L'histoire derriere la creation de Sonic the Hedgehog

The Story Behind the Creation of Sonic the Hedgehog

October 19, 2024

998 mots | Temps de lecture : 4 minute(s)

Sonic the Hedgehog is one of the most iconic video game characters in the world. Created by Sega in the 90s, Sonic quickly took the video game industry by storm, becoming the brand's mascot and a symbol of speed and adventure . But how did this blue hedgehog come to be? Let's take a look back at the fascinating story of Sonic's creation.

Sega's Need for a Mascot

In the late 1980s, Sega was in direct competition with Nintendo , which dominated the console market with its NES and its flagship character, Mario . To compete, Sega sought to create a mascot as recognizable and iconic as Mario, who could symbolize the company's identity and attract gamers.

Sega president Hayao Nakayama asked his development team to design a character that could rival Mario. Several ideas were proposed, including an armadillo , a dog , and even a rabbit that could stretch. But the idea of a blue hedgehog , proposed by artist Naoto Ohshima , was ultimately chosen.

Sonic's Design

Naoto Ohshima , in collaboration with programmer Yuji Naka and designer Hirokazu Yasuhara , designed Sonic in 1990. The choice of a blue hedgehog was not insignificant: the blue matched the Sega logo, and the hedgehog, an unexpected animal for a video game hero, had the advantage of being able to roll into a ball to attack his enemies, an idea that appealed to the designers.

Sonic's design evolved to be both attractive and bold. He was meant to embody a cool , rebellious attitude, contrasting with the more friendly and approachable Mario character. Sonic wore red shoes inspired by Michael Jackson 's, and his wide-open eyes reflected an energetic and determined personality.

The development of the first Sonic game

After finalizing Sonic's design, the team set about creating a game that would live up to this new mascot. Programmer Yuji Naka , who had a passion for speed , wanted the game to be fast and fluid , unlike many games of the time that were slower and more methodical. This concept of speed became the basis for what would make Sonic the Hedgehog a success.

The first Sonic the Hedgehog game was released in 1991 for the Sega Genesis (or Mega Drive outside North America). The game offered revolutionary gameplay with levels that emphasized speed and reflexes , while being filled with vibrant colors and catchy music. The first level, Green Hill Zone , became instantly iconic thanks to its steep slopes and the blazing speeds Sonic could achieve.

An immediate success

The launch of Sonic the Hedgehog was an immediate success . Within a short time, Sonic had become a worldwide phenomenon , establishing Sega as a serious competitor to Nintendo. Sonic's popularity helped Sega sell millions of Sega Genesis consoles, establishing Sonic as the brand's official mascot.

Sonic not only conquered the video game market, but he also became a cultural icon . His merchandise, such as comics, animated series, and even toys, helped solidify his place in the entertainment industry . Sega finally had its flagship character, capable of competing with Mario.

Sonic's evolutions over the years

Over the years, Sonic has evolved with new games, spin-offs , and adaptations into other media. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 was released in 1992 , introducing the character Tails , and Sonic 3 in 1994 , which added new gameplay elements and characters like Knuckles .

Sonic's transition to 3D , particularly with 1998 's Sonic Adventure , was a watershed moment. This game allowed fans to see Sonic in a new light, with a more open world, new challenges, and a richer story. While this phase was marked by a variety of attempts, some successful, others less so, Sonic has maintained its popularity.

Sonic's comeback in the 2010s with titles like Sonic Generations showed that the character still held a special place in gamers' hearts. And in 2020 , the Sonic the Hedgehog movie rekindled interest in the franchise, attracting a new generation of fans while pleasing old ones.

Why did Sonic make video game history?

Sonic the Hedgehog 's success was based on several key elements: a unique and memorable character, speed- driven gameplay, and an unforgettable soundtrack . In addition to his technical prowess, Sonic embodied the spirit of the 90s with his rebellious attitude and quirky style, making him instantly popular with younger gamers.

Sonic not only helped Sega thrive in the 90s, but he also redefined what a video game mascot could be. More than just a character, Sonic became a symbol of freedom , boldness , and speed —values that continue to captivate gamers today.

Conclusion

The creation of Sonic the Hedgehog was the result of Sega's desire to stand out in the video game market and create a character that would embody a new generation of players. Thanks to the imagination of Naoto Ohshima , Yuji Naka and Hirokazu Yasuhara , Sonic became a global icon that marked the history of video games and continues to be celebrated by millions of fans around the world.

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