Fans Unhappy After 60 Minute Sonic Concert Only Plays One Sonic Song

Music is a major component to what makes a video game special. The right soundtrack can instill a sense of magic in new players, and invoke a deep, comforting nostalgia in gaming veterans. Which is why Segas recent Sonic the Hedgehog Live DJ concert (featuring Steve Aoki) was such a disappointment.

About a week ago, Sega announced plans for a 60-minute virtual Sonic concert to celebrate the characters 30-year anniversary. Broadcasting on places like Twitch and YouTube, the event would feature a performance by popular EDM artist Steve Aoki. That event took place yesterday, at 3 PM EST. And let me tell you, people were not happy.

Throughout the hour-long event, a real-life Aoki was surrounded by an oddly low quality 3D Sonic the Hedgehog landscape. Occasionally changing locations to places like Green Hill Zone and Chemical Plant, it also features awkwardly dancing Sonic characters like Amy and the Blue Blur himself. While not ideal, this wasnt what drew the ire of the gaming crowd that tuned in to watch the show. During the entire performance, only a single song from the game franchise make an appearance: a remix of Stardust Speedway from Sonic CD.

Considering Sonics long-running history of having influential music, from the original chip tune tracks to the rock n roll vocals from Sonic Adventure 2, having a virtual concert that only played a single song from the franchise is a pretty out-of-touch decision.

Games like Fortnite and Roblox are introducing a new trend of getting music industry stars associated with their brand in the form of virtual concerts. Some of these events have gone over extremely well. Its understandable why Sega might want to get in on the action. Maybe their heart wasnt in it, maybe the entire budget was spent getting Aoki to agree to it. Either way, the event wasnt given the time and attention it needed, and it shows.

None of this even addresses Steve Aoki's recent commitment to the controversial world of NFTs, even going as far to have that weird monkey NFT as their Twitter profile picture.