Sega celebrated Sonic the Hedgehog's 35th anniversary with a livestream that unveiled several new products, including a special cartridge re-release of the first two Sonic games. However, UK fans face a major compatibility issue: the cartridges only work with NTSC Sega Genesis consoles, not PAL Mega Drive systems.
Sonic Frontiers Definitive Edition for Switch 2
The first announcement was Sonic Frontiers Definitive Edition for the Nintendo Switch 2, which had been widely leaked. This version features improved graphics and performance over the original Switch release, includes all previously released DLC, a digital art book, and a mini soundtrack. It is available now digitally and as a physical Game-Key card. However, existing Sonic Frontiers owners on Switch must purchase the full game again at £44.99, as there is no upgrade path.
Physical Collections for Switch
Sega also announced two physical Sonic game collections exclusive to Switch. 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 bundles launch in October 2026, priced at $49.99 in the US (likely £44.99 in the UK), and come with a reversible coversheet and logo patch.
Legacy Cartridge Collection
The final announcement was the Sonic The Hedgehog (35th Anniversary) – Legacy Cartridge Collection, sold by iam8bit for $99.99. It includes a translucent cartridge shell, a colour instruction booklet with restored artwork, and a foldout foil box. A separate collection for Sonic The Hedgehog 2 is also available. First wave orders ship in Q3 2026. While iam8bit ships to the UK, the cartridges are only compatible with NTSC Sega Genesis consoles, rendering them collector's items for UK Mega Drive owners. iam8bit has previously released similar legacy cartridges for Street Fighter 2, Mega Man 2, Earthworm Jim, Disney's Aladdin, and Disney's The Lion King.
Sega's Sales Challenges
Despite the festivities, Sega recently reported that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds and Shinobi: Art Of Vengeance fell below sales expectations, despite positive reviews. Meanwhile, Sonic Frontiers has sold 4.94 million copies since its 2022 launch, making it the highest-selling 3D Sonic game ever. A sequel is expected but has not been officially announced.
