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Project Needlemouse Is Sonic 4 Episode 1
Finally the curtain has been drawn back! Project Needlemouse is, in fact, Sonic the Hedgehog 4 Episode 1. This 2D side-scrolling downloadable title is a return to Sonic’s roots, a true sequel to Sonic the Hedgehog 3 & Knuckles. Pretty much everyone is invited to the return of Sega’s mascot, as the game is hitting the Wii, PS3, and 360 this summer.
Sonic has always been about speed, but it’s no mystery that the blue blur’s sprint into 3D-platforming came a little prematurely. With the strong downloadable market allowing less technically-demanding games to see the light of day, now is the perfect time for Sonic to return to the fundamentals that made the series great. Sega has even launched a brand new site for the game that will be rolling out more news periodically.
Sega associate brand manager Ken Balough recently revealed to GameSpot that though Sonic 4 will have HD graphics, the gameplay is all old school. Expect all of Sonic’s old tricks such as the spin dash and power sneakers to return in all their glory. Additionally, the Wii and PS3 versions (think Sixaxis) will incorporate motion control.
As previously hinted, the first zone of the game looks a lot like Green Hill Zone, which is a good thing. Dr. Eggman (still want to call him Robotnik) returns with his look from the more recent games. Sonic also retains the makeover he's had since Sonic Adventure, complete with green eyes. I remember when Sonic just had black eyes... you can't have it all, I guess.
I couldn’t be more excited for my favorite childhood video game character start to reclaim his lost glory. We’ve been through some dark times, buddy, but I’m happy as hell you’re back!
Source: Sega Blog
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