming experience.