Editing Sonic (SSBU)

'''Sonic''' ({{ja|ソニック|Sonikku}}, ''Sonic'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''. He was confirmed as a playable character on June 12th, 2018. As in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', he is [[unlockable character|unlockable]], instead of being available from the [[starter character|start]]. Sonic is classified as [[Fighter number|Fighter #38]].

As in ''SSB4'', {{s|wikipedia|Roger Craig Smith}}'s portrayal of Sonic from ''Sonic Generations'' and ''Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games'' and {{s|wikipedia|Jun'ichi Kanemaru}}’s portrayal of Sonic from ''[[Brawl]]'' were repurposed for the English and Japanese versions of ''Ultimate''. {{s|wikipedia|Alexandre Gillet}}, Jonathan López, Marc Stachel and Renato Novara's portrayals of Sonic from various ''Sonic'' games used in ''[[Smash 4]]'' were also repurposed for the French, Spanish, German, and Italian versions, respectively. ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate'' was also the last game that Jonathan López voiced Sonic in Spanish before passing away in 2020.

 

With the exception of the third method, Sonic must then be defeated on [[Green Hill Zone]].

Sonic is a [[weight|lightweight]] who, staying true to his home series, has incredibly fast mobility. He unsurprisingly possesses the fastest [[dash]]ing speed in the game by default (surpassed only by {{SSBU|Hero}} under the effects of [[Command Selection|Acceleratle]]), the 7th fastest [[walk]]ing speed, the 12th fastest [[air speed]] (tied with {{SSBU|Mario}}, {{SSBU|Donkey Kong}}, {{SSBU|Little Mac}}, and {{SSBU|Inkling}}), and the highest [[traction]] in the game. When combined with his above average [[falling speed]] and jumps, this allows him to move across the stage at the speed of quick, despite having average [[gravity]] and slow [[air acceleration]]. As a cherry on top, he can even [[wall jump]].

Sonic's special moves are quite useful. [[Spin Dash]] and [[Spin Charge]] allow him to not only move across stages at varying speeds, but also do damage on contact, and both can follow up into an aerial attack or uncharged Homing Attack. Despite their very similar-looking appearances in functions, they both have different strengths and uses for various different situations.

Spin Dash allows Sonic to jump around the stage while charging or holding the charge of the move and can be released in the air, and the hop at the start of the move allows Sonic to "spinshot" on ground as well as in the air, with it being the side special making it more ideal for aiming the spin shot to recover. The initial jump can also help Sonic avoid certain things like projectiles by hopping over them, it, however, loses this initial hop if fully charged. Spin Dash also has a moment of intangibility on startup. Due to the number of branching choices Sonic has when starting Spin Dash, it is his most reliable attack in neutral and one of his best approach options overall. From jumping into cancellation, charging it to alter its timing, switching directions after releasing, and utilizing the spin shot, Spin Dash plays an extremely important role when attempting to play mind games versus Sonic's opponent.

While Spin Dash is a one-hit move that mostly knocks opponents into the air, Spin Charge, on the other hand, hits multiple times, carrying the opponent, and moves a little faster, making it a good alternative for dashing. Jumping out of Spin Charge also has Sonic hop while spinning, making him a jumping hitbox. Also, due to charging up by pushing the Special Move button repeatedly, it can be charged up to full power faster than Spin Dash. Spin Charge can also perform a "spinshot", although it can only be done while airborne.

Both give Sonic additional protection when recovering and combo into other moves. The mobility of both in tandem with Sonic's already impressive speed makes him capable of quickly adding on damage to unprepared opponents from anywhere on the stage, and they can clank and cancel out the effects of certain moves, such as Snake's [[C4]] or Yoshi's Egg Roll. Both moves can be blocked by shield, making them a bit unsafe and committal or predictable, as Spin Dash can only be canceled with a jump and Spin Charge can only be canceled by jumping or stopping pressing the Special Move button. However, they can bypass shields if fully-charged.

[[Homing Attack]] deals a varying amount of damage, homes in on the nearest opponent and is good for punishing laggy moves and [[edge-guard breaking]]. Its uncharged state also has the potential to combo and its charged state has a small amount of KO potential at higher percents. [[Spring Jump]] is a useful recovery that grants intangibility at the start, goes very high, and is one of few recovery moves that do not cause a [[helpless]] state, enabling Sonic to attack and dodge during his descent and even extend his recovery with a directional air dodge. The spring that is dropped can be useful both on-stage and off-stage by allowing him to pressure and [[gimp]] opponents, respectively.

Sonic also has a powerful air game. Neutral aerial is a great combo starter when [[SHFF]]'d, as a result of its long-lasting hitbox, low landing lag, and launching angle. Forward aerial is useful for [[edgeguarding]] and, in certain instances, it can combo into itself on-stage at low percentages, thanks to its generous [[auto-cancel]] window and Sonic's fast air speed. Up aerial possesses KO potential near the upper [[blast line]] and is great for combos, while its auto-canceling window makes it deceptively safe. Back aerial's clean hitbox is very powerful, making it one of his few reliable kill moves like his up aerial, and coupled with its strength within Sonic's kit, also makes it his best aerial finisher. Lastly, down aerial is a [[stall-then-fall]]; although it is Sonic's least effective aerial, it has noticeably less ending lag compared to other stall-then-falls, and its initial hitbox [[meteor smash]]es aerial opponents.

Sonic's neutral attack, tilts, and throws have decent damage outputs and good speed, making them hard to [[punish]]. His grab game is decent overall: While none of Sonic's grabs excel in speed and each of them has average ranges, they are still fairly easy to land thanks to his outstanding speed. Sonic's [[pummel]] is also quick and has an average damage output, allowing him to rack up a fair amount of damage before throwing an opponent. Down throw is a [[semi-spike]] that has high base knockback, which makes it excellent for setting up edge-guards and [[tech-chase]]s. Back throw also has high base knockback and KOs much earlier than his other throws, especially if it is used while near the edge. It also moves Sonic backward, which makes it useful for setting up an immediate edge-guard attempt. Up tilt can be reversed on startup and hit opponents through platforms above Sonic, and his Forward Smash has a bit of a deceptively large range due to him stepping forward during the punch.

