Top Ten Sonic OSTs/This Year (2021)

Most of this year's events either have to do with "Sonic Colors Ultimate" or rumors about what next year has to offer (a second movie, a new show, a new game, etc). Instead of a look back on that, I'm listing the top ten soundtracks, having listened to all of what the series had to offer, all this year.  

Top OSTs: 

Unleashed
The fan hype over Unleashed's music is justified. The music is a rich combination and the unique day/night split is well heard along with the settings and Sonic's speed.  

06
If it wasn't for Unleashed, 06 would win. With movie-like quality the mix is unforgettable.  

Adventure 2

SA2's unique character-inspired music makes it # 3. 

Black Knight

Almost a tie with SA2, S&tBK has rich and beautiful music. And Crush 40. Lots of Crush 40. 

Shadow

Shadow is a bit of a hidden gem as the OST is somewhat forgotten or misjudged due to other factors. The edgy rock and reflective vocal songs are just right. 

Zero Grav

This fun and energetic music also adds a grand, cinematic tone that turns defying gravity into something new. 

Secret Rings
While infamous due to its many vocals, the wide range of songs is as unique as the world rings themselves.   

Riders
Upbeat and fast-paced, the tracks are exactly what to expect from the Sonic series. 

CD (US)
Sonic's first brush with rock worked fantastically well and defined the settings. 

CD (JP)

This classic time-themed techno shouldn't be ignored. 

Best theme for Sonic.

Technically any game's main song is also considered a song for Sonic, such as "Live and Learn," "Endless Possibilities," "Knight of the Wind," or "7 Rings in Hand." However I'm only focusing on themes that are specifically and repeatedly Sonic's (so excluding most of those "game" themes as well as "team" songs like "We Can" or "Sonic Speed Riders" and shared themes like "What I'm Made Of" or "Open Your Heart"). That leaves 3 songs, "It Doesn't Matter," "His World," and "Reach for the Stars."  

    

Background

It Doesn't Matter

The song debuted in Sonic Adventure, returning in the sequel and reappearing in Sonic and the Black Knight. While it did not receive the same attention as the Crush 40 songs, the song is still a fan favorite. There remains three vocal versions (SA, SA2, and the later made S.A.M.E.) and a few instrumentals. 

His World

Even though Sonic 06 received backlash, its soundtrack was immune. "His World" instantly became a Sonic-must. Being the game's main theme it received numerous instrumental versions prevalent through out the game. Some of these were also reused elsewhere, such as in Brawl. Three main vocal versions were created: the game version, Zebrahead's version, and Crush 40's version. 

Reach for the Stars

"Reach of the Stars" was made Sonic's theme after the good reception to Sonic Colors. The song received many instrumental themes through out the 2010s, appearing in almost every many games released in the Current Era. There is now a second version of the vocal song made for Sonic Colors Ultimate.  

Winner

It Doesn't Matter

Actually, I believe "His World" is the best song out of the three. But as a theme for Sonic that reflects his personality and spirit, "It Doesn't Matter" is the best choice. While not worded the best, the lyrics do narrate his point of view. Additionally the genre seems to be a 90s-early 2000s punk-rock mix, which is the best reflection of the character.

The SA2 version was defiantly handled better, but the S.A.M.E. version combines the strengths of each. The Black Knight instrumentals also tamed the song into something quite beautiful (the fan-art music). 

 

Runner-up

His World

"His World" makes a great introduction into the attitude and drama that 06 tried so hard to emulate. The grand instrumentation aside sassy rap and defining lyrics makes it a memorable song. 

I think the Zebrahead and Crush 40 versions are superior and less random the original, however. While it makes a grand theme overall, it just doesn't work as well as a character theme. It's also hard to separate it from 06 or others in the game.  

LOSER

Reach for the Stars

I can't stand the song. It's a 2010s nightmare. Even trying to set aside my personal disgust, I can't see how it makes a good theme for Sonic specifically. How does "the colors feel so right" reflect him? The song was clearly written with the game rather than character in mind. The genre and vocals seem much more suitable for Silver, and the instrumentation is simply too modern-synthetic to reflect a 90s videogame-icon. 

"Endless Possibilities" would have been a better idea since the song is less game-focused (and not to mention it is better by a long shot). "Reach for the Stars" should have been exclusive to Sonic Colors. 

