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Sonic hacks

From Sonic Retro

Revision as of 20:15, 3 September 2005 by Ss is testing (talk | contribs) (Other Systems)

Hacks are edited Sonic games. The hacking scene started around 1997, led by Saxman. While the first hacks were very basic, such as minor palette changes, the hacks of today are very complex, usually featuring some combination of the following:

  • Palette changes
  • Sprite changes
  • Major art (title screen, HUD, et al.) changes
  • Level art changes and original level layouts
  • Music and/or sound changes
  • Importation of levels from other games
  • Changes in movement engines or bosses
  • Original ideas and concepts introduced, such as the ring counter in Sonic 2 Delta

Most hacks are distributed in IPS format today. Though the RXL format, developed by Saxman, was meant to eventually replace IPS, it quickly faded into obscurity. Applying an IPS patch to an existing Sonic game allows a user to play the hacked version. Hacks which have been compiled from a disassembly are distributed as ROMs.

Hacks that deserve recognition

In alphabetical order

Megadrive/Genesis

Gameboy Advance

none yet

Other Systems


Feel free to add any other hacks that you feel are worthy