Takashi Iizuka, the general producer of the Sonic the Hedgehog series, has confirmed that a new entry in the series is currently in development, though specific details cannot be revealed at this time. Marking Sonic's 35th anniversary, he also stated that the team will continue to advance both the classic 2D and modern 3D paths going forward.
This new title was neither announced nor showcased at Tokyo Game Show 2026, where the Sega booth primarily offered demos and collaborative displays for Hyde and Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds. During the event, Iizuka reflected on the series' 35-year history and discussed Sonic's future direction.
Iizuka believes there is still significant room for evolution within the Sonic series. The Color Powers introduced in Sonic Colors significantly changed the series' gameplay, and the system direction pioneered by Sonic Frontiers still has potential for further development. The team aims to find new gameplay elements through characters, story, and game systems.
Regarding the future of the series, Iizuka stated that the team is pursuing not just technical improvements, but also the simultaneous development of both the classic 2D and modern 3D lines. Sonic Superstars represents the classic 2D direction, while Sonic Frontiers opened up new possibilities for 3D gameplay, and both paths will continue to be cultivated.
Looking back on past titles, Iizuka mentioned Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Sonic Adventure, and Sonic Frontiers. Sonic Adventure was tasked with transitioning the series from 2D to 3D action, with the team addressing the presentation of high-speed movement by redesigning the camera system; Sonic Frontiers explored new developmental directions for the series through its "Open Zone" concept.
Iizuka also noted that the series will continue to release content targeted at players in Japan and Asia. In addition to the new game currently in development, the fourth Sonic movie is scheduled for release in March 2027, and Netflix plans to launch a new children's animated series.