Eras Update: Current

ALL about the current era

Era: Current

Main Years: 2010-present

Gameplay Type: Although started in 2005, the boost gimmick reached popular success with Sonic Unleashed. While Unleashed was a step towards the "current" era, it was Sonic Colors that changed the boost from a special ability to an expected one. Every main game since has included it as a major element. This allows the player to speed through enemies and the level, but it has a gauge that must be fueled. The "boost to win" type of gameplay has been dominate in the 3D levels, but also in 2D sections and the DS version of Sonic Colors.

However the spinoffs such as the Sonic Racing series (kart racing) and Sonic Boom series (exploration) had takes that differed accordingly. 

Sonic Colors also debuted a new form of power-up: wisps. The wisps have different abilities which alter Sonic within a few seconds. 

Interestingly, guns have reappeared in the series as of Sonic Forces, now "Wispons" and likewise affected by wisps.

This era marked the return of 2D to "main games." This started with Sonic 4, which played much like a classic game but with the homing attack and other elements. Sonic Generations and Sonic Forces provided 3-dimensional levels with a completely 2-D view, simulating the classics. Finally Sonic Mania returned completely to the "classic" style.       

Character Designs and Personalities: While Sonic and the others have not changed much in terms of size, there have been some subliminal changes. Sonic's mouth is now always on the side like in 2-D art rather than being center or sometimes center like in the past. Amy, by contrast, always has a "center" mouth and no longer smirks like Sonic. 

Overall the characters have shifted personalities to be either more passive or more extreme, depending on the character. Starting with Colors, Sonic is the class clown, usually joking about everything and not taking anything seriously. Most of the other characters were sidelined or reduced to being a "cheerleader." 

While Sonic Forces gained some respect for giving Shadow his own "episode," fans felt Tails' cowardly behavior was very out of character. Reception to the changes in personality since 2010 have been mostly negative.  

Controversy

In 2014 Sonic, Tails, Amy, and Knuckles (as well as Metal Sonic, Shadow, and Eggman) were redesigned. Sonic's design gave him lengthy legs, blue arms, and a brown scarf. The group wore lots of sports tape, and were mostly taller. Knuckles was given a completely different body type. 

The characters were also given slightly different personalities. Sonic was more casual, Amy was more mature, Knuckles was stupid, and Tails...okay, Tails is kind of  the same. Reception to these changes has been mixed since Amy was praised, but Knuckles was horribly ridiculed.   

The designs were met with immediate backlash. Despite the fan disapproval, Sega promoted the spin-off series with Sonic Channel artwork and included Boom-exclusive Sticks as character in the 2016 Rio Olympic games title. A sequel to Sonic Dash with the theme was also made. 

The initial disgust with the designs, as well as the poor reception to the spin-off games, may have contributed to the "Boomverse's" slow death.  

Story Type: In sharp contrast to the last era, the plots have been portrayed as lighthearted and comical. Even when a situation seems serious, like when the Time Eater separates Sonic from his friends, the script is designed to let the player know nothing bad can actually happen and Sonic is just here to have fun. 

Also, starting with Colors DS handhelds no longer have their own plots, instead being versions of the console games.  

Trying to mix its appeals, Sonic Forces was given a serious plot. The storyline, which has Sonic defeated by a new enemy, then locked up and tortured while Eggman takes over, does sound surprisingly dark. However, the details are not in the slightest. Sonic remains static, no different start to finish and completely unaffected by the months he was captive. Eggman has taken over, but outside of level design it is hard to tell what affect it really has. Most infamous of all is the new villain/rival, Infinite, and his back story of "throwing a tantrum."    

Even though Sonic's cast is already huge and the games tried to "focus only on Sonic with Tails as support," many new characters joined, including 6 new villains as the "Deadly Six," Infinite, the "Avatar," Yacker, and Dodonpa.  

Visuals: As a whole the graphics have aged well. There does not seem to be a huge difference between Sonic Generations or Sonic Forces, but it still looks as good as it needs to for what it is. Can't say the same for the cutscenes. Colors already had the Wii curse. Generations is okay, focusing on expressions was a neat idea...

The CG scenes just aren't exciting or special, and the openings aren't bad, but aren't too impressive either (with the exception of Mania).    

The settings now use a lot of cartoonish themes. Much of the locations are recycled Sonic settings, being a new version of an old idea (Red Gate Bridge in Sonic Forces, like the bridge in Radical Highway, is based on the Golden Gate Bridge), or being a literal old level revisited (Green Hill, Chemical Plant, etc). 

Common locations include selections from the "Generations" line-up (Green Hill, Chemical Plant, Sky Sanctuary, Seaside Hill, Rooftop Run, and Planet Wisp). Types include hills, beaches, cities, casinos, and haunted places.    

