Story House Egmont and SEGA Europe Limited have recently announced an exciting collaboration to launch a Sonic the Hedgehog magazine in the UK, GSA, Nordic, and CEE regions. Set to debut in October 2024, the magazine will cater to Sonic fans aged five to seven, offering interactive and thrilling content to bring Sonic’s fast-paced world to life.
The Sonic Experience
The upcoming release of the Sonic X Shadow Generations game has set the stage for the magazine’s launch, promising an immersive experience for young readers. The magazine will feature a comic strip and various levels of difficulty inspired by past and present Sonic games. This unique approach will not only entertain readers but also challenge them to conquer new heights and keep coming back for more.
Moreover, the magazine will be filled with fascinating facts and information about Sonic, his friends, and foes, providing readers with a deeper insight into the Sonic universe. Each issue will also come with an exclusive Sonic toy that ties into the magazine’s content, offering an interactive and engaging experience beyond the pages.
Laura Adnitt, the Publishing and Brand Management Director at Story House Egmont, expressed her excitement about the collaboration with SEGA Europe Limited, stating, “We are delighted to be launching Sonic across our regions. Sonic is an evergreen brand with a broad appeal in gaming and beyond. We can see the Sonic the Hedgehog magazine being a huge hit with young fans across the world, and we are looking forward to working with SEGA Europe Limited on the successful activation of each market.”
SEGA’s Perspective
Gemma Daniels, the Senior Licensing Manager at SEGA Europe Limited, shared her enthusiasm for the expansion of the Sonic IP into new product categories and distribution channels. The launch of the Sonic the Hedgehog magazine marks a significant milestone for the brand, showcasing its enduring popularity and relevance in the market. SEGA Europe Limited is thrilled to partner with Story House Egmont, leveraging their expertise in magazine publishing to enhance the Sonic licensing program.
While the new magazine celebrates the modern era of Sonic, there is a bittersweet note regarding the iconic Sonic the Comic from the 1990s. Due to licensing restrictions, Egmont has no plans to release collections of the beloved series, which featured a talented creative lineup including artists like Nigel Dobbyn, Richard Elson, Mick McMahon, and Lew Stringer. Despite its nostalgic value, the original Sonic the Comic stories are no longer deemed aligned with the current brand vision.
The Sonic Phenomenon
Since the release of the first Sonic the Hedgehog movie in 2020, the franchise has continued to soar in popularity, captivating audiences worldwide. The highly anticipated Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie, set to premiere in cinemas across Europe later this year, will further fuel the excitement surrounding the magazine launch. With Sonic becoming a household name for young fans and families, the magazine is poised to be a must-have companion for Sonic enthusiasts of all ages.
Story House Egmont, known for its market-leading children’s magazines, boasts a diverse portfolio of licensed titles featuring beloved brands like Disney Princess, Paw Patrol, and My Little Pony. Their commitment to creating engaging and educational content resonates with parents and children alike, making their magazines a valuable and enriching source of entertainment.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Story House Egmont and SEGA Europe Limited to launch the Sonic the Hedgehog magazine represents a significant milestone in the Sonic franchise’s legacy. With its engaging content, interactive features, and exclusive toys, the magazine is poised to delight young fans and immerse them in the thrilling world of Sonic. As Sonic continues to evolve and expand its reach, the magazine serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of this iconic blue hedgehog.