Top Ten Spookiest Sonic Moments!

I'm a pretty big horror fan. It's probably come up before. If you read my movie review blog, you know horror is easily my favorite cinematic genre. Right now, I'm on the penultimate day of a six week long marathon of horror movies and TV shows I do every September and October. I even wrote a book of horror stories. The points is: I like things that are scary, spooky, creepy, and weird.

My interest in horror and my “Sonic the Hedgehog” fandom don't cross over very often. As a franchise pitched at kids, the many incarnations of “Sonic” rarely have any reason to approach horrific topics. Occasionally though, something will emerge from the “Sonic” universe that nears creepiness. The series has never been scary, in my opinion, but every once in a while it is mildly spooky. In order to celebrate Halloween – objectively the only good holiday – I've compiled a list below of what I think are the spookiest “Sonic” moments, across as many medias as possible. Me being who I am, the bent here is towards the classic era. If there's anything you felt should've been included, let me know in the comments.

One disclaimer though: I'm sticking strictly to official, Sega-approved “Sonic” stuff. No fan fiction or fan art. And especially no “Sonic” creepypastas, all of which are stupid, un-scary bullshit.

10. Pumpkin Hill Zone

There's actually nothing scary about Pumpkin Hill Zone, one of Knuckles' levels from “Sonic Adventure 2.” However, there's no way I'm doing a Halloween-themed list of “Sonic” stuff without mentioning this level. It is, in fact, an entire Halloween themed stage. Mountains loom in the distance, their peaks carved into massive Jack O' Lanterns, that stare ominously. Tombstones litter the area, among industrial looking machinery and gothic bridges. The enemies, meanwhile, are primarily ghosts. There have been a few other haunted house themed “Sonic” stages over the years but this is the best one. It's a shame that rap soundtrack ruins the atmosphere. I'd recommend muting the stage music and putting on a spooky sounds tape instead.

9. Perfect Chaos

The final boss battle in the majority of Sonic games are a fairly intense affair. The stomping, massive robot that Robotnik pilots in “Sonic and Knuckles” is certainly a runner-up for the title of “scariest final boss.” Yet Perfect Chaos gets the nod for a  couple of reason. First off, the cut scenes of the massive monster flooding Station Square was definitely one of “Sonic Adventure's” most suspenseful affairs. The monster's giant size and mad starring eyes bring some Lovecraftian abominations to mind. The wrecked cities are certainly a grimmer sight than you might expect too. It all adds up to make a pretty spooky affair.

8. "Sonic's Scream Test"

I'm not a huge fan of “Sonic X,” especially when it comes to the ear-splitting English dub. However, I will give some props to the nineteenth episode of the first season. The plot concerns Sonic and friends exploring a haunted castle, the filming location for Chris' Mom's latest movie. Soon, ghostly spectres begin to fuck everybody's shit up.

The ghosts drag people through doors and even possess living beings. This is foreshadowed when Chris' Mom's reflection turns weird on her, starring suddenly at the audience. Later, Amy gets possessed too. In probably the only example of a jump scare on this show, Amy Rose's eyelids clamp up like a machine, revealing demonic eyes and a ghoulish grin. She then floats a few inches above the ground, pursuing her friends.

This is still “Sonic X,” so the ghosts are easily defeated and have silly faces. However, I can imagine this really freaking out the five-to-seven crowd this show was designed for. If nothing else, I'll give the writers and animators points for going there. The Archie comic that followed on this episode was also pretty good.

7. Giant Robotno

The “Giant Robotno” story, which appeared in Sonic Super Special #12, is a fairly obscure bit of “Sonic” lore. It's also the only example of straight-up body horror I can think from a “Sonic” comic. Sonic visits an alternate universe where his friends and family have been transformed into giant monsters. The sight of Sonic's friends and family being mutated into giant, hideous monstrosity is certainly off-putting. The artwork is goofy but effectively gross too. That the story concludes with Sonic tearing out the heart of the kaiju version of his dad continues the grim, unsettling tone this tale has.

6. "Sonic's Nightmare"

“Sonic's Nightmare” is a pretty good episode of SatAM. The Freedom Fighters attempt to thwart a plan by Robotnik to create acid rain. In the process, Sally, Bunnie, and Antoine get captured, forcing Sonic to rescue them. That stuff is pretty cool but it's not what fans really remember about this one. As the title indicates, Sonic is haunted throughout the episode by a nightmare. In his dream, he races through a thunder storm, gets his feet stuck in mud, witnesses Sally getting shoved into a Robotocizer, and then falls to his death. All the way, Sally's mocking voice rings in his head.

That's mildly spooky, as far as Saturday morning is concerned. The second reprise of the nightmare is especially creepy. In that dream, we actually see Sally turned into machine. She watches in terror as her limbs are replaced by machinery. Lastly, her face and hair lurched in horror as she changes. Before totally becoming a robot, Kath Soucie gives us her best blood curdling scream. Chew on that, you fucking six-year-old.

5. Super Sonic in “Sonic the Comic”

Sonic fans are pathetically meek, I've found. Most of the shit listed on the franchise's TV Troupes Nightmare Fuel page is weak sauce to a hardened horror fan like myself. But I'll give the editors of that site bonus points for including one aspect. In the video games and American comics, Super Sonic is just Sonic's super-powered form, activated whenever he grabs enough rings or Chaos Emeralds.

In the U.K. published “Sonic the Comic,” Super Sonic is a psychotic alternate personality of the hero. It's Sonic without any self-control or morals. I would never call the character spooky but, for those used to Sonic's light-hearted and heroic antics, this Super Sonic is certainly a shocking sight. That he's topped off with mad, red spirals for eyes sells it for me.