Music: The "current" era was just that: keeping in with the times. In Sonic Colors, this meant Sonic's theme would be changed to something very pop 2010. Cash Cash, the band that made "Reach for the Stars," would go on to make several other songs/covers. Despite the track becoming Sonic's theme in many games following, the next games would not include a main vocal theme at all. 

Orchestral themes were a popular alternative, and Sonic Generations opted to make something more reflective of the "Classics." Many remixes would be made with several anniversary games and other occasions.

The Sonic Boom series had music that was much slower than fans were used to. Rise of Lyric in particular was bashed as one of the worst Sonic OSTs. Fans who listened to Fire and Ice felt the prior games were musically forgiven, but many had already sworn off the series.     

Sonic Mania included a composer picked for his Youtube popularity (part of the "by the fans" thing). He took inspiration from the 90s games, especially Sonic CD (JP). 

Sonic Forces adopted a popular synthetic sound. It would be the first game in years to have vocal themes. 

Team Sonic Racing was the first game that seemed to return to the type of music seen in previous eras, in part because of remixes, but also due to the return of fan favorites composer Jun Senoue/ "the Sonic band" Crush 40.   

     

Voice Cast: 

In early 2010 games the 4kids cast was still voicing the characters (actually the lines might have been recycled). After Free Riders, a mostly new cast took over. 

While Mike Pollock stayed as Eggman, Sonic was now voiced by Roger Craig Smith. Tails would mostly be voiced by Colleen O' Shaughnessey, and Knuckles mostly by Travis Willingham. Cindy Robinson provided the voice for Amy, with Kirk Thornton as Shadow and Orbot. Cubot was voiced by Wally Wingert. 

The Sonic movie casted Ben Schwartz as Sonic. For a brief period, many expected Schwartz would be the new voice for Sonic in the games, but this did not happen. Eggman, being a human, was physically played by an actor, Jim Carrey. The move briefly had Tails (O' Shaughnessey).  

Controversy 

Most felt that by 2010 the voice change was unnecessary and were upset with the change. By the mid-2010s generally fans felt better due to the 2 seasons of Sonic Boom.     

In Sonic Generations two opportunities never came to light: Ryan Drummond returning to voice Sonic, and Jaleel White returning to voice Sonic. Drummond was in a union and did not accept the role (which resulted in the game's "third" Sonic being scrapped). It was decided that classic Sonic would either be voiced by White or have no voice. For reasons unknown, they took the second option.

As a consequence "classic" characters do not talk (in Mania, etc) even though Classic Tails and classic egg Robotnik talked in Generations (voiced by what was their current actors).  

Kate Higgins voiced Tails prior to Sonic Boom. While she still voices Wave the Swallow, she was replaced by Colleen O' Shaughnessey as Tails. The reason is unknown but fans have called Higgins' voice for Tails too old, which may have contributed. 

Much of the cast (with the exceptions of Sonic, Tails, Amy, Shadow, Rouge, and Eggman) was replaced in Team Sonic Racing. While the replacements have had mixed reception individually, as a whole this move did not receive nearly the same attention as any of the other main cast switches. Since Sonic's voice was not replaced the change seemed to fly under the radar. 

It is unknown what the cast will look like in future games, but Smith has recommitted to the role after briefly planning to leave.   

 

Main Voice (Sonic): Roger Craig Smith

Memorable Theme Song (for Sonic): "Reach for the Stars" (from Sonic Colors). 

Memorable Catchphrases (Sonic):  "Baldy Nosehair?! That's the best thing I heard all day!" "No copywrite law in the universe is going to stop me!" (Sonic Colors) "Enjoy your future, it's gonna' be great." (Sonic Generations) "Green Hill is beginning to look a lot more like sand hill." "It's been generations since I've seen you." (Sonic Forces) "Hey, who needs their bacon saved?" (Team Sonic Racing) "Sonic SPEED" (Brawl) 

"I'm very heroic." (cartoon)

Cartoons and other Appearances: Sonic Boom was a comedy starting in 2014. It aired for 2 seasons. It involved Sonic and his friends coping with various threats such as Eggman and part-time worker/villain, Dave the Intern. Surprisingly also Sonic guest starred on a show called OK Let's be Heroes.     

The Archie comics involved more game characters such as Silver in main plots. However the entire series had to be rebooted after legal troubles so that characters they "did not own" could be written out. 

The following plotlines were more connected to the previous eras, including a lengthy adaptation of Sonic Unleashed as "The Shattered World Crisis" and the reveal of a surviving Black Arms, Eclipse the Darkling. 

In the meantime, Archie also had a Sonic Boom based spin-off and several crossovers with Mega Man. 

