SEGA Europe Ltd. and SEGA of America, Inc. has revealed that the recently teased Project Needlemouse is in fact Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I, the first game developed specifically for the download market from the world’s fastest hedgehog. Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I will be available via download on Microsoft Xbox LIVE Arcade, PlayStation Network and WiiWare, with a fourth platform yet to be revealed.

Arriving nearly two decades after the cherished first Sonic the Hedgehog title, Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I follows in the footsteps of it’s early 90’s predecessors. Offering fast-paced 2D Platform gameplay in all-new high-definition (HD) environments, fans will be able to speed through each level with the classic Spin Dash move and destroy enemies using the Homing Attack. Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I sees the return of the much-loved special stages and takes players through a variety of different Zones, all inspired by the original Mega-Drive releases.

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I will continue the story of the original Sonic the Hedgehog series, taking place after the events of Sonic & Knuckles. With the Death Egg finally destroyed, and Angel Island back in the sky, Sonic decides it's time to take a break and heads off to explore a new territory on his own. However unbeknownst to Sonic, Eggman (formerly known as Dr. Robotnik) has also survived their last encounter, and has begun taking measures to rid himself of our hero.

It’s no secret that fans of SEGA’s most beloved mascot have been asking for a 2D follow-up for some time, with the Nintendo DS release Sonic Rush achieving much greater critical acclaim than any of the recent 3D efforts. Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I not only marks the debut of the Sonic the Hedgehog 2D series in HD, but also shows SEGA’s willingness to listen to their fans.

“Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I is a return to the classic game style of the original Sonic games” commented Gary Knight, European Marketing Director SEGA Europe Ltd.  “It’s great to be able to offer fans of the Sonic series the type of game they have been asking for in a high-definition experience.”

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I will be available in Summer 2010 for Xbox LIVE Arcade, PlayStation Network and WiiWare, and Electronic Theatre will keep you updated with all the latest details on this exciting prospect, and other forthcoming releases from SEGA.

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