Difference between revisions of "Sonic Team"

From Sega Retro
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The '''Sonic Team''', best known as the main developers of the ''[[Sonic:Games Featuring Sonic the Hedgehog|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' franchise, is one of [[SEGA]]'s most beloved and well-known creatives. Originally known as '''Sega Consumer Department #3''' or just '''AM8''' the development team is one of the longest running within the company, with over 50 titles credited to them. Currently run by [[Takashi Iizuka]], the team is still an active driving force both creatively and financially for [[SEGA]].
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'''Sonic Team''', originally known as '''Sega Consumer Department #3''' or '''AM8''', is best known as the main developers of the ''[[Sonic:Games Featuring Sonic the Hedgehog|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' franchise. The development team is one of the longest running within the company, with over 50 titles credited to them. Currently run by [[Takashi Iizuka]], the team is still an active force both creatively and financially for [[Sega]].
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
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===Origins and Early Successes (1990-1997)===
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===1990-1997===
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Back in 1990, SEGA had one goal in mind - to create a game that would rival ''Super Mario Bros.'' and put the company on the map. The earliest members of the team, [[Naoto Ohshima]] and [[Yuji Naka]], worked together to create a proposal to pitch to SEGA as to what that game would be. The pair, having previously worked on the ''[[Phantasy Star]]'' series together, set off to work on a concept they hoped would become successful, Ohshima creating the [[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog|title character]] while Naka began work on the engine. With the proposal accepted, work soon began on the original ''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog (16-bit)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'', with [[Hirokazu Yasuhara]] being brought on to lead game development, merging the elements that already existed with the level designs that would help insure the game not only appeal to the largest audience possible, but be fun as well. Through the many [[sonic:Game Development:Sonic the Hedgehog (16-bit)|twists and turns of development]], the game was finally set to be released, the 15-strong team dubbing themselves "Sonic Team," after the work they were proud to call their own.
+
Back in 1990, Sega had one goal in mind - to create a game that would rival ''[[wikipedia:Super Mario Bros.|Super Mario Bros.]]'' and put the company on the map. The call went out internally to create a mascot character to replace [[Alex Kidd]], who was the de-facto mascot during the [[Sega Master System|Master System]] years. Among the many development teams who began conceiving proposals was the newly formed AM8, which included  [[Naoto Ohshima]] and [[Yuji Naka]]. Having previously worked on the ''[[Phantasy Star]]'' series together, the pair set off to create the concept that would evolve into the original ''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog (16-bit)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]''. With Ohshima creating the [[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog|title character]] and Naka working on the engine, [[Hirokazu Yasuhara]] was brought on to lead game development after the project was approved by the company. Through the many [[sonic:Game Development:Sonic the Hedgehog (16-bit)|twists and turns of development]], the game was finally set to be released, the 15-strong team dubbing themselves "Sonic Team," after the work they were proud to call their own.
  
−
After the international success of the game, Naka, who had grown restless with upper management at Sega of Japan, left the company only to be rehired by its western branch in the form of the [[Sega Technical Institute]], wooed by its original head [[Mark Cerny]]. Coming to America along with Yasuhara (who had been scheduled to become a part of STI before ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' had begun development), the pair would go on to continue the main line of Sonic the Hedgehog titles, albeit without the Sonic Team moniker. ''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (16-bit)|Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'', ''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 3|Sonic 3]]'', and ''[[sonic:Sonic & Knuckles|Sonic & Knuckles]]'' would retroactively be called Sonic Team productions, still containing core members of the original development team of the first. This same retroactive naming scheme would hold true of other titles of the era, including the Ohshima-led ''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog CD|Sonic the Hedgehog CD]]'', the ill-fated ''[[sonic:Knuckles' Chaotix|Chaotix]]'', and the non-Sonic title ''[[Ristar]]'', which ended up using some of the scrapped concepts of the original ''Sonic the Hedgehog''.
+
With the title becoming an international success, Naka, who had grown restless with upper management at Sega of Japan, left the company only to be rehired by the [[Sega Technical Institute]], wooed by its original head [[Mark Cerny]]. Coming to America along with Yasuhara (who had been scheduled to become a part of STI before ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' had begun development), the pair would go on to continue the main line of ''Sonic'' titles that would define the Mega Drive's library. Though no longer in the game's credits, the Sonic Team moniker would live on the Japanese packaging for ''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (16-bit)|Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'', ''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 3|Sonic 3]]'', ''[[sonic:Sonic & Knuckles|Sonic & Knuckles]]'', and the Ohshima-led ''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog CD|Sonic CD]]'' developed in Japan.
  
