Unveiled: Sonic Fan Game Echoes Sonic Mania's Spirit

Sonic Galactic: A Sonic Mania-Inspired Fan Game

Sonic Galactic, a fan-made title from Starteam, evokes the spirit of Sonic Mania, captivating players with its pixel art and classic Sonic gameplay. This homage to the beloved 2017 title delivers a fresh experience for fans yearning for more of that retro charm.

The game’s active development, spanning at least four years since its 2020 SAGEX debut, showcases a dedication to crafting an authentic retro feel. Drawing inspiration from the Genesis era, Sonic Galactic imagines a potential 32-bit Sonic title, perhaps even a Sega Saturn release.

The latest demo (released early 2025), expands on the classic Sonic experience. Players can control Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles across new zones. Joining the trio are two new playable characters: Fang the Sniper (from Sonic Triple Trouble) seeking revenge against Dr. Eggman, and Tunnel the Mole, a newcomer hailing from Illusion Island.

Each character boasts unique pathways within each zone, mirroring Sonic Mania's design. Special stages maintain the Mania feel, challenging players to collect rings within a time limit in 3D environments. While a complete playthrough of Sonic's levels takes roughly an hour, the demo offers several hours of gameplay across all characters.

In short, Sonic Galactic provides a compelling experience for fans of pixel art, classic Sonic gameplay, and those seeking a spiritual successor to Sonic Mania. Its innovative character additions and level design make it a worthwhile entry in the ever-growing library of Sonic fan games.