Sonic the Hedgehog

"What you see is what you get! Just a guy who loves adventure. I'm Sonic the Hedgehog!" -Sonic

Sonic the Hedgehog(ソニック・ザ・ヘッジホッグ Sonikku za Hejjihoggu?) is the main protagonist of the franchise. He is a blue, 15 year-old anthropomorphic hedgehog with an innate ability to run at supersonic speeds. He is also the universally-recognized mascot of Sega and Sonic Team. He was initially created to rival Nintendo's mascot; Mario.[1] Although his very first appearance was a cameo in Rad Mobile, Sonic's legacy officially began in his own video game; Sonic the Hedgehog(game). His first video game not only revolutionize the platform genre, but his "attitude" persona also spawned other titles that tried to emulate Sonic's success.[2] However, Sonic's unique charisma continues to adapt and transcend through each era; maintaining his popularity. Sonic also has influenced those he has encountered throughout his adventures; forming friendships, enemies, and rivalries.

Concept & Creation

During the mid 1980s, the video game industry was saved and redefined by the Nintendo Entertainment System(NES). At the time, Sega only received marginal success of their first mainstream video game console, Sega Master System. Their unofficial mascot was Alex Kidd; a pint-sized, Arian prince. However, after the company released the Sega Mega Drive/Sega Genesis in 1988, Sega's eagerness to be a formidable competitor against Nintendo became apparent. The company decides it is better to create a new mascot instead of keeping Alex Kidd.

Sega began an internal competition across all its divisions to create an appealing mascot that would be the company's answer to Super Mario Bros. For several months, numerous character designs from various artists were presented to the president of Sega; Hayao Nakayama. The concept drawings that was presented ranged from an American-themed wolf to a chicken who wears overalls. In conclusion, the winning artist of the competition was Naoto Ōshima; whom was previously involved in the design of the Phantasy Star series. There were four main character designs that was the most appealing; a gray rabbit, an armadillo(later developed into Mighty), a round-shaped man with a large mustache(later used for the basis of Dr.Eggman's design), and a hedgehog character. The latter was ultimately chosen to be the official design of the character.

In Mr.Ōshima's earlier concept artwork, the male hedgehog was originally named Mr.Needlemouse. His design was inspired by well-known American cartoons like "Felix the Cat" and "Mickey Mouse". Specific color combinations were used for the character to reflect not only Sega, but also the United States. In addition to the color blue symbolizing peace, Mr.Needlemouse's fur color also represented the company's logo. The red and white color scheme of his iconic footwear was inspired by "Santa Claus". Its physical design(including the buckles) was derived from the shoes of Michael Jackson from his album "Bad". Sega also wanted the character to have a unique personality that will strongly be conveyed through his actions and gestures. This aspect was directly inspired by former U.S. president Bill Clinton; whom Mr.Ōshima believes embodied a modern sensibility of getting things done quickly and not letting problems linger. Due to incorporating supersonic speed as his unique skill, the company agreed to change the character's name to Sonic.[3]

Redesign

During the development of Sonic Adventure for the Sega Dreamcast, Sega and Sonic Team decided Sonic needed a redesign to adapt to the three-dimensional(3D) era. Yuji Uekawa, who had previously created the protagonist Ristar and worked on Sonic 3D Blast and Sonic R, was recruited to redraw Sonic and the other characters; a task he took very seriously.

"Our mission was to renew the character, so we had to ask ourselves 'to what extent do we change Sonic? What are the reasons for changing the way it looks?' That's what I paid close attention to."

—Yuji Uekawa, Character Designer for Sonic Adventure

Mr.Ōshima supervised Mr.Uekawa when he began drawing a stylized version of the main cast, which was inspired by graffiti art. Mr.Uekawa gave Sonic green irises, a taller and leaner body, slightly longer ears, and slightly longer, droopier quills.

Personality

Independent, free-spirited, and adventurous, Sonic is described to be "like the wind". He selfishly enjoys his freedom; forever attracted to thrill-seeking ventures that spurs him to travel. He will not remain in one place for very long due to his love for adventure. He is the type to live life by his own rules, which naturally causes him to rebel against anything or anyone attempting to control him. However, despite his rebellious nature, Sonic has a strong sense of justice. He greatly despises evil and will quickly intervene to stop any oppression upon others.

