Sonic Mania Plus Adds Characters, Modes On Switch, PS4, And Xbox One

Sonic had arguably been in a down period for some time, but last year's Sonic Mania was widely regarded as a return to form for the hedgehog. That digital-only game is finally set to get a physical release, but not just for the existing game. Sega has announced Sonic Mania Plus, a physical re-release of Mania that introduces some new content and features.

Among the additions are two new playable characters, Mighty and Ray. There's also a new Encore mode and an expanded version of the four-player competition mode where you go head-to-head with other players. This was all shared during a Sonic panel at SXSW and then teased on Twitter, so we don't yet know all the details.

Sonic Mania Plus will be available in a physical package this summer for Switch, PS4, and Xbox One. That's notable, as the only physical version of Mania was the Collector's edition (which came with a digital copy of the game itself). This new Plus version includes holographic packaging, a 32-page art book, and a reversible cover that makes the game look like it's for Genesis.

Other news that is sure to excite Sonic fans is a partnership with PUMA to sell Sonic-inspired sneakers and--more notably--a teaser for something related to Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing. Whether this turns out to be a remaster, a full-on sequel, or something else remains to be seen.