Sonic X Shadow Generations: Everything We Know

Sega made a surprise appearance at Sony’s 2024 State of Play event, where they announced the return of Shadow the Hedgehog in Sonic X Shadow Generations. The new release is a remaster of the 2011 original version, Sonic Generations.  As a remake, Sonic X Shadow Generations will not only improve on the existing features but also introduce a new array of gameplay features.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is still under development and scheduled to launch soon. As expected, Sony released only enough information to keep fans excited and guessing. However, we have a good idea of what to expect. Highlights include new characters, new levels, improved graphics, and better gameplay. As we prepare to embrace the game upon its arrival, here is an overview of everything we know about Sonic X Shadow Generations.

Sonic X Shadow Generations Trailer

The Sonic X Shadow Generations trailer debuted during the State of Play event on February 1, 2024. While the trailer runs slightly over a minute, it features several scenes from various game levels. The trailer showcases the game’s existing stages based on the original version. Additionally, it also includes new stages based on Shadow’s campaign story. It also gives a quick glimpse into Shadow’s exclusive story.

The trailer starts with the Classic and Modern Sonic characters running through stages based on the original version. Shadow then makes a dramatic entry midway through the trailer. Notably, Shadow’s scenes feature better graphics depicting futuristic, sci-fi-themed stages. You can watch the official trailer on YouTube.

The Gameplay

As a remake of the original Sonic Generations, Sonic X Generations includes both 2D and 3D levels rolled over from the original version. Notably, the remastered levels feature better graphics, including 60 FPS gameplay. Moreover, they feature content that will make the game more interesting. These levels will feature the Classic and Modern Sonic characters.

However, the game also features brand-new content. Most notably, it includes a playable campaign based on Shadow’s story.

Shadow’s campaign story features Black Doom, Shadow’s old nemesis. The villain returns with a diabolical plan to take over the world and subject everyone to his evil rule. Fortunately, Shadow is there to save the world. To do this, he must return to his past to unlock new powers. However, he must confront painful memories and fight familiar enemies in the process.

Overall, Shadow’s story is parallel to Sonic’s. It is also worth noting that the game serves as a way for fans to catch up on the character’s backstory before the release of Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

Notably, all levels featuring Shadow appear to be in 3D only, featuring Shadow fighting robotic enemies and massive bosses. To this end, they showcase the game’s advanced graphics in the sci-fi-themed stages. Interestingly, some levels featuring Shadow are also remakes and remasters of select levels from other previous games, specifically Shadow the Hedgehog and Sonic Adventure 2. However, it is unclear how many new levels Shadow will have in the new game.

New Characters: Shadow the Hedgehog & Black Doom

Overall, Shadow is Sonic X Shadow Generations’ most notable and exciting feature. Shadow is Sonic the Hedgehog’s “frenemy” of sorts, mostly an arch-rival but also an occasional ally. Notably, he featured as a rival boss in Sonic Generations in a scene inspired by the iconic but controversial confrontation in Sonic Adventure 2. However, many fans felt Shadow’s appearance in Sonic Generations was light. To this end, seeing how significant a role he plays in the new game is delightful.

Gerald Robotnik created Shadow as the “Ultimate Lifeform” to help produce cures for incurable illnesses. However, G.U.N. deemed him a threat to humanity following his creation and put him into stasis. Interestingly, Shadow emerges from captivity in the coming film Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

It is worth noting that Sonic the Hedgehog 3 film will release in December 2024. To this end, the timing is strategic, considering that Shadow will play a pivotal role in the movie. Takashi Lizuka, the Sonic team’s creative officer, says this about Shadow’s incorporation into the game, “With Shadow’s portion of the title, players will get to know him more as a character and understand his motivations. It will create the ultimate celebration of Classic Sonic, Modern Sonic, and Shadow gameplay that all fans will surely enjoy.”

The game also features Black Doom, another noteworthy character in the game and the corresponding movie. He is a diabolical being with a burning ambition to take over the world and use humans as livestock for his minions. Interestingly, Gerald Robotnik used Black Doom’s DNA when creating Shadow. As such, the villain is technically Shadow’s father.

The Biolizard is also noteworthy in this game, serving as one of the big bad bosses. He was the first prototype of the Ultimate Life Form created by Gerald Robotnik. However, he turned out to be too dangerous and posed one of the biggest threats in Sonic X Shadow Generations.

Sonic X Shadow Generations Release Window

Sonic X Shadow Generations will launch sometime in the fall of 2024. Unfortunately, the developers haven’t been more specific than that. However, many gamers expect the game to come out in October this year, assuming no delays will emerge.

Sonic X Shadow Generations Platforms

Sonic X Shadow Generations will be available on all major gaming consoles and platforms. Most notably, it will be available on PlayStation (PS4 and PS5) and Xbox (Xbox One and Xbox Series S/X). Other available platforms include Nintendo Switch, Steam, and Epic Games.

Sonic Generations was only available on PC, limiting gamers’ preferences. However, Sonic X Shadow Generations is versatile and compatible with various platforms. Interestingly, information on the Shadow Generations official website suggests that the new game will launch on all platforms at the same time.

So, what’s your take on our overview of Sonic X Shadow Generations? What aspect of the game are you looking forward to the most? Do you have other insights you would like to share? Let us know on our socials here or down in the comments below.