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{{Game | {{Game | ||
|title=Sonic the Hedgehog | |title=Sonic the Hedgehog | ||
|image=Sonic1BoxUSA.webp | |||
|developer=Sonic Team | |developer=Sonic Team | ||
|publisher=Sega | |publisher=Sega | ||
|platform=Sega Genesis | |||
|ReleaseDates={{ReleaseDate | |||
|date=1991-06-23 | |||
|region=NA | |||
}}{{ReleaseDate | |||
|date=1991-07-26 | |||
|region=JPN | |||
}}{{ReleaseDate | |||
|date=1991-06-21 | |||
|region=PAL | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{ | |Contributors={{Linked Contributors | ||
'''''Sonic the Hedgehog''''' (ソニック・ザ・ヘッジホッグ) is a platform game developed by [[Sonic Team]] and published by [[Sega]] for the [[Sega Genesis]]. It was first released in North America on June 23, 1991, then in PAL regions and Japan the following July. This is the first game in the long-running ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog ( | |contributor=Masato Nakamura | ||
|role=Composer, Sound Produce | |||
}}{{Linked Contributors | |||
|contributor=Hiroshi Kubota | |||
|role=Sound Program | |||
|notes=credited as "Jimita" | |||
}}{{Linked Contributors | |||
|contributor=Contributor:Yukifumi Makino | |||
|role=Sound Program | |||
|notes=credited as "Macky" | |||
}} | |||
}} | |||
'''''Sonic the Hedgehog''''' (ソニック・ザ・ヘッジホッグ) is a platform game developed by [[Sonic Team]] and published by [[Sega]] for the [[Sega Genesis]]. It was first released in North America on June 23, 1991, then in PAL regions and Japan the following July. This is the first game in the long-running ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog (series)|Sonic]]'' video game series. The game stars the titular character [[Sonic the Hedgehog (character)|Sonic]] and his quest to defeat the evil [[Dr. Eggman|Dr. Robotnik]], who has captured animals in robots and taken the Chaos Emeralds. | |||
''Sonic the Hedgehog'''s music was composed by [[Contributor:Dreams Come True]] bass guitarist [[Contributor:Masato Nakamura]]. | ''Sonic the Hedgehog'''s music was composed by [[Contributor:Dreams Come True|Dreams Come True]] bass guitarist [[Contributor:Masato Nakamura|Masato Nakamura]]. | ||
== Composition == | == Composition == | ||
<!-- this should be a generalized overview of the composition of the game's entire soundtrack. Motifs, etc. --> | |||
<!-- | |||
=== Influences === | === Influences === | ||
<!-- if there are any musical influences, mention them here --> | |||
== Sound test == | == Sound test == | ||
[[File:Sonic1LevelSelect.png|right|thumb]] | |||
The [[sound test]], called "Sound Select," is part of the game's [[level select]]. This is accessed by inputting ↑ ↓ ← → (or ↑ ↓ ↓ ↓ ← → in the Japanese version) on the title screen. A ring chime will sound, and then holding down A and pressing start will enter the Level Select screen. | The [[sound test]], called "Sound Select," is part of the game's [[level select]]. This is accessed by inputting ↑ ↓ ← → (or ↑ ↓ ↓ ↓ ← → in the Japanese version) on the title screen. A ring chime will sound, and then holding down A and pressing start will enter the Level Select screen. | ||
This is a list of the tracks playable in the sound test: | This is a list of the tracks playable in the sound test: | ||
* 81: [[Track:Green Hill Zone]] | * 81: [[Track:Green Hill Zone|Green Hill Zone]] | ||
* 82: [[Track:Labyrinth Zone]] | * 82: [[Track:Labyrinth Zone|Labyrinth Zone]] | ||
* 83: [[Track:Marble Zone]] | * 83: [[Track:Marble Zone|Marble Zone]] | ||
* 84: [[Track:Star Light Zone]] | * 84: [[Track:Star Light Zone|Star Light Zone]] | ||
* 85: [[Track:Spring Yard Zone]] | * 85: [[Track:Spring Yard Zone|Spring Yard Zone]] | ||
* 86: [[Track:Scrap Brain Zone]] | * 86: [[Track:Scrap Brain Zone|Scrap Brain Zone]] | ||
* 87: [[Track:Invincibility]] | * 87: [[Track:Invincibility|Invincibility]] | ||
* 88: [[Track:1-Up]] | * 88: [[Track:1-Up|1-Up]] | ||
* 89: [[Track:Special Stage]] | * 89: [[Track:Special Stage|Special Stage]] | ||
* 8A: [[Track:Title]] | * 8A: [[Track:Title (Game:Sonic the Hedgehog (1991))|Title]] | ||
* 8B: [[Track:All Clear]] | * 8B: [[Track:All Clear (Game:Sonic the Hedgehog (1991))|All Clear]] | ||
* 8C: [[Track:Boss]] | * 8C: [[Track:Boss|Boss]] | ||
* 8D: [[Track:Final Zone]] | * 8D: [[Track:Final Zone|Final Zone]] | ||
* 8E: [[Track:Stage Clear]] | * 8E: [[Track:Stage Clear|Stage Clear]] | ||
* 8F: [[Track:Game Over]] | * 8F: [[Track:Game Over|Game Over]] | ||
* 90: [[Track:Continue]] | * 90: [[Track:Continue|Continue]] | ||
* 91: [[Track:Staff Roll]] | * 91: [[Track:Staff Roll|Staff Roll]] | ||
* 92: [[Track:Drowning]] | * 92: [[Track:Drowning|Drowning]] | ||
* 93: [[Track:Chaos Emerald]] | * 93: [[Track:Chaos Emerald|Chaos Emerald]] | ||
== Soundfonts and instrumentation == | == Soundfonts and instrumentation == | ||
The original demo tracks produced by Masato Nakamura used [[MIDI]] versions of instruments. The in-game music was programmed to be played by the Sega Genesis [[Sound chip|sound chips]]: the [[Yamaha YM2612]] and the [[Texas Instruments SN76489 PSG]]. | The original [[demo tracks]] produced by Masato Nakamura used [[MIDI]] versions of instruments. The in-game music was programmed to be played by the Sega Genesis [[Sound chip|sound chips]]: the [[Yamaha YM2612]] and the [[Texas Instruments SN76489 PSG]]. | ||
== Contributors == | |||
{{Linked Contributors List}} | |||
== Alternate versions and ports == | == Alternate versions and ports == | ||
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''Sonic the Hedgehog'' has been [[Port|ported]] multiple times to many different systems. | ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' has been [[Port|ported]] multiple times to many different systems. | ||