Up throw is a reliable combo starter, having decently damaging combos beginning at 0%, as well as Spring Jump-assisted aerial combos beginning at medium percentages. It also has KO potential, although it only KOs reliably at very high percentages when used on high platforms, such as {{SSBU|Battlefield}}'s top platform, as well as stages with low upper blast zones. Lastly, forward throw is his least useful throw, as its primary utility is for forcing the opponent away from him. Like up throw, it can also function as a KOing option, albeit only when used on the edge at very high percentages.

Mastering Sonic's running game is crucial to Sonic's ability to perform at higher levels and is one of the factors that makes him so difficult to play competitively. Sonic users take advantage of a variety of dash or dash-related techniques that are seldom used by other characters. Dash-dancing can be extremely useful for mind games in Sonic's gameplay, such as by running in one direction and then quickly turning the other way around to bait an opponent or catch them off-guard. It is often regarded by Sonic players that it is better to run away from the opponent and run back than to use roll-dodges to avoid opponents. This allows the player to avoid damage, not be as easily punished, have more control over their actions, and be able to punish their opponent's attacks. Dash-dance pivots (consisting of fox-trotting away from the opponent, then quickly dash-dancing backward) are particularly effective for this, as they can cause almost immediate turnarounds and then grabs can then be used to punish opponents. In general, Sonic has the easiest time winning neutral exchanges due to his unmatched speed and maneuverability on-stage, and attacks that not only come out fast but can also be used to approach with.

Sonic has some weaknesses however, the most noticeable being his KO potential. It is held back by his best kill moves (his smash attacks and clean back aerial) requiring good positioning and having noticeable startup and ending lag. His forward and up smashes are also burdened with low base knockback, which forces them to be used for KO attempts later instead of earlier, and his down smash, although it has decent startup, has high ending lag, making it easy to punish if missed. While Sonic’s damage-racking ability is formidable, his actual ability to take stocks is among the worst in the game, which oftentimes results in his opponents surviving beyond 150% and even 200%. Despite his outstanding mobility, Sonic may struggle to land due to his very slow air acceleration, leaving him susceptible to [[juggling]].

Sonic can also have difficulty dealing with [[camping]], since any ground-level [[projectile]] can severely limit his movement options. While Homing Attack and Spin Dash are his best options in getting through said projectiles, they can be reacted to and even predicted. Some of his attacks are also very punishable should they miss, and thus allow openings for opponents to punish him. His recovery is also predictable with Spring Jump as his only vertical recovery option, as its linearity makes him susceptible to gimps even at relatively low percentages. Finally, Sonic can be susceptible to early KOs due to being a lightweight.

Much like in ''Brawl'', Sonic's matchups are difficult to define, as they vary greatly from player to player, possibly more so than for any other character. Depending on the playstyle of the Sonic, he can have a decent matchup against almost any character in the game, even at competitive levels. Because of his prowess for mindgaming and switching up tactics, as well as the inherent strengths and weaknesses of each style of play, some Sonic mains argue that he has no truly disadvantageous matchups as a character and that his matchups are much more heavily influenced by playstyle than his actual attributes.

In all, Sonic has a great offensive play, a strong [[neutral game]], a good off-stage presence, and can very rapidly damage his opponents, but like other characters of his archetype, has some trouble killing.

Like most other top-tier characters, Sonic was often regarded as one of the most potent characters in ''Smash 4'', which was reflected in its latest tier list (tied with Fox for 7th out of 55th). His phenomenal ground movement and [[Spin Dash]] not only granted him a powerful [[neutral game]], but also encouraged a borderline oppressive hit-and-run playstyle, to a point where Sonic players would often utilize [[time out]] strategies after having a stock/percentage lead to win games. Likely as a result of this, Sonic was given a mix of buffs and nerfs in his transition to ''Ultimate'', but was slightly nerfed overall.

Several of Sonic's key strengths and moves from ''SSB4'' have been toned down considerably. Arguably his biggest nerf was towards his Spin Dash: it can no longer be shield canceled and can no longer go through shields unless it is fully charged; this noticeably hinders Sonic's infamous camping ability and mindgames from ''Smash 4'', and it also forces Sonic to rely more on his pure speed to play defensively. [[Up aerial]], known for its status as a strong KO option off of moves like [[Spring Jump]] and Spin Dash, has received angle and knockback adjustments to the first hit that worsen its ability to connect into the second hit as reliably, no longer managing to follow Sonic's momentum when he jumps and hindering its effectiveness and consistency for combos. This is further compounded by [[up throw]]'s nerf; known for being a potential finisher due to its ability to combo into Spring Jump-assisted setups, it now has increased endlag, effectively removing most of Sonic's Spring Jump-assisted combos off of it. Lastly, Spring Jump's spring now sends opponents at a more horizontal angle, toning down its edge-guarding potency, and has much less intangibility frames, making it easier to intercept Sonic during his recovery. His much lighter weight and increased falling speed also worsen his disadvantage state, making him easier to combo and KO if the opponent is able to catch him.

However, Sonic has been granted notable buffs as well, particularly towards his less impressive attacks. In particular, [[Homing Attack]] has been buffed significantly: it has faster startup, less endlag upon hitting an opponent, better accuracy, and the ability to be charged for longer; this has lead to the move becoming a much more viable combo tool as well as a potential option in the neutral game. His [[down tilt]] launches opponents at a higher angle now, granting it combo potential. All of his smash attacks were improved, with [[forward smash]] gaining more range, and [[up smash|up]] and [[down smash]] having better KO potential. Additionally, some of Sonic's better moves have been buffed in various ways. Despite having been worsened overall, Spin Dash now has the ability to be jump canceled, alleviating some of Sonic's potential mix-up options, albeit they remain less effective than previously. Spring Jump now grants Sonic slightly more distance, buffing his already impressive recovery. Several of Sonic multi-hitting attacks (sans up aerial) now link into each other more reliably, including [[Spin Charge]], up smash, [[forward aerial]], and [[forward tilt]].

