Its been a while since we have seen the ol' blue blur in top form but it's looking more and more like 2010 will finally be the year of the 'hog with no less than 5 completely different Sonic titles coming out within the next few months. Leading the charge of returning the way past cool rodent to the front of the pack is a return to 2D platforming awesomeness where he belongs.

Sonic the Hedgehog 4 brings back the original gameplay of the old Genesis titles that made them so loved and made Sonic a household name.  That’s not to say this game doesn’t have anything to keep the classic gameplay fresh with new ideas and techniques. Along with all of Sonic’s old moves, the Homing Attack from the 3D titles makes the transition over, and while other 2D Sonic games have implemented the maneuver, this is the first time it feels right and not just tacked on as a holdover from the 3D games.

Another first is the entire game is being released episodically over XBLA, WiiWare, PSN, and iPhone with each episode delivering a bit of the adventure.  Episode 1 has 4 zones and a final stage which is a nice bit of content to get through.

The game looks and feels great to play and really takes you back to playing Sonic back in the day, especially if you are playing on the Wii and using the Wiimote.

Look for Episode 1 to hit in the Fall with the subsequent episodes following along shortly after.

Keep an eye on ComicsOnline for an exclusive interview coming shortly!