−
After the completion of ''Sonic & Knuckles'', Yasuhara chose to remain in America, while Naka decided to return to Japan, re-hired into the fold of Sega of Japan. Once there, he teamed back up with Ohshima, the two setting their sights on an entirely new project. Resurrecting the Sonic Team moniker, Naka became the president of AM8 in 1994, the reunited duo starting work on ''[[NiGHTS Into Dreams]]''. With a much larger team than what they had back in 1991, members of the Japanese side of the Sega Technical Institute also became involved in the production. Among them was [[Takashi Iizuka]], who had gotten his official start as a Senior Game Designer in ''[[sonic:Sonic 3 & Knuckles|Sonic 3 & Knuckles]]''. With old and new blood, Sonic Team defined their Saturn-era work by proving they weren't afraid to try new ideas and concepts, as shown not only by ''NiGHTS'' but their follow-up title, ''[[Burning Rangers]]''. The only Sonic-related output was the compilation title ''[[sonic:Sonic Jam|Sonic Jam]]'', along with some supervised work on ''[[sonic:Sonic 3D: Flickies' Island|Flickies' Island]]'' and ''[[sonic:Sonic R|Sonic R]]''. Though he would remain with the company until 2002, ''Sonic R'' was also the last title series director Yasuhara had any direct involvement with, eventually departing to work for game studio Naughty Dog.
+
After the completion of ''Sonic & Knuckles'', Yasuhara chose to remain in America, while Naka returned to Sega of Japan to become the president of AM8. Once there, he teamed back up with Ohshima, the two resurrecting the Sonic Team moniker to work on a new project that had nothing to do with their namesake, ''[[NiGHTS Into Dreams]]''. With most members of the Japanese side of STI returning to their native land, AM8 was a far bigger team than what they had back in 1991. Among those to return was [[Takashi Iizuka]], who had gotten his official start as a Senior Game Designer in ''[[sonic:Sonic 3 & Knuckles|Sonic 3 & Knuckles]]''. With old and new blood, Sonic Team wanted their Saturn-era work to show they weren't afraid to try new ideas and concepts, as demonstrated not only by ''NiGHTS'' but their follow-up title, ''[[Burning Rangers]]''. The only Sonic-related output was the compilation ''[[sonic:Sonic Jam|Sonic Jam]]'', along with some supervised work on ''[[sonic:Sonic 3D: Flickies' Island|Flickies' Island]]'' and ''[[sonic:Sonic R|Sonic R]]''. Though he would remain with the company until 2002, ''Sonic R'' was also the last Sonic Team-related production Yasuhara had any direct involvement with, eventually departing to work for game studio Naughty Dog.
  
−
===The Dreamcast Era (1998-2001)===
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===1998-2001===
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Looking to redefine what made them famous, Sonic Team returned to their namesake as the 32-bit era wound down. Though originally meant for the [[Sega Saturn]], ''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure|Sonic Adventure]]'' would instead become one of the defining games for the [[Sega Dreamcast]], in one final bid by SEGA as a whole to return to the successes they once felt in the early 90's. Though met with critical acclaim, it also happened to be the last title Ohshima worked on with SEGA, leaving the company to form his own gaming studio, [[Artoon]].
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In the twilight moments of the 32-bit era, Sonic Team decided to return to their namesake to create the first fully 3D ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' title. Though initial development began on [[Sega Saturn]] hardware, ''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure|Sonic Adventure]]'' would instead become one of the flagship video games for the [[Sega Dreamcast]], in one final bid by Sega as a whole to return to the successes they once felt in the early 90's. Met with critical acclaim, it was also the last title Ohshima worked on with the team, leaving the company to form his own gaming studio, [[Artoon]].
  
−
Though interested in pursuing other projects but knowing the demand for further games featuring Sonic, 12 members of the team were sent back to San Francisco to form Sonic Team USA, led by Takashi Iizuka. Those that remained in Japan were led by Yuji Naka, that team focusing on original titles such as ''[[Chu Chu Rocket]]'', ''[[Samba De Amigo]]'', and the return of the ''Phantasy Star'' series with ''[[Phantasy Star Online]]''. Sonic Team USA, on the other hand, focused primarily with Sonic. Though their first official assignment was simply making sure ''Sonic Adventure'' was ready for a western release, the real reason they came into existence was made clear with 2001's ''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure 2|Sonic Adventure 2]]''. Though hopes were high, the game was not enough to change the troubles the rest of the company were having.  
+
Though interested in pursuing other projects but knowing the demand for further games featuring Sonic, 12 members of the team were sent back to San Francisco to form Sonic Team USA, led by Takashi Iizuka. Those that remained in Japan were directed by Yuji Naka, that team focusing on original titles such as ''[[Chu Chu Rocket]]'', ''[[Samba De Amigo]]'', and the return of the ''Phantasy Star'' series with ''[[Phantasy Star Online]]''. Sonic Team USA, on the other hand, focused primarily with Sonic. Though their first official assignment was simply making sure ''Sonic Adventure'' was ready for a western release, the real reason they came into existence was made clear with 2001's ''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure 2|Sonic Adventure 2]]''. It was also around this time that Sonic Team began their long-term partnership with [[Dimps]], who worked to create ''[[sonic:Sonic Pocket Adventure|Sonic Pocket Adventure]]'', and become involved in nearly every handheld Sonic title that would follow.
  
−
In April 2000, as SEGA began feeling the financial woes they hoped the Dreamcast would have erased, the decision was made to have the main development departments of SEGA, including Sonic Team, become semi-autonomous. Becoming Sonic Team Ltd, the group continued in earnest to create quality games. But even this corporate action and the impending release of ''Sonic Adventure 2'' could not stop SEGA from announcing their decision to drop out of the hardware market, ''[[Phantasy Star Online Ver. 2]]'' becoming the last Sonic Team title released on SEGA hardware.
+
In April 2000, as Sega began reeling from the financial woes they hoped the Dreamcast would erase, the decision was made to have the main development departments of Sega, including Sonic Team, become semi-autonomous. Becoming Sonic Team Ltd, the group continued in earnest to create quality games. But even this corporate action and the impending release of ''Adventure 2'' could not stop Sega from dropping out of the hardware market, ''[[Phantasy Star Online Ver. 2]]'' becoming the last Sonic Team title released on Sega hardware in the western world.
  