Whether the issue is internal or external, Sonic believes in solving the problem immediately instead of letting it linger. In Sonic CD, Sonic had to deal with more than one dilemma. Rather than choosing to solve one over the other, he resolves each one as it presented itself; rescuing Amy, restoring Little Planet, and foiling Dr.Eggman's plans. His common-sense approach not only helps him achieve victory against his foes, but also proves to be sometimes more effective in other situations. This includes some instances of him having insight about a person's emotional plight like towards Chaos in Sonic Adventure. He keenly understood that simply resealing it inside the Master Emerald will not resolve the issue, especially since its heart was still filled with rage.

Due to his impulsiveness, there are times when Sonic's actions have gotten himself into trouble. In the opening cutscene of Sonic Unleashed, Sonic enters Dr.Eggman's base without considering the possibility of traps; which ultimately results in him being captured. This also relates to two other notable flaws Sonic has; impatience and overconfidence. He will express his annoyance either by tapping his foot, urging the situation or person to hurry, or occupy himself with another activity if he is waiting a long time. Although his overconfidence may be justified to a certain extent, it also causes him to ignore his limits and/or not see an alternative solution to a situation.

Sonic is genuinely kind and caring, especially towards those he is close with. He will do anything to ensure the safety of others and relieve them of their emotional distress. Because of this, Sonic is quite protective over his friends and will take the responsibility of handling things on his own. This is very apparent in his relationships with Tails and Amy, even though he knows they can take care of themselves. One example is when he pushes Tails inside the elevator to make sure he is safe in Sonic Colors. Another example is when he left Amy behind more than once in Sonic Adventure 2 in belief she would be safe.

His other defining traits are his playful and easygoing nature. He is known to express his amusement by chuckling, smirking, and/or saying a witty comment; such as when fighting Dr.Eggman's machines and when performing high-speed stunts. However, when a crisis involves his friends and the lives of innocent people, Sonic's demeanor will completely change. He will acquire an intensely serious and focused persona; astonishing even the most keen observer.

Story

Sonic was born on a small island called, Christmas Island. However, his love for adventure causes him to leave his hometown. His time of exploration and relaxation is often interrupted by his arch-enemy; Dr.Eggman. The beginning of their feud is never clearly stated, though it is known to exist long before the events of Sonic the Hedgehog(game). After Sonic successfully foils Dr.Eggman's plans on South Island, he naturally continues his series of adventures.[4]

Relationships

Sonic has met countless people throughout his adventures. However, a certain few have forever impacted his life. Below describes the type of relationship he has with each person and how he views him or her.

With Tails: Brotherly Bond

Sonic first met Tails on West Side Island in Sonic the Hedgehog 2. While searching for a new adventure from within his biplane the Tornado, Sonic discovers a beautiful island below. With its vast and pleasant scenery, he decides it is the perfect place to relax and set course to land upon its surface. During his exploration of West Side Island, Sonic notices someone has been secretly following him. He turns around to see it was a twin-tailed fox name Miles Prower, but ignores him to continue running. However, when he saw how persistent the young fox was in keeping up with him, Sonic changes his mind. He stops running to befriend Miles, whom is often called by his nickname "Tails". But when a loud explosion echoes not too far from Emerald Hill, Sonic and Tails begin traveling together to stop the latest scheme of Dr.Eggman.

From exploring the depths of Mystic Cave to navigating the screw-lifts in Metropolis, Sonic's friendship with Tails grew. When Dr.Eggman escaped towards the sky in the Wing Fortress, Sonic allows Tails to pilot his plane to pursue the evil doctor. By this time, their bond is officially established, especially when Tails saved Sonic from falling to his death. This is not only the beginning of him sharing the Tornado with Tails, but also relying upon him in the future.

