Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog is a 1991 platformer developed by Sega for the Mega Drive/Genesis. Players guide the speedy blue hedgehog through loop-filled, spring-laden zones, collecting rings and defeating the villainous Dr. Robotnik to free trapped animals.
The game was built around momentum and velocity, contrasting with the more methodical platformers of the era and showcasing the console's hardware with fast scrolling and colorful visuals. Its ring system doubled as a health mechanic, letting Sonic survive a hit as long as he held at least one ring, while special stages hidden behind giant rings offered the coveted Chaos Emeralds. Its catchy music and rollercoaster level design made Sonic an instant mascot and a fierce rival to Nintendo's Mario during the console wars.
Sonic became one of gaming's most recognizable characters, spawning sequels, spin-offs and media adaptations including films. The original is widely available today through official compilations, retro collections and digital re-releases on modern platforms.
Play it today
Modern alternatives to Sonic the Hedgehog, with the devices they run on and their price. Ordered editorially by how well each one stands in for the original, with community votes weighted in as they accumulate.
Prices, platform availability and Steam Deck compatibility can change at any time. Always check the store page before buying.
| Alternative | Price | Steam Deck | Runs on |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freedom Planet Indie | € 14,99 | Steam Deck Playable | PC, Mac, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch |
| Sonic Origins Plus | € 39,99 | Steam Deck Verified | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch |
| Sonic Mania | € 19,99 | Steam Deck Verified | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch |
| Sonic Superstars | € 39,99 | Steam Deck Verified | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch |
Freedom Planet Indie
€ 14,99A fast, colourful indie platformer clearly inspired by classic Sonic.
Freedom Planet runs on PC, Mac, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet.
Sonic Origins Plus
€ 39,99Remastered versions of the classic Sonic games in one collection.
Sonic Origins Plus runs on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet.
Sonic Mania
€ 19,99Made by fans turned professionals, this is the best modern 2D Sonic and the truest to the Mega Drive games.
Sonic Mania runs on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet.
Sonic Superstars
€ 39,99A new 2D Sonic with classic-style zones, four-player co-op and Emerald powers.
Sonic Superstars runs on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet.
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