Sega release official Sonic zone creator tool online!
Sunday, 13th September 2009, 6:57am (BST), 5 Comments
I've just stumbled upon this and I'm posting because I don't think other newsboards or forums have spotted it yet. Sega Europe have opened Play Sega which allows you to play certain games, including Sonic 1 online, in your browser. There seems to be a subscription but you can sign up for a free trial.

What's really interesting though is that there is also a Sonic level creator tool! It uses Sonic 1 style sprites and going by the three levels that have been submitted (which are free to play without even having to sign up), the only level type available to create is a tropical paradise stage - however it features largely unique graphics (save for one or two things re-used/edited from levels like Green Hill and Labyrinth), and original music. This, to my knowledge, is the only time Sega has provided us with an official Sonic level editor tool of any kind!

Check out some screen shots I've taken below. Click to see them larger in the forum post I've submitted where you can discuss the service further!

Comments   5 Comments have been posted.
#1. Comment posted by Meph on Sunday, 13th September 2009, 1:08pm
That's amazing! I've got to try this!
#2. Comment posted by Speeding Hedgehog on Sunday, 13th September 2009, 1:24pm
It's about time they did this! How do I play the free levels?
#3. Comment posted by Mercury on Sunday, 13th September 2009, 10:26pm
Great find! Those new graphics look kinda nice.

But here's a thought for you: What if this is related to Project Needlemouse in some way? They would have made this tool for development of a Genesis style game, and then passed a version of it along to the public to generate more classic style Sonic excitement.
#4. Comment posted by Jordan on Thursday, 25th March 2010, 9:51pm
h-h-how do you play this creative game???
#5. Comment posted by Act2 on Saturday, 15th May 2010, 4:45pm
I've tried a free trial to this, and making a good level is actually very easy. Bad news is that most levels made by others are pure garbage, though... The actual physics are horrible, too... Wasted potential, but I hope a really good level editor comes out someday.
Featured Posts
I was at this year's Summer of Sonic! I got to have a go on Sonic 4, and both versions of Sonic Colours, and all in all it was a great day! Come read all about it!
The quest for new writers is still on! I'm looking for passionate, articulate, motivated Sonic fans to write new guides for the site. Get in touch!
Sonic's had a turbulent decade filled with heartache, surprise and joy. Relive those moments with me as I take you on a journey through every game of the last ten years, and how the community has grown along with them.