In 2005, the game was offered on the Sonic Cafe service in Japan for mobile phones. Another version called ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog Mobile]]'' was also released for mobile phones under the Sega Mobile banner. | In 2005, the game was offered on the Sonic Cafe service in Japan for mobile phones. Another version called ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog Mobile|Sonic the Hedgehog Mobile]]'' was also released for mobile phones under the Sega Mobile banner. | ||
For Sonic's 15th anniversary, ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog Genesis]]'', a port of ''Sonic the Hedgehog'', was released for the [[Game Boy Advance]] in November 2006. This version was universally panned by critics, with a 33/100 on Metacritic. Most criticism was focused at the poor emulation, graphical glitches, and audio quality. The music is simpler renditions for use on the Game Boy Advance. Some of the sound effects are sampled from the Sega Genesis, while others are generated from simple square waves and a noise channel. Some sound effects are missing. Music gets out of sync with the game frequently, most noticeably during the credits. | For Sonic's 15th anniversary, ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog Genesis|Sonic the Hedgehog Genesis]]'', a port of ''Sonic the Hedgehog'', was released for the [[Game Boy Advance]] in November 2006. This version was universally panned by critics, with a 33/100 on Metacritic. Most criticism was focused at the poor emulation, graphical glitches, and audio quality. The music is simpler renditions for use on the Game Boy Advance. Some of the sound effects are sampled from the Sega Genesis, while others are generated from simple square waves and a noise channel. Some sound effects are missing. Music gets out of sync with the game frequently, most noticeably during the credits. | ||
An [[iPod]] version of ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' was released in 2007 and was compatible with iPod Nano (3rd, 4th, 5th Generation) and iPod classic (5th Generation). | An [[iPod]] version of ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' was released in 2007 and was compatible with iPod Nano (3rd, 4th, 5th Generation) and iPod classic (5th Generation). | ||
In 2013, [[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog (2013)|an enhanced version]] of ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' was released by Christian Whitehead as a replacement of the 2009 iOS version with new features, settings, and modes. This release features a remastered version of the soundtrack. | In 2013, [[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog (2013)|an enhanced version]] of ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' was released by Christian Whitehead as a replacement of the 2009 iOS version with new features, settings, and modes. This release features a [[Remaster|remastered]] version of the soundtrack. | ||
As part of Sega's 3D Classics line of rereleases, ''[[Game:3D Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' was released on the [[Nintendo 3DS]] in 2013. | As part of Sega's 3D Classics line of rereleases, ''[[Game:3D Sonic the Hedgehog|3D Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' was released on the [[Nintendo 3DS]] in 2013. | ||
''Sonic the Hedgehog'' has been digitally released on the [[Wii]], [[Playstation 3]], and [[Xbox 360]]. | ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' has been digitally released on the [[Wii]], [[Playstation 3]], and [[Xbox 360]]. | ||
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=== Compilations === | === Compilations === | ||
''Sonic the Hedgehog'' has been ported to many systems as part of compilations. The first compilation the game was part of was ''[[Game:Sonic Classics: 3-in-1]]'', released on the Sega Genesis in 1995. This featured ''Sonic the Hedgehog'', ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'', and ''[[Game:Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine]]''. | ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' has been ported to many systems as part of compilations. The first compilation the game was part of was ''[[Game:Sonic Classics: 3-in-1|Sonic Classics: 3-in-1]]'', released on the Sega Genesis in 1995. This featured ''Sonic the Hedgehog'', ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog 2|Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'', and ''[[Game:Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine|Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine]]''. | ||
Another Sega Genesis compilation, ''[[Game:Mega 6 Vol. 3]]'', was released in PAL territories in 1995 and features ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' alongside 5 other games. A similar compilation with a different set of games was also released in 1995 as ''[[Game:6-Pak]]'' and still features ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. | Another Sega Genesis compilation, ''[[Game:Mega 6 Vol. 3|Mega 6 Vol. 3]]'', was released in PAL territories in 1995 and features ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' alongside 5 other games. A similar compilation with a different set of games was also released in 1995 as ''[[Game:6-Pak|6-Pak]]'' and still features ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. | ||
