Sonic Origins (PC): Frequently Asked Questions

[neildittmar]

Preface

I've created this FAQ that will hopefully answer most of the general questions about Sonic Origins in a clear, concise, and accurate way. The question portions are in bold. The answers that follow are sourced from official information that Sega has provided or the game itself. The information provided here is subject to change, especially if the game is subsequently updated post-release.

NOTE: I am not a Sega employee and do not represent the company in any way, capacity, or manner.

All information is current as of 8/6/2022. If you find any verifiable errors or omissions please let me know and I will do my best to include, clarify and/or correct, giving full credit where it's due.

What is Sonic Origins?

Sonic Origins is an enhanced compilation of the first four mainline Sonic the Hedgehog titles, originally released for the Sega Genesis / Mega Drive in the 1990's. The games included are Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic CD, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, and Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Knuckles. In "Anniversary" mode, each game contains various Quality of Life improvements over the original 16-bit releases including remastered visuals with widescreen support, added features and modes, new animated cut scenes, and other enhancements. "Classic" mode contains visual presentation and game play more closely associated with the original Genesis / Mega Drive releases. More information on what is specifically included within Sonic Origins can be found on the official website: https://origins.sonicthehedgehog.com/

When was the game released?

The game was released on June 23, 2022, coinciding with the 31st anniversary of the release of the original Sonic the Hedgehog game on Sega Genesis in North America.

Is Sonic Origins a digital only release?

Yes, Sega has confirmed that there are no plans for a physical release.

Does Sonic Origins run on the Steam Deck?

As per the Sonic Origins product page on Steam, the game has been Deck Verified by Valve.

What are the purchase options for Sonic Origins and what is included?

There are two purchase options for Sonic Origins: Standard and Digital Deluxe. Standard is the base game. Digital Deluxe includes the base game plus two additional DLC packs: the Premium Fun Pack and the Classic Music Pack. Additionally, the Premium Fun Pack and Classic Music Pack are available to purchase separately if you opt for the Standard version.

More information on specifically what's included within the Standard and Digital Deluxe versions of the game, as well as the DLC packs can be found on the official website: https://origins.sonicthehedgehog.com/

Is the Start Dash Pack DLC still available?

This was available as a bonus for those who pre-ordered the game, but everything that was contained in the pack is known to be unlockable in-game or attainable through DLC.

Bonus Coins - Earned by completing missions in each of the included games.
Mirror Mode - This can be unlocked in-game without the Start Dash Pack.
Letterbox Background - Obtained by purchasing the Premium Fun Pack DLC.

How much does Sonic Origins cost?

In the United States, the MSRP for the Standard version of the game is $39.99 USD, with the Digital Deluxe version coming in at $44.99. Pricing for other regions can be found here: https://steamdb.info/app/1794960/

Is there a discount for those who have previously purchased one or more of the standalone Sonic the Hedgehog titles that are included with Sonic Origins?

No

What is the download size for Sonic Origins?

6.22 GB

Does Sonic Origins have local or online multiplayer?

The product page on Steam and other digital storefronts indicates that Sonic Origins is single-player only. However, the local multiplayer modes from Sonic the Hedgehog 2 are available and similar to what was included in the original Genesis / Mega Drive release. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Knuckles also has it's local multiplayer modes included.

Are the original Sega Genesis / Mega Drive titles included or just the enhanced versions specific to this release?

Sonic Origins does not include the standalone, non-enhanced Sonic titles from the Genesis / Mega Drive days. It does include "Classic" mode that presents the games in a visual style more closely associated with the original 16-bit releases, allowing for a finite number of lives and the game over condition.

Are any other 16-bit Sonic titles like Sonic Spinball or Sonic 3D Blast included? What about Knuckles Chaotix or the 8-bit Sonic the Hedgehog titles?

No

Are Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Sonic and Knuckles separate entries in Sonic Origins?

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Knuckles is only represented as a combined entry within Origins. You can't play each individual game separately as you could with the original Sega Genesis / Mega Drive releases.

Does Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Knuckles have it's original soundtrack and/or the alternate tracks from revised versions of the game?

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Knuckles does not have its original soundtrack completely intact in Sonic Origins. However, long-time Sonic composer Jun Senoue has adapted the alternate music tracks himself using the same sound chip that many Genesis / Mega Drive soundtracks used.

Thanks to Rings and CrowRising for helping source the above information.