4. Ghosts in Sandopolis Zone

If Pumpkin Hill Zone is the first explicitly Halloween-themed “Sonic” stage, “Sandopolis Zone” from “Sonic and Knuckles” is the first explicitly spooky Sonic stage. I'm talking about the second half of the zone. After Sonic enters a giant pyramid, the player discovers that the lights in the zone will dim if you don't periodically activate a lantern. Once the lights go out, white sheet ghosts will appear above you. If the stage grows entirely dark, the ghosts grow devil horns and attack you. This shit was pretty freaky to me as a kid. The ghosts certainly make a stage that is already maze-like and difficult to navigate even more nerve wracking.

3. Creepy Faces in Sonic CD

“Sonic CD” was a game that included a number of secrets and hidden pictures. Buried within the game was a very peculiar image. The black and blue background shows repeated images of Sonic with the distorted, grinning face of mustachioed old man. In the forefront of the image is some Japanese text, undecipherable to most of us. Some fans have translated this message as being signed with the phrase “Majin,” a Japanese word for demon. In other words: This is a personal message from the devil himself.

What really makes this Easter egg especially spooky is the music. The genuinely eerie “Sonic CD” boss theme plays over this secret screen. That music includes throbbing low synth, discordant chimes, and a reverberating evil laugh. Imagine being a kid and stumbling upon this shit! The odd image, when paired with the creepy music, easily makes this one of the spookiest Sonic moments.

2. Sally's Death in “Endgame”

Let's do some role playing. It's March of 1997. You're nine years old. You're a devoted reader of Archie's “Sonic the Hedgehog” comic book, which continues the story that began on the Saturday morning cartoon show you fell in love with a few years earlier. Princess Sally has awoken strange feelings that aren't entirely understood inside readers all around the world.

Anyway, you open up issue 47 of the series and, within a few pages, you're greeted to the image of your beloved princess falling to her death. The artwork lingers on her descent, on her impact with the ground. Her body goes limp. Later in the book, the other characters weep at her apparent death. Yes, “Endgame” is a story line with considerable baggage, with Sally's seeming death being undone before it was over. But that page devoted to her fall? Pretty startling stuff for a “Sonic the Hedgehog” comic book.

1. The Drowning Music and the Advancing Wall of Doom

As the title of this blog indicates, Sonic the Hedgehog can't swim, at least not in the Sega video games. The original trilogy for the Sega Genesis made this fact especially evident by peppering the games with underwater stages. As Sonic sank towards the ground, moving slowly in the water, chimes occasionally pinged in the background. If enough passed, the most terrifying fucking music in the history of video games would began playing. A countdown flashed on screen, the soundtrack frantically pounding away at your ears. The message was clear: Get your ass to an air bubble poste hast or fucking die, shithead. You didn't always make it.

The only thing that could make Sonic drowning to death more upsetting is when underwater stages were paired with the advancing wall of doom. I'm thinking of stuff like the boss portion of Labyrinth Zone or the beginning of Hydro City: Act 2. Now you have to deal with utter death coming at you from one direction while the threat of drowning hangs over your head. I swear to God, this is the reason why I developed anxiety problems as a kid.


This is my favorite time of year, faithful Hedgehogs Can't Swim readers. Tomorrow, watch as many damn horror movies as you can, dress up, eat shit tons of candy, and embrace the spookiest day of the year. It only comes once a year so make the Devil proud! From my morbid heart to yours: Happy Halloween!

Sonic the Hedgehog: Issue 174

Sonic the Hedgehog: Issue 174
Publication Date: April 2007

174 is another issue of Archie's “Sonic the Hedgehog” series that I have a specific memory about. While visiting my sister in North Carolina, I stayed at a hotel next to a comic shop. I just had to stop in and grab this issue. I probably should've waited until I got back home and could visit my local shop. Yet I was so invested in the series at this point, I simply couldn't wait. Quite a change from two years prior, where I could hardly be bothered to even open the books up. Right before his first milestone issue on the book, Ian Flynn continues to take the time to focus on the characters and their relationship. And, for once, when the book teased a marriage on the cover, it actually followed through on it.

The day of Antoine and Bunnie's wedding has arrived. Sonic, as the Best Man, races around the village and talks to the other individuals attending the ceremony. Antoine is hopelessly nervous. Bunnie is giddy. Tails is still adapting to having his parents back. Sally and Sonic's status as ex-lovers lingers in the air. Knuckles and Julie-Su reaffirm their own commitment to each other. Yet one person is notably absent. Espio has been sent on a secret mission to Robotnik's lair. What he uncovers has terrifying consequences for everyone in Knothole.

Flynn simply entitles this story “Union.” It's a fitting name, which refers to both Antoine and Bunnie becoming husband and wife but also the unions of friendship that connect everyone in Knothole. Aside from Espio's brief action scenes, the story is entirely devoted to Sonic and friends discussing their lives on a stressful but happy day. By letting Sonic zip up to most of the main characters, it really establishes the mood and tone of this day and place. This is a comic about a few hours in a bustling community, that it captures excellently, leaving the reader with a big smile on their faces. After reading this book for so many years, just hanging out with these guys is really worthwhile.

Of course, the wedding is what's bringing everyone together. Seeing Antoine and Bunnie's differing reaction to their union is cute. Bunnie is ecstatic, overjoyed to proclaim her love to the world. Antoine, meanwhile, is terrified. He's so nervous, he's on the verge of passing out. This cutely nods to Antoine's original status as the book's big coward. (Flynn also remembers Bunnie's very first appearance, when Sally reminds the cyborg that she originally wanted to become the Princess' hairdresser. I guess we couldn't have just forgotten that detail, could we?) This carries over the ceremony itself, where both young people display their share of nerves. These scenes seem simple but they re-enforce why Bunnie and Antoine are so important to each other, and why this wedding is so important to the reader.