−
===Third-Party Existence (2002-2006)===
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===2002-2006===
−
Releasing titles on a variety of systems including the [[Nintendo GameCube]] and [[PlayStation 2]], Sonic Team strove to still prove itself as a viable entity in the everchanging gaming landscape. Continuing to produce titles for existing franchises such as ''[[sonic:Sonic Heroes|Sonic Heroes]]'' and ''[[Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II]]'', the team still experimented with new franchises including ''[[Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg]]''. 2002 also saw Sonic Team's first acquisition in the form of the [[:Category:Puyo Puyo|''Puyo Puyo'' series]], which was bought after [[Compile]] was forced to go out of business. Continued financial woes for the whole of SEGA saw yet another restructuring of the company, and while the development teams were still semi-autonomous, they were consolidated, with [[United Game Artists]] being merged with Sonic Team. Responsible for such titles as ''[[Space Channel 5]]'' and the critically acclaimed ''[[Rez]]'', the UGA staff members would still continue to work together, being responsible for such games as the ''[[Feel the Magic XY/XX]]''/''[[The Rub Rabbits!]]'' pair for the [[Nintendo DS]].
+
Releasing titles on a variety of systems including the [[Nintendo GameCube]] and [[PlayStation 2]], Sonic Team strove to still prove itself as a viable entity in the everchanging gaming landscape. Continuing to produce titles for existing franchises such as ''[[sonic:Sonic Heroes|Sonic Heroes]]'' and ''[[Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II]]'', the team still experimented with new ideas including ''[[Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg]]''. 2002 also saw Sonic Team's first acquisition in the form of the [[:Category:Puyo Puyo|''Puyo Puyo'' series]], which was bought after [[Compile]] was forced to go out of business. The first game they worked on, the Arcade title ''[[Puyo Pop Fever]]'', also became the last Sonic Team game for the Dreamcast in Japan. Continued financial woes for the whole of Sega saw yet another restructuring, with [[United Game Artists]] being merged with Sonic Team. Responsible for such titles as ''[[Space Channel 5]]'' and the critically acclaimed ''[[Rez]]'', the UGA staff members would continue to work together, being responsible for ''[[Feel the Magic XY/XX]]'' and ''[[The Rub Rabbits!]]'' for the [[Nintendo DS]], and the multi-platform ''[[sonic:Sonic Riders|Sonic Riders]]'' series.
  
−
Even so, the financial situation of SEGA proved diresome, with rumors of the company merging with just about every gaming company under the sun running rampant. Things were finally put to rest when, in early 2004, arcade company [[Sammy]] bought a major stake in SEGA, forming Sega Sammy Holdings Inc. In its wake, the subsidiaries of SEGA including Sonic Team Ltd. were merged back into SEGA, existing as it did in the previous decade. It was around this same time period that Sonic Team USA, now busy with the development of ''[[sonic:Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]'', changed their name to Sega Studios USA, still under control by Iizuka.
+
In early 2004, with rumors abounding as to the future of Sega with its ailing finances, arcade company [[Sammy]] bought a major stake in SEGA, forming Sega Sammy Holdings Inc. Shaking things up once more, the subsidiaries of Sega including Sonic Team Ltd. were merged back into the parent company. It was during this time that Sonic Team USA, now busy with the development of ''[[sonic:Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]'', changed their name to Sega Studios USA. Directed by Iizuka as had been the case for the last few major Sonic titles, the game was met with less than favorable reviews.
  
−
With SEGA looking to set itself back on the right path, the pressure for Sonic Team to create a new game for a new generation of consoles in time for their first major holiday season was on, with Yuji Naka unveiling the initial footage for what would become ''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|Sonic the Hedgehog 2006]]'', toting features that would ultimately not be seen in the game. Though many thought Naka would once again assume a role in the project similar to what he had with ''Adventure'', it was only a few months later that Naka announced his own leaving of the company, setting off to create his own studio much like Ohshima had years prior. Called [[Prope]], while some financial backing was provided by SEGA, the studio was completely autonomous, Naka's departure signaling the end of an era. With these sudden changes in management, coupled with that unending pressure, ''Sonic 2006'' was released with much fanfare but met with just as much, if not more, disappointment.
+
With Sega looking to set itself back on a profitable path, the pressure for Sonic Team to create on a new generation of consoles began. At 2005's E3, Yuji Naka unveiled the initial footage for what would become ''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|Sonic the Hedgehog 2006]]'', Sonic's first foray on a next-gen console. Though many thought Naka would assume a role in the project similar to what he had with ''Adventure'', it was less than a year later that he announced his departure from the company. Creating his own studio [[Prope]], Naka's new venture was completely autonomous though it did secure some financial backing from Sega. Between his announcing and actual resignation in May of 2006, Sonic Team also revealed that the previously announced ''[[Phantasy Star Universe]]'' would be ported to the [[Xbox 360]], which became the group's first official release on the seventh generation of video game hardware.
  
