Sega’s answer to Mario didn’t just compete — he left skid marks. Bursting onto the scene in 1991 with a blast-processing-fueled attitude, Sonic the Hedgehog became a global icon practically overnight. Fast, fearless, and unapologetically cool, Sonic redefined what a video game mascot could be. He was sleek. He had sneakers. He smirked. He talked back. And he made speed feel like rebellion.

Over the decades, the Sonic franchise has expanded into a sprawling universe: platformers, racing games, animated series, comics, and — surprisingly — some genuinely fun live-action films. Alongside Sonic, we’ve met a cast of fan favorites like Tails, Knuckles, Amy, and even his shadowy rival (uh… Shadow). Whether you're into the pixel-perfect platforming of the Genesis era or the chaotic 3D adventures that came later, there's no denying the sheer cultural momentum behind the Blue Blur.

This isn't just a game series — it's a fandom with rings on.