After the events of Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic takes a nap within a beach not too far from Tails' location. However, he immediately wakes up at the same time Tails was about to consult him of what he had discovered. Within the shore of the beach, Sonic finds a strange ring carved in an ancient language. After it reminded him of a legend he heard long ago, he and Tails decides to embark on another adventure by traveling to Angel Island. The two continue to assist each other throughout the events of Sonic 3 & Knuckles, despite the many traps caused by a certain echidna. The most notable display of their teamwork is in Act 2 of Marble Garden. When Dr.Eggman destroys the ground with his drill machine, Sonic and Tails emerges to chase after him. Sonic's hands are tightly held by Tails as he carries him to defeat the evil scientist, which shows their deep trust in each other.

In Sonic Adventure, Sonic quickly goes to check on Tails after seeing his plane crash in Emerald Coast. He expresses his anxiousness to save him in his monologue, which is shown in the DX version of the game.

I've gotta go save Tails right away!![5]

- Sonic

After helping his friend, Sonic expresses his relief as he and Tails walk together. Although it has been a while since they have seen each other, their behavior indicates their bond has not diminished and simply resuming like no time has passed. As Tails explains his idea to use a Chaos Emerald to power his plane, Sonic suggests to simply use his; the Tornado. While this generally displays Sonic's kindness, it also displays how comfortable he is with Tails using his plane. Rather than telling his companion he has other plans, Sonic decides to spend time with Tails.

He just loves making machines! What? He has a workshop in Mystic Ruins? OK, I'll go visit it if you want me to.[6]

-Sonic

In Tails' storyline in the game, Sonic expresses his playful teasing with him in certain stages. One example of this is in Windy Valley as Sonic will often say,

"Come on, Tails!"

"Tails, you made it!"

"Hey Tails!"

This not only shows he likes to spend time with him, but also shows their friendship is not strictly based on dire circumstances. They remain together until the Egg Carrier attacks the Tornado, which causes the two to be separated. Sonic becomes concern about Tails' whereabouts and begins searching for him in Station Square. In Red Mountain, he is happy and relieved to see Tails before jumping on the Tornado to resume their pursuit of the Egg Carrier. After Sonic defeats Dr.Eggman and watches him retreat, he turns to see Tails and runs by his side.

In Sonic Adventure 2, Sonic and Tails converse about tracing Dr.Eggman's location. After they discover his latest base is on Space Colony ARK, they aboard a shuttle to travel there. The two devise a plan to stop the Eclipse Cannon by switching the real Chaos Emerald with the fake one and to destroy the power supply. Though they perform these tasks separately, they leave together as a team. When Dr.Eggman trapped Sonic in capsule to send him into space, Sonic says to Tails he entrusts everything to him. After surviving the exploding capsule, he immediately talks to Tails on the communicator to compliment his efforts.

In Sonic's(and also Tails') ending in Sonic Advance, they cheerfully smile at each other. After he saves Vanilla and the Flickies in Sonic Advance 2, Sonic is by Tails' side and cheerfully places his hand on top of his head; proving that he not only views him as a close friend, but also as his little brother.

Sonic and Tails are also the only ones not separated from each other in the beginning of Sonic Advance 3. Due to the partner system in the game, Sonic and Tails are automatically available; forming the partnership called Unbreakable Bond. They equally express their happiness to be paired together as they search for their friends.

In Sonic Riders, Sonic becomes upset when Wave the Swallow undermines Tails' mechanical skills. He also was quick to encourage Tails when he started to doubt himself.

In Sonic Colors, Sonic's behavior quickly changes after Tails is affected by the mind control beam. He directs his anger at Dr.Eggman while being very cautious and worried when Tails blocks his way. After Dr.Eggman excitedly declares he will make the two fight each other, Sonic anxiously tries to speak to Tails. When the affects of the mind control disappeared, Sonic immediately catches Tails with both hands and asks if he is alright.

Sonic continues to display his big brother role towards Tails as they escape towards the elevator. When Dr.Eggman reappears in the Nega-Wisp Armor, Sonic instinctively stands in front of Tails as he shields him with one arm. His eyes then focuses on the buttons of the elevator before pushing his little brother figure inside. After telling him he will see him later, Sonic shows a confident smile before the elevator transports Tails to safety.

