Sega is celebrating the 35th anniversary of Sonic the Hedgehog with a unique display: a life-sized figure that the company claims contains the character's "DNA." This commemorative piece was developed in partnership with the Lom Baby project, a science collective that specializes in bio art, utilizing what Sega describes as "cutting-edge biotechnology."
The Lom Baby project has previously undertaken initiatives such as exhibiting "dragon meat" and recreating the T-Virus from Resident Evil. For the Sonic project, Sega states that the "essence of Sonic" has been translated into "DNA" using similar biotechnology. The figure itself features a translucent chamber within its chest, filled with a milky suspension. Inside this suspension is an emerald-like object, which Sega explains symbolizes that "Sonic's core will endure, never fading, into the future."
While the concept of Sonic's "DNA" includes elements like "velocity cells" and "exploration DNA," Sega has not detailed the specific methods used to acquire or synthesize the genetic information of a fictional character. The company asserts that this "DNA" is encapsulated within a Chaos Emerald for preservation.
The Sonic the Hedgehog DNA Figure exhibition is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, June 23, at the Tokyo Sega Store. Visitors will need to travel to Japan to see the display firsthand.