''Sonic the Hedgehog'' was a selectable game on both the Mega-Tech System and the Mega Play, two arcade cabinets featuring various Sega Genesis games. | ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' was a selectable game on both the Mega-Tech System and the Mega Play, two arcade cabinets featuring various Sega Genesis games. | ||
In 1997, a compilation for the [[Sega Saturn]] called ''[[Game:Sonic Jam]]'' was released and included this game alongside ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog 2|Sonic 2]]'', [[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog 3|Sonic 3]], and ''[[Game:Sonic & Knuckles]]''. Audio for ''Sonic 1'' in ''Sonic Jam'' is slightly different from the original version. Most music tracks have a delay before playing due to CD loading times, and music fade in and out is missing. Collecting Power Sneakers cause the sped up version of music to load in with the track restarting each time. Sound effects are either of lower quality, different, or missing. | In 1997, a compilation for the [[Sega Saturn]] called ''[[Game:Sonic Jam|Sonic Jam]]'' was released and included this game alongside ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog 2|Sonic 2]]'', [[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog 3|Sonic 3]], and ''[[Game:Sonic & Knuckles|Sonic & Knuckles]]''. Audio for ''Sonic 1'' in ''Sonic Jam'' is slightly different from the original version. Most music tracks have a delay before playing due to CD loading times, and music fade in and out is missing. Collecting Power Sneakers cause the sped up version of music to load in with the track restarting each time. Sound effects are either of lower quality, different, or missing. | ||
A compilation for the [[Sega Dreamcast]] titled ''[[Game:Sega Smash Pack Volume 1]]'' was released in 2001 and featured ''Sonic 1'' alongside 11 other Genesis games. | A compilation for the [[Sega Dreamcast]] titled ''[[Game:Sega Smash Pack Volume 1|Sega Smash Pack Volume 1]]'' was released in 2001 and featured ''Sonic 1'' alongside 11 other Genesis games. | ||
''[[Game:Sega Genesis Collection]]'', released on the [[Playstation 2]] and [[Playstation Portable]] in 2006, also features ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. | ''[[Game:Sega Genesis Collection|Sega Genesis Collection]]'', released on the [[Playstation 2]] and [[Playstation Portable]] in 2006, also features ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. | ||
''[[Game:Sonic Mega Collection]]'' and ''[[Game:Sonic Mega Collection Plus]]'' (released in 2002 on the [[GameCube]] and 2004 on the [[PS2]] and [[Xbox]] respectively), includes ''Sonic 1''. | ''[[Game:Sonic Mega Collection|Sonic Mega Collection]]'' and ''[[Game:Sonic Mega Collection Plus|Sonic Mega Collection Plus]]'' (released in 2002 on the [[GameCube]] and 2004 on the [[PS2]] and [[Xbox]] respectively), includes ''Sonic 1''. | ||
<!-- Sonic Gems Collection (demo) --> | <!-- Sonic Gems Collection (demo) --> | ||
''Sonic the Hedgehog'' is included in ''[[Game:Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection]]'' for the [[Playstation 3]] and [[Xbox 360]]. | ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' is included in ''[[Game:Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection|Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection]]'' for the [[Playstation 3]] and [[Xbox 360]]. | ||
A compilation for the [[Nintendo DS]] called ''[[Game:Sonic Classics Collection]]'' has ''Sonic 1'' alongside ''Sonic 2'', ''Sonic 3'', and ''Sonic & Knuckles''. | A compilation for the [[Nintendo DS]] called ''[[Game:Sonic Classics Collection|Sonic Classics Collection]]'' has ''Sonic 1'' alongside ''Sonic 2'', ''Sonic 3'', and ''Sonic & Knuckles''. | ||
''[[Game:Sega Mega Drive Classic Collection - Volume 1]]'' on PC includes ''Sonic 1''. | ''[[Game:Sega Mega Drive Classic Collection - Volume 1|Sega Mega Drive Classic Collection - Volume 1]]'' on PC includes ''Sonic 1''. | ||
In the [[Xbox 360]] and [[Playstation 3]] versions of ''[[Game:Sonic Generations]]'', the player can use points earned in game to get a fully playable version of ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. | In the [[Xbox 360]] and [[Playstation 3]] versions of ''[[Game:Sonic Generations|Sonic Generations]]'', the player can use points earned in game to get a fully playable version of ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. | ||
The game is included in ''[[Game:Sonic Origins]]'' and ''[[Game:Sonic Origins Plus]]''. | The game is included in ''[[Game:Sonic Origins|Sonic Origins]]'' and ''[[Game:Sonic Origins Plus|Sonic Origins Plus]]''. | ||
== Albums == | == Albums == | ||
The first album released to feature music from ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' was ''[[Album:Sonic the Hedgehog 10th Anniversary]]'', a bonus album that came bundled with the ''Sonic Adventure 2 Birthday Pack'' special re-release of ''[[Game:Sonic Adventure 2]]'' in June 2001. The tracks featured include "Title Music", "Green Hill Zone", "Star Light Zone", "Special Stage", "Final Zone", and "All Clear". | The first album released to feature music from ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' was ''[[Album:Sonic the Hedgehog 10th Anniversary|Sonic the Hedgehog 10th Anniversary]]'', a bonus album that came bundled with the ''Sonic Adventure 2 Birthday Pack'' special re-release of ''[[Game:Sonic Adventure 2|Sonic Adventure 2]]'' in June 2001. The tracks featured include "Title Music", "Green Hill Zone", "Star Light Zone", "Special Stage", "Final Zone", and "All Clear". | ||
