After many a leak, Sega has finally confirmed perhaps the worlds worst kept secret- That the new iteration in the Sonic the Hedgehog series is Sonic Unleashed. The game, which is being developed by Sonic Team, will be heading to the Nintendo Wii as well as the Xbox 360, PS3 and PS2. Using a new engine dubbed the Hedgehog Engine, the game transfers from 3D to 2D camera angles on the fly and allows multiple path gameplay, while allowing classic Sonic gameplay elements to remain. More inside By combining rich and vibrant scenery with dynamic viewpoints Sonic Unleashed will provide an immersive 3D experience whilst keeping alive the 2D gameplay elements and fantastic worlds that Sonic fans know and love commented Gary Knight, European Marketing Director for SEGA Europe. In addition to this classic Sonic gaming experience, when darkness sets in Sonic Unleashed players will be able to experience a completely new way to play as Sonic making this his most exciting adventure yet!

The games story involves good old Dr. Eggman, and low and behold hes broken apart the Chaos emeralds and its up to Sonic to travel the world to get the pieces back. New abilities are promised, but as expect Sonics speedy footwork will be involved too.

The game is due for a release in late 2008, so hopefully thats enough time to guarantee that we dont end up with another Gem like the last Sonic game, and hopefully the Wii version can hold its own.