All Sonic Games Ever Made (1991–2025) – Timeline, Reviews & What to Play First

Explore the complete timeline of every Sonic the Hedgehog game from 1991 to 2025. Includes all mainline titles, remakes, mobile spin-offs, and fan-favorite rankings in one definitive guide.

All Sonic Games Ever Made (1991–2025) – Timeline, Reviews & What to Play First
Image via: GamesRadar

From pixel-perfect 2D side-scrollers to fast-paced 3D adventures, Sonic the Hedgehog has been racing through the hearts of fans since 1991. This guide covers every Sonic game ever made, including main titles, spin-offs, and remasters—up to the latest 2025 releases. Whether you're a retro gamer or a new fan, this complete list is your one-stop Sonic timeline.

All data on game titles and platforms is verified through Wikipedia and IGN.


Quick Table: All Sonic Games (1991–2025)

Year Game Title Platform(s) Type
1991 Sonic the Hedgehog Sega Genesis 2D Platformer
1992 Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Sega Genesis 2D Platformer
1993 Sonic CD Sega CD 2D Platformer
1994 Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Sega Genesis 2D Platformer
1994 Sonic & Knuckles Sega Genesis 2D Platformer
1998 Sonic Adventure Dreamcast 3D Platformer
2001 Sonic Adventure 2 Dreamcast 3D Platformer
2003 Sonic Heroes GameCube, PS2, Xbox 3D Platformer
2006 Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) PS3, Xbox 360 3D Platformer
2010 Sonic Colors Wii, DS 3D/2D Hybrid
2011 Sonic Generations PS3, Xbox 360, 3DS, PC 3D/2D Hybrid
2017 Sonic Forces PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC 3D Platformer
2017 Sonic Mania PS4, Switch, Xbox One, PC 2D Retro
2022 Sonic Frontiers PS5, Switch, Xbox Series X, PC Open-Zone 3D
2024 Sonic Superstars PS5, PS4, Xbox, Switch, PC 2.5D Platformer
2025 Sonic Rewind (NEW!) PS5, Xbox Series X, PC Remake Bundle


Sonic’s Timeline: The Evolution of the Blue Blur

Classic 2D Era (1991–1996)

Sonic's debut in 1991 on the Sega Genesis changed platform gaming forever. These titles focused on pixel-perfect platforming, fast-paced loops, and iconic soundtracks.

Notable games: Sonic 1, Sonic 2, Sonic CD, Sonic 3, Sonic & Knuckles

Mini-Review – Sonic 2 (1992): Introduced Tails, the spin dash move, and remains one of the most beloved titles in the series.

Dreamcast & 3D Shift (1998–2006)

With the arrival of the Dreamcast, Sonic moved to 3D worlds. These games had voice acting, story arcs, and new characters.

Top picks: Sonic Adventure, Sonic Adventure 2, Sonic Heroes, Sonic (2006)

Mini-Review – Sonic Adventure 2 (2001): Features dynamic character stories, thrilling music, and the fan-favorite Chao Garden.

Sonic (2006) – Rushed development led to bugs and criticism, but its ambitious story still has a cult following.

Boost Era & Mixed Reviews (2010–2021)

This period introduced the Boost mechanic, high-speed stages, and new design styles. Some games were praised; others were polarizing.

Highlights: Sonic Colors, Sonic Generations, Sonic Forces

Mini-Review – Sonic Generations (2011): Combines 2D and 3D gameplay with updated visuals and classic remakes. A favorite among old and new fans alike.

Open-Zone & Remakes (2022–2025)

Sonic entered a new age with open-world-like gameplay. Exploration and puzzle-solving became key in games like Sonic Frontiers.

Newest entries: Sonic Frontiers (2022), Sonic Superstars (2024), Sonic Rewind (2025)

Mini-Review – Sonic Frontiers (2022): Open-zone design adds RPG elements and puzzles to Sonic’s world, offering a fresh but familiar experience.


Sonic Mobile & Spin-Off Games

Game Title Platform Type
Sonic Dash iOS/Android Endless Runner
Sonic Racing Apple Arcade Racing
Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Wii, Switch Sports/Party
Sonic R Sega Saturn Racing
Team Sonic Racing All Platforms Racing

These mobile and spin-off titles brought Sonic into the casual and party game world.

Tip: Many of these games are available on the App Store, Google Play, and Steam.


Top 5 Fan-Favorite Sonic Games (Ranked)

Rank Game Title Why Fans Love It
1 Sonic Generations Hybrid gameplay and nostalgia factor
2 Sonic Mania Created by fans, classic 2D fun with new polish
3 Sonic Adventure 2 Fast pace + Chao Garden + iconic soundtrack
4 Sonic Frontiers Open-world experience with RPG elements
5 Sonic 3 & Knuckles Best classic-era story and design

Sources: Fan rankings based on reviews from Metacritic and Reddit Sonic communities.


Sonic Franchise Comparison Table

Game Style Platform Fan Rating Best For
Sonic Mania 2D Retro PS4, PC 9.2/10 Nostalgic fans
Sonic Generations 2D + 3D PS3, PC 9.0/10 Mixed style lovers
Sonic Adventure 2 3D Dreamcast, PC 8.7/10 Story + gameplay balance
Sonic Frontiers Open-Zone 3D PS5, PC 8.8/10 Modern adventurers
Sonic Colors 3D/2D Wii, DS 8.4/10 Beginners/new fans


FAQs About All Sonic Games

Q1. What is the first Sonic game ever made?
Sonic the Hedgehog (1991) on the Sega Genesis.

Q2. What is the latest Sonic game as of 2025?
Sonic Rewind – a remastered bundle of early Sonic games.

Q3. Which Sonic game is most loved by fans?
Most fans love Sonic Generations and Sonic Mania.

Q4. Can I still play old Sonic games today?
Yes, many are available on Steam, Switch, and other platforms.

Q5. Are there Sonic games on mobile?
Yes, including Sonic Dash and Sonic Racing.


Conclusion

From his 16-bit roots to high-speed 3D open zones, Sonic remains one of gaming's most beloved mascots. Whether you're revisiting childhood favorites or jumping into the latest 2025 titles, Sonic offers a timeless, thrilling experience for players of all ages. Ready to relive the speed?

Want more? Check out our guide to the Top 10 Most Valuable Sonic Collectibles in 2025.