Sonic Mania is a Sega-published 2D side-scrolling platformer video Game created by Christian Whitehead, Headcannon, and PagodaWest Games. In August 2017, it was released on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. The Game commemorates the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise's 25th anniversary and is considered a return to form for the series, concentrating on traditional action and aesthetics while introducing new aspects.

Gameplay 

The Game concept focuses on running and leaping across stages while collecting rings and killing foes. There are 12 zones, each with two acts plus two extra steps. Players take control of one of three characters: Sonic, Tails, or Knuckles, each having their powers and play styles. In this Game, there are also new powerups and skills, as well as remixed renditions of popular levels from past Sonic games.

Plot

Sonic Mania's tale takes place after the actions of Sonic & Knuckles. It follows Sonic and his buddies as they journey across numerous zones and battles the nefarious Dr Eggman and his robotic minions. A colourful ensemble of characters, including returning favourites like Knuckles, Tails, Amy, and new foes and allies, populates the Game.

Key Featues

• Side-scrolling gameplay in 2D, with additional components and powerups.
• Each zone has two acts and two bonus stages.
• Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles are the three playable characters, each with their skills and play styles.
• Classic levels from earlier Sonic games have been remixed, as have new zones and stages.
• A diverse group of characters featuring returning favourites as well as new adversaries and friends
• A commemoration of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise's 25th anniversary.

The Game has many modes and bonuses in addition to direct action, such as a time attack mode, a competitive mode for up to four players, and unlockable material like artwork and music. The Game also has a full-fledged soundtrack, which includes remixed versions of classic Sonic tunes, new compositions, and a large cast of voice actors.

Here is a list of games in the Sonic franchise

• Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)
• Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992)
• Sonic the Hedgehog CD (1993)
• Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (1994)
• Sonic & Knuckles (1994)
• Sonic Drift (1994)
• Sonic the Hedgehog Triple Trouble (1994)
• Sonic the Fighters (1996)
• Sonic 3D Blast (1996)
• Sonic Adventure (1998)
• Sonic Adventure 2 (2001)
• Sonic Heroes (2003)
• Shadow the Hedgehog (2005)
• Sonic Rush (2005)
• Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)
• Sonic and the Secret Rings (2007)
• Sonic and the Black Knight (2009)
• Sonic Generations (2011)
• Sonic Lost World (2013)
• Sonic Forces (2017)
• Sonic Mania (2017)
• Sonic Team Racing (2019)

These are the major titles in the Sonic franchise; however, there are other spin-off games, such as the Sonic Pinball series, Sonic Battle, and Sonic Riders, as well as mobile device and handheld console adaptations.

In all, Sonic Mania is a homage to the legendary Sonic the Hedgehog games of the 1990s and a celebration of the franchise's 25th anniversary. With an emphasis on classic action, aesthetics, and new aspects and modes, the Game provides a nostalgic and thrilling experience for both series enthusiasts and novices.