Build a Sonic Infinite Runner with Phaser 4

Why It Matters

The rebuild showcases Phaser 4’s performance gains, offering game developers a modern framework for high‑speed browser titles. It also provides a practical learning resource that accelerates adoption of the latest Phaser features.

Key Takeaways

• Phaser 4 RC5 improves performance over Phaser 3
• Tutorial rebuild resolves original game's lag issues
• Vite setup streamlines development workflow
• Infinite runner features ring combos and speed scaling
• Source code and demo available on itch.io

Pulse Analysis

Phaser 4, now in its Release Candidate 5 stage, represents a significant leap over the long‑standing Phaser 3 engine. Built on a modern TypeScript core and leveraging WebGL optimizations, it reduces draw calls and improves memory handling, which directly translates into higher frame rates for fast‑paced games. For developers targeting HTML5 browsers, these enhancements mean less reliance on work‑arounds and more focus on gameplay polish. The Sonic infinite runner rebuild serves as a concrete demonstration of how the new engine tackles latency and jitter that previously limited responsive platformers.

The tutorial authored by JSLegendDev walks readers through a complete Vite‑based project, from initializing the development server to publishing on itch.io. Key sections cover sprite sheet animation, arcade physics configuration, precise collision detection, and a combo‑scoring system that rewards consecutive jumps with ring multipliers. Sound assets are integrated using the latest Web Audio API, ensuring low‑latency playback. By exposing the full source code on GitHub, the guide encourages experimentation, allowing developers to swap assets, tweak physics parameters, or extend the game with additional power‑ups without rebuilding from scratch.

Beyond the technical showcase, this rebuild signals a broader shift in the indie browser‑game ecosystem. Faster engines lower the barrier for creators to deliver console‑quality experiences directly in the browser, expanding reach to mobile and desktop audiences alike. As more studios adopt Phaser 4, we can expect a surge in sophisticated HTML5 titles that compete with native apps on performance and visual fidelity. For businesses, the ability to ship engaging, low‑cost games quickly translates into new revenue streams through ads, microtransactions, and brand integrations.

Build a Sonic Infinite Runner with Phaser 4

Published on 06 Feb 2026

Want to see what Phaser 4 can do? Developer JSLegendDev rebuilt his Sonic infinite runner with Phaser 4, transforming a game plagued by performance issues into a smooth, responsive experience. This tutorial shows you exactly how.

Why Phaser 4 for Game Development

The original version struggled with performance. Instead of patching, JSLegendDev saw an opportunity to learn Phaser 4 Release Candidate 5 through a complete rebuild, solving these issues while demonstrating the framework's improved capabilities.

Building an Infinite Runner Game

Build a complete game where you collect rings and avoid enemies. Jump on enemies for 10 rings. Chain multiple jumps without touching ground? Multiplier bonuses activate. Speed increases progressively, adding challenge.

The tutorial covers Vite project setup, sprite animation, arcade physics, collision detection, combo scoring, font loading, sound integration, and itch.io deployment.

Prerequisites: JavaScript, Node, npm, VS Code, and object‑oriented programming knowledge.

Play and Learn

Try the playable demo, then follow this step‑by‑step tutorial with full source code.

Watch Tutorial