10 Sonic Characters You Completely Forgot Existed!

Summary

Sonic games introduced a variety of characters; some popular, others forgotten, enhancing the franchise’s depth.
Big names like Omega and Jet share spotlight with niche characters like Cream and Charmy.
Lesser-known figures like Shade and Lumina have unique traits but remain overlooked in the Sonic universe.

The iconic character, Sonic the Hedgehog, has significantly impacted the video game industry. The series revolutionized the platformer genre, and the beloved hedgehog became Sega’s top-selling product, transforming into a successful franchise that boosted their console sales. Despite experiencing highs and lows throughout its history, Sonic the Hedgehog games remain popular and continuously strive to connect with fans effectively.

Sonic has grown to be one of the most iconic figures in the video game world, yet the Sonic series has given rise to numerous characters. Some of these characters resonate deeply with fans, while others have become almost forgotten, merely serving as quirky trivia in the franchise’s history.

19. E-123 Omega

A Fierce Battle Robot

First Appearance: Sonic Heroes

It’s tough to conceive of Dr. Eggman’s inventions assisting the heroes for once, but considering his past mistreatment towards others, it was inevitable that his own creations would eventually rebel against him. This is exactly what happened with E-123 Omega, one of the strongest robots that Dr. Eggman has ever built.

After abandoning his creator to perish, E-123 Omega vowed retribution and joined forces with Shadow the Hedgehog to annihilate their mutual adversary forever. While appearing in several Sonic games, Omega has mainly been a secondary character.

18. Cream The Rabbit And Cheese

A Loveable Duo

First Appearance: Sonic Advance 2

Originally a lesser-known supporting character, Cream the Rabbit (accompanied by her loyal friend Cheese) has since become an essential ally of Amy Rose and a fan favorite in the ‘Sonic X’ anime. Her roots can be traced back to the Game Boy Advance games, specifically ‘Sonic Advance 2’ and ‘3’.

In Sonic Heroes, Cream’s gentle disposition earned her greater prominence, placing her on Team Rose. This increased visibility also made Cream and her adorable partner regular features in multiplayer games like the Sonic Riders series, as well as more recent titles such as Sonic Dream Team, after a period of absence.

17. Jet The Hawk

Sonic’s Often Forgotten Rival

First Appearance: Sonic Riders

Over time, Sonic the Hedgehog has undergone significant changes, and it’s amazing to see the variety of racing games that have been created around him. The Sonic Riders series, for instance, places Sonic on sleek hoverboards in a futuristic setting, aiming to emulate the fast-paced action found in platformers.

As a die-hard fan, I’d like to share my excitement about Sonic Riders introducing the fresh trio of antagonists, the Babylon Rogues. Jet the Hawk takes the helm, but Wave the Swallow and Storm the Albatross are equally prominent. The Sonic Riders series was so well-loved that it spawned several sequels, with the Babylon Rogues making an appearance even in Sonic comics.

16. Espio The Chameleon

Stalwart Member Of Team Chaotix

First Appearance: Knuckles’ Chaotix

In the world of Sonic the Hedgehog, there’s a lesser-known detective group called Chaotix. This team is filled with vibrant characters, one of them being Espio the Chameleon.

Since Espio is a chameleon, it’s clear that he has the ability to become invisible to dodge or misdirect opponents. Additionally, he can adhere to surfaces for extended periods, making it simple for him to navigate most platform obstacles effectively.

15. Charmy Bee

Espio and Vector’s Trusty Sidekick

First Appearance: Knuckles’ Chaotix

Charmy Bee embodies pure optimism, and though he collaborates with characters like Vector the Crocodile and Espio the Chameleon, who are generally more assertive, he brings a softer, calming influence to the team. Originally introduced alongside Knuckles in “Knuckles Chaotix,” Charmy made his debut earlier in the “Sonic” manga.

Despite being a lesser-known character, Charmy has managed to garner a dedicated fanbase that led him to have small roles in games like Sonic Heroes, Shadow the Hedgehog, and certain Olympic Games titles. He’s also had the privilege of making appearances in the Super Smash Bros. series, which is quite an uncommon feat.

14. Mighty The Armadillo

A Retro Character Who Got Left Behind

First Appearance: SegaSonic the Hedgehog

Back in the day, I found myself diving into one of Sega’s intriguing attempts with Sonic titled “SegaSonic the Hedgehog.” This spin on a platformer game introduced two fresh faces as sidekicks for our speedy hero, Sonic. The adorable Mighty the Armadillo joined the crew, but unfortunately, he didn’t get much limelight compared to the others.