Sonic also benefits incredibly from ''Ultimate's'' universal mechanic changes. Known for having high landing lag on his attacks in ''Smash 4'', Sonic now possesses much less landing lag on all of his aerials, although still above average relative to the cast; this grants neutral aerial increased combo potential, improves back aerial's safety as a spacing option, and makes down aerial a slightly safer (albeit still unsafe) landing option. Sonic's already unmatched ground mobility has been improved even further, with his initial dash now being among the fastest in the game, heightening his camping abilities via simply running away. The ability to [[run cancel|use any attack out of a run]] allows Sonic to take advantage of his phenomenal ground movement more than most other characters in ''Ultimate'', granting him powerful mix-up options he previously didn't have access to. Finally, the changes to [[air dodge]] mechanics improve Sonic's edgeguarding game while not compromising him much thanks to his great recovery, while the reintroduction of directional air dodges allows Sonic to gain a little extra distance after using Spring Jump.

Overall, while Sonic still retains his powerful attributes and combo game, several of Sonic's most powerful tools from ''SSB4'' have either been worsened or have been removed altogether. This has lead to a generally less effective character than in ''SSB4'', as Sonic is now forced to make greater use of his standard moveset instead of relying on Spin Dash and Spin Charge to compensate for his underwhelming attacks, and must now take advantage of ''Ultimate's'' reworked mechanics and gear towards a more creative and offensive playstyle than in ''SSB4''. Regardless, although Sonic initially had a below-average perception, it has become more positive over time, with smashers like {{Sm|KEN}}, {{Sm|Sonix}}, {{sm|Sonido}} and {{Sm|Wrath}} achieving some solid results in tournament play, albeit not to the same degree as in ''SSB4''. In the end, in spite of his initial mediocre perception, Sonic remains a viable, high tier character in competitive play once mastered, and as a result, he is one of the few ''SSB4'' top tier veterans to keep placing well in tournament play in ''Ultimate'', alongside {{SSBU|Mario}}, {{SSBU|Fox}}, {{SSBU|Zero Suit Samus}}, and {{SSBU|Cloud}}.

Sonic has been buffed via game updates. His forward tilt connects better, back aerial has less landing lag and Super Sonic has been buffed numerous times. His shield is also slightly larger. However, most updates only gave benefits to his Final Smash. However 9.0.0 brought out the most significant buffs for Sonic. Up tilt and dash attack have less ending lag, with the latter also dealing more damage, making them both safer on shield. Up smash has decreased start up, increased intangibility and the first hit launches opponents more inward with higher knockback, making it connect into the linking hits more effectively. Lastly, up aerial's second hit has an additional hitbox below Sonic, making it easier to connect from the first hit.

*Sonic takes continuous damage when [[swimming]]. This trait is shared with {{SSBU|Charizard}}, {{SSBU|Inkling}}, and {{SSBU|Incineroar}}. This is a reference to the classic Sonic games where he is unable to swim and needs to constantly collect air bubbles or drown and die instantly.

|neutralname= 

|neutraldesc=The Punch + Punch + Kick combo from ''Sonic the Fighters''. Its first and second hit are capable of [[jab lock]]ing. Holding the attack button will have Sonic perform the first hit repeatedly.

|ftiltname= 

|ftiltdesc=The Horse Kick from ''Sonic the Fighters''. It hits twice, has minimal start-up lag, and can be angled. Altogether, these traits make it useful for spacing, starting [[tech-chase]]s, or as an [[out of shield]] option.

|utiltname= 

|utiltdesc=A {{s|wikipedia|540 kick}}, similar to {{SSBU|Captain Falcon}}'s up smash. Its decent vertical range makes it a fairly useful anti-air attack, although it has poor horizontal range. It resembles the Skip Kick from ''Sonic the Fighters''.

|dtiltname= 

|dtiltdesc=A legsweep. Its diagonal angle can lead to combos at lower percents. It resembles the Leg Throw from ''Sonic the Fighters'' and the Foot Sweep from ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' (2006) and ''Sonic Unleashed''.

|dashname=

|dashdesc=A lunge kick. A reliable follow-up from a down throw. While its very minimal start-up lag can allow it to pressure unwary opponents, it's quite punishable thanks to its considerable ending lag.

|fsmashname= 

|fsmashdesc=The Wind-Up Punch from ''Sonic the Fighters''. It has high knockback growth and deceptive range, and it can also be angled, all of which make it one of, if not Sonic's best kill move. However, it has low base knockback, meaning it should be used for KO attempts later instead of earlier. It also has noticeable startup and ending lag, making it risky if used unwisely.

|usmashname= 

|usmashdesc=A jumping Spin Dash that hits up to eight times, with the eighth hit launching the opponent. It has moderate startup, but has noticeable ending lag, making it risky if used poorly. The last hit also has extremely high knockback scaling but only just average base knockback, and as such it must also be used for scoring KOs later. The move is also excellent at shield-poking thanks to its somewhat large hitboxes.

|dsmashname= 

|dsmashdesc=A split kick, similar to {{SSBU|Fox}} and {{SSBU|Falco}}'s down smashes. It has the lowest amount of start-up lag out of Sonic's smash attacks and hits on both sides, which make it useful for punishing rolls. It is also a [[semi-spike]], which makes it very useful for edge-guarding. However, it lasts for only 2 frames, and, like his other smash attacks, has considerable ending lag.

