Last week, Sega revealed further information about Sonic Origins, the latest collection of four mainline classic Sonic the Hedgehog titles. The compilation features an anniversary mode, missions, and more to excite potential players. However, with Origins due to release on every major platform in June, Sega has announced that the digital versions of the same games in the new collection are being delisted sometime in May.Sonic Origins features Sonic 1, 2, 3 & Knuckles, and Sonic CD. These games have been re-released on numerous platforms over the years, and currently, there are plenty of ways for fans to purchase the titles. However, only a few storefronts such as Steam have all four of these titles available for purchase.According to an email sent out by Sega PR, the versions of Sonic 1, 2, 3 & Knuckles, and CD currently available are set to be discontinued. The email states that all digital versions of the standalone games featured in Sonic Origins will be delisted on May 20. The email also states that there will be exceptions to this rule, such as Sonic 1 and 2 on Sega Ages, and Sonic 2 on the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack.
Due to the nature of what platforms Sonic Origins is set to launch on, this is most likely so fans won't be able to purchase the games separately once the new collection is available. However, the email doesn't mention the mobile versions found on Google Play and the App Store. This is a rather interesting omission, considering that these versions made by Christian Whitehead and Headcannon are the ones in Sonic Origins.
It's rather tragic that Sega has decided to remove these games in May. Most versions of these titles available currently are without too many changes made to them, which means there will be fewer ways for players to experience the games as they were originally released. Many fans aren't happy that Sega has decided to make Origins the only way for future players to experience Classic Sonic as a result.
However, considering the versions available right now apart from CD and the mobile versions are rather simplistic ports of the games, it may just be that Sega is making sure only the best version of these prominent Sonic titles are the ones available. Still, those who wish to own these games on their platform of choice may need to purchase them before they're delisted next month.
Sonic Origins is set to release June 23 on PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.