It’s great that powerful character like Knuckles receives recognition in the less celebrated Sega 32X game, “Knuckles Chaotix,” as well as the more recent “Sonic Mania.” Here’s hoping this character will have another opportunity to shine!

13. Ray The Flying Squirrel

Suffered The Same Fate As Mighty

First Appearance: SegaSonic the Hedgehog

Ray the Flying Squirrel, similar to Sonic, first appeared in the game “SegaSonic the Hedgehog.” Unfortunately, due to various reasons, this game didn’t receive much attention. Initially planned for release on the Sega 32X, and later intended for the “Sonic Gems Collection,” neither of these plans materialized, hence limiting the number of people who got to play with this spirited character.

In simpler terms, it appears that Ray is less significant compared to Mighty as he closely resembles Tails but more like Sonic in appearance. Additionally, despite Sonic Mania giving both characters some attention, Sega has generally neglected Ray.

12. E-102 Gamma

Had A Short Time In The Sun In Sonic Adventure

First Appearance: Sonic Adventure

When it comes to robots designed by Dr. Robotnik, one that springs to mind is E-102 Gamma. However, unlike other characters on this list, E-102 Gamma isn’t particularly well-known because it only appears sporadically throughout the series. The main cast of heroes and villains generally receives more screen time.

In much the same way as Omega, Gamma grew weary of Eggman’s oppressive rule following years of service under him. This led to him breaking away from his creator and turning against him. He vowed to liberate his fellow robots from their cruel master. Although he achieved this noble goal, it came at the expense of his own life in a heroic and selfless act.

11. Sticks The Badger

Debuted In The Controversial Sonic Boom Continuity

First Appearance: Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric

As a passionate fan, I’m thrilled to say that Sticks the Badger, unique to the Sonic Boom animated series, has made a remarkable leap into video games. This quirky character stands out with her vibrant blend of excitement and apprehension, making her an intriguing wild card that adds fun to the gameplay experience.

At first, Sticks only appeared in the Sonic Boom video games, but she’s been gradually making an appearance in other related titles such as Sonic Dash 2 and Sonic Runners. Moreover, she also showed up in the 2016 Mario & Sonic Olympic Games edition, hinting at a potential larger role in the future.

10. Fang The Sniper (Nack The Weasel)

Appears In More Niche Titles

First Appearance: Sonic the Hedgehog: Triple Trouble

Although Sega initially believed in the success of their portable Game Gear system, it ultimately failed to surpass Nintendo’s Game Boy, causing Sega to withdraw from the handheld gaming market. However, Sega did produce several intriguing Sonic the Hedgehog games that were exclusive to the Game Gear.

Among the notable games for handheld devices, “Sonic the Hedgehog: Triple Trouble” is one. This game introduces a fresh antagonist to the series, named Fang the Sniper (previously known as Nack the Weasel). Despite not becoming Sonic’s primary adversary, Fang made appearances in less mainstream titles such as “Sonic the Fighters” and “Sonic Drift 2.”

9. Shade The Echidna

A One-Hit-Wonder Unlikely To Return

First Appearance: Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood

Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood represented BioWare’s venture into creating a turn-based RPG set within the Sonic franchise. This Nintendo DS exclusive game received mixed reviews upon release and is not generally well-regarded nowadays. A new character, Shade the Echidna, was introduced in this RPG, initially as an adversary or boss figure. However, once Shade is double-crossed by her accomplice, she switches allegiances and teams up with Sonic to battle Ix.

Shade is an intriguing character within “The Dark Brotherhood,” possessing strength, resourcefulness, and qualities that command admiration, albeit with moments of innocence. Her likeness to Julie-Su from the Archie “Sonic the Hedgehog” comics led to a lawsuit against Sega, meaning it’s unlikely she’ll be seen in another game again.

8. Vanilla the Rabbit

Hasn’t Seen A Game Appearance In Years

First Appearance: Sonic Advance 2

Back in the days of Sonic Advance 2, I stepped onto the gaming scene as Vanilla, Cream the Rabbit’s mom. But then, a twist of fate – Dr. Eggman snatched me away! Besides that game, I got to reappear in its sequel, Sonic Advance 3, and later in Sonic Rush.

Vanilla prefers a tranquil existence and is known for her kindness, affection, and setting a positive example for her child. She allows Cream to tag along with Sonic on his journeys, albeit with significant concern for her safety. In the anime series titled “Sonic X,” Vanilla also makes an appearance.

7. Bean The Dynamite

A Unique But Very Niche Character

First Appearance: Sonic the Fighters

As a devoted fan, it’s fascinating to see how fighting genres have exploded in popularity, leading even renowned series to experiment by transforming into fighting games and testing the waters. One of the most peculiar instances of this transformation is “Sonic the Fighters,” which was quite unexpected, especially given its arcade origin. This game introduced a host of unconventional characters, with Bean the Dynamite standing out as one of the strangest examples among them.