|nairname= 

|nairdesc=Curls up into a ball and spins while slightly undulating up and down. In addition to being a reliable follow-up from [[Spin Dash]], [[Spin Charge]], and Spring Jump-assisted combos, its launch angle makes its clean and late hitboxes useful combo starters at low to medium percentages when [[SHFF]]'d. It resembles the Air Spin from ''Sonic the Fighters'', as well as the Insta-Shield, an attack that debuted in ''Sonic the Hedgehog 3''.

|fairname= 

|fairdesc=A corkscrew [[wikipedia:Professional wrestling attacks#Battering ram|battering ram]], similar to {{SSBU|Pikachu}}'s forward aerial. It's tied with up aerial for the lowest amount of start-up lag out of Sonic's aerials. When coupled with the last hit's very high knockback growth, it's quite useful for spacing and edge-guarding. It can also combo into itself in certain instances, thanks to Sonic's very fast air speed and the move's fairly large [[auto-cancel]] window. It resembles the Emerald Dive from ''Sonic the Fighters''.

|bairname= 

|bairdesc=A hook kick. Its clean hitbox's impressive damage output and high knockback growth make it one of Sonic's best kill moves, especially when used for edgeguarding. The move is also one of the more powerful of its type when hit clean. However, it does have moderately high startup lag, making it somewhat tough to land.

|uairname= 

|uairdesc=An upwards scissor kick. Its very large auto-cancel window and fairly low landing lag make it deceptively safe. In addition to being a reliable follow-up from Spin Dash, Spin Charge, and Spring Jump-assisted combos, it is a viable kill move near the upper blast line, especially as a follow-up from Spring Jump. Both hits don't always connect very reliably however.

|dairname=Shooting Star Kick

|dairdesc=A downwards diagonal flying kick. It is a [[stall-then-fall]], but unlike the majority of other stall-then-falls, it is relatively safe to use off-stage thanks to it having noticeably less ending lag in comparison. Its clean hit also [[meteor smash]]es aerial opponents at the beginning of the attack, but not grounded opponents. It resembles the Stomp Dive from ''Sonic the Fighters'' and the Sonic Rocket from ''Sonic Battle''.

|grabname=

|pummelname=

|pummeldesc=A knee strike. A fairly fast pummel.

|fthrowname=

|fthrowdesc=A stretch kick. Due to its average damage output, very high base knockback, and average knockback growth, it is mainly used to force the opponent off-stage. It also has KO potential, albeit only on edges and at very high percentages. It resembles the Top Kick from ''Sonic Battle''.

|bthrowname=

|bthrowdesc=Quickly backflips repeatedly with the opponent in tow before body-slamming them to launch them backwards. Sonic's strongest throw by far and his only one with consistently reasonable KO potential.

|uthrowname=

|uthrowdesc=Brings the opponent overhead and then stabs them with his quills to launch them upwards. It can be followed up with a neutral aerial, up aerial and inputted Homing Attack at low percentages. Like forward throw, it has KO potential, albeit only on with stages with highly positioned platforms, such as Battlefield's top platform.

|dthrowname=

|dthrowdesc=Pins the opponent to the ground and then Spin Dashes onto them. Due to being a semi-spike, it is reliable for tech-chasing and setting up edge-guards. It resembles the Double Spin from ''Sonic the Fighters''.

|nsdesc=Curls up into a ball while briefly ascending, homes onto the nearest opponent, and then rams into them. Pressing the special button will execute the move earlier, albeit dealing less damage. It can be comboed into from various moves if executed early.

|ssdesc=Curls up into a ball, performs a short jump, and then starts rolling toward the opponent at a fast speed. Holding the special button [[charge]]s it up and increases its speed. In addition to granting intangibility at the start, it boasts impressive combo potential, thanks to its ability to be followed up with any aerial attack. However, if uncharged, it stops when it hits a shield, making it very unsafe if shielded. It also boasts horizontal recovery potential when it is [[jump-cancel]]ed immediately upon releasing the special button; this turns the dash into a "Spin Shot", a quick, long-ranged short hop that can be performed either on the ground or in the air.

|usdesc=Sonic is sent upwards by a spring. When used on the ground, it remains in place for a few seconds, allowing Sonic and any other character to keep bouncing off of it until it vanishes. Although this move is primarily used for recovering, it is also useful for partaking in combos. It grants intangibility at the start, while the spring itself can also be used to [[gimp]] recovering opponents underneath Sonic.

|dsdmg=1.5%-2.3% (loop), 4% (last hit), 6% (jump)

|dsdesc=A Spin Dash that hits multiple times and has more momentum. It also has slightly different aesthetics, and requires button mashing in order to charge. However, it lacks the short jump at the beginning, cannot be canceled in any way, and it can only become a "Spin Shot" when used in the air.

|fsdmg=12% (Chaos Emeralds), 6% (each ram), 10% (detransformation)

|fsdesc=Summons the Chaos Emeralds and uses them to attain his Super Transformation from the ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' games. When activated while very close to an opponent, the Chaos Emeralds will damage the opponent. Upon being activated, Sonic is invincible during its duration, and flies around rapidly horizontally and can change his vertical position. Any opponents that are near Sonic when he returns to normal will be damaged.

*Sonic Spin Dashes onto the stage from the foreground and strikes a pose.

SonicOnScreenAppearanceSSBU.gif|Sonic's on-screen appearance

*'''Up taunt''': Somersaults and then crosses his arms with his index finger pointing out, one of his signature poses (most notably from ''Sonic Adventure''), while making three tsking sounds.

*'''Side taunt''': Performs the Super Peel Out, a technique that debuted in ''Sonic the Hedgehog CD'', while saying "Sonic Speed!" ({{ja|遅すぎだぜ！|Oso sugi da ze!}}, ''You're too slow!'') with a grin.

