Sega celebrated Sonic the Hedgehog's 35th anniversary with a special livestream on June 24, 2026, unveiling several new releases, including a definitive edition of Sonic Frontiers for the Nintendo Switch 2, two physical game collections, and a nostalgic cartridge re-release of the first two Sonic games. However, the cartridge re-release poses a significant issue for UK fans: the cartridges are only compatible with NTSC Sega Genesis consoles, making them mere collector's items for those with PAL Mega Drive systems.
Sonic Frontiers Definitive Edition for Switch 2
The first announcement, which had been widely leaked, was Sonic Frontiers: Definitive Edition for the Nintendo Switch 2. This version features improved graphics and performance over the original Switch release and includes all previously released DLC, a digital art book, and a mini soundtrack. It is available immediately both digitally and as a physical Game-Key card. However, existing Sonic Frontiers owners on Switch face a drawback: there is no upgrade path to the Switch 2 version, meaning they must pay £44.99 to access the enhancements and extras.
Physical Game Collections for Switch
Sega also announced two physical Sonic game collections exclusively for the Switch, launching in October 2026. The Classic Sonic Collection bundles Sonic Origins, Sonic Mania, and Sonic Superstars. The Modern Sonic Collection includes Sonic Frontiers, Sonic Colours: Ultimate, and Sonic Forces. Both collections come with a Sonic 35th anniversary reversible coversheet and logo patch. While UK pricing has not been confirmed, the US price is $49.99, suggesting a UK price of approximately £44.99.
Legacy Cartridge Collection: A Collector's Dilemma
The final announcement was a special re-release of the first two Sonic games on the Mega Drive. The Sonic The Hedgehog (35th Anniversary) – Legacy Cartridge Collection features a translucent cartridge shell, a colour instruction booklet with restored artwork, and a foldout foil box. A separate Legacy Cartridge Collection is available for Sonic The Hedgehog 2. Sold by iam8bit for $99.99 each, the first wave of orders is set to ship in Q3 2026. While iam8bit ships to the UK (at an additional cost), the cartridges are only compatible with NTSC Sega Genesis consoles, rendering them non-functional on UK PAL Mega Drive systems without a US console. Iam8bit has previously released similar legacy cartridges for titles like Street Fighter 2, Mega Man 2, Earthworm Jim, Disney's Aladdin, and Disney's The Lion King.
Sales Performance and Future Outlook
Amid these announcements, Sega recently reported that both Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds and Shinobi: Art Of Vengeance fell below sales expectations, despite positive critical reception. Meanwhile, Sonic Frontiers has sold 4.94 million copies since its 2022 launch, making it the highest-selling 3D Sonic game ever. According to Sega, a sequel is practically inevitable, though its development appears to be taking time.
