- Sonic the Hedgehog officially turns 35 this year
- Sonic Team Chief Takashi Iizuka Thinks He May Not Make It to the Franchise’s 70th Anniversary, But He Will ‘Definitely Want to Play’ Future Games If Possible
- Iizuka also says he’s “really proud” of the series
Sonic the Hedgehog officially turning 35, the anniversary celebrations will begin in January this year, and to mark the occasion, I sat down with Sonic Team leader Takashi Iizuka to discuss all things blue and pointy in a new interview at Summer Game Fest 2026.
The veteran developer explained that he “of course” considers him almost like his own child and revealed that he “has been with Sonic longer than my own children” in real life. “I’m really proud,” he said.
Right now, the franchise is undeniably in a strong position, with fans impressed by the recent Sonic x Shadow Generations remake and support for the ongoing racing title Sonic Racing: CrossWorldsso I was interested to know where he thought it would be in 35 years.
The Japanese-speaking staff seated in the interview room immediately began laughing as he responded, with the translator barely holding back his laughter as he revealed that “Iizuka-san doesn’t think he’ll be alive” to see it.
My suggestion that his spirit “will live on in Sonic” didn’t help get the proceedings back on track.
“Sonic Team in Japan is a great group of people,” Iizuka added after a few more laughs.
“It’s really thanks to all the great people who create content for Sonic that we get things like Sonic X Shadow Generationswe get things like Borderswe’re having all these new and great experiences,” he continued.
“They’re constantly challenging themselves, they’re constantly trying to create fun new gaming experiences, and so in 35 years, while I don’t think I’ll still be working at Sega making games, as a gamer I’ll definitely want to have their experiences.”
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