For the first time in the Sonic series, players can create their own original Hero Character, and customize how the character plays and looks. This newly revealed playstyle in Sonic Forces is in addition to the previously revealed fast-paced action of Modern Sonic and the thrilling platforming of Classic Sonic.

In this gameplay style, players will be equipping their custom Hero Character with one of a variety of powerful unique gadgets called Wispons. Wispons are an evolution of the Color Powers from Sonic Colors and double as both offensive abilities and as a way to platform through levels quickly. Along with the Wispon, the Hero Character will have a grappling hook they can utilize to quickly traverse across zones. Players can also customize the Hero Character’s looks by choosing and swapping between hundreds of accessories and outfit options to change the character’s appearance as they play through the game.

The new Infinite battle footage showcases the Bird Hero Character battling with the Lightning Wispon, and the Cat Hero Character attacking with the Cube Wispon. Players can take advantage of two different Hero Characters’ abilities and Wispons thanks to the “Rental Avatar” Hero Swapping feature.

The new free “Rental Avatar” feature allows access to Hero Characters built by players around the world, granting them the ability to use their Wispons and swap between their character and the “Rental Avatar” at any point in the level. Besides seeing some gorgeous and/or hilarious characters as a result, this feature will let players utilize two different Wispons in a single level to find secret paths and overcome any obstacles in their way.

In addition to the new Infinite assets, check out new footage of the Bird Hero Character utilizing the Drill Wispon in the Chemical Plant

Here are seven base animal types that players can select from, each with varying special abilities:

• Wolf – Automatically draws in rings when near them
• Rabbit - Has longer invincible time after receiving damage
• Cat - Keeps one ring after being hit
• Dog - Restarts with five rings after the player dies
• Bear – Blows away enemies with a homing attack
• Bird - Flies high with double jump abilities
• Hedgehog - Collects rings when getting damaged

No matter what Hero the player chooses to create, it will be featured throughout the entire game. In a first for the Sonic franchise, a character the player creates will be a key part of the story, appearing not only in cutscenes, but by being a crucial element in helping Sonic reclaim the world from Eggman’s domination.  

Sonic Forces will be available for PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and PC on November 7, 2017.