In October 2011, ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' received an official soundtrack release as ''[[Album:Sonic the Hedgehog 1&2 Soundtrack]]'', a 2 disc album featuring music from both this game and it's direct sequel ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''. This album contains all the original tracks from the game on the first disc, and has all of Masato Nakamura's demo recordings from the game's development on the second disc. | In October 2011, ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' received an official soundtrack release as ''[[Album:Sonic the Hedgehog 1&2 Soundtrack|Sonic the Hedgehog 1&2 Soundtrack]]'', a 2 disc album featuring music from both this game and it's direct sequel ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog 2|Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''. This album contains all the original tracks from the game on the first disc, and has all of Masato Nakamura's demo recordings from the game's development on the second disc. | ||
In December 2011, a compilation album titled ''[[Album:History of Sonic 20th Anniversary Edition]]'' was released featuring music spanning multiple Sonic games, including "Green Hill Zone". | In December 2011, a compilation album titled ''[[Album:History of Sonic 20th Anniversary Edition|History of Sonic 20th Anniversary Edition]]'' was released featuring music spanning multiple Sonic games, including "Green Hill Zone". | ||
== Credits == | == Credits == | ||
From the in-game credits: | From the in-game credits: | ||
* '''Sound Produce:''' [[Contributor:Nakamura]] | * '''Sound Produce:''' [[Contributor:Masato Nakamura|Masato Nakamura]] | ||
* '''Sound Program:''' [[Contributor:Hiroshi Kubota]] (as "Jimita"), [[Contributor:Yukifumi Makino]] (as "Macky") | * '''Sound Program:''' [[Contributor:Hiroshi Kubota|Hiroshi Kubota]] (as "Jimita"), [[Contributor:Yukifumi Makino|Yukifumi Makino]] (as "Macky") | ||
<!-- == Copyright issues == --> | <!-- == Copyright issues == --> | ||
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== Reception == | == Reception == | ||
<!-- this section should only talk about reception related to the music and audio of the game | |||
<!-- === Criticisms === --> | <!-- === Criticisms === --> | ||
| Line 160: | Line 162: | ||
The success and popularity of ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' led to a large franchise with many sequels and has been musically referenced in many games since. | The success and popularity of ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' led to a large franchise with many sequels and has been musically referenced in many games since. | ||
The [[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog (8-bit)|8-bit version of the game]] released for the [[Sega Master System]] and [[Game Gear]] features 8-bit versions of "Title Screen", "Green Hill Zone", "Stage Clear", and "Invincibility", all rearranged by [[Contributor:Yuzo Koshiro]]. It's ending song also has "Green Hill Zone" in a portion of it. | The [[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog (8-bit)|8-bit version of the game]] released for the [[Sega Master System]] and [[Game Gear]] features 8-bit versions of "Title Screen", "Green Hill Zone", "Stage Clear", and "Invincibility", all rearranged by [[Contributor:Yuzo Koshiro|Yuzo Koshiro]]. It's ending song also has "Green Hill Zone" in a portion of it. | ||
The soundtrack of the arcade-only ''[[Game:Waku Waku Sonic Patrol Car]]'' is comprised of all remixes from ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. It's title screen and main BGM tracks are "Green Hill Zone". ''Waku Waku Sonic Patrol Car's'' boss fight track is "Boss", it's ending song is "All Clear", and it's results screen song is "1-Up". | The soundtrack of the arcade-only ''[[Game:Waku Waku Sonic Patrol Car|Waku Waku Sonic Patrol Car]]'' is comprised of all remixes from ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. It's title screen and main BGM tracks are "Green Hill Zone". ''Waku Waku Sonic Patrol Car's'' boss fight track is "Boss", it's ending song is "All Clear", and it's results screen song is "1-Up". | ||
[[Game: | ''[[Game:Sonic the Hedgehog 2|Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'' shares many jingles with ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. These include "Title Screen", "Invincibility", "Chaos Emerald", "Drowning", "1-Up", "Continue", "Game Over", and "Stage Clear". The staff credits for ''Sonic the Hedgehog 2'', like that of ''Sonic the Hedgehog'', is a medley of the game's zone themes ending with "All Clear". | ||
As an award for collecting all 180 emblems in ''[[Game:Sonic Adventure 2]]'', Green Hill Zone is unlocked as a stage, which plays "Green Hill Zone" as the background music. | As an award for collecting all 180 emblems in ''[[Game:Sonic Adventure 2|Sonic Adventure 2]]'', Green Hill Zone is unlocked as a stage, which plays "Green Hill Zone" as the background music. | ||
Music from ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' is featured in the ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'' series following Sonic's inclusion as a playable character. ''[[Game:Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', ''[[Game:Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'', ''[[Game:Super Smash Bros. for | Music from ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' is featured in the ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'' series following Sonic's inclusion as a playable character. ''[[Game:Super Smash Bros. Brawl|Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', ''[[Game:Super Smash Bros. for Wii U|Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'', ''[[Game:Super Smash Bros. for 3D|S]]'', ''[[Game:Super Smash Bros. Ultimate|Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'' include "Green Hill Zone" as playable music for their respective Sonic stages. | ||
