Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I is going to miss its now previous summer release date, Sega’s revealed today. While announcing the game is now also coming to iPhone, they’ve confirmed that they’re extending its development time. Alas, all is not in vain, as Sega promises that they’ve “mixed internal suggestions alongside fan feedback to make some new, positive changes to the game.”

The game is now due for release in “late 2010″ on PlayStation Network, Xbox LIVE Arcade, WiiWare, and iPod/iPhone.

Sega’s sent out a new trailer with the announcement, showing off gameplay of the Splash Hill Zone. Check it out below.

Sonic The Hedgehog™ 4 Episode I Release date and new platform confirmed!

SEGA is incredibly happy at the overwhelmingly positive response to Sonic The Hedgehog™ 4 Episode I from both press and fans around the world. SEGA wants to ensure that we’re delivering the best Sonic experience possible.

With this dedication to quality and the Sonic experience in mind, SEGA has decided to extend the development of the game and will now release Sonic The Hedgehog 4 Episode I in the latter half of 2010. The additional time will allow the Development Team to focus on keeping the game high-quality, continuing tuning and balancing of levels and interface and overall maintaining the kind of polish that an important game like this demands, ultimately providing fans with an unrivalled classic Sonic feel.

SEGA is also pleased to confirm that Sonic The Hedgehog 4 Episode I will be coming to the iPhone and iPod Touch via Apple’s iTunes App Store.

Sonic The Hedgehog 4 Episode I is developed specifically for the download market and will be available via Microsoft XBLA, Sony PSN, Nintendo WiiWare and the iTunes App Store in late 2010.

For more information please visit www.sonicthehedgehog4.com