I'm experiencing bugs or having technical issues with the game. Is Sega planning to release a patch for Sonic Origins?

A patch was released on 8/5/2022 that updates the game to version 1.04. This update addresses a number of issues specific to each game included within Sonic Origins, as well as more general ones. A full list of the changes is available here:

https://www.sonicstadium.org/2022/08/you-can-stop-jumping-now-tails-sonic-origins-has-a-patch/

I've read that the PC version of Sonic Origins contains Denuvo. What does this mean?

Denuvo is a digital rights management (or DRM) software produced by ir.deto that is embedded into a game's code with the goal of preventing illegal distribution (software piracy), particularly within a title's initial release window. According to the product page on Steam for Sonic Origins, the game includes Denuvo Anti Tamper.

You may have already purchased and played games on Steam (or elsewhere) that contain Denuvo Anti Tamper and not even realized it was there. On the other hand, this DRM can be a barrier to launching legitimately purchased games and/or may cause games to exhibit performance issues that otherwise wouldn't occur. Principled arguments regarding the for vs. against Denuvo debate are beyond the scope of this FAQ. If you are unsure how it's inclusion may affect you, affirm that you purchase Sonic Origins through a digital storefront (like Steam) that allows returns for a period of time even after the game is initially activated, installed and played.

Official information about Denuvo Anti Tamper can be found here: https://irdeto.com/denuvo/anti-tamper/

Will Denuvo be removed from Sonic Origins at some point?

Unknown at this time. While Denuvo has been removed from some games after the initial release (as was the case with Sonic Mania on Steam) there are others where it's never officially removed.

Are the standalone Sega Genesis / Mega Drive Sonic the Hedgehog titles still available to purchase on digital storefronts?

No, the standalone titles that are included as part of Origins (Sonic 1, 2, 3 and Knuckles, and CD) were delisted for new purchases on digital storefronts (including Steam) on May 20th.

Were compilations such as the Sega Genesis and Mega Drive Classics Collection and the Sonic the Hedgehog: Ultimate Bundle also altered to remove the delisted games?

Yes, while the compilations are still available to purchase they no longer include the delisted Sonic games.

Does Sega delisting the standalone Sonic titles on digital storefronts mean I can't play them if I've purchased them previously?

No. If you have purchased the classic, standalone Sonic the Hedgehog games that are delisted (or a compilation that contains one or more of these titles) you will still be able to play your games. The delisting does not prevent you from playing what has already been downloaded and purchased.

Is there any other way I can purchase the classic, standalone Sonic titles on PC now that they are delisted?

So-called grey market reseller sites may have product keys available for the delisted Sonic titles remaining in their respective inventories. Keys may also be available for compilations such as the Sega Genesis / Mega Drive Classics Collection that were originally issued by Sega before May 20th and should include the delisted Sonic the Hedgehog titles when activated. For either of these options, it's important to verify that the key is specifically designated for your region. Reviewing the refund policy of the site may also be beneficial.

Additionally, individuals may have digital versions of one or more of the affected standalone Sonic the Hedgehog titles in their Steam inventories that they might be willing to gift or trade.

Details on how to source through either of these options is beyond the scope of this FAQ and better handled via a web search or dealing directly. Be careful out there :-)

People are discussing being able to play all of the games included within Sonic Origins, with enhancements, for a significantly cheaper price or even free! What do they mean?

In the case of Sonic CD specifically, they're likely referencing the delisted Steam version that contains widescreen support and other enhancements over the original Sega / Mega CD release. Others may be referring to the Android versions of Sonic 1 and 2 that contain improvements similar to those within Sonic Origins and can be finessed to run natively on PC. Utilizing community developed modifications on the Android versions or the delisted standalone Genesis / Mega Drive Sonic titles is another way to attain enhancements similar to what Sonic Origins offers.

Guidance on how to install and configure alternate versions / modifications of the original Sonic games to make them feature comparable to those contained within Sonic Origins is outside the scope of this FAQ. These solutions often require some level of effort to source, install, and configure. Sonic Origins integrates directly into Steam and offers the ability to simply download and play. It is up to the individual to determine which option presents the most value.

I'm disatisfied with some of the decisions (price, content, DRM, etc.) that Sega has made regarding Sonic Origins on PC. What can I do about it?

