36. SONIC

Franchise / home series: Sonic the Hedgehog

Notable non-Smash games: Sonic the Hedgehog (1991); Sonic Adventure (1998); Sonic Generations (2011); Sonic Frontiers (2022)

Sonic the Hedgehog entered Smash in Brawl as SEGA’s flagship mascot, marking a historic crossover between former console rivals Nintendo and SEGA. His arrival was one of the most anticipated third-party inclusions in the series, emphasizing Smash’s role as a celebration of gaming history at large.

In Smash, Sonic is built around speed and momentum. His Spin Dash and Spin Charge specials allow him to zip around the stage, while his homing attack and fast ground speed make him one of the quickest characters in the game. His playstyle often focuses on hit-and-run tactics, whiff punishing, and mobility-based pressure rather than intricate combos or raw power.

Over multiple entries, Sonic has maintained his identity as a controversial yet iconic character in competitive play—praised for his representation and movement, but sometimes criticized for overly defensive or stalling strategies. Nonetheless, Sonic’s inclusion completes the long-imagined “Mario vs. Sonic” rivalry in a single fighting game and reinforces Smash as a true all-star crossover.