The series came to an end in 2016. The reasons were never elaborated on, but it can be assumed there was a disagreement between Archie and Sega. 

In 2018 a new comic series with IDW was started. It included new characters Tangle and Whisper (who soon became so popular they have appeared on official merch and in Sonic Forces: Speed Battle app). 

While the comic initially started with the "fallout" of Forces, it went into a long robot virus/zombie apocalypse plot. While popular, reception to the series has been mixed, specifically on how certain characters have been portrayed. Fans of the Archie comics have also been persistent about wanting to see characters like Sally Acorn.  

Several 2-D animated shorts promoting Sonic Mania Plus, Team Sonic Racing, and chao have been created. A new animation was made for Sonic Colors: Ultimate. 

A new TV show, Sonic Prime is also being created and will be on Netflix. 

In 2020, the Sonic Movie was released and received praise after correcting what many saw as a horrid and uncanny design. The next movie will be released in 2022.

Eras UPDATE: Modern

ALL about the Modern Era

Era: Modern

Main Years: 2005-2010

Gameplay Type: The modern era is a much more experimental time for 3D and 2D games a like. 

Sonic returned to racing games in the Riders series, featuring new moves, tricks, and gimmicks. Sonic's venture to the Wii also meant several different styles. Sometimes the controls meant holding the remote sideways, sometimes it meant a nunchuck. Confusingly, the controls were almost always different. 

Sonic the Hedgehog, a game similar to the "adventure" style, would be released in 2006 for Sonic's 15th anniversary. Unfortunately, the development team was split apart and then rushed...the result being a game infamous for its numerous glitches. 

Sonic had more critical success with his 2D.5 handheld titles. Sonic Rush is notable for introducing the boost, which would soon become a Sonic norm. Sonic Unleashed was the first console game to feature the element, but the game also introduced a style more focused on fighting via the Werehog stages. 

Character Designs and Personalities: Sonic 06 slightly redesigned the main cast to fit better with the more realistic setting. In Sonic's case this meant height and shape a bit, making the character less round. The concept art reveals that they wanted to give Sonic a more realistic texture, though this was obviously cut. In 06, Eggman was designed to resemble a real human, but to to poor reception he never appeared this way again.      

Generally the same attitude that filled the previous era affected this one. In the Riders series, the Storybook series, and the Rivals series, a lot of the characters have sly remarks and memorable banter. Sonic 06 is a bit of an oddball due to the nature of the plot, making many of the characters act more serious or even passive. 

Sonic Unleashed and Sonic and the Black Knight have been praised for their particular versions of Sonic, which has been described as more serious without losing his flair.     

Story Type: Building upon some of the plots seen before, the Modern era made itself more mature with "darker" plots, though it had lighthearted moments. 

New villains like Eggman Nega, Mephiles, and the Erazor Djinn became threats equal to/greater than Eggman himself. Like with previous games, sometimes Eggman would actually help if there was a greater threat (though not always, or sometimes the result was betrayal). 

Like before Sonic also gained many new friends like Sharah, Caliburn, and Chip. After the success of Shadow, several new rival characters were created. Blaze the Cat would eventually become a friend, but makes her debut as a fiery rival. Jet the Hawk and the Babylon Rogues challenge Sonic in the air.  Silver the Hedgehog meets Sonic for the first time twice, and tries to fight him immediately in each case. And Johnny the...robot pirate...shark....thing...refused any emerald without a race.  

Visuals: While some games have aged better than others, for the first time the graphics aren't...crude. Although a lot of openings are actually also first cutscenes, they all look pretty well. While the standard cutscenes are usually nothing to brag about, the CG cutscenes have mostly aged amazingly well. Additionally Sonic Riders marked the return to 2D animation with its opening.     

The settings used a lot of diversity, relying even more on earth for inspiration. 06 used Venice as the base for Soleanna, and Unleashed used a number of locations and real-world landmarks to create similar ones. Common locations were cities, jungles, deserts, seascapes, castles, and snowy mountains.  

Music: Like with gameplay, the music experimented with different things. The Riders series dived into high-energy techno while the Rush games used samples and unique effects. The storybook games immersed themselves in themes of their fantasy worlds. 06 has a beloved OST with tracks that impress even the most critical haters. Unleashed has been called the best in the series, having a culturally inspired mix for day, night, and hub world locations. 

