Sonic R
Sonic R is a 1997 racing game developed by Traveller's Tales and Sonic Team and published by Sega for the Sega Saturn, with later ports to Windows and inclusion on various Sonic compilation releases. Released in November 1997 in Japan and December 1997 in North America and Europe, the title stood out as one of the few Sonic games to focus on on-foot racing rather than platforming, featuring fully 3D environments and a soundtrack composed largely by Richard Jacques. The game was originally developed to showcase the Saturn's 3D capabilities and was later re-released in compilations and digital collections, bringing it to modern platforms as part of Sega's ongoing preservation of classic titles.
Gameplay centers on fast-paced races across themed courses where players choose from a roster of characters from the Sonic universe, each with unique speed, handling, and special abilities. Races emphasize collecting rings and power-ups while using shortcuts and character-specific moves to gain an advantage; a single-player mode includes time trials and a story-driven championship, while multiplayer supports split-screen competition. The story premise is light and arcade-focused: Dr. Robotnik organizes a racing tournament on his island to find the fastest character and harvest Chaos Emeralds, prompting Sonic and his friends to enter and thwart his plans. Fun fact: Sonic R is notable for its vocal tracks and upbeat soundtrack, which received mixed responses at release but has become a memorable and oft-discussed element of the game's legacy.