This may be Bunnie and Antoine's big day but Ian also pauses to acknowledge the other romances floating around in Knothole. For the wedding, Julie-Su has to wear a dress. This greatly upsets her, as she finds the fancy clothes too constricting. During this scene, Sonic asks the echidnas when they'll marry. Here, Flynn manages once again to make something out of a nothing plot point Ken Penders kicked around. In “Mobius: 25 Years Later,” Penders revealed that Knuckles and Julie-Su never marry, choosing to live in sin forever. Here, Knuckles clarifies that the couple's mutual disinterest in pomp and ceremony makes marriage unappealing to them. Both of these elements are two really cute character moments, making small things count for a lot.

In the last issue, Flynn pointed out Sonic and Sally's former status as lovers, something that still haunts both of them. With one wedding about to happen, both teens are quizzed about when they'll find wedded bliss. More then once, Sonic and Sally are separately reminded of what they once had. This builds towards my favorite moment in this very good issue. Talking with King Elias and Queen Alicia, Sonic remembers that he promised himself to Sally at one point. He also notes that this felt like a very long time ago. The two awkwardly look at each other and welcome an opportunity to change the subject. This proves that Sonic and Sally may no longer be a couple but their feelings for each other are far from settled.

While Knothole is celebrating, Espio is sneaking into Robotnik's stronghold. During these segments, Flynn tags on some Karl Bollers-style narration boxes. It's an odd fit for Flynn, who usually avoids that kind of heavy-handed narration. The reveal at the end that Robotnik is speaking these line doesn't quite fit. Despite liking Espio, I'm honestly having trouble caring too much about the danger he's in. Mostly, these sequences exist to set up the big event that'll be happening in the next issue. It's necessary, of course, but easily the least interesting thing about this particular issue. (It's not the only bit of foreshadowing, as Amadeus Prower hints at his growing plans to restructure Knothole's politics, a plot point we'll get to soon enough.)

In the back pages, Flynn continues “See You Later Chao.” Last time, Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles' frolicking at the newly discovered Chao garden was interrupted by Dr. Robotnik floating above the lake in a craft equipped with a giant drill bit. Sonic reminds the mad scientist that there are no Power Rings, Chaos Emeralds, or other magical MacGuffins in the area. So Robotnik proceeds with his plan simply for the sake of creating havoc. Naturally, it doesn't take long for the heroes to beat him back.

In its second half, “See You Later Chao” runs with very simplified versions of the central characters. Each of the heroes are defined by their special abilities. Knuckles uses his strength to hold off the drill. Sonic uses his speed to scope out the area and ping against Robotnik's craft. Tails' uses his brains to mess with the device's cables. Robotnik, meanwhile, seems to revert to his “Sonic X” characteristic. He's a goofball villain, motivated more by his own villainy then any clear objective. It causes this particular story to read like a quickly tossed off game adaptation. Considering this entire arc was thrown together to belatedly introduce the Chao into the comic, it basically is.

The back-up story is totally forgettable but the cover story is pretty damn good. Flynn has a lot of strengths as a writer, especially compare to the previous staff, but his solid grasp on these characters is one of his greatest attributes. “Union” is home to a momentous occasion – two major cast members tying the knot – but Flynn approaches from a thankfully low-key, character-based angle. The result is a quality issue. It's not perfect but, eh, fuck it. It put me in a good mood. [9/10]

Sonic X: Issue 18

Sonic X: Issue 18
Publication Date: April 2007

After letting Ian Flynn take the reigns for two issues, Joe Edkin returns to “Sonic X.” Choosing not to follow the holiday theme and have Sonic learn about the Easter Bunny, the book is instead back to its goofy, sci-fi adventure antics. This time, Edkin at least mixes things up by making Rouge the center of the story. It's surprising that “Sonic X” had been running for 18 issues at this point and the bat femme fatale had yet to get a story centered around her. Maybe this'll set a precedence and Topaz or Grandpa Chuck will get a cover story next?

The story's entitled “Rouge Goes Rogue,” which is confusing because I call confuse my bat girls and X-Women all the damn time. Anyway, the jewel loving bat enters the story by stealing a rare moon rock from the air-space museum. The real Rouge immediately goes missing, causing GUN agent Westwood to suspect she truly is behind these crimes. Next, Knuckles' Master Emerald is swiped by the rogue Rouge. As Sonic and friends attempt to flush out the jewel thief out, they discover the truth. That Eggman has built a robotic duplicate of Rouge and is using her to swipe power sources for his evil machines.

From the opening pages, it's apparent what direction “Rouge Goes Rogue” is going in. Archie's other “Sonic the Hedgehog” book has featured plots about robotic duplicates numerous times over the years. Whether its Pseudo-Sonic, Auto-Automatons, or the Infiltrator Units, Robotnik has attempted to sabotage Sonic's operations with look-a-like machines many times. Edkin doesn't deviate too much from the established patterns these stories usually follow. A normally heroic character acts as villainous. A friend wonders about their odd behavior, while another is eager to condemn them for the crime. Eventually, the truth is revealed, the real character steps forward and the robo-double is revealed.

Edkin does make a few smart decisions over the course of this typical story. First off, the story moves at a decent pace, zipping right along. Making Rouge the victimized character is clever. She's an ally of Sonic but with a checkered past. She's also far enough removed from the central gang that her alliances are suspect. Of course, giving Rouge such a prominent role in the story also allows for plenty of fan service. The opening sequence, where Rouge winds her way around the museum's security measure, is about as edgy and sexy as “Sonic X” could be expected to get.