These years were filled with many different vocal themes. A distinct difference from the last era is Crush 40 (previously doing most of the main songs and being associated with Sonic). While they would still contribute to the games (especially Black Knight), they started to become associated with Shadow (after both Shadow the Hedgehog and Sonic 06).  Meanwhile many of Sonic's new songs like "His World,""7 Rings in Hand," and "Endless Possibilities," would be done by others.           

Voice Cast: Although much of the cast had already voiced the characters on Sonic X, due to the amount of new characters several other actors joined the main cast. 

Sonic, Shadow, and Jet were all voiced by Jason Griffith, while Eggman was voiced by Mike Pollock. Amy Palant voiced Tails, with Dan Green as Knuckles (as well as Storm, Mephlies, and Professor Pickle). Dan Green also began voicing Vector. Lisa Ortiz voiced Amy, while Bella Hudson took on the characters Wave the Swallow, Blaze the Cat, and Sharah the Genie. Silver was Pete Capella. 

Veronica Taylor (known for voicing Ash from Pokemon and April in 03 TMNT) was supposed to voice Princess Elise, but was replaced by "celebrity" actress Lacey Chabert (known for voicing Eliza in The Wild Thornberrys and Meg in the first season of Family Guy).   

The characters Merlina, Caliburn, and King Arthur were intended to be British. Sega chose the voice actors for these new characters (one actor being from Nights).  

Controversy 

After first taking over, the 4kids cast gained a lot of negativity from fans. Even though they had been voicing voicing the characters since 2003 (via Sonic X), most missed the previous cast that started with Sonic Adventure. Eventually fans warmed up to the new cast, with some being called better than the previous group. They also praised the improvements over the years. Whether Jason Griffith or Ryan Drummond was the better Sonic remains a common fan debate.      

In late 2010 with Sonic Free Riders, however, Sega decided to hire new actors, with the exception of Mike Pollock. As with the first time, the move did not sit well with fans. In particular fans were upset that Sega just offered Sonic's new voice actor, Roger Craig Smith, the job. Smith later clarified he did do an audition.  

 

Main Voice (Sonic): Jason Griffith

Memorable Theme Song (for Sonic): "His World" (from Sonic 06). 

Memorable Catchphrases (Sonic):  "ALRIGHT...Bring it on!" (Sonic Riders) "Alright, lets have some fun Solaris." (Sonic 06) "Sonic...BOOM!" (Sonic Rivals) "I'm not a rat!" "No problem" "This just isn't my day!" "Too Easy" "That was tight!" "Lend me your...POWER!" (Sonic and the Secret Rings) "Whoo!" Here...we...go!" "Feelin' Good." "Eh, can't win 'em all." (Sonic Unleashed) "Your too slow!" "Come on, step it up!" (Brawl) 

"I'm a hedgehog, pal, not a guinea pig."  (cartoon)

Cartoons and other Appearances: Since it aired a bit later and has a different tone, the 3rd season of Sonic X is arguably the cartoon of the modern era. The plot of the "darker" final season is less randomized and mainly focused on saving the universe from a threatening alien species, the Meterex. 

Years later, a 3-D animated short that tied-into Sonic Unleashed, "Sonic: Night of the Werehog," was created. It had a playful plot including Chip and ghosts. 

Archie created a new spin-off based on Sonic X, which was more successful than they expected, lasting for 40 issues. 

In 2006 the Archie comics turned a new page when Ian Flynn, now infamous in the Sonic-comic community, began writing for the comics. He tried to make the series more akin to the games, but also tried to "clean-up" what happened to the main "Sat Am" cast. He tried to heal the relationship between Sonic and Sally, recreated "Evil Sonic" as Scourge, and tied up many loose ends. 

In late 2009, Sonic Universe, another spin-off, was made. Through this series Flynn introduced and reintroduced many game characters like Blaze the Cat, Gamma, Omega, Marine, and the Babylon Rogues. With flashbacks, parts of the games were now partially adapted...although tie-ins would be limited to non-canon "in another time/place" one-offs.   

Eras Update: Transitional

ALL about the transitional era

Era: Transitional

Main Years: 1999-2005

Gameplay Type: Following Sonic Adventure, the "main" games were now 3 dimensional. The player controlled Sonic or another character, with the end goal not always being to finish the level. For example, Knuckles would instead look for pieces of the Master Emerald. 

While the spin dash was still available, the "homing attack" became the weapon of choice. Sonic Heroes combined the gameplay styles of different characters, making them (speed, power, and flight), available all at once. While characters such as Gamma, Tails, and Eggman would use a form of gun to cover shooter based gameplay, Shadow the Hedgehog was the first (and only) to make it the main focus.  

However Sonic was not done with 2D side-scrollers, appearing in many handheld titles as just that.  

