Frank-ProvoSEGA sends word today that they're developing Sonic Rivals, a new competitive Sonic the Hedgehog game, exclusively for Sony's PSP handheld.
Sonic Rivals will feature 3D graphics, but classic 2D Sonic gameplay. Multiple single- and multi-player modes will be included.
"Sonic Rivals brings back the classic 2D platform gameplay that started it all, and douses it with vibrant three-dimensional environments," said Scott A. Steinberg, Vice President of Marketing, SEGA of America, Inc. "In this heated rivalry, gamers are tested to prove not only who's the fastest but who has the best head-to-head gameplay strategy."
What starts as a friendly competition between Sonic and Knuckles quickly intensifies as Shadow and other rivals jump into the action. Sonic Rivals allows gamers to utilize boost moves and power-ups to trip, shove, and vault over each other while hurtling towards the finish line at breakneck speeds. Players will negotiate wildly twisting 3D tracks while avoiding the insidious Dr. Eggman and his myriad of hazardous traps and contraptions.
Sonic Rivals is slated for release in Fall 2006 and is being developed by the Vancouver-based studio of Backbone Entertainment. We'll try to get some hands-on time with the game during next week's E3 expo.
Until then, feel free to gaze at some screenshots .