The story also brings Topaz and Captain Westwood back into the story, after a brief hiatus. It's already established that Topaz is close to Rouge, though the exact confines of their relationship remains delightfully ambiguous. Naturally, Topaz comes to the defense of her partner/secret girlfriend. Also well established is Captain Westwood's paranoia and distrust of Sonic and his friends. Though initially fresh and entertaining, Westwood's constant antagonism is becoming tiring. When he tosses a giant net over Sonic and Knuckles for no reason, the audience starts to roll their eyes. Having said that, Topaz and Westwood being forced to work together provides some decent conflict. Edkin probably should've played that up a little more.

As an action story, “Rouge Goes Rogue” is mildly entertaining if a standard affair. The Robo-Rouge karate kicks Knuckles in the head, after a double entendre laden conversation. Naturally, Rouge ends up fighting her mechanical copy. This fight is disappointingly short lived. You think the comic would've made more of that one. Eggman's latest mecha suit ends up dominating most of the action. He raises from the Potomic River is a heavily armed but unimaginatively designed robotic suit. Naturally, Sonic and Knuckles make short work of the machine. The echidna tears open the armor while Sonic dive bombs the vulnerable innards. I mean, it's kind of fun but a bit on the uninspired side.

Luckily, issue 18 is a nice looking comic book. David Hutchinson returns to pencils. After producing some underwhelming work in his last appearance, Hutchinson is back in top form. The opening sequence, devoted to Rouge stealing the mono rock, features some creative angles and nice use of shadows. That same atmospheric approach returns with a later scene, where Topaz and Westwood are staking out the robotic Rouge. As usual, Hutchinson's grasp on the “Sonic X” house style remains strong but he continues to add enough expressive touches to the characters' to make him his own. Knuckles' rage while breaking a window or Topaz's shock at Rouge's disappearance are two good examples.

There's one or two fun elements to issue 18 of “Sonic X.” Otherwise, it's just another issue of a series that is all too happy to be mediocre, more often then not. The sexy Rouge shenanigans does elevate this one above the average but just slightly. [6/10]

Sonic the Hedgehog: Issue 173

 
Sonic the Hedgehog: Issue 173
Publication Date: March 2007

Ian Flynn has mostly been allowing Archie's “Sonic the Hedgehog” comic some breathing room since 2007 started. With issue 173, the march towards the next big event begins, the story line obviously beginning in the up-coming issue 175. Before we get to that though, the author continues fixing the characterization of the cast. If the stated goal of his first year on the book was the untangle the narrative mess the previous authors left, it seems the goal for 2007 was to give undeveloped characters a purpose and recenter the motivation of others characters that went astray.

“Round-Up” begins with Antoine making the bold decision he promised last time: He proposes to Bunnie. Naturally, the rabbot immediately says yes, the long-time lovers officially becoming engaged. After informing Princess Sally, the Freedom Fighters are sent on a new mission. The Chaotix, currently protecting Mina on her world tour, heard a rumor that Rouge is selling the Master Emerald. The Freedom Fighters take out the given location, running into Bark, Bean, and Nack and then Mammoth Mogul and Ixis Naugus. Shenanigans ensue.

Ever since Sonic and Sally split up in 2004, Antoine and Bunnie have become the book's most consistent romantic couple. They've had their ups and downs, mostly thanks to Antoine's evil double and a ill-conceived fling between Sonic and Bunnie. Other then that, they've basically been an item since issue 48, with plenty of foreshadowing coming earlier. Something about the Southern belle cyborg and the formerly cowardly coyote just compliment each other. She gives him courage and he gives her comfort. So seeing the two become engaged is a natural conclusion. Devoting the first few pages to the couple's newly found pre-marital bliss was a good decision on Flynn's behalf.

Antoine and Bunnie getting engaged isn't the only long overdue character beat in “Round-Up.” For the first time in far too long, Princess Sally accompanies the Freedom Fighters on a mission. While staking-out on the stake-out, Sally confesses to Bunnie that she's been far too distant here of late, avoiding her friends and ex-boyfriend. Bunnie forgives her. The reader forgives her too. This scene is actually a beautiful promise from Ian Flynn, that the rail-roading Sally's personality suffered during the latter half of Karl Bollers' run is being overturned. The People's Princess is now no longer a bitch to her friends for no reason. She is flirting with Sonic and kicking ass among the Freedom Fighters. Just as God intended. It feels so good.

With the focus being on joyous character interaction, the action in “Round-Up” is of a lower stakes variety. Sonic and Antoine end up tussling with Bark and Bean, both of whom are riding around on those hover board things. The scene quickly veers towards humor, when Sonic's pummeling causes Bean to utter a bunch of nonsense phrases. A little later, Bunnie cold cocks Ixis Naugus, now grossly depowered, with a single sucker-punch. Probably my favorite action bit has Sally stealing Nack's hover-bike and landing it on Mogul's head. You never feel like the character's are endangered but it's still a good time.

If “Round-Up” has any serious flaw, it's the handling of Mogul and Naugus. The villains appear midway through the story. Mogul explains the changes he's undergone recently. How he was rescued from Robotnik's Egg-Grapes and Finitevus. How A.D.A.M stole his Chaos Emerald, draining his power. How these events caused Naugus to loose his mind and most of his powers. Even as someone a little more invested in these guys than most Archie “Sonic” readers, this stuff is way too dry and boring. It's a lot of exposition to wade through just to get to the point: Mogul and Naugus are back but at a significantly decreased threat level.