Character Designs and Personalities: Sonic and the rest of the revived characters received new, "cool" and flexible designs. While many "original" fans did not approve of Sonic being taller and suddenly having green eyes, the character with the most changes seemed to fly under the radar: Amy Rose. Amy was given a more mature and radically differing design. This is in part because the original character was 8 and Amy's age was revised to be 12. 

While the characters were always thick with attitude, having the characters officially talk led to them having more obvious character traits. Many of the characters had quick and witty comebacks, although only if it fit their character (Eggman, for example, was more formal in his wording, being an adult scientist and not a sassy teenager).        

Story Type: Now that scripted cutscenes were normal, the stories become more involved, though the plots still largely at least started with stopping Eggman. Mainly Eggman would unleash a threat only for it to get out his own hands. 

In a game on the borderline between this era and the next, Shadow the Hedgehog, Eggman is not the main threat (Black Arms) and was not responsible for it, either (in contrast to Heroes, where Metal Sonic was technically still Eggman's fault). 

More characters were introduced, with Sonic meeting much of what is now the main cast. Most of these characters were heroes (Tikal, Cream, etc) or became heroes (Gamma, Shadow, etc).

The handheld storylines were not too complex until Sonic Battle, which contained several story modes. The plot of Sonic Advance 3, while a third "advance" title, is a sequel to Battle.     

Visuals: Although there was a good deal of early CG type art, they seemed pretty proud of the 2D "Sonic Channel" designs and art, with the characters' artwork being featured in box art and menus. 

The graphics of this era have not aged well, and the mouth animations have contributed to memes. However the creative and expressive openings have been well remembered and in some cases recreated. From Sonic Heroes on, the CG cutscenes became more prevalent and important.    

The settings now used real world inspiration, such as with Sonic Adventure 2, which was based on California. Common locations were cities, ruins, beaches, haunted houses, and space.  

Music: The music of this era redefined what to expect from Sonic games. Often praised, the music used a lot of guitar and rock, while not excluding experimental or funkier genres. 

Starting with Sonic Adventure 2, certain characters became associated more with certain songs, such as Sonic having peppy punk-rock vs Knuckles having snazzy rap and hip hop. This was somewhat echoed with the contrasting vocal themes in Sonic Heroes. 

Shadow the Hedgehog, being a spinoff based on another character, did not use the same mix in genres, instead focusing on a heavier rock and using the vocal themes as an allusion to the personality. While not as memorable, the music of the handheld games served as a nostalgic connection between "classic and modern."          

Voice Cast: From Sonic Adventure on, Sonic's official voice was Ryan Drummond and Eggman (Robotnik)'s was Deem Bristrow. Knuckles' voice changed a bit until Sonic Adventure 2, when Scott Dreier took the job over. Tails voice often changed because his "real-life boy" actors voice would mature, leaving Tails with a total of three different actors in this era alone. Jennifer Douillard voiced Sonic's self-proclaimed girlfriend, Amy. Lani Minella voiced Rouge (as well as Omachao) and David Humphrey joined in 2001 as Shadow. Jon St. John doubled as Big the Cat and Omega. 

In 2003 Sonic X was dubbed in English by 4kids. 4kids used their own voice cast for the series (rather than hiring the current voice actors or anyone from the DiC cartoons). After Sonic Advance 3 (2004), Sega replaced their "game" cast with the group from 4kids because they wanted Sonic to have the same voice in all media (rumors say Deem Bistrow's death was also a factor). This cast would start in the last/borderline transitional game, Shadow the Hedgehog. 

This is a notable difference than in Japan where much of their cast has been the same since Sonic Adventure. 

Controversy 

Although Sonic X was popular with western audiences, fans of the games did not take well to the sudden switch. In particular fans felt cheated that Ryan Drummond would not be back as Sonic. 

Fueling their dismay was the fact that earlier Drummond had actually offered to move to voice Sonic in Sonic X. To make things worse, Sega did not announce the change in 2005 and failed to tell the actor he would not be voicing Sonic anymore. Despite this Ryan Drummond himself does not have any hostility for his replacement voice actor(s).   

 

Main Voice (Sonic): Ryan Drummond

Memorable Theme Song (for Sonic): "It Doesn't Matter" (from Sonic Adventure 1/2). 