At end of the game, Sonic and Tails perform the fist bump gesture popularly known as "Brofist".

In Sonic Lost World, Sonic expresses his regret of failing to protect Tails when he is captured inside the Capsule in Silent Forest. Later, he becomes very confrontational when he sees Zor; demanding for Tails to be returned to him. Prior to his meeting with Zavok, Sonic is quickly offended when Orbot asks if he could take Tail's role if they do not find him. He adamantly states he will save Tails; displaying the Brotherly Bond he has with him.

With Amy: Caring Companions

Before Sonic met Tails, he first met Amy on Little Planet in Sonic CD. He initially traveled to Never Lake to watch the mystical planet before discovering it is chained to the Earth's surface. In Palmtree Panic, he encounters a cheerful pink hedgehog who is immediately infatuated with him. Although they briefly introduce themselves, Sonic does not stay long and continues running; causing the young girl name Amy Rose to follow him. They meet again in Collision Chaos and soon began to have a conversation about Little Planet and the Time Stones. However, their time together abruptly ends as Amy is kidnapped by Sonic's robotic doppelganger; Metal Sonic. Sonic immediately chases after him; knowing the source is none other than Dr.Eggman.

After winning the deadly race against Metal Sonic in Stardust Speedway, Sonic unties Amy; who immediately gives him a warm hug. He leaves her behind to save Little Planet and to stop Dr.Eggman in Metallic Madness. As the mechanical base begins to crumble, Sonic sees Amy running towards him. He quickly carries her to safety as they escape; landing back on Never Lake. Sonic checks on her one more time before going on his next adventure; completely unaware that this is not the last time he will see his new-found friend.

They have briefly re-encountered each other through competitions like racing in Sonic Drift and fighting in Sonic the Fighters. But it was not until they met again in Sonic Adventure that showed Sonic does view her as a valuable friend. While he was searching for Tails in Station Square, he sees Amy happily approach him. He instantly becomes nervous around her as she suggests he should be the bodyguard of a Flicky name Birdie. In the English version of the game, his response is "What?!" But it is technically incorrect since the Japanese word for "What" is "Nani". In the original Japanese version of the game, Sonic simply says, "Ehhh???"

In Amy's storyline, he says "No way!" to her request and avoids her until stopping in front of Twinkle Park. However, Sonic's path reveals the other portion of what really occurred. He runs away due to his initial nervousness, but soon walks with her; indicating he did not refuse her request. This is also proven in Sonic's monologue in the DX version of the game.

I'm Sonic! Sonic the Hedgehog!

Oh no, it's Amy!

Why did I have to run into her now?

Wherever I go, danger seems to follow.

She doesn't seem to care about that, though.

She follows me anywhere I go.

So I have to protect her...

A bird? A bodyguard?

Well, now that I can handle, but...

Hmmm... I wonder if she is involved in any trouble again??[7]

-Sonic

He not only accepts the role of bodyguard towards Birdie, but automatically takes this role towards Amy as well. When she shouted Zero(Eggman's green robot) is following them, Sonic displays his protective and confident nature; stating he will handle it. But her attention quickly switches as she happily states they should go to Twinkle Park together and goes inside. Despite his annoyance at her impulsive behavior, Sonic sprints after her. He becomes worried when he could not find her and eagerly begins searching for her.

Sonic continues his search in Speed Highway, which by this time it is midnight. Unfortunately, he did not find Amy and states his concern about her safety in his monologue.

I'm Sonic! Sonic the Hedgehog!

I raced all over the midnight highway, but I couldn't find Amy anywhere.

Amy is not around here...

Where on earth are you, Amy!?

I suppose I should have a look around Station Square again?[8]

-Sonic

He has not given up nor forgotten about Amy as he resumes his search in Station Square. When he heard Amy shout his name from above, Sonic looks up to see Zero has captured her. There is also an incorrect translation to what Sonic says when witnessing Amy being taken away. In the English version, he states he will catch up with them in Mystic Ruins. But he really says, "Shoot! Amy!!" In the original Japanese version. When he arrived in Mystic Ruins, he demands for Amy to be returned to him as he confronts the robot. However, the Egg Carrier appears to transport Zero with Amy inside. Yet, his unwavering determination to save her is still strong as he chases the Egg Carrier with his supersonic speed.

