SEGA and IDW Are Teaming Up to Celebrate 30 Years of SONIC THE HEDGEHOG
Sonic the Hedgehog is celebrating 30 years this year, and SEGA of America is teaming up with IDW for the occasion. Hitting shelves this October, Sonic the Hedgehog 30th Anniversary Special is an 80-page comic book featuring three stories of the colorful heroes and villains that fans love. David Mariotte of IDW said:
We're celebrating a major milestone for the world's coolest hedgehog, so we needed creators who could capture the vibrant comedy and action of Sonic in style. The 30th Anniversary Special features possibly the greatest creative lineup ever assembled on a single issue of Sonic!
The first story is called “Seasons of Chaos” and comes from the talented Ian Flynn, Aaron Hammerstrom, and Reggie Graham. The story “sends Sonic on a mission from pleasant spring valleys to winter wonderlands in search of Chaos Emeralds alongside his friends Miles “Tails” Prower, Knuckles the Echidna, Amy Rose, Mighty the Armadillo, and Ray the Flying Squirrel.” Flynn shared:
Sonic has been central to my creative career for fifteen years. I've had the pleasure of writing the little blue hedgehog in a variety of media, and he in turn has introduced me to an army of artists and editors who have helped me grow as a professional (and made me look good). I've had a long run with Sonic, and I hope that continues for years to come!
The second story is “Dr. Eggman’s Birthday,” and to no one’s surprise, focuses on the iconic villain. It is created by Gale Galligan (The Babysitters Club) and Thomas Rothlisberger. Galligan’s excitement was shared with the following statement:
When my sister and I were little, we borrowed the Sonic the Hedgehog OVA from our local video library and proceeded to watch it about a billion times. I still remember quoting it back and forth with her for weeks after that! Sonic has held a special place in my heart ever since. I'm thrilled to be able to contribute to the 30th Anniversary Special, and I can't wait to send my sister a copy!
The final story in the Sonic the Hedgehog 30th Anniversary Special is “Sonic Learns to Drive” by Justin, Travis, and Griffin McElroy (The Adventure Zone) and Mauro Fonseca. “Sonic's up against a tough challenge: when the fastest thing alive can outrun any car, will Sonic have the patience to learn what to do behind the wheel... or will he finally get left in the dust?” I’m really confused as to why Sonic is learning how to drive, but that makes me really want to read it and understand what’s happening.
IDW will also be releasing a Deluxe Edition for $19.99 that features a cover gallery, a “From Script to Comic” feature, another story by Galligan, and much more. Fans will be able to pick up Sonic the Hedgehog 30th Anniversary Special on October 5.
In addition, on June 22, IDW will be releasing Sonic the Hedgehog: The IDW Collection Volume 1 for $59.99 to kick off a “new line of oversized hardcover editions that will encompass the ongoing series, annuals, and mini-series in the recommended reading order.” The first volume includes Sonic the Hedgehog #1-12 with the complete “Fallout,” “The Fate of Dr. Eggman” and “Battle for Angel Island” story arcs for fans to enjoy.