Memorable Catchphrases (Sonic):  "Talk about low budget flights...I'm outta' here!" "TARIIAAAAA" "That was cool!" (Sonic Adventure2)  "Let's blast through with sonic speed!" "BLAST AWAY!" "It's all over...for YOU!" (Sonic Heroes) "Time to Party!" (Sonic Battle) "YEAH!" (Sonic Advance 3)

"Kids, don't use formula 1 race cars to chase hedgehogs!" "Yeah I've got a name. It's Sonic, Sonic the Hedgehog" "Do I look like a cat to you?!" (cartoon)

Cartoons and other Appearances: Often attributed to the modern era, the main cartoon of this era is Sonic X. The anime adapted the Sonic Adventure series fairly closely but Sonic Battle loosely. It also featured many staples of the era like Tails' being an inventor/pilot, Amy having obsessive crush, and soap shoes.  

The changes would affect the Archie comics to a point. Humans had to be written in (after years of Robotnik being the only one). Amy had to be redesigned and aged to match her game counterpart. Characters like Shadow and Rouge were introduced. However, as a whole the series proceeded with their own storylines and characters taking priority. 

Aside from Sonic Adventure, they did not do much to adapt the games as a main story. Infamously they mistakenly colored Maria Robotnik's hair brown. Also Shadow's chest fur was yellow for 20 issues (give or take).

The storylines during this time would vary greatly. While Sonic's fight to save the world from the Quantum Dial (a deadly weapon created by alien enemies, the Xorda) was liked, the fall-out was hated by fans. As a consequence of it, Sonic's girlfriend, Sally, becomes more worried about Sonic's welfare and subsequently breaks up with him (in a scene harshly criticized as out of character and nicknamed "the SLAP"). 

Confusingly, with Sonic now single, he shared a kiss with Bunnie, expressed feelings for a character called Mina Mongoose, and started dating yet another character, Fiona Fox (though he was supposed to be with Amy). 

This portion of the comics has become something of the "dark era" among fans. The writers were in disagreement about many plots and characters (including the drama of who Sonic should be with romantically). While the series was still lasting, the comic was in something of a downward spiral.  

Eras UPDATE: Transitional Classic

ALL about the "forgotten" era

Era: Transitional-Classic

Main Years: 1995-1999

Gameplay Type: While still mainly 2-D with gimmicks like rings and power-ups, new experimentation was done. For example, Knuckles Chaotix used a team-like idea where characters are linked together. 

This era also saw the debut of 3D games. Sonic 3D Blast was technically the "first." Several 3D game ideas were planned but scrapped. A portion was used in Sonic Jam. The main "first" 3D game would be Sonic Adventure (a game on the line between this era and the next).     

Character Designs and Personalities: While early games and Game Gear tiles mostly kept Sonic's design the same, he and the other character would be made a bit taller (inspiring the change in Sonic Adventure). The art shifted into a more "3D" style. 

Although the different expressions in Sonic the Fighters gave a hint at personality, overall the characters' attitudes and motivations were less defined. For example, Knuckles dedication to his island and emerald is forgotten or at least set aside so he could make his appearances in these games. On the other hand, it does hint at the shift from Knuckles being an antagonist to a protagonist.   

Story Type: Generally because of the game gear titles, most of the plots are simple. Other characters like Tails and Knuckles, however, are given more time to shine. 

Some games, like Sonic 3D Blast and Sonic Labyrinth, had a plot more tied-into the gameplay, but overall the games were casual, like with Sonic the Fighters and Sonic R. 

Staring with Sonic Adventure, the stories would become more in-depth. This was change planned much earlier, however. Plots including Sally Acorn and the Freedom Fighters, a new love interested named Tiara, and a deadly virus were scrapped along the way. One concept would be passed into Sonic Adventure: breaking the Master Emerald.  

Visuals: Much as everything else in this era, the graphics were experimental, varying bits and trying more computer-created images. The types of settings did not change much, though.  

Music: The 8-bit titles are a bit improved from the previous era, but still limited. Likewise the Genesis games are impressive but still trademark Genesis. As the era came to a close, clearer OSTs would be made, including the Saturn version of Sonic 3D Blast, Sonic R, and the arcade game Sonic the Fighters. Sonic R became infamous for its many vocal songs. 

Voice Cast: Through the 90s, Sonic's main recognized voice was still Jaleel White. Interestingly, White voiced Sonic's siblings, Sonia and Manic in Sonic Underground (but did none of the singing). The cartoon would include a "DiC era" voice for Knuckles, Brain Drummond (no relation to Ryan) as well as a new voice for Robotnik, Gary Chalk. 

The American dub of the OVA, "Sonic: the Movie," was done by a different company and hired a different cast, including new voices for Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Robotnik as well as original characters like Sara. This Sonic was voiced by Martin Burke. 