With the help of Tails, Sonic successfully catches up to the Egg Carrier. He travels through Sky Deck and eventually finds Amy. He sprints protectively in front of her before he fight E-102 Gamma. But due to Amy's words, Sonic did not destroy him and instead urged Tails to carry her to safety.

In Sonic Adventure 2, Sonic's protectiveness towards Amy is displayed in another way. Although he allows Tails and Knuckles to be involved in dangerous missions, he leaves Amy behind; preferring she does not get in trouble. This occurs twice in the game; in Mission Street and on Space Colony ARK. However, Sonic becomes distraught when Tails tells him Amy is in danger. He arrives at the research facility to comply to the doctor's demands in exchange for her safety, despite it being a trap. Before he is sent into space inside the capsule, he tells Amy to take care of herself. While in the English version he says this normally, originally there is a significant pause before Sonic says this to her. This displays she is very important to him, but how deeply leads to speculation.

In Amy's ending in Sonic Advance, Sonic and Amy cheerfully smile at each other. In the Normal ending of Sonic Advance 3, Sonic expresses his usual uneasiness when Amy is flirtatious towards him. But when Amy quickly hugs him in tears in the True Ending of the game, Sonic places his hand on back of her head to comfort her.

When Sonic and Amy are paired together, they form the partnership called Lovely Couple. While the title is most likely for humorous purposes(Sonic looks a bit annoyed), it is also rather definite instead of simply OK as the title with the same effect. This supports the speculation of their relationship may lead to romance and entertaining the idea.

In Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity, Sonic does not look amused when Amy talks about "fated lovers" and acts uncomfortable when she is affectionate towards him. Later, Sonic silently observes how Jet the Hawk is demanding towards Amy. His anxious movements like his clenched fists indicate is prepared to defend her. He decides to intervene with an intriguing statement towards Jet.

"Girls hate guys who rush them, Jet."

In Sonic Unleashed, Sonic encounters Amy in his Werehog form. Naturally, he is uncomfortable with her affectionate behavior and urges her to stop. But when she moves away from him and leaves(due to assuming he was someone else by his drastic appearance), Sonic's hand is extended forward of not wanting her to go. He is disappointed and becomes depressed, especially when Chip comments of Amy not recognizing him and mentions his beastly features. Sonic begins to walk silently with his head facing the ground. When he and Chip notices the strange occurrence with the townspeople, Sonic quickly defeats the Gaia creatures and helps Amy to her feet, though he runs away before she could look at him.

In Sonic and the Black Knight, Sonic meets the alternate reality of Amy name Nimue. He instantly begins to run away until Caliburn tells him he is being rude to the Lady of the Lake. Ironically, Sonic behaves a bit flirtatiously towards her by getting very close to her, wrapping his arm around her shoulder, and smiling at her. While he does not display this behavior towards Amy in the real world, he also has not displayed this towards any other woman. This creates speculation as to why along with entertaining the idea.

Sonic and Amy have spoken to each other a few times through the Miles Electric in Sonic Lost World. When the world was being drained of its energy, Sonic becomes worried when communication between himself and Amy is abruptly shut off. In Lava Mountain, Sonic attempts to reestablish communication with her but becomes sad when there is no response. After the planet's energy was restored, Sonic returns to happily greet Amy. Despite Amy adding complications to their relationship with her romantic feelings, Sonic and Amy are Caring Companions.

With Knuckles: Bickering Buddies

Sonic first met Knuckles on Angel Island in Sonic 3 & Knuckles. As Sonic and Tails travel slightly above the sea towards the island, Sonic decides to transform into Super Sonic to lessen the distance. However, as soon as he arrives at Angel Island, Sonic suddenly receives a harsh punch that causes his super form to disappear. He immediately looks to see it is a red echidna name Knuckles, who quickly collects all the scattered Chaos Emeralds and laughs before running away. Knuckles' actions causes Sonic to initially view him as another opponent he must foil with along with his pursuit of Dr.Eggman. Despite the numerous traps he has set to hinder his progress, Sonic manages to arrive to the next destination.

