Sonic the Hedgehog: Ancient Isles

Sonic the Hedgehog: Ancient Isles is an unofficial Sega Genesis ROM hack created by Catswell and submitted to the 2021 Sonic Hacking Contest. Formerly known as Catswell's Edition, the project reimagines the original Sonic the Hedgehog with new levels, custom sprites, and an island setting. Its story follows a similar premise to Sonic 1 but places the events on a different island.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Ancient Isles follows the momentum-based movement of the original Sonic the Hedgehog. Sonic can run, jump, and roll, but the Spin Dash is not available. Players must use slopes, acceleration, and carefully timed jumps to navigate the stages and reach different routes.

The hack also introduces an Air Roll move. Press A, B, or C while airborne, provided Sonic is not already jumping or rolling, to activate it. This additional action works alongside the traditional movement system without introducing the Spin Dash.

Level layouts reward players who understand Sonic's momentum. Building speed and maintaining it through slopes and platforms can help reach alternative paths and higher areas.

Zones and Level Design

The game features original environments with custom graphics. Documented locations include Ancient Forest, Buried Ship, and Stardream Oasis. These stages replace familiar Sonic 1 layouts with new routes and scenery.

Key Features

• Original stages: New layouts designed around momentum-based platforming and multiple paths.
• Air Roll: An additional midair action activated with A, B, or C under the appropriate conditions.
• No Spin Dash: Acceleration relies on running, rolling, and the terrain.
• Custom artwork: Sprites and stage graphics created for the project.
• Original and adapted music: A soundtrack featuring compositions and arrangements by XBRO, alongside music adapted from other works.
• Genesis hardware support: The creator reported testing the hack on Sega Genesis hardware using a Mega EverDrive Pro.

Tips for Playing

• Build momentum before approaching steep slopes or elevated routes.
• Use the Air Roll when its activation conditions are met.
• Explore alternative paths instead of relying on a single route through each stage.
• Remember that the Spin Dash is unavailable when approaching obstacles or restarting movement.

Ancient Isles was featured in the Retro category of the 2021 Sonic Hacking Contest. Its focus is on new environments and level layouts built around the movement mechanics of the first Sonic game.