Finally soon after both of these releases and a year after its Japanese release, Sonic Adventure came to America. With it was yet another cast and a new voice for Sonic, Ryan Drummond.   

Main Voice (Sonic): Martin Burke 

Memorable Theme Song (for Sonic): "Super Sonic Racing" (from Sonic R). 

Memorable Catchphrases (Sonic):  "Aw yeah, this is happening!" (Sonic Adventure)

"I'm waiting!" "Game over Robuttnik!" "Bummer Majors! (pronounced may-hor-es)" "SHUT UP TAILS!" "Strange, isn't it?"  (cartoon/OVA)

Cartoons and other Appearances: A short animation was released in Sonic Jam along with several commercials. Jam also released enhanced versions of the Sonic CD animations (which are the ones used in later releases such as the 2011 version). 

Sonic Underground and the dubbed Japanese 2 parter OVA ("movie") were released in 1999. 

The Archie comics took a new turn after issue 50 (which the writers originally expected to be the last of the series). Interestingly, Sega prevented the death of a major character (Sally Acorn). As the comics entered a darker chapter, a spin-off based on Kncukles debuted. 

Sonic the Comic would end after its Sonic Adventure adaptation. 

Eras UPDATE: Classic

ALL about the classic era!

Era: Classic

Main Years: 1991-1994

Gameplay Type: 2-D Platform, side-scrolling games featuring gimmicks like rings and power-ups via item boxes.

Character Designs and Personalities: Sonic characters were typically "short" and round, with attitude. Sonic was kept very cool while Tails was a cuter sidekick. Knuckles, Sonic's first rival, was designed with a Jamaican theme in mind. 

NA/EU often used a darker airbrush effect to seem edgy while JP kept a cute, "softer" look. In western media Sonic was often shown with one line of spikes down his back (rather than layers). This "mohawk" style was based on box art and used in cartoons/comics. 

"Eggman" (JP) was shaped like an egg but with thin legs. Meanwhile "Robotnik" (NA/EU) was often shown as fat all-over. Robotnik also had a beard in the cover of Sonic 2. 

Story Type: While fairly basic, most of the plots stick to Sonic saving the world from Robotnik. This would often include saving animals, saving other characters (Tails, Amy, etc), collecting magic gemstones, and making a long journey.  

Visuals: The graphics mainly are remembered as 16-bit, though several GameGear releases (8-bit) were made. 

Often the levels would include a far away but similar-themed background with a "cut-in-half" (can see the ground or hidden paths) foreground. 

Sonic CD is unique for having several different designs for the same setting (seen via time travel). Common locations include hills, tropics, casinos, under-water passageways, and factories.    

Music: The game's music is generally pop with a retro twist. Possibly due to the limitations, a lot of songs sound a lot like an 80s keyboard solo. The first two games have a happier, pop sound. The following games have some inspiration from hip hop. The focus was on an encouraging pace with some elements of the setting worked in. 

Sonic CD was notable for being a much higher quality sound experience. The original OST heavily used samples and artificial effects for a party-techno vibe, while the NA version used guitar and live vocals for an atmospheric-rock effect.     

Voice Cast: While Sonic did not officially have a voice, the groups of VAs from the DiC cartoons are often associated with the characters of this time. Sonic was voiced by Jaleel White. Tails had several young boy actors. Robotnik, depending on character preference, is remembered for his AoStH voice, Long John Baldry (origin of the "Pingas" meme) or Jim Cummings ("darker"). Kath Souchie provided the voice for what is often portrayed as Sonic's girlfriend in 90s western media, Sally Acorn.     

Main Voice (Sonic): Jaleel White

Memorable Theme Song (for Sonic): "Sonic Boom" (from Sonic CD) 

Memorable Catchphrases (Sonic):  "I'm outta' here." (Sonic CD)

"I'm waiting," "Up, over, and gone," "Let's do it to it," and "Way past cool." (cartoons)

Cartoons and other Appearances: Adventure of Sonic the Hedgehog ("AoStH"), and Sonic the Hedgehog ("Sat Am") aired in the early 90s, around the time of Sonic 3. While released much later, Sonic Underground is often mixed in with the two because of similarities. 

The Archie comics began its' run in this era, incorporating elements of AoStH and the games, but mostly being based upon the plot and characters of Sat Am (Sally, Bunnie, etc). This time also saw the start of "Sonic the Comic," the UK's own "British Sonic." Sonic starred in several Japanese comics (Mangas) as well. 

Character Quotes

 

"Killing someone...to save the world...is that really the right thing to do?" 

-Silver the Hedgehog, Sonic 06