This avian carries perilous explosives and bears a striking resemblance to Flicky above all else. Although Bean made some entertaining appearances in Sonic Generations and Sonic Mania, he hasn’t had numerous chances to take center stage.

6. Bark The Polar Bear

Another Obscure Character

First Appearance: Sonic the Fighters

In many Sonic video games, there are numerous characters that appear to be similar and seem unnecessary or unoriginal. On the other hand, Bark the Polar Bear stands out as being distinct from the rest. Having Bark, a polar bear, alongside Sonic could potentially spark some creative and entertaining concepts.

Sadly, Bark is primarily known for being a heavyweight fighter in Sonic the Fighters, and later becomes an Easter egg for dedicated Sonic fans. The brief appearance of Bark in Sonic Mania as an illusion hints at the limited attention this lesser-known character has received throughout his history.

5. Cosmo

A Severely Underrated Character

First Appearance: Sonic X

Starting in 2003, I found myself immersed in the world of “Sonic X,” an anime spin-off from Sega’s popular franchise. While it maintains a connection to the source material, it often forges its own unique path. Over the course of three seasons, the show primarily revolves around familiar characters from the license, but also introduces several fresh and original creations. One such character who stands out among the Sonic universe exclusives is Cosmo, a memorable addition to the series.

Originating from a destroyed alien species at the hands of the Metarex, Cosmo found herself joining Sonic’s squad to fight against them. She’s quiet, struggling with insecurity, but her sympathetic nature makes her endearing. Cosmo is an essential character in the anime and could potentially work well within the game series.

4. Pseudo-Sonic

A Unique Yet Forgotten Part Of Sonic’s History

First Appearance: Sonic the Hedgehog #9

In issue #9 of Archie Comics’ “Sonic the Hedgehog,” Pseudo-Sonic made his first appearance, conjured up by Dr. Robotnik as a rival to the Blue Blur. He is modeled after a character from a 1993 episode of “The Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog,” but the comic version exhibits more distinct personality traits than his animated counterpart.

Pseudo-Sonic represents one of Sega’s earliest comic portrayals of their famous mascot as a robot. Though he doesn’t survive long in his first appearance and is overshadowed by Metal Sonic, Pseudo-Sonic remains an engaging piece of the franchise’s historical puzzle.

3. Lumina Flowlight

Appears In A Forgotten Sonic Spin Off Game

First Appearance: Sonic Shuffle

The Lumina Flowlight character is scarcely known, similar to the solitary game she’s featured in, the party title “Sonic Shuffle” for the Sega Dreamcast. At the beginning of the game, Sonic and his companions meet her for the first time, and she aids players by navigating them through each game board as they aim to gather the Preciousstone fragments.

In the game, Lumina serves as one of two halves of Illumina, a magical entity tasked with protecting the Preciousstone and embodying positive emotions. Her opposite, Void, is the other half of Illumina, symbolizing negativity. During the game, Sonic and Lumina often clash with Void. However, following Sonic’s persuasion, Lumina reconciles with Void to rebuild Illumina. As she has only appeared in this one video game so far, Lumina can be considered a relatively less recognized Sonic character.

2. Heavy and Bomb

Unique Predecessors To More Iconic Robot Characters

First Appearance: Knuckles’ Chaotix

In the game “Knuckles’ Chaotix”, which is known for its experimentation within the series, these two lesser-known characters made an appearance. They played roles as companions to the distinctive team consisting of Knuckles Vector, Espio, Charmy, and Mighty.

Among the group, neither Heavy nor Bomb are ideal partners due to their unique traits; Heavy is invincible but moves at a snail’s pace, while Bomb is swift but more susceptible to attacks. These two robots were the pioneers who rebelled against Eggman, choosing to aid Sonic’s friends before E102 Gamma and E123 Omega did so.

1. Honey The Cat

Extremely Niche And Neglected

First Appearance: Sonic the Fighters

Among the characters from the Sonic the Hedgehog series we’re discussing, many are quite forgettable. However, Honey the Cat stands out as the most enigmatic character. While Sonic Fighters is an already obscure arcade fighting game related to the Sonic universe, Honey the Cat is a character who was removed from the game at the very end and remains known only to data miners and the modding community.

In 2012, a remake of “Sonic the Fighters” featured Honey the Cat as a playable character for the first time. However, except for this single instance, Honey has been largely absent from the Sonic video game franchise.

2025-02-27 02:59