Sonic Frontiers is taking the Sonic franchise from a linear level-based structure to an open-world adventure. This has been one of the most discussed aspects of the game, alongside the linear stages via a set of Cyber Space levels based on past Sonic games. Following the game's full reveal, fans have been receiving plenty of information regarding it in various showcases and gameplay demos at industry events like Gamescom.
Gamescom's public demo allowed fans to get to grips with an early build of the game, letting them try the combat, explore the open world, and more. The overall response to the demo has been positive, with many fans satisfied with Sonic Frontiers after its initial rough impressions. After the conclusion of Gamescom, Japanese website Gamer shared some information regarding a new area known as Ares Island, along with how Amy is connected to the Kocos that will be introduced in this game.
The website featured brand-new renders of Amy Rose, along with the Koco characters. According to a rough Google Translation, Amy will be essential in collecting Kocos in Sonic Frontiers. While she's initially trapped in cyberspace, once she is freed she can communicate with the Kocos and help any that are lost. Players can find Kocos out in the world accompanied by a wind chime sound when nearby.
Sonic Frontiers' Kocos are a set of collectibles in the game, similar to Breath of the Wild's Korok seeds. Two prominent members of the Kocos were also shown for the first time, with full 3D renders to boot. These are known as the Elder and Hermit Kocos, the former a short and stout creature with a mossy beard, and the latter thin and tall, with a similar beard of moss. These two can help improve Sonic's abilities, with the Hermit being able to upgrade his attack or defense, while the Elder can boost Sonic's speed or ring capacity.
The website also provides screenshots and details about Ares Island in Sonic Frontiers, the game's second area and desert level. While a terrain covered mostly in sand, there are still oases around, with sandstorms that will rage from time-to-time in this area. The enemies on Ares Island are also stated to be stronger than the ones found on Ares Island, with one of these Titans being a large foe that Sonic will face in an electrified cage known as Sumo.
Sonic Frontiers will launch on November 8 for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.