*'''Down taunt''': Performs the {{iw|wikipedia|windmill|b-boy move}}, a breakdancing move, while saying "Come on!" both in English and Japanese.

*Looks at the camera and wiggles his finger in a patronizing manner while giving off a sassy smirk. It resembles the animation he performs after clearing an Act or defeating a boss in ''Sonic the Hedgehog 3'' and ''Sonic Mania''.

SSBUSonicIdle1.gif|Sonic's first idle pose

SSBUSonicIdle2.gif|Sonic's second idle pose

*'''Left:''' Sprints off-screen and then sprints back on-screen before giving a thumbs up, saying "That was almost too easy!" ("{{ja|モタモタしてると置いてくぜ!|Motamota shi teru to oite ku ze!}}", ''Leaving behind to be dawdling!'') in the process. Possibly a reference to the Sega logo at the opening of the 16-bit version of ''Sonic the Hedgehog 2''.

*'''Up:''' Runs up to the camera and grabs the blue [[Chaos Emerald]], then poses with it while saying "Piece of cake!" ("{{ja|A piece of cake! 楽勝だぜ!|A piece of cake! Rakushō daze!}}", ''A piece of cake! An easy win!'').

*'''Right:''' Performs the [[wikipedia:Kick (b-boy move)#Variants|pike]], a breakdancing move, and then strikes a pose, saying "Let's do that again sometime!" ("{{ja|Hey guys! また遊んでやるぜ!|Hey guys! Mata asonde yaru ze!}}", ''Hey guys! I'll play again next time!'') in the process. His Japanese line comes from ''Sonic Adventure''; he would say it after defeating a boss.

[[File:SonicTheme.ogg|thumb|Ripped directly from [[wikipedia:Sonic the Hedgehog (2006 video game)|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' (2006)]], which itself is an orchestrated remix of the tune that plays when a character has passed an Act in ''{{s|wikipedia|Sonic the Hedgehog 3}}'', although the ending is slightly abridged.]]

==In competitive play==

Upon ''Ultimate's'' release, Sonic was initially seen as a far less viable character comparative to ''Smash 4'' due Spin Dash no longer being able to be shield canceled, Spin Charge no longer crossing up shield without a full charge, up air failing to connect at times and Spin Charge's inconsistent ability to knock opponents upward with the jump, with the former being arguably his worst change. This has led to a mixed reception of him, and he was seen as a mid-tier character in general, with some top players even ranking him as far as low tier.

 

However, he retained his superb mobility, long distanced recovery, and combo game, along with a potent set of KO moves. The character has amassed notoriety for his hit-and-run playstyle, allowing multiple top players to resort to [[time out]] strategies due to the difficulty of intercepting him. As a result of capitalizing on these strengths, Sonic saw a rise in results across the Fall 2019 PGRU season, having notable placements in majors such as Frostbite 2020 and EVO Japan 2020, courtesy of players like Sonido, Wrath, and KEN. When patch 9.0.0 released, gave Sonic more buffs, most notably his Up Aerial, which can connect more reliably and consistently giving Sonic more combo potential. His other moves have less end lag and startup, making his approach options safer. Despite his overall viability still being up for debate, the general perception of him has become significantly favorable, with many professional players arguing that he's a solid or upper high tier at minimum.

 

As a result of the [[COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on competitive Smash|COVID-19 pandemic]] forcing competitive events to be held online, Sonic saw a boost in tournament performance. The online environment of ''Ultimate'' arguably benefits Sonic more than any other character due to increased input lag, rendering it harder to contend with Sonic's campy playstyle and intercepting his already powerful burst options. This has caused a controversial perception of Sonic in competitive play, as many players have been critical of how effective his playstyle and ability to time players out are, with some even going so far as saying he should be banned. While the general consensus has been that Sonic is not worthy of a ban, many have argued for stricter rules in terms of camping and timing players out. Sonic's competitive results were also partially bolstered by non-US players and Wi-Fi warriors such as {{Sm|Sonix}} being able to compete for more tournaments, who is currently ranked second in the [[Wi-Fi Warrior Rank v5]].

Overall, Sonic is one of only four ''Smash 4'' top tier veterans (the other three being {{SSBU|Mario}}, {{SSBU|Fox}}, and {{SSBU|Zero Suit Samus}}) who continues to earn great representation and consistently places well in tournaments.

===Notable players===

<!--If you are planning to add a player you consider to be notable, please provide tournament results in some shape or form in the edit summary (be it a link to a results thread or bracket of placing high in a tournament of other notable players or a video of them beating a notable player). Winning tournaments without notable players present is generally not enough to warrant a spot.-->

''Any number following the Smasher name indicates placement on the [[Fall 2019 PGRU]], which recognizes the official top 50 players in the world in [[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]] from July 13th, 2019 to December 15th, 2019.''

*{{Sm|6WX|USA}} - The best Sonic player in the Tri-State region. Placed 9th at both {{Trn|The Scarlet Classic V}} and {{Trn|Smashadelphia 2019}}, 33rd at both {{Trn|Glitch 6}} and {{Trn|Glitch 8 - Missingno}}, and 49th at both {{Trn|Pound 2019}} and {{Trn|Glitch 7}}.

*{{Sm|AlexDisC|Mexico}} - The best Sonic in Mexico, placed 9th at {{Trn|2GG: Nightmare on Smashville}}, 25th at {{Trn|2GG: SwitchFest 2019}}, and 65th at {{Trn|2GG: Kongo Saga}} with wins over {{sm|Eon}}, {{sm|Benny&TheJets}}, and {{sm|Cyro}}.

*{{Sm|Aperture|UK}} - Initially dropped Sonic for {{SSBU|Inkling}}, but he returned as a Sonic Main lately. Placed 7th at {{Trn|Manchester Conquest 6: In Honour of SSM JD}} and 33rd at {{Trn|Valhalla III}}.