What this subplot does have going for it is giving Rouge some much needed character development. It's easy to guess that Rouge's offer to sell the Master Emerald is a hoax. That seems like an important plot point that would've gotten more attention, if true. Instead, Rouge cooked up the scheme to attract the villains' attention. And to what purpose? To show Knuckles that she isn't such a bad girl after all. This solidify Rouge's personality, something the book has been building towards for a while. She's not certainly not evil but not exactly good either. In RPG terms, she's Chaotic Neutral. She does what she wants for her own purposes, with a moral code that changes as often as the sun comes up.

The back-up story is the beginning of a two-parter that was apparently originally planned by the previous writer for issue 152. “See You Later Chao” – that's actually kind of clever – begins with Sonic showing his parents a Chao, those blue digital pets thing that were introduced in “Sonic Adventure.” He recounts how he discovered the critter. How Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles went on a  mission to investigate some strange signals from the location that was previously the sight of the Power Ring Grotto. Instead of a magic lake, they discovered a small community of chao. One that Robotnik has his eyes on.

The Chao have been floating around the Archie Sonic-verse for a few years, since a passing introduction during the “Sonic Adventure” adaptation. Why the Pokemon-like creatures have been regular characters in the “Sonic X” book, they've been rarely spotted in this one. “See You Later Chao” exist to give the critters a proper introduction. The whole story is devoted to explaining their bizarre evolutionary habits, how they absorb the characteristics of the people they spend time with. There's not much to it and it's pretty disposable. But I guess the blue little puffballs have their place in the “Sonic” canon, so I suppose this story is overdue.

The back-up is a big bowl of “meh” but the cover story is pretty damn good. Sally finally being given back her soul is what makes this issue so important. However, Antoine and Bunnie's engagement and some fun action also raises its quality. Yardley's artwork is solid, the night time setting being used nicely, even if Tracy's pencils on the back-up are a little too loose. It's another really good issue, showing that Flynn's run wouldn't be running out any time soon. [8/10]

Sonic X: Issue 17

Sonic X: Issue 17
Publication Date: March 2007

Archie's “Sonic X” comic continues its trend of introducing the blue hedgehog hero to various Earthly holidays. After giving Sonic and friends issues revolving around Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine's Day, the hedgehog next embraces his inner Irishman with a St. Patrick's Day special. No, the issue doesn't feature Sonic participating in our greatest St. Paddy's Day tradition: Drinking too much green beer and then vomiting too much green puke. Instead, return guest writer Ian Flynn uses this as a chance to let the hedgehog battle some dicey, stereotypical Irish imagery.

After racing around all morning with Sonic, Cheese the Chao turns green. This is fitting, as today is St. Patrick's Day. Before Amy Rose can pinch him in an inappropriate place, Sonic is quickly informed that he has to wear green on this day. While attending a parade, Eggman attacks once again. After reading up on Irish lore, the rotund villain decided he wanted to catch a leprechaun and take its gold. He assumes a St. Patrick's Day parade is the best place to locate one, attacking the city in a giant robot version of a leprechaun.

The Christmas and Valentine's Day issues of “Sonic X” were mostly about introducing Sonic to these human customs that he's unfamiliar with. Whether it was scoffing at the existence of Santa Claus or being forced to take Amy on a date, seeing the hedgehog react to American holidays was mildly interesting. Issue 17's “March Madness” only has a little bit of this. There's that introductory scene, where Amy uses Sonic's lack of green clothing as an excuse to casually molest him. The story concludes with Sonic and friends in a bar, drinking “green soda.” Most of the issue is set at a parade but that's just set dressing.

Ian doesn't delve into Sonic's reaction to baffling human traditions. Instead, “March Madness” is mostly built around ridiculous action beats. Eggman attacks the parade in a giant robot, roughly resembling either a leprechaun or an offensive caricature of an Irishman. Once you overlook the dodgy cultural connotations of this scene, some of the action scenes are mildly amusing. He attacks the crowd with four leaf clover shaped robots. While Amy gets to smash a few of these bots – her sole action beat in this story – Sonic bounces around Eggman's machine. A decent panel portrays Eggman attempting to crush the hedgehog in his giant fist. Before Eggman can recreate that one “Evangelion” scene, the bad guy is distracted and defeated.

That last point especially sticks in my teeth. The “Sonic X” version of Eggman has previously been portrayed as primarily eccentric, even somewhat child-like. In “March Madness,” he becomes a full blown idiot. He has to look up what gold is and what it's worth, even though the power rings prove that gold obviously exists on Sonic's home world. The entire story is motivated by Eggman trying to capture a leprechaun. Having the mad scientist chase after a mythological creature is goofy enough. That he becomes convinced that Bokkun, one of his henchman, is a leprechaun just because he gets painted green is another matter. The issue ends when Chris Thorndyke convinces Eggman to fly towards the end of the rainbow. I'm not a fan of “Sonic” media turning Robotnik into a clownish buffoon. “Sonic X” has straddled that line for a while and has now leaped over it.

“March Madness” is so focused on big action scenes and goofball comedy that it doesn't leave any room for character development. There's just the briefest of moments. Such as Amy's crude, overly forward romantic advances towards Sonic, which cross over to full-blown creepy. Or Cream momentarily being concerned about Cheese's suddenly green state. That Chris helps save the day could've been a good moment for the often maligned kid. Instead, it's just a quick way to wrap up this silly story.