The initial US release of ''[[Game:Sonic Spinball]]'' featured music remixed from ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. It used a remixed version of the ''Sonic 1'' title screen music for it's title screen and also used a remixed version of the Game Over track. This initial release of ''Spinball'' was swiftly replaced by a different version that replaces these tracks with newly composed tracks for the game. This is due to Sega not owning the copyright to the music of ''Sonic 1''. | The initial US release of ''[[Game:Sonic Spinball|Sonic Spinball]]'' featured music remixed from ''Sonic the Hedgehog''. It used a remixed version of the ''Sonic 1'' title screen music for it's title screen and also used a remixed version of the Game Over track. This initial release of ''Spinball'' was swiftly replaced by a different version that replaces these tracks with newly composed tracks for the game. This is due to Sega not owning the copyright to the music of ''Sonic 1''. | ||
<!-- this should be expanded and split up from just a list --> | <!-- this should be expanded and split up from just a list --> | ||
Other games that reference ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' musically: | Other games that reference ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' musically: | ||
* ''[[Game:Sonic Battle]]'' | * ''[[Game:Sonic Battle|Sonic Battle]]'' | ||
* ''[[Game:Sonic Advance]]'' | * ''[[Game:Sonic Advance|Sonic Advance]]'' | ||
* ''[[Game:Sonic Pinball Party]]'' | * ''[[Game:Sonic Pinball Party|Sonic Pinball Party]]'' | ||
* ''[[Game:Sonic Advance 3]]'' | * ''[[Game:Sonic Advance 3|Sonic Advance 3]]'' | ||
* ''[[Game:Sonic Generations]]'' | * ''[[Game:Sonic Generations|Sonic Generations]]'' | ||
* ''[[Game:Sonic Dash]]'' | * ''[[Game:Sonic Dash|Sonic Dash]]'' | ||
* ''[[Game:Sonic Mania]]'' | * ''[[Game:Sonic Mania|Sonic Mania]]'' | ||
* ''[[Game:Sega Superstars Tennis]]'' | * ''[[Game:Sega Superstars Tennis|Sega Superstars Tennis]]'' | ||
* ''[[Game:Sonic X Shadow Generations]]'' | * ''[[Game:Sonic X Shadow Generations|Sonic X Shadow Generations]]'' | ||
== References in other media | == References in other media == | ||
Music from ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' is used in the movies [[Sonic the Hedgehog (movie)|Sonic the Hedgehog]], [[Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (movie)|Sonic the Hedgehog 2]], [[Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (movie)|Sonic the Hedgehog 3]]. | Music from ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' is used in the movies [[Sonic the Hedgehog (movie)|Sonic the Hedgehog]], [[Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (movie)|Sonic the Hedgehog 2]], [[Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (movie)|Sonic the Hedgehog 3]]. | ||
== Trivia == | == Trivia == | ||
[[File:Sonic1Band.webp|right|thumb|The "Sonic the Hedgehog Band"; from left to right, Max, Mach, Sonic, Sharps, and Vector. ]] | |||
* This is the first game to feature the [[Sega chant]]. The audio file took up one eighth of the four-megabyte cartridge. | * This is the first game to feature the [[Sega chant]]. The audio file took up one eighth of the four-megabyte cartridge. | ||
* An early idea for the Sound Test menu was to feature animated graphics of the "Sonic the Hedgehog Band," which would consist of Sonic as the lead singer break-dancing, Sharps the Parakeet on lead guitar, Max the Monkey on bass guitar, Mach the Rabbit on drums, and Vector the Crocodile on keyboard/synth. This idea was scrapped due to time constraints and was replaced with the Sega chant. | * An early idea for the Sound Test menu was to feature animated graphics of the "Sonic the Hedgehog Band," which would consist of Sonic as the lead singer break-dancing, Sharps the Parakeet on lead guitar, Max the Monkey on bass guitar, Mach the Rabbit on drums, and Vector the Crocodile on keyboard/synth. This idea was scrapped due to time constraints and was replaced with the Sega chant. | ||
{{Clear}} | |||
== Gallery == | |||
<gallery mode="nolines"> | |||
File:Sonic1LevelSelect.png|The in-game level select and sound test menu. | |||
File:Sonic1Band.webp|The prototype "Sonic the Hedgehog" band. | |||
File:SonicDreamsComeTrue1990TourArt.jpg|Promotional artwork used during the November 1990 tour of [[Contributor:Dreams Come True|Dreams Come True]]. | |||
File:Sonic1and2OSTAlbumArt.jpg|Album artwork for the [[Album:Sonic the Hedgehog 1&2 Soundtrack|official soundtrack release.]] | |||
</gallery> | |||
== External links == | == External links == | ||
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<!-- categories --> | <!-- categories --> | ||
[[Category:Game:Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)]] | |||
[[Category:Sonic the Hedgehog games]] | [[Category:Sonic the Hedgehog games]] | ||
[[Category:Sega Genesis games]] | [[Category:Sega Genesis games]] | ||
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[[Category:1990s games]] | [[Category:1990s games]] | ||
[[Category:Rated E games]] | [[Category:Rated E games]] | ||
[[Category:PEGI 3 games]] | |||
[[Category:Games on Spotify]] | |||
[[Category:Games on Apple Music]] | |||
[[Category:Games on Amazon Music]] | |||
[[Category:Games on Qobuz]] | |||
[[Category:Games on Deezer]] | |||
[[Category:Games on YouTube Music]] | |||