*{{Sm|BluStriker|USA}} - Placed 7th at {{Trn|Super Smash Fight Club 2|Ultimate}} with a victory over {{Sm|Shadow_PR}}.

*{{Sm|Craftis|USA}} - The best Sonic player in New England. Placed 5th at {{Trn|Return to Subspace 2}}, and 17th at both {{Trn|Overclocked Ultimate}} and {{Trn|Overclocked Ultimate II}}.

*{{Sm|Daige|Mexico}} - One of the best Sonics in Mexico, placed 5th at {{Trn|BIT MASTER MTY 6}}, {{Trn|BIT MASTER MTY 9}} and {{Trn|Guerras Regias!}}, and 65th at {{Trn|GENESIS 7}}. Has a win over {{Sm|Maister}}.

*{{Sm|Desumo|Japan}} - Placed 9th {{Trn|Karisuma SP 6}}, 13th at {{Trn|Karisuma SP 5}}, and 17th at {{Trn|Sumabato SP 2}}. Has wins over {{Sm|YOC}} and {{Sm|Ri-ma}}.

*{{Sm|KEN|Japan}} (#16) - The best Sonic player in Japan and the best Sonic player in the world. Placed 1st at {{Trn|Midwest Mayhem Ultimate}}, {{Trn|EGS Cup}}, {{Trn|Sumabato SP 6}}, and {{Trn|Kagaribi}}, 2nd at {{Trn|Umebura SP 7}}, 3rd at both {{Trn|Umebura SP 3}} and {{Trn|Sumabato SP 9}}, 4th at both {{Trn|Umebura SP 4}} and {{Trn|Umebura SP 6}}, 5th at {{Trn|Sumabato SP 7}}, and 7th at {{Trn|Sumabato SP 10}}, {{Trn|EVO Japan 2020}}, and {{Trn|Sumabato SP 12}}. Has wins over {{sm|T}}, {{sm|Shuton}}, {{sm|Kome}}, {{Sm|Gackt}}, {{sm|Raito}}, {{sm|Lea}}, {{Sm|Cosmos}}, {{sm|MkLeo}}, {{sm|Zackray}}, and {{sm|ProtoBanham}}. Ranked 3rd in the [[Japan Player Rankings#Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Rankings|Japan Player Rankings]].

*{{Sm|Kurry|USA}} - One of the best Sonic players in the United States. Placed 13th at {{Trn|River Rumble}} and 17th at both {{Trn|Low Tier City 7}} and {{Trn|Ultimatum 2}}.

*{{Sm|Meteor|USA}} - Co-mains Sonic with {{SSBU|Wolf}} and placed 3rd at {{Trn|2GG: Breakthrough 2019}} and 17th at {{Trn|2GG: All In}}.

*{{Sm|Night|Japan}} - Has taken sets off players such as {{Sm|Twinkle}}, {{Sm|Sylph}}, {{Sm|taranito}}, and {{Sm|Yamanyon}}.

*{{Sm|Phoenix|USA}} - The best Sonic in SoCal. Placed 7th at {{Trn|2GG: Breakthrough 2019}}, 49th at {{Trn|2GG: Prime Saga}}, 65th at {{Trn|2GG: Kongo Saga}}, and 97th at {{Trn|EVO 2019}}.

*{{Sm|PowPow|USA}} - The best Sonic player in Wisconsin. Placed 13th at both {{Trn|Midwest Mayhem Ultimate}} and {{Trn|Overextend}}, 17th at {{Trn|Spotlight}}, and 25th at {{Trn|Smash Out 2019}}.

*{{Sm|Sonido|USA}} - One of the best Sonic players in the world. Placed 2nd at {{Trn|Buccaneer Brawl}}, 5th at {{Trn|Come to Papa 3}}, 7th at {{Trn|Just Roll With It! 11}}, 9th at {{Trn|DreamHack Atlanta 2019}}, 33rd at both {{Trn|Glitch 7}} and {{Trn|The Big House 9}}, 49th at {{Trn|Frostbite 2019}}, {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2019}}, and {{Trn|Frostbite 2020}}, and 65th at {{Trn|GENESIS 6}}. Has wins over {{Sm|Samsora}}, {{Sm|ScAtt}}, {{sm|Mr E}}, {{sm|Salem}}, and {{Sm|Suarez}}.

*{{Sm|Sonix|Dominican Republic}} - A prominent labber, considered the best Sonic player in the Dominican Republic and one of the best Sonic players in the world. He is PR'd #1 in the [[Dominican Republic Power Rankings#Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Rankings|Dominican Republic Power Rankings]]. and was the highest placing Sonic at {{Trn|GENESIS 6}} with 25th, 49th at {{Trn|2GG: Kongo Saga}}, and 65th at {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2019}}. He also placed 5th at {{Trn|Pre-Genesix}}.

*{{Sm|SuperGirlKels|Canada}} - The best Sonic player in Canada. Placed 2nd at {{Trn|Terry Christmas}}, 5th at {{Trn|LAN ETS 2019}}, 7th at both {{Trn|ICARUS V}} and {{Trn|DreamHack Montreal 2019}}, and 65th at {{Trn|The Big House 9}}. Ranked 4th on the [[Montreal Power Rankings#Super Smash Bros Ultimate rankings|Montreal Ultimate Power Rankings]].

*{{Sm|TonyZTank|USA}} - Placed 4th at both {{Trn|Spotlight}} and {{Trn|Frosty Faustings XII 2020}}, 7th at {{Trn|Holiday Heist 5}}, 9th at {{Trn|Smash Out 2019}}, {{Trn|Sweet Spot 6}}, and {{Trn|Thwacked}}, 49th at {{Trn|Let's Make Big Moves}}, and 65th at {{Trn|Frostbite 2020}}. He took sets over players like {{Sm|RFang}} and {{Sm|Ned}}.

