Sidescrolling Sonic game for Wii revealed by ESRB [update]

Once again, the Entertainment Software Ratings Board has spilled the beans on an upcoming game, this time one that is of particular interest to this old school Sonic fanboy. Sonic Chaos has appeared on the ESRB’s site, described as an actual 2D sidescroller.

The full listing, found here, reads as follows:

This is a side-scrolling action game in which players run through obstacles and hazards to reach the end of various themed levels. Players receive points for collecting gold rings scattered throughout the levels. 

The game is rated E for Everyone (obviously) and is slated for the Wii. There are no other details of course, so we don’t yet know if it’s developed by Sonic Team, or if an actual good studio like Dimps is in the driver’s seat.

Sonic in 2D is something that fans have wanted for a long time, and many felt it would never happen again on a home console. This is certainly interesting news, but until I find out who’s developing it, I’ll not hold my breath. 

Boy, would a good 2D Sonic game be sweet though.

[Update: You know, Sonic Chaos did sound familiar, and now I’ve been reminded that one appeared for the GameGear. It wouldn’t have been fresh in my mind because I was never privileged enough to own that system, but I do now recall the game existed, thanks to some helpful reminders from the readers. This is more than likely a Virtual Console release of that old game, not a new one. I should have remembered that Sega would not be so kind.]