Sega is commemorating the 35th anniversary of its beloved character, Sonic the Hedgehog, with a unique 35-track mixtape featuring a diverse array of global music artists. The playlist, available on Spotify, includes well-known songs from acts such as Daft Punk, Muse, and Dua Lipa, alongside classics from AC/DC and Eiffel 65.
The original Sonic the Hedgehog game made its debut on the Sega Mega Drive on June 23, 1991. To mark this significant milestone, Sega announced the custom playlist on social media, encouraging fans to "Keep the party going with the all-new Sonic 35th Birthday Mix on Spotify with tracks fit for the Blue Blur himself." The selection aims to capture the fast-paced and energetic spirit of the iconic blue character.
Among the notable inclusions in the 35-track compilation are Dua Lipa's 'Levitating', Muse's 'Knights Of Cydonia', and Daft Punk's 'One More Time'. Other artists featured range from The White Stripes with 'Seven Nation Army' to Gorillaz's 'Feel Good Inc.' and the instantly recognisable 'Blue (Da Ba Dee)' by Eiffel 65, a track synonymous with the colour of Sonic himself. The playlist also incorporates some of Sega's own sound team contributions, such as 'Escape From The City', blending game-specific music with mainstream hits.
Beyond the digital mixtape, Sega has outlined further celebrations for the character's enduring legacy. A 'Sonic Live In Concert' tour is scheduled to begin later this year and continue into 2027. This tour promises to showcase some of the most recognisable music from 35 years of Sonic games, performed by a live ensemble, rock musicians, and vocalists, offering fans a unique auditory experience.
For those looking for a more active way to celebrate, a 10km run through central London has also been organised, allowing fans to emulate Sonic's famous speed in a real-world setting. These multifaceted celebrations highlight Sonic the Hedgehog's continued cultural relevance and appeal to generations of gamers and music enthusiasts.