The iconic Ecco the Dolphin franchise returns to the present day After several years in oblivion, with the confirmation of remasters of the original titles and a new chapter that will continue the saga. The news has sparked the interest of those who enjoyed the dolphin's adventures in the 90s. and a new generation of players waiting for their evolution.
The announcement came in the wake of statements by Ed Annunziata, creator of the series, which has detailed the remastering process of the first two games, as well as the future production of a third installment, all with the collaboration of the original team that shaped these SEGA classics.
Remastering of Mega Drive classics
The project includes the Ecco the Dolphin and Ecco: The Tides of Time update, two titles originally released for SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive and recognized as benchmarks of underwater adventure games. Annunziata himself has confirmed that the goal is to maintain the original spirit while adapting it to current standards., which implies a visual and playability improvements to attract both veterans and new users.
This relaunch recovers the work of Appaloosa Interactive (formerly known as Novotrade International). Although the third title released in 2000, "Defender of the Future", will not be remastered, the New project seeks to continue the narrative of the first two games, considered the essence of the franchise.
A third unpublished installment on the horizon
After the remasters are finished, the roadmap goes through develop a completely new sequelAnnunziata himself has pointed out that this title will focus on a more contemporary approach, both in gameplay and graphics technology, although no specific details regarding platforms or release windows have been revealed at this time.
Those interested in receiving more information can stay tuned to herethedolphin.com, where one is active countdown ending on April 25, 2026. Everything indicates that this will be the date chosen for a more detailed presentation or even the launch of some of the projects underway..
Sega's role and community expectations
Sega's possible involvement in the series' return is generating some excitement, especially considering that the Japanese company has been resurrecting other classic franchises in recent years. Furthermore, there are indications of recent legal and commercial movementsand Registration of the trademarks "Ecco" and "Ecco the Dolphin", as well as the out-of-court settlement reached between Sega and Ed Annunziata in 2016 regarding the rights to the character.
The platforms have not yet been confirmed, but there is speculation that they will be available on PC, Steam Deck, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, with future systems not ruled out. It remains to be seen whether Sega will ultimately take on a prominent role in the publication or whether it will be a more discreet collaboration..
The franchise Here is the Dolphin is thus experiencing one of its most important moments in decades, with the return of two of its most emblematic titles and the announcement of a sequel that will seek revitalize the saga for today's audiencesA proposal that embraces nostalgia and innovation, and opens up new horizons for one of the most unique names in the history of video games.