At the Hidden Palace, Sonic and Knuckles officially began their physical confrontation. Their fierce battle abruptly concludes as they investigate the loud sound they heard from a distance. When they arrived at the Emerald Shrine, Sonic and Knuckles witness Dr.Eggman stealing the Master Emerald. Sonic turns to see Knuckles is upset at the doctor and leaps onto the large gem in attempt to save it. However, his efforts were for naught as Dr.Eggman electrocutes Knuckles' brain to escape with the Master Emerald. Sonic gazed at Knuckles in concern; realizing he was manipulated by the doctor. When Knuckles recovered, he realized his error in his judgement and decides to assist Sonic. After he guided him to Sky Sanctuary, Sonic continues onward as Knuckles is exhausted. With the help of Tails on the Tornado, Sonic returns the Master Emerald to Angel Island and says goodbye to Knuckles on friendly terms as he embarks on another adventure.

Since the events of Sonic 3 & Knuckles, Sonic and Knuckles occasionally re-encountered each other to display their friendly rivalry in competitions like in Sonic R. Unfortunately, when they meet again in Sonic Adventure, their interaction quickly escalates to a battle; which is mostly due to Knuckles' assumption. As they were about to deliver another attack towards each other, the two Chaos Emeralds fell from Sonic's grasp; causing Dr.Eggman to easily take them. Sonic immediately asks Knuckles if he let the doctor trick him again, which his reaction confirms Sonic's assumption and given him the nickname Knucklehead. However, this does not change Sonic's positive view on Knuckles, especially knowing his naivete is a genuine flaw.

In the final story of the game known as Super Sonic's Story, Sonic swiftly travels to Angel Island after Tails tells him it has fallen again. His attention mainly focuses on Knuckles, especially when seeing him on the ground. After Knuckles tells him Chaos is alive, Sonic understood his concern and reassures him by saying he will handle the beast.

In Sonic Adventure 2, Sonic displays how much he trusts Knuckles. One notable instance is when the group arrives at the entrance of Dr.Eggman's hidden base in the desert. Since they cannot enter without the key, Sonic instantly turns to Knuckles saying,

"No problem, we can find it. Right, Knuckles?"

When Knuckles questions why he is chosen to find the key, Sonic says,

"We're counting on you, buddy! The world's greatest treasure hunter!"

Not only does Sonic states he(and others) are depending on him, but also sincerely gives Knuckles recognition for his skills. Another instance is when Sonic used Chaos Control to survive the explosion to transport to another part of the base. Sonic equally lets his arm rest on Knuckles shoulder as he helps support his balance. He admits he is concerned about Tails and Amy's safety and entrusts Knuckles to help them. This displays Sonic knows how responsible Knuckles is and naturally trusts him to protect Tails and Amy if for any reason he is unable to do it himself.

In Knuckles' ending in Sonic Advance, Sonic cheerfully smiles at Knuckles while he gives a confident smile and a thumbs up. In Sonic Advance 3, Sonic and Knuckles form the partnership called Fighting Buddies. While Sonic's expression is somewhat nonchalant, the title clearly indicates the type of relationship they have. Despite their disagreements and arguments, Sonic and Knuckles are great friends who are extremely loyal to one another.

Sonic meets the alternate reality of Knuckles name Sinbad the Sailor in Sonic and the Secret Rings. Due to Sinbad resembles Knuckles in the real world, Sonic automatically assumes it is his friend and happily greets him. Although he later becomes aware that Sinbad is not technically Knuckles, Sonic still views and treats him like Knuckles to a certain extent. One example is when Sinbad propose he will offer his wisdom in exchange for helping him. Sonic secretly makes a comment of,

"Knuckles' wisdom..."

After Sonic fulfills the request and returns to Sinbad, he reveals to splash water onto the Dijinn of Fire. In response, Sonic makes another sarcastic remark about Sinbad's wisdom. Sinbad's instantly becomes upset as the two begin to argue similarly to how Sonic would argue with Knuckles in the real world.

