Recently, the November issue of Toys ‘N Playthings displayed an interview with Sissel Henno, the Head of Brand Licensing of Sega Europe. The article mainly discusses the merchandising process of Sonic the Hedgehog with everything from RC cars and action figures, to AR (augmented reality) t-shirts. Yes, there is such a thing.
Near the end of the interview, Toys ‘N Playthings asks, “Looking to the future, how do you see your Sonic’s licensing growing over the next year?” To which Henno replies,
Over the next year there will be a big focus across the toy distribution across Europe. Similarly, we will also be growing the apparel, publishing and stationary categories. We will have several new digital titles launching as well as a new boxed game, so there will be plenty of opportunities to link marketing campaigns across games and merchandise.
So there you have it, folks! The first official confirmation from a Sega employee stating we can expect some new Sonic games in the near future. Is this really surprising though? I’m crossing my fingers that the “boxed game” will follow the standards set by Sonic Generations.
The article also has a few photos of some awesome upcoming toys and collectables like the cute “flocked mini figures,” which would go great on any desk and are reminiscent of shrunken Sonic from Sonic CD. Also worth noting are the Team Chaotix figures. Sonic Heroes 2 anyone? Or maybe Knuckles Chaotix 2? You can read the full article here on pages 38-39. LET THE RUMORS AND SPECULATION BEGIN!
[Source: Sonic Stadium]