Sonic the Hedgehog Movie Coming in 2018, Mixes Live-Action and Animation

Sonic the Hedgehog is set to star in his first feature film, which will be produced by Sony Pictures and combine live-action with animation. In a statement, Sega chief executive, Hajime Saito, confirmed the movie is set for release in 2018.

"Sega Sammy Group is currently planning with Sony Pictures to create a live-action and animation hybrid Sonic The Hedgehog movie scheduled for release in 2018," he said, speaking to The World Folio.

"Like with this CG animation production, we would like to expand our business into other entertainment areas beyond what we are currently involved. "

Sega is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its blue speedster this year and, as part of this, is expected to make a number of announcements over the coming months.

On February 9, it posted an image on Twitter that sparked speculation a new game was in development.

On January 5, Sega released a new logo for Sonic. Crush 40 lead singer Johnny Gioeli also hinted that he was involved with the development of the new game in a Facebook post which was later removed.

"We are planning a few performances for 2016 to commemorate the anniversary of Sonic," it read. "We might participate in writing new songs for the anniversary game... stay tuned."

Sega has not officially confirmed any plans to release a new anniversary game. The next Sonic game planned for release is Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice for 3DS.