In Sonic Rivals 2, Sonic displays he enjoys playfully teasing Knuckles and engaging in friendly competition. When he sees Knuckles and Rouge together, Sonic makes a remark of,

"Well, look who it is...Knuckles and Rouge! Are you two on a date or something?"

He makes another playful remark of Knuckles possibly already tired from the first race, which he quickly responds to accepting the challenge; showing that Sonic and Knuckles are indeed Bickering Buddies.

With Shadow: Arch-Rivals

Sonic first met Shadow at night in City Escape in Sonic Adventure 2. After he defeats the robot name F-6t: Big Foot, Sonic sees a black furred hedgehog standing on top of the robot's corpse. He curiously approaches and notices the mysterious male has a green Chaos Emerald. Judging by his appearance, Sonic automatically concludes he is cause of the mistaken identity and speedily attempts to confront him. When the mysterious male uses Chaos Control to teleport beside him, the two cross paths while giving each other brief glances before the male teleported again. Sonic comments on the male's ability to use Chaos Control along with his speed. The male finally introduces himself to Sonic; stating his name is Shadow before using the Chaos Emerald to disappear.

In Green Forest, Sonic sees Shadow from a distance a second time and eager to confront him. This time, Shadow complies to Sonic's challenge as their battle begins. The aftermath displays the two are evenly matched in skill, which is clearly evident by how exhausted they are. However, their confrontation is postponed due to Dr.Eggman's announcement of the island will explode in eight(8) minutes.

Sonic encounters Shadow again after using Chaos Control to avoid the exploding capsule. As the two walk upon the spacious corridor, they equally comment on the cleverness of one another. Sonic admits that the idea to use Chaos Control was derived from seeing Shadow use it.

"You actually saved me, you know."

Their conversation and speedy movements not only display their strong competitive nature towards each other, but also mutual respect.

In the Last Story, Sonic and Shadow silently glanced at each other before harnessing the Chaos Emeralds to transform into their super forms. Together, they fly into space to defeat the Biolizard in its ultimate form called Finalhazard. After the world is saved, Sonic realizes Shadow is not beside him when he returns inside Space Colony ARK. Sonic gives Shadow's ring bracelet to Rouge the Bat as they begin to talk about him. In response to Rouge's question, Sonic says,

"He was what he was. A brave and heroic hedgehog who gave his life to save this planet."

He continues to silently think about him before Amy asks what is bothering him. Before he leaves Space Colony ARK, Sonic looks over his shoulder towards space as he softly says,

"Adios.....Shadow...the Hedgehog...."

In Sonic Heroes, Sonic notices Shadow has survived as he sees him beside Rouge and E-123 Omega. As the two teams begin their competitive battle, Sonic playfully states,

"Not the best way to greet those you haven't seen in a while."

Although Sonic does not outwardly show it, he is surprised to see Shadow after a long time.

In Sonic Battle, Sonic and Shadow begin to discuss about Emerl in Emerald Beach. When Shadow begins to say its purpose is to be the ultimate weapon of destruction, Sonic could not help but remember the initial purpose of Shadow's creation. He also tells him he remembers how he(Shadow) saved humanity. While Shadow calmly claims it was only for Maria's sake, Sonic continues to mention of how Shadow has a heart and states he and Emerl are not mere weapons. This indicates his relationship with Shadow does contain genuine friendship, though they will always be Arch-Rivals.

With Blaze: Parallel Companions

Sonic first met Blaze in Leaf Storm in Sonic Rush. He stands upon a rocky mountain as he confronts Dr.Eggman, who is within his latest machine called Egg Hammer Mega. After he defeats the evil doctor, Sonic notices a peculiar blue gem on the ground. But before he could pick it up, a burst of flame emerges from its location. When the fire settled, he witnesses a purple, female cat holding the gem. She swiftly leaps from the mountain with the gem; causing Sonic to become curious of her identity.