[[Category:Games on Pandora]] | |||
[[Category:Games on iHeart]] | |||
[[Category:Games on Spotify]] | |||
[[Category:Games on Tidal]] | |||
<!-- a list of potential sources for information: | |||
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonic_the_Hedgehog_(1991_video_game)#Music | |||
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Music_of_Sonic_the_Hedgehog#Sonic_the_Hedgehog_(1991) | |||
"The Making of Sonic the Hedgehog". _[Retro Gamer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retro_Gamer "Retro Gamer")_. No. 100. Bournemouth: [Imagine Publishing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imagine_Publishing "Imagine Publishing"). February 2012. pp. 46–49. [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [1742-3155](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/1742-3155). | |||
["ソニックチーム物語"](https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File%3ASega_Magazine_JP_Issue_03_199701.pdf&page=11). _Sega Magazine_ (in Japanese). No. 3. [SoftBank Creative](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SB_Creative "SB Creative"). January 1997. pp. 9–13. ([Translation](http://shmuplations.com/sonicteam/) by Shmuplations. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20191217211118/http://shmuplations.com/sonicteam/) December 17, 2019, at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine")). | |||
Les Editions Pix'n Love, ed. (2013). "Zone 1 Genesis". _The History Of Sonic the Hedgehog_. Ontario: UDON Entertainment Corp. pp. 20–33. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-926778-96-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-926778-96-9 "Special:BookSources/978-1-926778-96-9"). | |||
Nakamura, Masato (February 17, 2021). [""Emerald Hill Zone"! | DREAMS COME TRUE"](https://dreamscometrue.com/masablog/2021/02/17/27025). _Dreams Come True_. Retrieved May 24, 2021. | |||
"The Making of Sonic the Hedgehog". _[Retro Gamer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retro_Gamer "Retro Gamer")_. No. 100. Bournemouth: [Imagine Publishing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imagine_Publishing). February 2012. pp. 46–49. [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [1742-3155](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/1742-3155). | |||
["ソニックチーム物語"](https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File%3ASega_Magazine_JP_Issue_03_199701.pdf&page=11). _Sega Magazine_ (in Japanese). No. 3. [SoftBank Creative](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SB_Creative). January 1997. pp. 9–13. ([Translation](http://shmuplations.com/sonicteam/) by Shmuplations. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20191217211118/http://shmuplations.com/sonicteam/) December 17, 2019, at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine")). | |||
Les Editions Pix'n Love, ed. (2013). "Zone 1 Genesis". _The History Of Sonic the Hedgehog_. Ontario: UDON Entertainment Corp. pp. 20–33. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-926778-96-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-926778-96-9 "Special:BookSources/978-1-926778-96-9"). | |||
["'Sonic the Hedgehog' Music Creator Masato Nakamura Reflects on Video Game's 30th Anniversary"](https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/sonic-the-hedgehog-music-masato-nakamura-interview-30th-anniversary-9632034/). _[Billboard](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billboard_\(magazine\) "Billboard (magazine)")_. September 17, 2021. Retrieved March 5, 2022. | |||
Claiborn, Samuel (June 26, 2014). ["21 Crazy Facts About Sonic and the Console War He Started"](http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/06/26/21-crazy-facts-about-sonic-and-the-console-war-he-started). _IGN_. Retrieved February 13, 2014. --> | |||
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Latest revision as of 17:46, 25 November 2025
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| Sonic the Hedgehog | ||
|---|---|---|
| Developer(s) | Sonic Team | |
| Publisher(s) | Sega | |
| Platform(s) | Sega Genesis | |
Sonic the Hedgehog (ソニック・ザ・ヘッジホッグ) is a platform game developed by Sonic Team and published by Sega for the Sega Genesis. It was first released in North America on June 23, 1991, then in PAL regions and Japan the following July. This is the first game in the long-running Sonic video game series. The game stars the titular character Sonic and his quest to defeat the evil Dr. Robotnik, who has captured animals in robots and taken the Chaos Emeralds.
Sonic the Hedgehog's music was composed by Dreams Come True bass guitarist Masato Nakamura.
Composition
Influences
Sound test
The sound test, called "Sound Select," is part of the game's level select. This is accessed by inputting ↑ ↓ ← → (or ↑ ↓ ↓ ↓ ← → in the Japanese version) on the title screen. A ring chime will sound, and then holding down A and pressing start will enter the Level Select screen.
This is a list of the tracks playable in the sound test:
- 81: Green Hill Zone
- 82: Labyrinth Zone
- 83: Marble Zone
- 84: Star Light Zone
- 85: Spring Yard Zone
- 86: Scrap Brain Zone
- 87: Invincibility
- 88: 1-Up
- 89: Special Stage
- 8A: Title
- 8B: All Clear
- 8C: Boss
- 8D: Final Zone
- 8E: Stage Clear
- 8F: Game Over
- 90: Continue
- 91: Staff Roll
- 92: Drowning
- 93: Chaos Emerald
Soundfonts and instrumentation
The original demo tracks produced by Masato Nakamura used MIDI versions of instruments. The in-game music was programmed to be played by the Sega Genesis sound chips: the Yamaha YM2612 and the Texas Instruments SN76489 PSG.
