Sega Producer Expresses Interest in Sonic '06 Remake Amid Surge of Sonic Game Revivals

Sega is riding high off the successful launch of Sonic X Shadow Generations, which debuted to considerable fanfare last month across multiple platforms, including the Nintendo Switch.

As the blue blur enjoys renewed popularity, attention has turned to the publisher's approach to reviving beloved classics from its storied past.

With recent successes and growing community demand, speculation is rife about which Sonic game might be next in line for a modern remake or remaster. During a recent Sonic fan event in Indonesia, Shun Nakamura, the producer behind several titles in the Sonic franchise, participated in a panel discussion focused on the future of the series.

When asked about the potential for remakes or remasters of older games such as Sonic the Hedgehog 2006 (commonly known as Sonic '06), Sonic Heroes, and the original Sonic Adventure titles, Nakamura emphasized the enduring appeal of both legacy and new Sonic releases. In recounting the developer conversation, Nakamura reiterated his personal desire to see a full remake of Sonic '06, highlighting the title’s unique place in franchise history.

Although maligned at launch for technical issues, Sonic '06 has developed a cult following over the years, and Nakamura's remarks indicate a willingness to re-explore this controversial entry with modern hardware and sensibilities.

"Older and newer Sonic games continue to captivate fans, and a reimagining of past installments remains something I'd personally like to see pursued," Nakamura said according to event attendees. Kazuyuki Hoshino, creative director and character supervisor at Sonic Team, joined Nakamura in acknowledging the importance of Sonic’s history in shaping future projects.

Hoshino commented that the team intends to draw inspiration from previous titles as development continues, a sentiment that aligns with recent statements from Sega regarding their commitment to honoring the franchise's heritage. Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka recently echoed similar sentiments in an interview, affirming that the studio is open to considering fan requests for potential remakes or remasters.

Iizuka stated, "If fans have particular Sonic titles they would like to see return, we definitely take that feedback seriously." More recently, he also expressed an openness to the idea of remastering entries from the Sonic Advance series, which originally launched on handheld hardware. Sonic X Shadow Generations' robust initial performance underscores the vitality of classic gaming IPs when thoughtfully modernized, especially on platforms like the Nintendo Switch and through avenues such as the Nintendo eShop.

Sega's ongoing engagement with the fan community and willingness to revisit past entries bodes well for Sonic’s continued evolution on current-generation hardware.

While no official confirmation exists regarding remakes of Sonic '06 or other legacy titles, Sega’s leadership remains attuned to fan interest and industry trends. With a rich back catalog and an enthusiastic audience, Sega’s Sonic Team is well-positioned to leverage its heritage, ensuring that classic Sonic adventures continue to find new life with modern gamers.

Nintendo Sega Sonic '06 Shun Nakamura Sonic Nintendo Switch Switch