−
===Restructuring and Modern Times (2007-Present)===
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With Naka's departure signaling the end of an era, the sudden changes in management coupled with unending pressure from the powers-that-be helped to doom the tent-pole title ''Sonic 2006''. Meant to be a complete reinvention of the franchise, it was forced to hit shelves before it was ready, being released with much fanfare but met with just as much, if not more, disappointment.
−
Back in the United States, Sega Studios USA finished its final game, ''[[NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams]]'' for the [[Nintendo Wii]]. Met with mixed reviews, that, along with the failure of ''Sonic 2006'', prompted Sega to merge the studio back into Sonic Team proper in 2008, having Takashi Iizuka fill the role of President that Naka left vacant. With the teams consolidated, the development group looked to refocus their energies on their core brands, including ''Phantasy Star'', ''Puyo Puyo'', and of course ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. Starting with ''[[sonic:Sonic Unleashed|Sonic Unleashed]]'' and continuing on with ''[[sonic:Sonic Colours|Sonic Colours]]'' and ''[[sonic:Sonic Generations|Sonic Generations]]'', the Sonic Team have looked to try and make their namesake once again as revered as it was back in the early 90's. They have even gone as far as to build new relationships with other developers within and outside SEGA to continue the longevity of the brand, such as working with [[Smilebit]] and [[Nintendo]] for the bi-yearly ''Mario and Sonic'' Olympic sports titles. Coupled with the continued partnership with developer [[Dimps]] with the handheld titles, the current incarnation of Sonic Team continues to look towards the future.
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===2007-Present===
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Back in the United States, Sega Studios USA finished its final game, ''[[NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams]]'' for the [[Nintendo Wii]]. Met with mixed reviews, that, along with the failure of ''Sonic 2006'', prompted Sega to merge the two studios back into a single entity. Returning to Japan, Takashi Iizuka was promoted to become the head of Sonic Team in 2008. With this latest shift, the development group looked to refocus their energies on their core brands, including ''Phantasy Star'', ''Puyo Puyo'', and ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. 2007 saw the release of the first ''[[sonic:Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games|Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games]]'', a joint effort between Sonic Team, [[Nintendo]] and [[Smilebit|Sega Sports Design R&D Dept.]], which would become a bi-yearly series. ''[[sonic:Sonic Unleashed|Sonic Unleashed]]'', released a year later, was the team's first major overhaul of the franchise since 1998, which would continue to evolve with ''[[sonic:Sonic Colours|Colours]]'', ''[[sonic:Sonic Generations|Generations]]'', and ''[[sonic:Sonic Lost World|Sonic Lost World]]'', attempting to preserve the core Sonic experience while experimenting with new ideas to keep things fresh.
 +
 
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2011 saw the team not just celebrate Sonic's 20th anniversary, but also the Puyo Puyo franchise, with the release of ''[[Puyo Puyo 7]]'', co-developed with [[h.a.n.d.]] The following year saw Sonic Team release their largest non-Sonic title in some time, ''[[Phantasy Star Online 2]]'', a free-to-play MMORPG that was ported to the [[PlaySation Vita]] in early 2013. Though popular in Japan, the title has yet to see a western release.
  
 
==Softography==
 
==Softography==
−
===Released Titles===
 
 
{{multicol|
 
{{multicol|
 +
===[[Sega Mega Drive|Mega Drive]]===
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog (16-bit)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' (1991)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog (16-bit)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' (1991)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (16-bit)|Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'' (1992) (with [[Sega Technical Institute]])
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (16-bit)|Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'' (1992) (w/ [[Sega Technical Institute]])
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 3|Sonic the Hedgehog 3]]'' (1993)
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 3|Sonic the Hedgehog 3]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic & Knuckles|Sonic & Knuckles]]''  (1994)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic & Knuckles|Sonic & Knuckles]]''  (1994)
 
*''[[Ristar]]'' (1995) (art only?)
 
*''[[Ristar]]'' (1995) (art only?)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Fighters|Sonic the Fighters]]'' (1996) (Made By [[Sega AM2]] with minor assistance from Sonic Team)
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic 3D: Flickies' Island|Sonic 3D: Flickies' Island]]'' (1996) (w/ [[Traveller's Tales]])
 +
 
 +
===[[Sega Mega CD|Mega CD]]===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog CD|Sonic the Hedgehog CD]]'' (1993)
 +
 
 +
===[[Sega Model 2|Model 2]]===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Fighters|Sonic the Fighters]]'' (1996) ([[Sega AM2]] w/ minor assistance from Sonic Team)
 +
 
 +
===[[Sega Saturn|Saturn]]===
 
*''[[NiGHTS into Dreams]]'' (1996)
 
*''[[NiGHTS into Dreams]]'' (1996)
 
*''[[Christmas NiGHTS]]'' (1996)
 
*''[[Christmas NiGHTS]]'' (1996)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic 3D: Flickies' Island|Sonic 3D: Flickies' Island]]'' (1996) (with [[Traveller's Tales]])
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic 3D: Flickies' Island|Sonic 3D: Flickies' Island]]'' (1996) (w/ Traveller's Tales)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Jam|Sonic Jam]]'' (1997)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Jam|Sonic Jam]]'' (1997)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic R|Sonic R]]'' (1997) (with [[Traveller's Tales]])
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic R|Sonic R]]'' (1997) (w/ Traveller's Tales)
 
*''[[Burning Rangers]]'' (1998)
 
*''[[Burning Rangers]]'' (1998)
 +
 +
===PC===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic 3D: Flickies' Island|Sonic 3D: Flickies' Island]]'' (1996) (w/ Traveller's Tales)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic R|Sonic R]]'' (1998) (with Traveller's Tales)
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Ver. 2]]'' (2001)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut|Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut]]'' (2003)
 +
*''[[Puyo Pop Fever]]'' (2004)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Heroes|Sonic Heroes]]'' (2004) (as Sonic Team USA)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Mega Collection Plus|Sonic Mega Collection Plus]]'' (2006)
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Episode IV: Blue Burst|Phantasy Star Online: Blue Burst]]'' (2004)
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star Universe]]'' (2006)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Riders|Sonic Riders]]'' (2006) (w/ [[Now Production]])
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus]]'' (2007)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I]]'' (2010) (w/ [[Dimps]])
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star Online 2]]'' (2012)
 +
 +
===[[Sega Dreamcast|Dreamcast]]===
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure|Sonic Adventure]]'' (1998)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure|Sonic Adventure]]'' (1998)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure International|Sonic Adventure International]]'' (1998) (as Sonic Team USA)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure International|Sonic Adventure International]]'' (1998) (as Sonic Team USA)
 