Contributors
| Name | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hiroshi Kubota | Sound Program | credited as "Jimita" |
| Masato Nakamura | Composer, Sound Produce | |
| Yukifumi Makino | Sound Program | credited as "Macky" |
Alternate versions and ports
Sonic the Hedgehog has been ported multiple times to many different systems.
In 2005, the game was offered on the Sonic Cafe service in Japan for mobile phones. Another version called Sonic the Hedgehog Mobile was also released for mobile phones under the Sega Mobile banner.
For Sonic's 15th anniversary, Sonic the Hedgehog Genesis, a port of Sonic the Hedgehog, was released for the Game Boy Advance in November 2006. This version was universally panned by critics, with a 33/100 on Metacritic. Most criticism was focused at the poor emulation, graphical glitches, and audio quality. The music is simpler renditions for use on the Game Boy Advance. Some of the sound effects are sampled from the Sega Genesis, while others are generated from simple square waves and a noise channel. Some sound effects are missing. Music gets out of sync with the game frequently, most noticeably during the credits.
An iPod version of Sonic the Hedgehog was released in 2007 and was compatible with iPod Nano (3rd, 4th, 5th Generation) and iPod classic (5th Generation).
In 2013, an enhanced version of Sonic the Hedgehog was released by Christian Whitehead as a replacement of the 2009 iOS version with new features, settings, and modes. This release features a remastered version of the soundtrack.
As part of Sega's 3D Classics line of rereleases, 3D Sonic the Hedgehog was released on the Nintendo 3DS in 2013.
Sonic the Hedgehog has been digitally released on the Wii, Playstation 3, and Xbox 360.
Compilations
Sonic the Hedgehog has been ported to many systems as part of compilations. The first compilation the game was part of was Sonic Classics: 3-in-1, released on the Sega Genesis in 1995. This featured Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, and Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine.
Another Sega Genesis compilation, Mega 6 Vol. 3, was released in PAL territories in 1995 and features Sonic the Hedgehog alongside 5 other games. A similar compilation with a different set of games was also released in 1995 as 6-Pak and still features Sonic the Hedgehog.
Sonic the Hedgehog was a selectable game on both the Mega-Tech System and the Mega Play, two arcade cabinets featuring various Sega Genesis games.
In 1997, a compilation for the Sega Saturn called Sonic Jam was released and included this game alongside Sonic 2, Sonic 3, and Sonic & Knuckles. Audio for Sonic 1 in Sonic Jam is slightly different from the original version. Most music tracks have a delay before playing due to CD loading times, and music fade in and out is missing. Collecting Power Sneakers cause the sped up version of music to load in with the track restarting each time. Sound effects are either of lower quality, different, or missing.
A compilation for the Sega Dreamcast titled Sega Smash Pack Volume 1 was released in 2001 and featured Sonic 1 alongside 11 other Genesis games.
Sega Genesis Collection, released on the Playstation 2 and Playstation Portable in 2006, also features Sonic the Hedgehog.
Sonic Mega Collection and Sonic Mega Collection Plus (released in 2002 on the GameCube and 2004 on the PS2 and Xbox respectively), includes Sonic 1.
Sonic the Hedgehog is included in Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection for the Playstation 3 and Xbox 360.
A compilation for the Nintendo DS called Sonic Classics Collection has Sonic 1 alongside Sonic 2, Sonic 3, and Sonic & Knuckles.
Sega Mega Drive Classic Collection - Volume 1 on PC includes Sonic 1.
In the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 versions of Sonic Generations, the player can use points earned in game to get a fully playable version of Sonic the Hedgehog.
The game is included in Sonic Origins and Sonic Origins Plus.
Albums
The first album released to feature music from Sonic the Hedgehog was Sonic the Hedgehog 10th Anniversary, a bonus album that came bundled with the Sonic Adventure 2 Birthday Pack special re-release of Sonic Adventure 2 in June 2001. The tracks featured include "Title Music", "Green Hill Zone", "Star Light Zone", "Special Stage", "Final Zone", and "All Clear".
In October 2011, Sonic the Hedgehog received an official soundtrack release as Sonic the Hedgehog 1&2 Soundtrack, a 2 disc album featuring music from both this game and it's direct sequel Sonic the Hedgehog 2. This album contains all the original tracks from the game on the first disc, and has all of Masato Nakamura's demo recordings from the game's development on the second disc.
In December 2011, a compilation album titled History of Sonic 20th Anniversary Edition was released featuring music spanning multiple Sonic games, including "Green Hill Zone".
Credits
From the in-game credits:
- Sound Produce: Masato Nakamura
- Sound Program: Hiroshi Kubota (as "Jimita"), Yukifumi Makino (as "Macky")
Reception
Legacy
As the first game in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, Sonic the Hedgehog musically defined several aspects of the series. The iconic title screen track has become the series's theme song. Green Hill Zones theme has become synonymous with Sonic the Hedgehog. The jingles "Drowning", "Continue", "1-Up", "Game Over", and "Chaos Emerald" have been used in their respective contexts throughout the video game series. "Invincibility" has occasionally been used, but is more often replaced with a similar track that remixes the theme song of the game it is in. The medley format of "Staff Roll" has often been used in later games, albeit using the level themes from each game.