Opening this comic, I was pleasantly surprised to see Steven Butler, one of my favorite Sonic artist, providing the artwork. Butler's work on “Sonic X” can't compare to his gritty, sexy, detail packed pencils on the main book. He simplifies his style a lot, to fit the pre-existing “Sonic X” template. Sonic and Bokkun occasionally look a little awkward. Especially Sonic, who is sporting a perpetual smirk for most of the issue. However, the talent for facial expressions and action scenes are still there. Butler's obvious strength for drawing people does produce some of the best looking renditions of Chris and his grandpa that we've seen thus far. It's still a good looking book.

In the past, the free-wheeling silliness of the “Sonic X” book worked in its favor, creating mad-cap homage to horror movies. But it's pretty obvious that Ian Flynn isn't a horror fan and his comedy, too often, veers towards the overly childish. This is especially evident in issue 17, which is too nonsensically silly, sacrificing the personality of the established cast members. [5/10]

Sonic the Hedgehog: Issue 172

Sonic the Hedgehog: Issue 172
Publication Date: February 2007

After wrapping up his first year on the book with another major event, Ian Flynn decided to do smaller, slower stories for the first half of 2007. Even as the comic approached another milestone issue, Flynn's focus was on the characters. Last time, he finally gave Shadow the Hedgehog some much needed development. Issue 172, meanwhile, finally gives Fiona the Fox a purpose in the comic's universe. The back-up story, meanwhile, gives some more much-needed insight into Amy Rose's personality. Granted, even a slower issue is still full of speedy action. This is a “Sonic the Hedgehog” comic, after all.

After wandering what she's been up to for a few issues, Sonic finally tracks down Fiona the Fox. Tails and Amy Rose have concerns about the girl, believing her to be a traitor that is fraternizing with Scourge the Hedgehog. After Sonic and Tails confront the vixen with this information, she confirms it as true. Scourge and Fiona are an item and, together, they conspire to ruin Sonic's nice day.

Fiona the Fox has never been a very well developed character in the “Sonic” verse. Originally introduced as Tails' (robotic and evil) love interest, Ken would later reveal that an organic Fiona existed. For poorly defined reasons, Karl Bollers would make Fiona an official Freedom Fighter during the “Home” story arc. Despite this decision, Karl never had much of an idea about what to do with Fiona. She acted as the team's field medic but never showed much personality. Later, Penders would depict Sonic and Fiona as dating, despite a total lack of chemistry between them. Ian has been trying to correct this problem since joining the book. He's given peaks into Fiona's history, portraying her as someone atoning for a checkered past.

With 172's “Truth from the Heart,” Flynn finally finds a purpose for Fiona. He makes her evil. This transition to the dark side is solidified when she smacks Tails across the face, shattering his heart. Yet I've always felt Fiona's transformation into Scourge's moll was disappointing. Instead of running with the idea that the fox feels shame for his prior misdeeds, Flynn just made her a bad girl. This sinks the Sonic/Fiona ship, which I'm fine with. It's not like the book had a lack of female cast members. Fiona was always a rough, probably unnecessary fit for the Freedom Fighters. Making her Scourge's partner-in-crime seems to sink Fiona's character development as well. In the long run, it was a good decision, giving this long wandering character a purpose. But I wonder about what might have been.

Even while “Truth from the Heart” sells out Fiona, it also gives us some insight into the other characters. After getting smacked across the face by his crush, Tails tells Sonic that he feels awful. Which is a nice, vulnerable moment from the sidekick. Archie Comics would successfully shift Amy Rose from an indistinct girly-girl to a warrior woman driven by her passions. So, when she discovers Fiona's treachery, she leaps in with hammer swinging, ready to kick ass. Cause you don't hurt the hedgehog Amy loves, not unless you want to get beaten. Most tantalizingly, we get a peak into Scourge's brain. Sonic attempts to reach the villain, pointing out that Scourge has the potential for good. Even though the former Anti-Sonic is a totally amoral sociopath, this line still gives the villain pause. It's an interesting moment.

Still, “Truth from the Heart” is primarily an action story. We open with a great series of panels of Amy swinging her hammer at Fiona. Tracy Yardley delivers some really cool angles here, of Fiona dodging around the pink hedgehog's swings. When Scourge enters the fray, the fight escalates. A cool moment has the two hedgehogs bouncing around a rock and a tree. Both of which get smashed to pieces. The action is well done enough that it's disappointing when “Truth from the Heart” ends with both parties just deciding to walk away, the fighting done for this day.

The back-up story, “Worth the Effort,” also focuses on Amy Rose while bringing Julie-Su back to the forefront. Amy has asked the former Dark Legionnaire to train her. As she's especially sleepy that day, Amy isn't at full strength. Ultimately, the two females have a heart-to-heart about the men in their lives. Amy opens up, revealing that she wants to get stronger and better at combat... In order to catch Sonic's attention.

As I mentioned earlier, Amy Rose became a way more interesting character when the comic focused on her aptitude for smashing shit with her hammer. Her original characterization – Sonic's fawning fan girl, obsessed with the hero to almost creepy levels – wasn't very interesting to me. Not just because I'm a die hard Sonic/Sally guy but because the book didn't need another inactive young character. Yet Ian Flynn, devoted to melding Sega continuity with Archie's universe, found an interesting way to combine these two aspects. Amy Rose has become a tougher, more capable, independent character expressly because she wants Sonic to notice her. So this let's up keep robot smashin' Amy while acknowledging that the Sonic-obsessed Sega Amy is still in there. It's a good compromise.

