It’s happening!

Sega’s blue wonder, Sonic the Hedgehog is returning next year, in full 2D glory!

Sonic Mania, an all-new, original Sonic title, will be a return to the classic style that made the franchise an iconic part of video game history.

Planting Sonic’s lightning fast feet firmly in 2D ground is not the only way in which Sega is honoring the things that made the series great. Sonic Mania will feature the triumphant return of sprite-based artwork, which will lend a feeling of authenticity to the title.

Simply put, Sonic Mania will have the look and the feel of a classic Sega Genesis Sonic game.

Christian Whitehead, who has worked on a number of prominent Sonic fan projects, as well as his own game engine, Retro, will have a hand in the development of Sonic Mania.

Sega plans on releasing Sonic Mania in early 2017 for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.

Are you pumped for the return of the Sonic, when Sonic Mania dashes onto store shelves next year? Let us know in the comments section below.