Not every gamer today may have had the chance to experience it firsthand, but Ecco the Dolphin holds legendary status among retro gaming enthusiasts. Known for its bizarre premise and notoriously difficult gameplay, which one could argue are the hallmarks of many classic titles, the game has long stood as one of the most unique offerings from the early console era. And after decades of silence, Ecco the Dolphin is making a surprise comeback in 2025.
Initially released in 1992 for the SEGA Genesis, Ecco the Dolphin placed players in the role of a dolphin navigating underwater environments and battling alien invaders in a surreal, aquatic adventure. While its premise may sound outlandish, the game built a dedicated fanbase due to its atmospheric design and challenging mechanics, and perhaps there will be more converts in the near future.
In a recent interview with Xbox Wire, Ecco the Dolphin creator Ed Annunziata revealed not just one, but three new projects tied to the franchise. The first two entries in the series, Ecco the Dolphin and Ecco: The Tides of Time, are both set to be remastered. While specific details about the visual and gameplay enhancements remain under wraps, the announcement alone has stirred considerable buzz within the retro gaming community.
“Me and the entire original team are going to remaster the original Ecco the Dolphin and [The] Tides of Time games,” Annunziata said.
Perhaps even more exciting is the confirmation of a brand-new entry in the franchise: a true sequel and the third main instalment in the Ecco series. According to Annunziata, the new game will continue to focus on marine environments and ecological storytelling, with a deep respect for the ocean’s mysteries. “I wanted to create a game that sparked curiosity and respect for the ocean,” he explained.
As of now, no official platforms or release windows have been announced for any of the three projects. Still, the return of Ecco the Dolphin, a cult classic beloved for its originality, marks an exciting development for fans of both retro and narrative-driven games.