“Worth the Effort” also brings Julie-Su back into the fold, who we haven't seen in a while. While Tania del Rio's artwork is still a little off, as she makes the characters a little too lanky, I do love how strong, sexy, and confident her version of Julie-Su is. Seeing the echidna easily bests Amy confirms what we already know: That Julie-Su is the baddest bitch around and you do not want to fuck with her. Yet the story also gives us some insight into Julie-Su's world. That Knuckles is the only man she's comfortable exposing her softer side to. Which is such a sweet reveal that I wish Knuckles had a bigger role in this story, aside from a cameo at the very end.

While I have some issues with what Flynn would do with Fiona, 172 is still a pretty good edition of “Sonic the Hedgehog.” The action is solid, the story continues to move forward, but the writer respects the characters and their personalities. Sonic and Scourge won't be able to beat on each other for much longer without it getting old but we haven't reached that point just yet. The cover story concludes with Antoine melodramatically deciding to make a big decision. It's a pretty obvious misdirect from what he actually plans on doing but I appreciate Flynn's attempt to mold a cliffhanger. [7/10]

Sonic X: Issue 16

Sonic X: Issue 16
Publication Date: February 2007

The tendency for Archie's “Sonic X” book to acknowledge the monthly holidays continue. While the main book remains in a future without earthly celebrations, the Earth of “Sonic X” pauses once more to feature a calendar event on the cover. Issue 16 devotes itself to Valentine's Day. On one hand, this is sort of surprising, considering the seven year old boy audience this book aims for. That's the kind of crowd that thinks girls have cooties. Then again, the shipping have always been deeply entranced in the Sonic fandom. So laugh, you SonAmy weirdos. This is as close as the two hedgehogs will be allowed to get.

“Valentine's Fray” doesn't have Sonic finally accepting Amy's insistent demands for dates because he's actually interested in the girl. Instead, he lost a bet with Knuckles. Amy is none the wiser and is overjoyed for a chance at romance with her favorite hedgehog. Sonic, however, is clueless about dating. So he asks the Chaotix – whose expertise on this matter he greatly overestimates – and gets three different ideas for a date, combining all of them. News gets back to Eggman, who decides to use this romantic adventure as a chance to take Sonic out of the picture for good.

Issue 16 of “Sonic X” would have Ian Flynn returning to the spin-off book. Flynn is a writer that likes to satisfy his fans. So the writer cooks up a scenario that will please the Sonic/Amy people without officially hooking the two up. Sonic reluctantly agreeing to date Amy is a nice touch. Of course, he ends up having a good time. At the end, just as it seems like maybe he's developing feelings for the pink hedgehog, Sonic backs off. He denies Amy a second date. It's a pretty cute balance, even if Flynn's script here has none of the depth of his work on the main book.

Flynn's comedy works best when rooted in his characters. “Valentine's Fray” is nowhere near as funny as its aiming for, as its comedic gags are pretty limp. However, there's one bit that did make me laugh. Sonic goes to the detectives, assuming their detectiv-ing includes knowledge of what females like. He is wrong. Much to Vector's chagrin, Charmy announces that none of the trio has ever been on a date. This keeps the cluelessness about the opposite sex that Vector shows in Archie's other “Sonic” book while dropping his creepy misogyny. Honestly, the idea of the Chaotix being virginal nerds, totally clueless about women, makes them more endearing.

The big gags in “Valentine's Fray” concern how Sonic and Amy's date goes wrong. Eggman figures Sonic will be distracted, making this a good time to strike. Instead, the hedgehog is as alert as always. Both intentionally and unintentionally, Sonic foils the bad guy's schemes. An attempt to blow them up with bombs results in Sonic and Amy getting a fireworks show. A booby-trapped hibachi grill goes off early, roasting Decoe and Becoe instead. Lastly, Sonic and Amy head to a carnival. Eggman's attempts to corner them in a haunted house, a hall of mirrors, and a roller coaster all backfire.

It's a classical comedic set-up, recalling the likes of Tom & Jerry and Wile E. Coyote. Amy remains unaware of the dangers, having a great time all throughout the date. Eggman's schemes screwing up so badly results in the kind of cartoony punishment you'd expect to see in a Loony Tunes short. It's not exactly hilarious. In truth, it actually further defangs this version of Eggman as a serious threat. Yet, considering this is far more of a light-weight kiddie book then the main comic, it got me to smile once or twice.

Todd Wahnish continues his work on "Sonic X." This time, he doesn't distinguish himself from the various other “Sonic X” drawers very much. His work is more consistent then Tim Smith, as Wahnish's backgrounds are more vivid and he doesn't have Smith's occasional off-model moments. Yet Wahnish trails behind David Hutchinson's best work, as this features none of the atmosphere or strong character work that is Hutchinson's strength. Truthfully, Wahnish's work is fine. He sticks to the established model, going out of his way to maintain the comic's connection with the cartoon show. It's not bad to look at. It's totally fine, truthfully. Yet it's also not very memorable.

While the “Sonic X” Valentine's Day special trails behind the highly entertaining first half of the Halloween special, it is a better written affair then the weak Christmas special. This is a pretty forgettable issue but not an unpleasant reading experience either. I mean, even on an off-day, Ian Flynn knew what he was doing. It looks like “Sonic X” stuck with the holiday theme for at least one more issue. We'll see how that goes soon enough. [6/10]

Sonic the Hedgehog: Issue 171

Sonic the Hedgehog: Issue 171
Publication Date: January 2007

Over the course of 2004 and 2005, Archie published a number of “Sonic the Hedgehog” stories featuring Shadow the Hedgehog. To be brutally honest, none of them were good. In fact, when I was first reading these issues as a teenager, I honestly wondered if Shadow had a place at all in the Archie Sonic-verse. As part of his mission to get the comic to shape the fuck up, Ian Flynn set out to write the very first good Shadow the Hedgehog story published in this comic. (And, depending on how you feel about “Sonic Adventure 2” and “Sonic Heroes,” maybe the first good Shadow story period.) Amazingly, he succeeded.

