Summary
A notable Sega leaker has given fans an update regarding Sega’s future plans for a newSonic the HedgehogChao Garden-esque spin-off, though some fans may be disappointed to hear that it will be a mobile exclusive game for Netflix. Prominent Sega leaker, Midori, has been leaking plenty ofSonic the Hedgehogfranchise information throughout 2024.
One rumor from Midori that has been on a lot of fans' minds was a leak regardinga potential return to theSonicfranchise’s Chao Garden. The Chao Garden was introduced inSonic Adventureas a pet raising simulator, with players being able to raise the titular Chao to be able to compete in a variety of activities, such as racing and karate. The feature was popular enough to return inSonic Adventure 2, but games following it have not included Chao Garden. Midori reaffirmed this leak, stating the fan favorite mode is coming back, though it may be in a way that fans may not like or want.
Shortly before Summer Game Fest, Midori said fans should look forward to the future of Chao, which, combined with some earlySonic X Shadow Generationsleaks, had fans speculating that the Chao Garden would be making a comeback. Following its premiere, Midori shared more details about Sega’s plans with the Chao, stating that bothSonic X Shadow GenerationsandSonic Rumblewere the start, and that the Netflix Games exclusive Chao title is calledSonic Chao Guardians. She also shares thatChao Guardianswill be a brand-new game that is focused on Chao, and it won’t just include the Chao Garden’s features.
Sonic Chao Guardians Is a Netflix Exclusive Title All About Chao, Midori Says
Some fans are skeptical about this new title being another mobile exclusive title, following Sega’s pivot in this direction with 2023’sSonic Dream Teamand theSonic Rumblemobile spin-off. The biggest concern was its exclusivity to Netflix Games, which requires a subscription to the service in order to play. On the other hand, a number of fans were excited about the Chao Garden making a comeback in this form, as they believe that a spin-off exclusively about raising Chao would be a good fit for a mobile experience.
As seen in various screenshots of the game, a number of Chao are in attendance at Sonic’s birthday party inGenerations. Players will be tasked withrescuing Chao inSonic X Shadow Generationsin special missions, and will follow Sonic after they are found.Sonic Rumblefeatures Chao as cosmetics, earned by getting rings and spending them in-game. Fans should wait till more official information is given aboutSonic Chao Guardiansbefore drawing conclusions.
Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog is a prolific game franchise that started life on the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive. Covering both 2D and 3D iterations through the generations, Sonic is known for speedy movements and interesting platforming mechanics.