The most productive option to get Sega's attention is to vote with your wallet. Specifically, refrain from purchasing the game and make sure the company knows why. Communicate respectfully, but honestly, through either their official social media channels or submit a support request via the support.sega.com website.

[NBOX21]

Originally posted by neildittmar:

Will Sonic Origins have local or online multiplayer?

The product page on Steam and other digital storefronts indicate that Sonic Origins will be single-player only.

Wait, what?! So does that mean that the Sonic & Tails co-op play from Sonic 2 and 3 as well as the competition mode for both games are being removed altogether? BTW the original versions of these games had multiplayer so it'd be stupid to remove it from these versions:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D81W5nkUqt4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWUEgbek3UU
Especially considering the original versions are going to be de-listed in about a week from now.

[Grand Captain Speedy Dash]

Originally posted by NBOX21:

Originally posted by neildittmar:

Will Sonic Origins have local or online multiplayer?

The product page on Steam and other digital storefronts indicate that Sonic Origins will be single-player only.

Wait, what?! So does that mean that the Sonic & Tails co-op play from Sonic 2 and 3 as well as the competition mode for both games are being removed altogether? BTW the original versions of these games had multiplayer so it'd be stupid to remove it from these versions:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D81W5nkUqt4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWUEgbek3UU
Especially considering the original versions are going to be de-listed in about a week from now.

If they remove multiplayer on any platform that will be just scummy especially considering the delisting. If you remove a feature many players like from a remake is bad but it's even worse if you remove the originals so people are unable to buy them for the feature instead.

[ForumBot3000™® 🤖👍✅]

Originally posted by neildittmar:

I disagree with the way Sega is handling the launch of Sonic Origins on PC. What can I do about it?

While commiserating with other users on the forums can be good for venting purposes, the most productive option to get Sega's attention is to vote with your wallet. Specifically, refrain from pre-ordering or purchasing the game at launch and make sure the company knows why. Communicate respectfully, but honestly, through either their official social media channels or submit a support request via the support.sega.com website. You can also e-mail the company directly at [e-mail].

And what about those of us who AGREE with the way Sega is handling the launch of Sonic Origins on PC?

[CrowRising]

Originally posted by ఆ:

Originally posted by neildittmar:

I disagree with the way Sega is handling the launch of Sonic Origins on PC. What can I do about it?

While commiserating with other users on the forums can be good for venting purposes, the most productive option to get Sega's attention is to vote with your wallet. Specifically, refrain from pre-ordering or purchasing the game at launch and make sure the company knows why. Communicate respectfully, but honestly, through either their official social media channels or submit a support request via the support.sega.com website. You can also e-mail the company directly at [e-mail].

And what about those of us who AGREE with the way Sega is handling the launch of Sonic Origins on PC?

Use your imagination.

[Rings]

Originally posted by ఆ:

Originally posted by neildittmar:

I disagree with the way Sega is handling the launch of Sonic Origins on PC. What can I do about it?

While commiserating with other users on the forums can be good for venting purposes, the most productive option to get Sega's attention is to vote with your wallet. Specifically, refrain from pre-ordering or purchasing the game at launch and make sure the company knows why. Communicate respectfully, but honestly, through either their official social media channels or submit a support request via the support.sega.com website. You can also e-mail the company directly at [e-mail].

And what about those of us who AGREE with the way Sega is handling the launch of Sonic Origins on PC?

Buy it. Something you haven't done yet.

[Codester]

Originally posted by NBOX21:

Originally posted by neildittmar:

Will Sonic Origins have local or online multiplayer?

The product page on Steam and other digital storefronts indicate that Sonic Origins will be single-player only.

Wait, what?! So does that mean that the Sonic & Tails co-op play from Sonic 2 and 3 as well as the competition mode for both games are being removed altogether? BTW the original versions of these games had multiplayer so it'd be stupid to remove it from these versions:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D81W5nkUqt4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWUEgbek3UU
Especially considering the original versions are going to be de-listed in about a week from now.

You can just buy the Sega master collection which includes every game being released in this origin pack and play that.
They aren't being de listed.

[Grand Captain Speedy Dash]

Originally posted by Codester:

Originally posted by NBOX21:

Wait, what?! So does that mean that the Sonic & Tails co-op play from Sonic 2 and 3 as well as the competition mode for both games are being removed altogether? BTW the original versions of these games had multiplayer so it'd be stupid to remove it from these versions:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D81W5nkUqt4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWUEgbek3UU
Especially considering the original versions are going to be de-listed in about a week from now.

