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.

Fans can now pre-order the Digital Bonus Edition of Sonic Forces for $39.99 ($54.99 CAD) for PS4 and Xbox One, with PC Digital Bonus Edition pre-orders starting on September 21.

The Digital Bonus Edition will also include the previously announced SEGA/ATLUS Pack Add-On, which offers a variety of in-game outfit items and accessories to recreate the look of five other SEGA/ATLUS icons for your Hero Character.

SEGA also revealed today that there will be an Episode Shadow Add-on available starting on launch day. The Episode Shadow Add-On focuses on the mysterious backstory between Shadow and Infinite and includes an additional three Shadow stages plus the ability to replay as Shadow in over 10 Modern Sonic Stages. As a thank you to fans, the Episode Shadow Add-On will be FREE to everyone who purchases Sonic Forces, including those that have already pre-ordered the Physical Bonus Edition. On top of that, if you pre-order the Digital Bonus Edition, you’ll also receive a Shadow costume for your Hero Character.

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.