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Companies & Studios

Sonic Team

Blue blur creators

Sonic Team created Sega's mascot and developed the Sonic series alongside experimental titles like NiGHTS, Phantasy Star Online, and Chu Chu Rocket.

mega-drivesega-saturnDreamcastplaystation-2 developersegainternal 1990–present

Overview

More than just Sonic. While the hedgehog defined Sega’s identity, Sonic Team’s output ranged widely: the dreamlike flight of NiGHTS, the pioneering online RPG Phantasy Star Online, the frantic puzzle action of Chu Chu Rocket. Under Yuji Naka’s leadership, they combined technical excellence with distinctive design sensibilities.

Fast facts

  • Founded: 1990.
  • Original leader: Yuji Naka.
  • Parent: Sega.
  • Flagship: Sonic the Hedgehog.

Sonic series

TitleYearPlatform
Sonic the Hedgehog1991Mega Drive
Sonic 21992Mega Drive
Sonic Adventure1998Dreamcast
Ongoing-Multiple

Non-Sonic output

TitleYearGenre
NiGHTS into Dreams1996Action
Burning Rangers1998Action
Chu Chu Rocket1999Puzzle
Phantasy Star Online2000Online RPG

Technical innovation

AchievementTitle
Blast ProcessingSonic series
Analog controlNiGHTS
Console online playPSO
Network puzzleChu Chu Rocket

Leadership changes

EraDirection
Naka eraCreative experimentation
Post-NakaSonic focus
ModernFranchise maintenance

See also