Developer : Sega
Release date : November 1991
Synopsis :
Sonic the Hedgehog is a 1991 side-scrolling platform video game and companion to the 16-bit Sega Genesis game of the same name for the 8-bit Game Gear and Master System consoles. Ancient—a studio founded by composer Yuzo Koshiro for the project—developed the game and Sega published it to promote the handheld Game Gear. The 8-bit Sonic is similar in style to its 16-bit predecessor, but reduced in complexity to fit the 8-bit systems. It was later released through Sonic game compilations and Nintendo’s Virtual Console.
The premise and story of the 8-bit Sonic are identical to that of the 16-bit game: as the anthropomorphic hedgehog Sonic, the player must race through levels to rescue the imprisoned animals Doctor Robotnik plots to turn into robots. Gameplay is similar as well; Sonic collects rings while avoiding obstacles, but is paced slightly slower as the 8-bit version focuses more on exploration. While some level themes, such as Green Hill Zone, are borrowed from the 16-bit game, others are original. It also features a different soundtrack from Koshiro, which consists of rearranged versions of Masato Nakamura’s tracks for the 16-bit game and new material.
Reviewers acclaimed the 8-bit Sonic for its level variety, visuals, gameplay, and audio. Many believed that it compared favorably to its 16-bit counterpart, although some criticism was directed at its low difficulty and short length. Game journalists retrospectively considered it one of the best Game Gear and Master System games. The game spawned several sequels, beginning with Sonic the Hedgehog 2 in 1992. It was also Ancient’s first game and the only Sonic game they would develop.
Source : Wikipedia