You can just buy the Sega master collection which includes every game being released in this origin pack and play that.
They aren't being de listed.

They are being delisted on May 20th

[NBOX21]

Originally posted by Grand Captain Speedy Dash:

If they remove multiplayer on any platform that will be just scummy especially considering the delisting. If you remove a feature many players like from a remake is bad but it's even worse if you remove the originals so people are unable to buy them for the feature instead.

They did exactly that with the GTA San Andreas remaster - the original PS2 version had 2 player co-op where you could explore the city together and do a few co-op rampage missions along with being able to compete against each other in a game of pool. The PS4 re-release of the PS2 game had a feature called share play that allowed you and a friend to play together on different consoles just like they're there right next to you.

Then the remasters came along and removed this feature altogether. They also de-listed the older versions so you can no longer buy it for this feature and you can't even use share play on the PS2 Classics version on PS4 anymore either even if you do have them prior to their de-listing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuANBgxp0Hk

Originally posted by Codester:

You can just buy the Sega master collection which includes every game being released in this origin pack and play that.
They aren't being de listed.

What the heck is the SEGA Master Collection and what platform is it even on? If it's the PS3 or 360 versions, they don't include Sonic 3 & Knuckles, only their standalone games. If it's the Sonic Classic Collection on DS, they don't have 2 player either. If it's any collection released after 2012, they won't have Sonic 3 or Sonic & Knuckles in them, the latter of which is single player only anyway.

If you meant the SEGA Mega Drive Classics collection which is on Steam, then yes, those versions of Sonic 1, 2 and 3&K in that collection are sadly being de-listed as well.

[neildittmar]

FAQ Updated 5/20/2022:

Updated sections of the FAQ regarding delisting of Sonic 1, 2, 3 and Knuckles, and compilations being altered

Cleaned Up / condensed the Preface and various answer sections

Made the answer to the "digital only" question more definitive

Removed the [e-mail] e-mail as it is no longer active

[Tsuki Zero]

Prices are still crap though.

And the delisting of the originals is the stupidest PR move that screams "we don't have confidence the remaster will sell, so let's remove the legit ways to obtain the originals."

[Everybody do the flop]

Q: Why aren't Amy and Metal Sonic playable, despite being on the front cover (Steam equiv)? They only appear in one game, so it's like if they added Mecha Sonic artwork for the game but just kept him in S3K.

[ForumBot3000™® 🤖👍✅]

Glad to see the delisting its time to move forward to the future with origins and not dwell in the past

[joeymeboy98]

I have some questions
1.Are there any other promotional items that I have to worry about besides the Start-Dash/Letterbox background?
2, if this is based on the iOS versions will it include all their features, including achievements?
3. Will they add a level select to Sonic CD, so I don't have to worry about not being able to go back and break any generators that I missed?
4. Will the Switch version have an in-game achievement system?

[supermichael]

Originally posted by Eldin:

Seems Sonic 2 will have co-op if the below info is true. Below can be found in several sections online.

“Of the four, Sonic 2 is the only one to feature 2-player local co-op. In Sonic 2, a second player can take control of Tails at any time”

Something about that doesn't seem right and I hope it isn't correct. In Sonic 2 and Sonic 3 & Knuckles original games it is possible to play as Sonic and Tails together, while the 2nd player can play as Tails. The same applies to Sonic Mania.

I don't see why this game only will be different.

[NBOX21]

Originally posted by Eldin:

Seems Sonic 2 will have co-op if the below info is true. Below can be found in several sections online.

“Of the four, Sonic 2 is the only one to feature 2-player local co-op. In Sonic 2, a second player can take control of Tails at any time”

In Sonic 3 & Knuckles on the Mega Drive, 2 player co-op was also a thing in more or less the exact same way it was in Sonic 2. Both games also had a competition mode that generally involved racing each other to the end of the level which, with the right people, can be a ton of fun. If what you say is true, then that's another beloved feature from S3&K gone...

I also have two more reasons to be very worried about this:
1) Nothing has been mentioned about competition mode so far, so it's very likely that it could be removed altogether and not brought back in any way.
2) Playing these games on the SEGA Mega Drive Classics collection (where the games have now been de-listed) allowed you to play online with other people, both co-op and versus, whereas the store page only lists local co-op with no mention of online play.