Netflix, SEGA and WildBrain have announced a new animated Sonic the Hedgehog series titled Sonic Prime. The news lit up websites devoted to the iconic video game character.
The Vancouver-based studio of WildBrain is co-producing the 24 episode Netflix series. This will be the sixth animated series to feature the animated anthropomorphic blue speedster that launched as a Japanese video game character in 1991. Since then, Sonic has enjoyed a very successful career across numerous different platforms.
Sonic Prime is a 3D series scheduled for a 2022 premiere. The show will be geared toward children ages six to 11 years, but is certain to draw in long time fans of the enduring character’s adventures.
The Lower Mainland has been a busy centre for Sonic the Hedgehog action. The Sonic the Hedgehog feature film starring James Marsden, Ben Schwartz, Tika Sumpter and Jim Carrey was shot in Vancouver and on Vancouver Island. The sequel, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, is scheduled for an April 2, 2022, release. The 2020 film was the highest-grossing feature based on a video game in the U.S. and grossed over $310 million globally.
Netflix press release notes that the “”Blue Blur” of video game fame” is back for a fast-paced adventure involving the fate of a multiverse. It’s a story arc about self-discovery and redemption that fans can expect to be full of quick wit and wonderful imagery. Man of Action Entertainment — the creators of Ben 10 and Big Hero 6 — are the show runners and executive producers.
The Sonic the Hedgehog brand celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. The game has been consistently listed as one of the greatest of all time.