SEGA Mobile announced that since launching on mobile phones in North America and Europe, its classic game Sonic the Hedgehog exceeded 8 million downloads. The video icon was a stellar performer since launching in early 2006. As expected, the game’s biggest success came in North America, where it had consistent Top Seller status on the Verizon Wireless V CAST service.
“Sonic the Hedgehog is a title that resonates with a universal audience of gamers who have grown up with the franchise, as well as with a growing audience of casual players.” – Linda Chaplin, VP SEGA Mobile
Legendary Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog is SEGA’s legendary mascot, close to the most popular video game character ever. Since appearing on mobile phones for the first time, in a re-creation of the best-selling first title for the SEGA Genesis console system, Sonic has become even more popular.
SEGA packed all of the ultra-fast action and gameplay of the original into the mobile game. In the USA, Sonic the Hedgehog launched exclusively with Verizon Wireless. Other major carriers in North America and Europe followed, where the game remains a consistent top seller.
“Sonic has appeared in more than 40 games on 19 video game platforms. The mobile platform has been a great extension for the franchise, allowing fans and casual players alike to pick up a truly classic game and experience it all over again on their mobile phones.”
Verizon V CAST
The game appeals especially to Verizon’s V CAST audience,according to Verizon’s director of Mobile Web, Todd Murphy.
Over the past two years, Verizon reported their multimedia salesbenefited greatly from their collaboration with SEGA. They are preparing to bring more SEGA classic games and new properties to their mobile users.
SEGA reports that they intend to release more new titles this year, including Sonic at the Olympic Games, Sonic Spinball and Sonic the Hedgehog 2.