Sonic is undoubtedly one of the most popular gaming icons that has withstood the test of time, in fact, together with Mario, he is probably one of the oldest, and helped defined the action packed era of the 16bit days on the Sega Genesis. While Mario was busy hoping goompas, Sonic was speeding through levels with incredible velocity.

However, not all was going well with Sonic, as he soon started hitting bumps on the road. And while Mario evolved progressively, Sonic only managed to do so for 4 or 5 titles. And it’s been a rocky road for him ever since, with never ending ups and downs, and it’s Sprites are no different.

Master System / Game Gear sprites:

Genesis (Mega Drive) Sprites [the one on the right is from the Master System]:

Via Kotaku