Sonic 35th Anniversary Producer Takashi Iizuka Teases More Surprises Ahead
Sega’s veteran Sonic producer Takashi Iizuka says the 35th anniversary of Sonic the Hedgehog still has “more surprises” to come, while also highlighting the kind of game he personally wants to see return in the platformer’s future. With the celebrations rolling through 2026, the producer confirmed that some announcements have already gone out—while others will remain under wraps longer due to how closely fans track Sonic details.
What Iizuka says about Sonic’s 35th anniversary plans
Iizuka, who has been a Sonic producer since 2008, told Pocket Tactics that the milestone year will include additional surprises that he can’t fully reveal yet. He emphasized that more time will be needed before fans learn what those remaining announcements involve, and cautioned that the fanbase is highly observant.
- Sonic’s 35th anniversary will include “more surprises,” beyond the announcements already shared.
- Some of those surprises will stay secret for longer, and Iizuka said he must avoid accidentally giving hints.
- Sega’s approach is to acknowledge multiple stages of Sonic’s history, while still looking ahead.
How Sega plans to celebrate across the year
In addition to game-related news, Sega is aiming for a broader commemoration covering different parts of the Sonic franchise. Iizuka said the 35th anniversary should recognize each era of the series without losing sight of what’s next, with fans able to experience Sonic through multiple types of activities throughout the year.
- Video games throughout the year
- Music
- Events
- Collaborations
- Products
- Other special projects
What’s already happened in 2026
2026 is positioned as a major Sonic year because the series’ first game launched 35 years ago. The source notes two specific updates tied to the anniversary so far: Sonic Frontiers receiving a Nintendo Switch 2 version, and Sonic CrossWorlds getting new pilots.
Iizuka’s wishlist: a Sonic RPG
While Sonic is best known for platforming, Iizuka pointed out that the franchise has also explored other genres over time, including driving arcade action, puzzle gameplay, and fighting—plus a 2008 Nintendo DS title. He said he would like Sonic Team to try again with a brand-new RPG for the character.
Which RPG style he wants to revisit
Iizuka specifically referenced the style of Sonic Chronicles: La Hermandad Siniestra, the BioWare-developed RPG for Nintendo DS. He added that it was notable that Sonic Team hasn’t created a full RPG for Sonic in all these years, and argued that the franchise now has a large cast whose abilities could fit well into a multiplayer adventure.
One more Sonic title Iizuka keeps returning to
Iizuka also reiterated that Sonic Adventure 2 is his favorite Sonic game and the one he feels most proud of. He ended with an open question about whether a third 3D entry—similar to past highlights from the Dreamcast era—could arrive someday.
What fans will be waiting for next
Iizuka’s comments frame the next phase of Sonic’s 35th anniversary as something that will unfold over time, with additional announcements still coming. If the producer’s “more surprises” include game reveals, the next months could bring announcements related to new releases and possibly remasters or remakes—though the details remain unconfirmed for now.