*{{Sm|UR2SLOW|USA}} - One of the best Sonic players in the United States. Placed 13th at {{Trn|GatorLAN Fall 2019}} and 17th at {{Trn|Overlords of Orlando: OCTOBERLORDS}}. Has notable wins over players such as {{Sm|Mystearica}} and {{Sm|Dath}}.

*{{Sm|VaLoR|USA}} - He uses both Sonic and {{SSBU|Inkling}}. He placed 2nd at {{Trn|Slopes Arcade}} (Corporate Clash), 13th at {{Trn|GameTyrant Expo 2019}}, and 17th at {{Trn|Super Ascension}} using both Sonic and Inkling, and placed 9th at {{Trn|LAN King Smash Royale XI}} and 17th at {{Trn|GENESIS 7}} as solo Sonic, taking sets over {{Sm|Salem}} and {{Sm|Sinji}}.

*{{Sm|Wrath|USA}} (#51) - One of the best Sonic players in the world. He used to use Sonic as a co-main to {{SSBU|Joker}}. Placed 1st at {{Trn|Just Roll With It! 12}}, 5th at {{Trn|Frostbite 2020}}, 7th at {{Trn|DreamHack Atlanta 2019}}, and 25th at {{Trn|2GG: Kongo Saga}} using only Sonic. Placed 17th at {{Trn|MomoCon 2019}}, and 33rd at both {{Trn|CEO 2019}} and {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2019}} using both Sonic and Joker. He also placed 9th at {{Trn|Ultimate Gamer Miami}} where he used {{SSBU|Palutena}} alongside with Sonic. Has wins over {{sm|RFang}}, {{sm|Ned}}, {{Sm|Mr. E}}, {{Sm|quiK}}, {{Sm|Glutonny}}, {{Sm|kameme}}, {{Sm|Paseriman}}, {{Sm|Toast}}, and {{sm|Tweek}}.

*{{Sm|Lui$|USA}} (#39) - Placed 9th at {{Trn|Super Splat Bros}} using Sonic alongside {{SSBU|Dr. Mario}} and {{SSBU|Greninja}}. He took sets off of {{Sm|Sho}} and {{Sm|Xzax}} using the character.

*{{Sm|Peli|UK}} - Used Sonic as a co-main to {{SSBU|King Dedede}} until he decided to drop him in favour of {{SSBU|Palutena}}. Placed 1st at {{Trn|BIG LAB 2}}, 2nd at {{Trn|Manchester Conquest 6: In Honour of SSM JD}}, 3rd at {{Trn|UKIE Ultimate Circuit Finale}}, and 5th at {{Trn|Regen 2019}}.

Sonic's opponents in Classic Mode are a mix between the game's fastest characters as well as references to characters in other ''Sonic'' titles. The references to his games in Sonic's Classic Mode go in chronological order from each console generation starting from the 4th (Sega Genesis) to the 8th (Wii U).

|1||{{CharHead|Fox|SSBU|hsize=20px}}||[[Green Hill Zone]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Green Hill Zone}}''||Fox represents Sonic’s sidekick, [[Miles "Tails" Prower]].

|2||{{CharHead|Captain Falcon|SSBU|hsize=20px}}||[[Figure-8 Circuit]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Super Sonic Racing}}''||The stage, music, and opponent all reference ''Sonic R'', a racing game.

|3||Giant Metal {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px}} Sonic||[[Fourside]] ([[Ω form]])||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Open Your Heart}}''||''Open Your Heart'' being played during the battle and the city setting likely reference the boss battles against Chaos in ''Sonic Adventure'', particularly the one against Chaos 0; the stage and opponent could also reference the Metal Sonic boss fight at the end of Stardust Speedway Zone in ''Sonic CD''. Although the costume is revealed to be the default costume, the CPU will always have the default costume regardless of what costume the player is using.

|4||{{Head|Kirby|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Yellow}}{{Head|Kirby|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Blue}}{{Head|Kirby|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Red}} {{SSBU|Kirby}} (x3)||[[Halberd]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Sonic Heroes}}''||The Kirbys represent the three character types from ''Sonic Heroes'': Speed (Blue), Flight (Yellow), and Power (Red). The stage choice likely references Final Fortress, the final level of said game.

|5||{{CharHead|Sheik|SSBU|hsize=20px}}||[[Mushroomy Kingdom]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Seven Rings in Hand}}''||The stage, music, and opponent all reference ''Sonic and the Secret Rings'', which has an Arabian setting.

|6||Giant {{CharHead|Incineroar|SSBU|hsize=20px}}||[[Windy Hill Zone]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Wonder World}}''||Incineroar represents Zavok, the leader of The Deadly Six, who debuted in ''Sonic Lost World''.

During the opening cutscene, Sonic was present on the cliffside when [[Galeem]] unleashed his beams of light. While attempting to run away, Sonic noticed {{SSBU|Pikachu}} doing the same and reached his hand towards Pikachu in an attempt to save it. However, he and Pikachu were vaporized and placed under Galeem's imprisonment.

Sonic was one of the many fighters that fell under [[Dharkon]]'s control upon Galeem's first defeat. He appears in the [[Sacred Land]] sub-area as one of the fighters that block the [[Master Sword]], making him one of the obligatory unlocks. His location could potentially be a reference to ''Sonic & the Black Knight'' and/or the ''Zelda''-themed level in ''Sonic Lost World''.

He is later seen standing next to {{SSBU|Mario}}, as the heroes prepare their last stand against Galeem and Dharkon.

{{-}}

Sonic's fighter spirit can be obtained by completing [[Classic Mode]]. It is also available periodically for purchase in the shop for 500 coins. Unlocking Sonic in World of Light allows the player to preview the first spirit below in the Spirit List under the name "???". As a fighter spirit, it cannot be used in Spirit Battles and is purely aesthetic. Each fighter spirit has an alternate version that replaces them with their artwork in ''Ultimate''.