In the biblically entitled “I Am,” Shadow the Hedgehog storms into Robotnik's main laboratory. He demands to see Gerald Robotnik's diary, which Eggman has been keeping from him, and finally learn the final facts about his origin. After grabbing the ancient disc, Shadow is chased out of Robotropolis. He flees to Knothole, where Tails attempts to read the disk. Using an experimental digital interface, Nicole inserts Sonic and Shadow into Gerald's diary. Meanwhile, Snively follows the black hedgehog to Freedom HQ, ready to bust some heads.

In outline form, “I Am” is another one of Ian Flynn's stories devoted to fixing a stupid plot point introduced by the previous writers. For a while now, Shadow has been working for Robotnik. In the Sega video games, Shadow is more of a free agent, working to meet his own needs. By this story's end, Shadow is no longer affiliated with the Eggman. The book also spills the details of Shadow's origin, involving Gerald making a deal with the alien tyrant Black Doom. (Of course, Ian has already established that the Black Arms may never returned to Mobius, being locked in an endless war with the Xorda, preventing us from getting an adaptation of Sega's widely loathed “Shadow the Hedgehog.”) This is also another move that brings the comic's world a little more in line with the video games, without sacrificing the comic's uniqueness.

This is all well and good but what makes “I Am” an above average story is its emotional component. Shadow's drive and determination to resolve his past as the so-called ultimate life form has him showing more personality then he has anywhere else up to this point. More important, Shadow achieves the impossible. He is reunited with Maria. The hedgehog and the saint-like teenage girl he bonded with, years ago, have a tearful reunion. That's right. Sega allowed their number one tough guy character to cry, however briefly. When Shadow confronts Snively in the final pages, declaring definitively who he is, it's actually rather powerful. This character has found himself. It's satisfying to read – a floundering cast member is now centered – but it's mostly just good writing.

On paper, Nicole inserting Shadow and Sonic into the digital memories on Gerald's CD seems like a sudden plot point. Nicole outright announcing to Shadow that this is a rather miraculous thing she can do fairly easily does come out of nowhere. Having said that, setting the story inside what is essentially a memory is a cool idea. The disk's memory is slowly eroding away, which gives the plot a time limit, raising tension. It also leads to a cool image, the world slowly falling apart around our heroes. This moment also allows for a return of Nicole's lynx form, giving the computer program some more character development. Soon, the holo-lynx shall become Nicole's default form, finalizing her growth into a real person.

Though this is clearly Shadow's story, “I Am” does feature some decent character beats for the book's primary cast. Sonic, Tails, Knuckles and Nicole are the only Freedom Fighters that appear in this story. This creates a nice streamlined cast. I love Sally and the gang but there was no reason for them to be in this story. Sonic and Tails' relationship continues to be rocky, the fox still having trouble forgiving the hedgehog for dating Fiona. Of course, Fiona's been AWOL for two issues and Sonic's not so sure about her anymore either. In an especially cute series of panels, Knuckles expresses an honest concern for the young scientist. Knuckles apparently just finished a run around the woods on his hover board, a little personable touch.

On top of being a really solid character story, “I Am” also features a delightfully fun action beat. Before fleeing Robotropolis, Shadow does something unforgivable to Snively... He snatches him bald-headed, tearing out his six remaining hairs! This gives us a fun look into Snively's personality, as he was attached to these stray hairs that he had tracking devices implanted inside. After arriving in Knothole, he attacks in a deliciously preposterous vehicle called the Egg-Lobster. Yes, it's a giant robot lobster. That's a level of goofy fun I welcome, which puts this story over-the-top into the genuinely great category.

After such a great cover story, the back-up comes off as rather minor. In “Enforcers,” a group of dingoes are preoccupied with oppressing a village on Angel Island. Before Locke can start guardian-ing the place, the Destructix leap in and fight off the canines. Doctor Finitevus emerges from a warp ring, asking Locke to form a pact with him. In order to help sell the deal, Finitevus has Dimitri's floating head on hand to testify. Locke eventually, reluctantly agrees to the doctor's conditions, eager to unite the Island again. (And, pointedly, to do it without Knuckles' help.)

Of course, there's a twist and that's really the whole point of “Enforcers.” On the final page, it's revealed that Finitevus is lying. He's putting the pieces in place for his next power move. From the moment Dr. Finitevus was introduced, it's been implied that he has devious plans of his own. While Bollers was happy to let this point rest, Flynn obviously has plans of his own for the albino echidna. In the last panel of “Enforcers,” we discover that Finitevus is plotting the return of Enerjak.

Though mostly focused on plot. “Enforcers” does have one or two little dollop of character development. When Finitevus suggest Knuckles could help protect Angel Island, Locke outright refuses. This continues Flynn re-establishing Knuckles' asshole dad as an intentional asshole. This story also continues Dimitri's development into a quasi-heroic character or at least someone eager to atone for his villainous ways. It's little stuff but it's enough to elevate what would otherwise just be more plot development for future story lines.

By the way, Tracy Yardley provides pencils for both stories. Yardley keeps up with his own high standard, producing two nice looking tales. Issue 171 is another really strong contribution from Flynn, another example of what this guy would become the comic's most respected and beloved writer. He took underdeveloped characters, like Shadow or Finitevus, and turned them into something you actually cared about. “I Am” is a great cover story and even the back-up is pretty good. And since I'm feeling generous, I'll give the whole issue a [9/10.] I'm not always this nice.