"Project Needle Mouse" Revealed

Sega's "top secret project" codenamed 'Project Needle Mouse' has finally been officially revealed.  Guarded in secrecy and discussed in speculation amongst the various circles, fans wondered if it would be a completely new franchise or a return to glory for a long neglected one.  Now, after teaser images and trailers, Sega is ready to reveal the true identity of Project Needle Mouse.  Speculate no longer, gamers.  Spoilers After Jump (for those of you who haven't figured it out from the graphic at right).

What IS a bit of a surprise is that Sonic 4 will be episodic.  Hopefully, Sega will take their episodic gaming cues from Telltale Games rather than Valve.

With traditional game mechanics and a few new ones, Sonic 4 Episode 1 looks to be the long-awaited return to form for Sega's mascot, whose recent full 3D outings has diluted the brand with mixed results.  Of course, 2D Sonic titles have been proliferating on the handheld Nintendo DS, but this will be the first time since Sonic and Knuckles on the Sega Genesis/Megadrive that an original 2D traditional platforming Sonic the Hedgehog game has been released on the consoles.  The graphics also seem to be taking a nod from Street Fighter IV, putting high definition 3D graphics and character designs on 2D field.

Surely a rebirth for Sega's answer to Mario, but is it too little too late?  Or is the recent nostalgia trend the right time to bring back the blue blur? (Answer: YES!)  Find out when Sonic the Hedgehog 4, Episode 1 is released on XBLA, PSN, and WiiWare.

via Gamespot