==In Spirit battles==

|•Metal {{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Green}}

|•Timed [[stamina battle]]<br>•The enemy is metal<br>•The enemy starts the battle with a [[Rocket Belt]]

|•Assist Trophy Enemies (Shadow the Hedgehog)<br>•Item: [[Timer]]

|{{SpiritType|Neutral}}

|•Metal {{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Black}}

|•{{SSBU|Sonic}} (×3) ({{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Green}}{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Orange}}{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Purple}})

|[[Midgar]] ([[Battlefield form]])

|•Assist Trophy Enemies ([[Dillon]])

|{{SSBUMusicLink|Nintendo|Frontier Battle}}

|•{{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Black}}

|•Bob-omb Festival<br>•Item: Shooting Types

|{{SpiritTableName|Nico Fire|size=64}}

|{{SSBUMusicLink|Nintendo|Wii Sports Resort}}

|Streetpass Cats

===Character Showcase Video===

*One of the [[List of tips (SSBU)#Sonic|in-game tips for Sonic]] states that using his down aerial after a jump and Spring Jump in succession can allow for "no landing delay". However, this is incorrect, as Spring Jump actually incurs 10 frames of landing lag, which persist even if Sonic auto-cancels his down aerial by using it from high enough as stated by the tip.

**This tip is recycled from ''Smash 4'', where it is correct, as Spring Jump in said game does not incur additional landing lag.

***It could however mean no landing lag persists from the aerial move itself, and only occurs from Spring Jump which was possibly added due to the universal landing lag reductions in ''Ultimate''.

*Sonic's stock icon in ''Ultimate'' bears a striking resemblance to several logos and icons in the ''{{uv|Sonic}}'' series, namely:

**Sonic's [[mariowiki:File:MyS emblem Sonic.png|character icon]] in some ''Sonic'' spin-off games.

***It is also one of six to show the character's eyes, the others being {{SSBU|R.O.B.}}, {{SSBU|Kirby}}, {{SSBU|Meta Knight}}, [[Zombie]], and [[Enderman]]. This is not counting {{SSBU|Captain Falcon}} and [[Bowser Jr. (SSBU)|Larry]], as the eyes depicted for the former are not his actual eyes, and the latter lacks his irises.

*Sonic is one of three third-party characters in ''Ultimate'' with more than one [[Green Hill Zone|home]] [[Windy Hill Zone|stage]] representing their series, the others being {{SSBU|Cloud}} and {{SSBU|Sephiroth}}.

*Sonic, alongside {{SSBU|Mega Man}}, is one of two third-party characters with more than one assist trophy representing their series.

*Unlike other installments in the ''Super Smash Bros.'' series, Sonic slowly takes damage if he falls in any body of water, which is a nod to his inability to [[swim]] in his own series.

*''Ultimate'' is the first game Sonic was the first third-party character announced, as {{SSBB|Snake}} was announced before him in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', while {{SSB4|Mega Man}} was announced before him in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''.

*Sonic is one of only two characters to face a metal opponent in Classic Mode, facing a giant metal version of himself. The other is [[Bowser]] who faces [[Metal Mario]] upon normal Mario's defeat in the final round.

*Sonic is the only character who travels to [[Green Hill Zone]] and [[Figure-8 Circuit]] in Classic Mode.

*Prior to version 2.0.0, there was a glitch that allowed {{SSBU|Ridley}} to instantly KO Sonic. On 2D stages, if Ridley grabbed Sonic with his [[Space Pirate Rush]] while Sonic was recovering from a Homing Attack near the ledge, Sonic would be instantly sent into the horizontal blast line.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyylKx0Jgg8</ref>

**Sonic's English surfacing voice clip is used in other languages aside from Japanese, as he was not voiced in other languages in ''Brawl''.

**Of these fighters, Sonic and Banjo & Kazooie are the only third-party fighters with this distinction.

*Sonic is the only third-party veteran to have his [[victory theme]] changed in some way, being slightly sped up and abridged at the end.

**So far, Sonic, {{SSBU|Joker}}, and {{SSBU|Steve}} are the only characters to have their victory themes ripped directly from their respective games.

*The Chaos Emerald that appears in Sonic's victory pose is oddly more solid and less crystalline than the models used for his Final Smash and the [[Shadow]] Assist Trophy.

*Sonic's pose that he does in his official render in ''Ultimate'' has been [[List of Super Smash Bros. references in other franchises|referenced]] in atleast two later sources of media:

**In the 2020 film, ''{{iw|wikipedia|Sonic the Hedgehog|film}}'', Sonic avoids one of Robotnik's attacks while striking a similar pose to his official render in ''Ultimate''. According to Sonic's actor {{iw|wikipedia|Ben Schwartz}}, this was an intentional reference.<ref>https://comicbook.com/gaming/2020/02/16/sonic-the-hedgehog-super-smash-bros-ultimate-easter-eggs/</ref>

**In a promotional image of the collaboration between ''Sonic'' and the 2020 action game ''{{iw|wikipedia|Ninjala}}'', Berecca (who wears a Sonic costume) strikes a pose identical to Sonic's official render in ''Ultimate''.<ref>https://www.sonicstadium.org/2020/09/sonic-x-ninjala-collaboration-details-revealed-costumes-eggman-utsusemi-and-more/</ref>

*In World of Light, Sonic is the only character unlocked in the Dark Realm with a Power level lower than 10,000.

*When Sonic gets KO'd in Stamina battles, his "down" pose is similar to how he poses when hit by an enemy with no rings in 3D games from his series.

*In {{SSBU|Steve}}'s reveal trailer, Sonic's forward smash launches {{SSBU|Mario}} through blocks into a ''Minecraft'' cave (transitioning to a cinematic), which led to many jokes and memes about Sonic being able to "punch people into ''Minecraft''".

:1.{{note|b}}translates to "Circle Throw"

[[Category:Third party characters]]