New Ecco the Dolphin Game and Remasters in Development

Ecco the Dolphin is set to make a comeback. According to series creator Ed Annunziata, not only are remasters of the original titles in the works, but a brand-new game is also on the way—marking the first major revival of the classic underwater adventure series in decades.

In a recent interview with Xbox Wire (via VGC) for Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Annunziata confirmed that he and the original development team are working on updated versions of Ecco the Dolphin (1992) and its sequel, Ecco: The Tides of Time (1994).

Following those, they plan to release a third, original entry in the series that reflects modern gameplay expectations.

“Me and the entire original team are going to remaster the original Ecco the Dolphin and Tides of Time games,” said Annunziata. “Then we will make a new, third game with contemporary play and GPU sensibilities.”

He encouraged fans to follow updates on the Ecco the Dolphin website, which now features a countdown clock set for April 25, 2026—potentially hinting at a release or major announcement.

A Cult Classic Returns

The original Ecco the Dolphin debuted on the Sega Genesis / Mega Drive in 1992, quickly gaining recognition for its haunting underwater atmosphere, innovative sonar-based puzzles, and high difficulty. The sequel, Tides of Time, expanded on the gameplay with new abilities and even time travel elements.

While Ecco Jr. (1995) offered a kid-friendly take, the series mostly went dormant—aside from 2000’s Ecco the Dolphin: Defender of the Future on Dreamcast and later PS2. Notably, Annunziata had no involvement in that 3D reboot.

From Lawsuit to Comeback

Annunziata had long wanted to revisit the series but lacked the rights. In 2013, he attempted to crowdfund a spiritual successor, The Big Blue, but the campaign failed. However, a 2016 lawsuit settlement with Sega appeared to open the door for future Ecco projects.

Following the release of his 2019 game Space War Arena, Annunziata expressed continued interest in reviving the dolphin saga, saying: “There are some challenges I need to overcome but eventually, there will be a new Ecco.”

Ecco’s Legacy and Gameplay

Created by Novotrade International (later Appaloosa Interactive) and published by Sega, Ecco the Dolphin is a side-scrolling action-adventure series known for:

• Sonar Navigation: Players use Ecco’s sonar to solve puzzles and communicate.

• Underwater Exploration: Navigate strong currents, evade predators, and uncover mysteries.

• Environmental Themes: Stories frequently focus on ocean preservation and alien threats.

• High Difficulty: Particularly in the original games, due to limited oxygen and challenging level design.

Over the years, the series has built a cult following, with fans admiring its artistic direction and emotional tone—even as they’ve struggled with its infamous difficulty.