That pesky hedgehog is set to make a big splash in 2013 as lots of exciting new experiences are on the way for the franchise which is good to hear as things have been relatively quiet since his time with Mario at the Olympic Games.

We're promised new digital titles as well as a new boxed game even beyond the promising racer Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed. 

SEGA's European head of brand licensing, Sissel Henno, promised a big expansion of the merchandise including apparel and stationary which will launch alongside the digital titles and boxed game.

We're not sure what the boxed game is right now but after a successful run on Wii, we're hopeful for a sequel to Sonic Colours or perhaps an entirely new platformer on Wii U.

"Over the next year there will be a big focus on the expansion of [Sonic licenced] toy distribution across Europe. Similarly, we will also be growing the apparel, publishing and stationary categories. We will have several new digital titles launching as well as a new boxed game, so there will be plenty of opportunities to link marketing campaigns across games and merchandise."

Are you excited for the new merchandise? Or just eager for some more high speed action? Let us know your thoughts below.