The sound effects of Sonic the Hedgehog have become series staples and are used in almost every single Sonic game. The ring sound has been licensed out by Sega Sammy Holdings, Sega's parent company, and is used by many gas station cash registers in the United States.
The Sega chant that plays when starting Sonic the Hedgehog has been used in the opening credits of most of Sega's published video games since it's initial use in this game.
The website OverClocked Remix currently features over 55 remixes from Sonic the Hedgehog, as well as a full album of remixed tracks titled "Sonic the Hedgehog: The Sound of Speed". Other remixed tracks from this game are featured in their albums "Speeding Towards Adventures: 25 Years of Sonic the Hedgehog", "Select Start", and "The OneUps Volume 2".
The concert series Video Games Live features a segment of music from Sonic the Hedgehog.
Music from Sonic the Hedgehog was performed by the Sonic the Hedgehog 30th Anniversary Symphony and the Sonic Symphony World Tour.
Audio support
Sonic the Hedgehog supports stereo sound. Along with the music, sound effects are also in stereo, such as the ring collecting sound alternating between the left and right channels for each ring pickup.
References in later games
The success and popularity of Sonic the Hedgehog led to a large franchise with many sequels and has been musically referenced in many games since.
The 8-bit version of the game released for the Sega Master System and Game Gear features 8-bit versions of "Title Screen", "Green Hill Zone", "Stage Clear", and "Invincibility", all rearranged by Yuzo Koshiro. It's ending song also has "Green Hill Zone" in a portion of it.
The soundtrack of the arcade-only Waku Waku Sonic Patrol Car is comprised of all remixes from Sonic the Hedgehog. It's title screen and main BGM tracks are "Green Hill Zone". Waku Waku Sonic Patrol Car's boss fight track is "Boss", it's ending song is "All Clear", and it's results screen song is "1-Up".
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 shares many jingles with Sonic the Hedgehog. These include "Title Screen", "Invincibility", "Chaos Emerald", "Drowning", "1-Up", "Continue", "Game Over", and "Stage Clear". The staff credits for Sonic the Hedgehog 2, like that of Sonic the Hedgehog, is a medley of the game's zone themes ending with "All Clear".
As an award for collecting all 180 emblems in Sonic Adventure 2, Green Hill Zone is unlocked as a stage, which plays "Green Hill Zone" as the background music.
Music from Sonic the Hedgehog is featured in the Super Smash Bros. series following Sonic's inclusion as a playable character. Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, S, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate include "Green Hill Zone" as playable music for their respective Sonic stages.
The initial US release of Sonic Spinball featured music remixed from Sonic the Hedgehog. It used a remixed version of the Sonic 1 title screen music for it's title screen and also used a remixed version of the Game Over track. This initial release of Spinball was swiftly replaced by a different version that replaces these tracks with newly composed tracks for the game. This is due to Sega not owning the copyright to the music of Sonic 1.
Other games that reference Sonic the Hedgehog musically:
References in other media
Music from Sonic the Hedgehog is used in the movies Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic the Hedgehog 3.
Trivia
- This is the first game to feature the Sega chant. The audio file took up one eighth of the four-megabyte cartridge.
- An early idea for the Sound Test menu was to feature animated graphics of the "Sonic the Hedgehog Band," which would consist of Sonic as the lead singer break-dancing, Sharps the Parakeet on lead guitar, Max the Monkey on bass guitar, Mach the Rabbit on drums, and Vector the Crocodile on keyboard/synth. This idea was scrapped due to time constraints and was replaced with the Sega chant.
Gallery
-
The in-game level select and sound test menu. -
The prototype "Sonic the Hedgehog" band. -
Promotional artwork used during the November 1990 tour of Dreams Come True. -
Album artwork for the official soundtrack release.
External links
References
STH2 Emerald Hill Zone 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Chemical Plant Zone 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Aquatic Ruin Zone 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Casino Night Zone 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Hill Top Zone 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Mystic Cave Zone 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Oil Ocean Zone 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Metropolis Zone 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Mystic Cave Zone (2P) 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Death Egg Zone (Part 1) 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Death Egg Zone (Part 2) 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Emerald Hill Zone (2P) 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Sky Chase Zone 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Wing Fortress Zone 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Special Stage 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Power Up 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Title 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 All Clear 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Boss 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Super Sonic 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Option 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Staff Roll 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Game Results 〜 Mega Drive version 〜 STH2 Unused Song 〜 Mega Drive version 〜
STH1 Marble Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 Spring Yard Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 Labyrinth Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 Star Light Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 Scrap Brain Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 Final Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 Special Stage 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 1Up 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 Title 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 All Clear 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 Stage Clear 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 Boss 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH1 Game Over 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Emerald Hill Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Chemical Plant Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Aquatic Ruin Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Casino Night Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Hill Top Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Mystic Cave Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Oil Ocean Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Metropolis Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Mystic Cave Zone (2P) 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Death Egg Zone (Part 1) 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Death Egg Zone (Part 2) 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Emerald Hill Zone (2P) 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Sky Chase Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Wing Fortress Zone 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Special Stage 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 All Clear 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Boss 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Super Sonic 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Option 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Game Results 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜
STH2 Unused Song 〜 Masa's Demo version 〜