Sonic encounters Blaze again in the grassy field across the bridge. After he discovers her name, he begins to interrogate her about whether or not she knows about Eggman Nega. However, Blaze refuses to cooperate and does not provide Sonic any information. When Tails questions if she is involved in the disruption of the time-space continuum, Blaze's hesitant answer confirms Sonic's suspicion. His curiosity about her continues to increase, especially when seeing her stubborn behavior. He immediately begins to pursue her after she leaves after stating once again she will handle the problem on her own.

In Dead Line, Sonic re-encounters Eggman Nega. He quickly notices Blaze is within the vicinity and listens to the conversation between herself and Eggman Nega. Her attention soon directs towards Sonic as she insists for him to leave. However, Sonic refuses; stating he also has reasons for confronting Eggman Nega. When Blaze continues to display her overly stubborn nature, Sonic expresses his displeasure by saying she is "too intense" and should calm down. In response, Blaze simply becomes more irritated with him, which quickly escalates into a battle between them. During their fight, Sonic tries to convince Blaze to stop, though she still does not cooperate. Their conversation abruptly ends as their battle resumes and begin to clash with their speed and strength. After their battle concludes, Sonic assists her and listens to her determination to save her world on her own. Although he does not fully know her, Sonic's senses there is likely a reason for her behavior rather than having a negative opinion about her.

"But it seems like she had a rough past."

He gives her friendly advice of to not overly exert herself. After a long silence, he is happy to see Blaze finally heeds his words as she smiles at him. The two formally reintroduce themselves; displaying they are officially on friendly terms. Due to she has not fully recovered from their battle, Sonic suggested for her to rest and to let him deal with Eggman and Eggman Nega. When she said she will rely on him, Sonic displays a confident smile before leaving.

In the Extra Story of the game, Sonic speedily arrives to confront Eggman and Eggman Nega again. When they retreated to prepare their ultimate plan, Sonic immediately turns to see Blaze lying on the ground. He is quick to reassure her that the Sol Emeralds will never lose their glow due to the strong power of friendship. Almost instantly, the gemstones in Sonic's and Blaze's possession releases a bright glow. He states she should be able to use the power of the Sol Emeralds and awaits for her to team up with him.

"Ready to do this together?"

After Sonic transforms into Super Sonic and Blaze transforms into Burning Blaze, the two fly to pursue the two villains. With their combined power, Sonic and Blaze successfully defeats their respective enemies. As they begin to say their goodbyes, Sonic wanted to give Blaze a special present before she left.

"Wait! This is from me. We'll see each other again!"

He gives her a holographic message to reassure her they will meet again. When Blaze extends her hand towards him, Sonic firmly holds onto hers as they gradually return to their worlds. After landing back on the ground's surface, he looks over the horizon with Cream the Rabbit knowing that they will see Blaze again.

In Sonic Rush Adventure, Sonic travels to Coral Cave with Miles "Tails" Prower and Marine the Raccoon. During his encounter with Captain Whisker, Sonic overhears a familiar voice stating the pirate will not get away with the Jeweled Scepter. He observes a fireball directed at Captain Whisker and notices it was from his friend Blaze. The two are instantly surprised to see each other, though they quickly ceased their questions until after defeating the Ghost Kraken. They discovered that he and Tails are the ones in Blaze's world and conclude something is amiss.

Throughout their journey, Sonic and Blaze continue to assist each other not only in battle, but also when planning a strategy of where to travel next. Later, they confront their respective enemies; Dr.Eggman and Eggman Nega. When Blaze becomes upset from Nega's statement of using the Power of the Stars to destroy her kingdom, Sonic immediately begins to talk to her to calm her emotions. The two team up again to battle the two foes in their super forms, which ends in victory with extra help from Marine.

On the small harbor of Southern Island, Sonic and Blaze begin to converse with each other while Tails makes preparations for their departure. When Blaze mentions the possibility of Sonic being led to her world by the Emeralds, he displays a confident smile and a thumbs up as he states,

"Heh, well, you never know."

When Blaze extends her hand towards like in the past, Sonic looks down before her a firm handshake. From within the specially made ship Tails made, Sonic waves goodbye to Blaze until the ship is completely out of sight. Despite the two living in separate worlds, their bond remains strong as Parallel Companions.