Remember Project Needlemouse a few months back?  Well, that 2D Sonic platformer has been officially confirmed today (as of 3:00 AM EST) as Sonic the Hedgehog 4 – Episode 1.  Yep, you read that right.  Sonic the Hedgehog 4 will be available on all three consoles as a downloadable game.  The gameplay is 2D, while the graphics are 3D.  From what little that was shown, the graphics look pleasing.  Then again, I would be pleased if Sega just did the graphics in a 16 bit style, ala the classic Genesis titles.  Teaser trailer after the break!

You probably noticed the “Espisode 1″ in the title.  According to a Q&A conducted by Gamespot with Sega’s brand manager Ken Balough, Sonic 4 is a big game and this is just the first part.  Here’s hoping it’s up to par with the Genesis titles.  If so, I would definitely not mind an Episode 2 or 3.

Classic gameplay elements seem to be intact so far.  Spin Dash was confirmed and Power Sneakers too.  Homing Attack was also confirmed, and I’m not too sure I approve.  If the game is truly reminiscent of the past Sonic games, Homing Attack may not be necessary.  I’ll hold off judgment for now though.

I know I probably shouldn’t, considering Sonic’s track record over the recent years, but I can’t help but hype this game.  Sonic fans, this may be the game you have all been looking for.  I’ll be following this one quite closely.

Look for Sonic the Hedgehog 4 sometime this summer!