Preview - Sonic Lost World

Originally announced on Nintendo Direct in May, Sonic Lost World is being developed, though a partnership with Nintendo, by Sega and the Sonic Team exclusively for the Nintendo Wii U and 3DS. A release date has been set for holiday 2013.

Plot

"In his latest plot to defeat Sonic and rule the world, Dr. Eggman has harnessed the power of six menacing creatures known as the Deadly Six. However, when the Deadly Six rise up against their new master, Sonic must unite with his arch nemesis Eggman and explore the mystical Lost Hex in order to take them on head-to-head. Use Sonic's amazing new moves and incredible Color Powers to speed across a variety of unique terrains, racing inside, outside and upside down in every level." - Summary from Sega

Game Play

The game will feature game mechanics introduced in Sonic Colors and Sonic Generations - levels will switch between 3D and 2D platforming and the ability granting Wisps from Sonic Colors will make a return. The 3D areas will be cylindrical paths allowing Sonic to run on all sides of the path giving a  Super Mario Galaxy feel to it. This mechanic gives each level multiple paths. Some will be best for collecting items and others built for speed. It has been compared to the mechanics of the previously unreleased game Sonic Xtream.

Sonic will be able to controllable at two speeds - a slower, more manageable speed by pressing the D-pad and a faster, full speed run controlled by holding down the R button. Sonic's iconic spin-dash and homing attack will also be returning along with some other moves.

Both the Wii U and 3DS versions will have unique stages and abilities; thus, they are not simply ports of each other. The 3DS version will mark Sonic's first 3D adventure on a hand-held system.

Sonic will be the only playable character but Sega has said that other iconic characters will make appearances in the story line. The game will also include references from previous games. Hopefully this will help Sonic regain the momentum that he's lost over the past decade.

Parkour System

The Parkour System is similar to "Free Running" mechanics in some games, like Assassin's Creed. This comes into effect when running at a high speed and colliding with a (non-damaging) object - like a tree. This lets Sonic climb, jump, and bound over obstacles without losing momentum and is even necessary for collecting some things.

Wii U Demo

IGN got access to exclusive demo footage and commentary from Sega of America. In it we see acts from the first 3 levels as well as the different paths that each level presents.

3DS E3 Trailer

Nintendo released more information about the games during E3 and released a trailer for the 3DS version.