In 1991, "Sonic the Hedgehog" was released on the Sega Genesis to massive commercial and critical acclaim. Sega of America CEO Tom Kalinske knew that they had to capitalize on the success with merchandising and cartoon tie-ins. Thus began a long series of animated shows starring the aforementioned hedgehog. This speedster has probably had more adaptions than any other video game franchise.
However, one problem that this series faced that also made its way into the adaptions was a lack of a singular vision. Both Sega of Japan and Sega of America had conflicting backstories and ideas as to what the series should be like. With the recent announcement of the upcoming "Sonic Prime" and "Sonic Colors" animated series, I thought I'd take a look back at the many, many adaptions of "Sonic" and see how they've held up.
'The Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog' provokes more groans than guffaws
The first of the three animated adaptions of the speedy hedgehog to be produced by DIC, "The Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog" does not stand the test of time. The show tries to go for a "Looney Tunes" vibe with an emphasis on visual gags, but it lacks the discipline to pull it off. Both the supporting cast and villains grate on the nerves with obnoxious voices and the PSA segments at the end of every episode are particularly cringe-worthy. Recommended only as a punishment to your kids.
'Sonic the Hedgehog' is generic Saturday morning slop
While a certain internet critic with heavy nostalgia goggles might have told you that this show was a hidden gem, what I saw was generic Saturday morning drek with the usual empty platitudes of the power of friendship. The environmentalist subtext from the Genesis games is pushed to the forefront and is much less effective as a result. With a dull color palette, cookie cutter characters, and clichéd storytelling, this revolution is a lost cause.