*''[[ChuChu Rocket!]]'' (1999)
 
*''[[ChuChu Rocket!]]'' (1999)
 
*''[[Samba de Amigo]]'' (2000)
 
*''[[Samba de Amigo]]'' (2000)
−
*''Samba de Amigo Ver.2000'' (2000)
+
*''[[Samba de Amigo Ver. 2000]]'' (2000)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Shuffle|Sonic Shuffle]]'' (2000) (with [[Hudson]])
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic Shuffle|Sonic Shuffle]]'' (2000) (w/ [[Hudson]])
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure|Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure]]'' (2000) (with [[Dimps]])
 
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Online]]'' (2000)
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Online]]'' (2000)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure 2|Sonic Adventure 2]]'' (2001) (as Sonic Team USA)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure 2|Sonic Adventure 2]]'' (2001) (as Sonic Team USA)
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Ver. 2]]'' (2001)
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Ver. 2]]'' (2001)
 +
*''[[Puyo Pop Fever]]'' (2004)
 +
 +
===[[Sega NAOMI|NAOMI]]===
 +
*''[[Samba de Amigo]]'' (2000)
 +
*''[[Samba de Amigo Ver. 2000]]'' (2000)
 +
*''[[Puyo Pop Fever]]'' (2003)
 +
 +
===[[Neo Geo Pocket Color]]===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure|Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure]]'' (2000) (w/ Dimps)
 +
 +
===[[Game Boy Advance]]===
 +
*''[[ChuChu Rocket!]]'' (2001)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Advance|Sonic Advance]]'' (2002)  (w/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Advance 2|Sonic Advance 2]]'' (2003)  (w/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Pinball Party|Sonic Pinball Party]]'' (2003) (w/ [[Jupiter]])
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Battle|Sonic Battle]]'' (2004)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Advance 3|Sonic Advance 3]]'' (2004) (w/ Dimps)
 +
 +
===[[N-Gage]]===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic N|Sonic N]]'' (2003)  (w/ Dimps)
 +
 +
===[[Nintendo GameCube|GameCube]]===
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure 2: Battle|Sonic Adventure 2: Battle]]'' (2002)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure 2: Battle|Sonic Adventure 2: Battle]]'' (2002)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Mega Collection|Sonic Mega Collection]]'' (2002)
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic Mega Collection|Sonic Mega Collection]]'' (2002) (w/ [[VR-1 Japan]])
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Advance|Sonic Advance]]'' (2002)  (with [[Dimps]])
 
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II]]'' (2002)
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II]]'' (2002)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut|Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut]]'' (2003)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut|Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut]]'' (2003)
Line 61: Line 119:
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Episode III: C.A.R.D. Revolution]]'' (2003)
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Episode III: C.A.R.D. Revolution]]'' (2003)
 
*''[[Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg]]'' (2003)
 
*''[[Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg]]'' (2003)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Advance 2|Sonic Advance 2]]'' (2003) (with [[Dimps]])
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic Heroes|Sonic Heroes]]'' (2003) (as Sonic Team USA)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Pinball Party|Sonic Pinball Party]]'' (2003) (with [[Jupiter]])
+
*''[[Puyo Pop Fever]]'' (2004)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Battle|Sonic Battle]]'' (2004)
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic Gems Collection|Sonic Gems Collection]]'' (2005)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Heroes|Sonic Heroes]]'' (2004) (as Sonic Team USA)
+
*''[[sonic:Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]'' (2005) (as Sega Studios USA)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Riders|Sonic Riders]]'' (2006) (w/ [[Now Production]])
 +
 
 +
===[[Xbox]]===
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II]]'' (2002)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Heroes|Sonic Heroes]]'' (2003) (as Sonic Team USA)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Mega Collection Plus|Sonic Mega Collection Plus]]'' (2004)
 +
*''[[Puyo Pop Fever]]'' (2004)
 +
*''[[sonic:Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]'' (2005) (as Sega Studios USA)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Riders|Sonic Riders]]'' (2006) (w/ Now Production)
 +
 
 +
===[[PlayStation 2]]===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Heroes|Sonic Heroes]]'' (2003) (as Sonic Team USA)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Mega Collection Plus|Sonic Mega Collection Plus]]'' (2004)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Mega Collection Plus|Sonic Mega Collection Plus]]'' (2004)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Advance 3|Sonic Advance 3]]'' (2004) (with [[Dimps]])
 
−
*''[[Feel the Magic XY/XX]]'' (2004)
 
 
*''[[Sega Superstars]]'' (2004)
 
*''[[Sega Superstars]]'' (2004)
 
*''[[Astro Boy]]'' (2004)
 
*''[[Astro Boy]]'' (2004)
 
*''[[Puyo Pop Fever]]'' (2004)
 
*''[[Puyo Pop Fever]]'' (2004)
−
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Episode IV: Blue Burst|Phantasy Star Online: Blue Burst]]'' (2004)
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic Gems Collection|Sonic Gems Collection]]'' (2005)
−
*''[[Phantasy Star Online Episode IV: Blue Burst|Phantasy Star Online Episode IV]]'' (2005)
+
*''[[sonic:Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]'' (2005) (as Sega Studios USA)
 
*''[[Puyo Puyo Fever 2]]'' (2005)
 
*''[[Puyo Puyo Fever 2]]'' (2005)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Riders|Sonic Riders]]'' (2006) (w/ Now Production]])
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star Universe]]'' (2006)
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo 15th Anniversary]]'' (2007)
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus]]'' (2007)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity|Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity]]'' (2008)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Unleashed|Sonic Unleashed]]'' (2008) (w/ Dimps )
 +
 +
===[[Nintendo DS]]===
 +
*''[[Feel the Magic XY/XX]]'' (2004)
 
*''[[The Rub Rabbits!]]'' (2005)
 
*''[[The Rub Rabbits!]]'' (2005)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Gems Collection|Sonic Gems Collection]]'' (2005)
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic Rush|Sonic Rush]]'' (2005) (w/ Dimps)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Rush|Sonic Rush]]'' (2005) (with [[Dimps]])
+
*''[[Puyo Puyo Fever 2]]'' (2005)
−
*''[[sonic:Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]'' (2005) (as Sega Studios USA)
+
*''[[Puyo Puyo 15th Anniversary]]'' (2006)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Riders|Sonic Riders]]'' (2006)
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic Rush Adventure|Sonic Rush Adventure]]'' (2007) (w/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games|Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games]]'' (2008) (w/ [[Smilebit|Sega Sports Design R&D Dept.]] and [[Nintendo]])
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star 0]]'' (2008)
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo 7]]'' (2009) (w/ [[h.a.n.d.]])
 +
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games|Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games]]'' (2009) (with Sega Sports Design R&D Dept. and Nintendo)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Colours|Sonic Colours]]'' (2010) (w/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo!!]]'' (2011) (with h.a.n.d.)
 +
 
 +
===[[PlayStation Portable]]===
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo Fever 2]]'' (2005)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Rivals|Sonic Rivals]]'' (2006) ([[Backbone Entertainment]] w/ Sega Studios USA)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Rivals|Sonic Rivals 2]]'' (2007) (Backbone Entertainment w/ Sega Studios USA)
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star Portable]]'' (2008) (w/ Alfa System)
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo 7]]'' (2009) (w/ [[h.a.n.d.]])
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo!!]]'' (2011)
 +
 
 +
===[[Xbox 360]]===
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog (2006 game)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' (2006)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog (2006 game)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' (2006)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Rivals|Sonic Rivals]]'' (2006) (Made By Backbone Entertainment with assistance from Sega Studios USA)
 
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Universe]]'' (2006)
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Universe]]'' (2006)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic and the Secret Rings|Sonic and the Secret Rings]]'' (2007) (also with Now Production - Party Mode Only)
+
*''[[Puyo Puyo 15th Anniversary]]'' (2007)
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus]]'' (2007)
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus]]'' (2007)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Rush Adventure|Sonic Rush Adventure]]'' (2007) (also with [[Dimps]])
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic Unleashed|Sonic Unleashed]]'' (2008)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Rivals|Sonic Rivals 2]]'' (2007) (Made By Backbone Entertainment with assistance from Sega Studios USA)
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I]]'' (2010) (w/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic  Free Riders|Sonic  Free Riders]]'' (2010)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Generations|Sonic Generations]]'' (2011)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]'' (2012) (w/ Dimps)
 +
 
 +
===[[PlayStation 3]]===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog (2006 game)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' (2006)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Unleashed|Sonic Unleashed]]'' (2008)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I]]'' (2010) (wi/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Generations|Sonic Generations]]'' (2011)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]'' (2012) (w/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo Tetris]]'' (2014)
 +
 
 +
===[[Nintendo Wii|Wii]]===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic and the Secret Rings|Sonic and the Secret Rings]]'' (2007) (w/ Now Production)
 +
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games|Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games]]'' (2007) (w/ Sega Sports Design R&D Dept. and Nintendo)
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo 15th Anniversary]]'' (2007)
 
*''[[NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams]]'' (2007) (as Sega Studios USA)
 
*''[[NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams]]'' (2007) (as Sega Studios USA)
−
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games|Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games]]'' (2007) (with [[Smilebit|Sega Sports Design R&D Dept.]] and [[Nintendo]])
 
−
*''[[Puyo Puyo 15th Anniversary]]'' (2007)
 
−
*''[[The House of the Dead 2 & 3 Return]]'' (2007) (with [[WOW Entertainment|Sega WOW]])
 
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity|Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity]]'' (2008)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity|Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity]]'' (2008)
−
*''[[Phantasy Star Portable]]'' (2008) (with Alfa System)
+
*''[[The House of the Dead 2 & 3 Return]]'' (2008) (w/ [[WOW Entertainment|Sega WOW]])
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Unleashed|Sonic Unleashed]]'' (2008) (with [[Dimps]] - Wii & PS2 Version Only)
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic Unleashed|Sonic Unleashed]]'' (2008) (w/ Dimps)
−
*''[[Phantasy Star 0]]'' (2008)
 
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic and the Black Knight|Sonic and the Black Knight]]'' (2009)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic and the Black Knight|Sonic and the Black Knight]]'' (2009)
−
*''[[Puyo Puyo 7]]'' (2009) (with [[h.a.n.d.]])
+
*''[[Puyo Puyo 7]]'' (2009) (w/ h.a.n.d.)
−
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games|Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games]]'' (2009) (with [[Smilebit|Sega Sports Design R&D Dept.]] and [[Nintendo]])
+
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games|Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games]]'' (2009) (w/ Sega Sports Design R&D Dept. and Nintendo)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1]]'' (2010) (with [[Dimps]])
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1]]'' (2010) (w/ Dimps)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Colours|Sonic Colours]]'' (2010) (with [[Dimps]] - [[Nintendo DS]] Version Only)
+
*''[[sonic:Sonic Colours|Sonic Colours]]'' (2010)
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Free Riders|Sonic Free Riders]]'' (2010)  
+
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games|Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games]]'' (2011) (w/ Sega Sports Design R&D Dept. and Nintendo)
−
*''[[Puyo Puyo!!]]'' (2011) (with h.a.n.d.)
+
*''[[Puyo Puyo!!]]'' (2011)  
−
*''[[sonic:Sonic Generations|Sonic Generations]]'' (2011) (with [[Dimps]] - [[Nintendo 3DS]] Version Only)
+
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games|Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games]]'' (2013) (w/ Sega Sports Design R&D Dept. and Nintendo)
−
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games|Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games]]'' (2011) (with [[Smilebit|Sega Sports Design R&D Dept.]] and [[Nintendo]])
+
 
 +
===[[iOS]]===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I]]'' (2010) (w/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]'' (2012) (w/ Dimps)
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Online 2]]'' (2012)
 
*''[[Phantasy Star Online 2]]'' (2012)
−
}}
+
 
 +
===Android===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1]]'' (2010) (w/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II|Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]'' (2012) (w/Dimps)
 +
 
 +
===[[Nintendo 3DS]]===
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo!!]]'' (2011) (w/ h.a.n.d.)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Generations|Sonic Generations]]'' (2011) (w/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games|Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games]]'' (2011) (w/ Sega Sports Design R&D Dept. and Nintendo)
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Lost World|Sonic Lost World]]'' (2013) (w/ Dimps)
 +
*''[[sonic:Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games|Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games]]'' (2013) (w/ Sega Sports Design R&D Dept. and Nintendo)
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo Tetris]]'' (2014)
 +
 
 +
===[[PlayStation Vita|Vita]]===
 +
*''[[Phantasy Star Online 2]]'' (2013)
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo Tetris]]'' (2014)
 +
 
 +
===[[Nintendo Wii U|Wii U]]===
 +
*''[[sonic:Sonic Lost World|Sonic Lost World]]'' (2013)
 +
*''[[Puyo Puyo Tetris]]'' (2014)
  
 
===Canceled Titles===
 
===Canceled Titles===
Line 110: Line 236:
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic DS|Sonic DS]]'' (2004)
 
*''[[sonic:Sonic DS|Sonic DS]]'' (2004)
 
*''[[Fifth Phantom Saga]]'' (2005)
 
*''[[Fifth Phantom Saga]]'' (2005)
 +
|cols=3}}
  
 
==Filmography==
 
==Filmography==
Line 117: Line 244:
  
 
==External Links==
 
==External Links==
−
*[http://www.sonicteam.com Sonic Team] - The official website for Sonic Team
+
*[http://www.sonicteam.com Sonic Team] official website
 +
 
 
{{clear}}
 
{{clear}}
 
{{SegaDevs}}
 
{{SegaDevs}}
 
[[Category:Development Companies]]
 
[[Category:Development Companies]]

Revision as of 16:24, 22 January 2014

Sonic Team, originally known as Sega Consumer Department #3 or AM8, is best known as the main developers of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. The development team is one of the longest running within the company, with over 50 titles credited to them. Currently run by Takashi Iizuka, the team is still an active force both creatively and financially for Sega.

History

1990-1997

Back in 1990, Sega had one goal in mind - to create a game that would rival Super Mario Bros. and put the company on the map. The call went out internally to create a mascot character to replace Alex Kidd, who was the de-facto mascot during the Master System years. Among the many development teams who began conceiving proposals was the newly formed AM8, which included Naoto Ohshima and Yuji Naka. Having previously worked on the Phantasy Star series together, the pair set off to create the concept that would evolve into the original Sonic the Hedgehog. With Ohshima creating the title character and Naka working on the engine, Hirokazu Yasuhara was brought on to lead game development after the project was approved by the company. Through the many twists and turns of development, the game was finally set to be released, the 15-strong team dubbing themselves "Sonic Team," after the work they were proud to call their own.

With the title becoming an international success, Naka, who had grown restless with upper management at Sega of Japan, left the company only to be rehired by the Sega Technical Institute, wooed by its original head Mark Cerny. Coming to America along with Yasuhara (who had been scheduled to become a part of STI before Sonic the Hedgehog had begun development), the pair would go on to continue the main line of Sonic titles that would define the Mega Drive's library. Though no longer in the game's credits, the Sonic Team moniker would live on the Japanese packaging for Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic 3, Sonic & Knuckles, and the Ohshima-led Sonic CD developed in Japan.

After the completion of Sonic & Knuckles, Yasuhara chose to remain in America, while Naka returned to Sega of Japan to become the president of AM8. Once there, he teamed back up with Ohshima, the two resurrecting the Sonic Team moniker to work on a new project that had nothing to do with their namesake, NiGHTS Into Dreams. With most members of the Japanese side of STI returning to their native land, AM8 was a far bigger team than what they had back in 1991. Among those to return was Takashi Iizuka, who had gotten his official start as a Senior Game Designer in Sonic 3 & Knuckles. With old and new blood, Sonic Team wanted their Saturn-era work to show they weren't afraid to try new ideas and concepts, as demonstrated not only by NiGHTS but their follow-up title, Burning Rangers. The only Sonic-related output was the compilation Sonic Jam, along with some supervised work on Flickies' Island and Sonic R. Though he would remain with the company until 2002, Sonic R was also the last Sonic Team-related production Yasuhara had any direct involvement with, eventually departing to work for game studio Naughty Dog.

1998-2001

In the twilight moments of the 32-bit era, Sonic Team decided to return to their namesake to create the first fully 3D Sonic the Hedgehog title. Though initial development began on Sega Saturn hardware, Sonic Adventure would instead become one of the flagship video games for the Sega Dreamcast, in one final bid by Sega as a whole to return to the successes they once felt in the early 90's. Met with critical acclaim, it was also the last title Ohshima worked on with the team, leaving the company to form his own gaming studio, Artoon.

Though interested in pursuing other projects but knowing the demand for further games featuring Sonic, 12 members of the team were sent back to San Francisco to form Sonic Team USA, led by Takashi Iizuka. Those that remained in Japan were directed by Yuji Naka, that team focusing on original titles such as Chu Chu Rocket, Samba De Amigo, and the return of the Phantasy Star series with Phantasy Star Online. Sonic Team USA, on the other hand, focused primarily with Sonic. Though their first official assignment was simply making sure Sonic Adventure was ready for a western release, the real reason they came into existence was made clear with 2001's Sonic Adventure 2. It was also around this time that Sonic Team began their long-term partnership with Dimps, who worked to create Sonic Pocket Adventure, and become involved in nearly every handheld Sonic title that would follow.

In April 2000, as Sega began reeling from the financial woes they hoped the Dreamcast would erase, the decision was made to have the main development departments of Sega, including Sonic Team, become semi-autonomous. Becoming Sonic Team Ltd, the group continued in earnest to create quality games. But even this corporate action and the impending release of Adventure 2 could not stop Sega from dropping out of the hardware market, Phantasy Star Online Ver. 2 becoming the last Sonic Team title released on Sega hardware in the western world.

2002-2006

Releasing titles on a variety of systems including the Nintendo GameCube and PlayStation 2, Sonic Team strove to still prove itself as a viable entity in the everchanging gaming landscape. Continuing to produce titles for existing franchises such as Sonic Heroes and Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II, the team still experimented with new ideas including Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg. 2002 also saw Sonic Team's first acquisition in the form of the Puyo Puyo series, which was bought after Compile was forced to go out of business. The first game they worked on, the Arcade title Puyo Pop Fever, also became the last Sonic Team game for the Dreamcast in Japan. Continued financial woes for the whole of Sega saw yet another restructuring, with United Game Artists being merged with Sonic Team. Responsible for such titles as Space Channel 5 and the critically acclaimed Rez, the UGA staff members would continue to work together, being responsible for Feel the Magic XY/XX and The Rub Rabbits! for the Nintendo DS, and the multi-platform Sonic Riders series.

In early 2004, with rumors abounding as to the future of Sega with its ailing finances, arcade company Sammy bought a major stake in SEGA, forming Sega Sammy Holdings Inc. Shaking things up once more, the subsidiaries of Sega including Sonic Team Ltd. were merged back into the parent company. It was during this time that Sonic Team USA, now busy with the development of Shadow the Hedgehog, changed their name to Sega Studios USA. Directed by Iizuka as had been the case for the last few major Sonic titles, the game was met with less than favorable reviews.

With Sega looking to set itself back on a profitable path, the pressure for Sonic Team to create on a new generation of consoles began. At 2005's E3, Yuji Naka unveiled the initial footage for what would become Sonic the Hedgehog 2006, Sonic's first foray on a next-gen console. Though many thought Naka would assume a role in the project similar to what he had with Adventure, it was less than a year later that he announced his departure from the company. Creating his own studio Prope, Naka's new venture was completely autonomous though it did secure some financial backing from Sega. Between his announcing and actual resignation in May of 2006, Sonic Team also revealed that the previously announced Phantasy Star Universe would be ported to the Xbox 360, which became the group's first official release on the seventh generation of video game hardware.

With Naka's departure signaling the end of an era, the sudden changes in management coupled with unending pressure from the powers-that-be helped to doom the tent-pole title Sonic 2006. Meant to be a complete reinvention of the franchise, it was forced to hit shelves before it was ready, being released with much fanfare but met with just as much, if not more, disappointment.

2007-Present

Back in the United States, Sega Studios USA finished its final game, NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams for the Nintendo Wii. Met with mixed reviews, that, along with the failure of Sonic 2006, prompted Sega to merge the two studios back into a single entity. Returning to Japan, Takashi Iizuka was promoted to become the head of Sonic Team in 2008. With this latest shift, the development group looked to refocus their energies on their core brands, including Phantasy Star, Puyo Puyo, and Sonic the Hedgehog. 2007 saw the release of the first Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games, a joint effort between Sonic Team, Nintendo and Sega Sports Design R&D Dept., which would become a bi-yearly series. Sonic Unleashed, released a year later, was the team's first major overhaul of the franchise since 1998, which would continue to evolve with Colours, Generations, and Sonic Lost World, attempting to preserve the core Sonic experience while experimenting with new ideas to keep things fresh.

2011 saw the team not just celebrate Sonic's 20th anniversary, but also the Puyo Puyo franchise, with the release of Puyo Puyo 7, co-developed with h.a.n.d. The following year saw Sonic Team release their largest non-Sonic title in some time, Phantasy Star Online 2, a free-to-play MMORPG that was ported to the PlaySation Vita in early 2013. Though popular in Japan, the title has yet to see a western release.

Softography

Mega Drive

Mega CD

Model 2

Saturn

PC

Dreamcast

NAOMI

Neo Geo Pocket Color

Game Boy Advance

N-Gage

GameCube

Xbox

PlayStation 2

Nintendo DS

PlayStation Portable

Xbox 360

PlayStation 3

Wii

iOS

Android

Nintendo 3DS

Vita

Wii U

Canceled Titles

Filmography

External Links


Timeline of Sega of Japan research and development divisions








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Retrieved from "https://segaretro.org/index.php?title=Sonic_Team&oldid=165124"