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Creative director Kazuyuki Hoshino and music director Tomoya Ohtani recently reflected on the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise during a 35th-anniversary event. Hoshino describes Sonic as a "Life Partner" that provides positive energy, while Ohtani characterizes the character as a "Groove Master" capable of adapting to diverse musical styles.
Regarding game development, Hoshino explains that visual concepts typically guide the creative process, influencing subsequent musical compositions. Ohtani notes that modern hardware, such as the Hedgehog Engine, allows for high-fidelity audio, including 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound, which differs significantly from production methods used two decades ago.
Ohtani highlights that while 3D titles aim for modern, flagship-level audio, 2D games prioritize classic aesthetics. He also mentions the potential for incorporating Southeast Asian musical influences into future stages if the setting aligns. Meanwhile, Hoshino emphasizes that Sonic’s iconic sharp quills remain the essential design element, regardless of other visual changes.
Looking ahead, Hoshino stresses the importance of evolving with the times while maintaining the franchise's core identity. The team plans to continue developing video games while expanding Sonic’s presence through films and collaborations, supported by a dedicated supervisor team to ensure brand consistency across all media.
