SEGA and IDW Are Collaborating to Celebrate 30 Years of SONIC THE HEDGEHOG

Sonic the Hedgehog is celebrating 30 years of the game, and SEGA of America is joining forces with IDW for the occasion. Hitting shelves this October, Sonic the Hedgehog 30th Anniversary Special is an 80-page comic book that comes with 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!

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. You can get the Sonic the Hedgehog 30th Anniversary Special on October 5.