Sonic Mania is a platform game developed by Christian Whitehead, PagodaWest Games, and Sonic Team, released in 2017. Celebrated as a love letter to the classic Sonic the Hedgehog titles of the 16-bit era, Sonic Mania combines nostalgic pixel art graphics with fast-paced, side-scrolling gameplay. Players can control iconic characters including Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles, as they traverse a variety of creatively designed levels filled with loops, ramps, and enemies reminiscent of classic Sonic games. The game features both new levels and remixed versions of classic levels from previous titles, bringing familiar yet fresh experiences to players.
The gameplay emphasizes speed and exploration, with a focus on collecting rings and defeating foes while navigating complex level designs. Sonic Mania also introduces new mechanics, such as the Drop Dash, allowing players to maintain momentum after jumping. Additionally, the game includes a time attack mode and local multiplayer, enabling players to compete with friends. With its captivating soundtrack, vibrant visuals, and refined mechanics, Sonic Mania has received critical acclaim and is regarded as a standout title in the Sonic franchise, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike.