Editing Sonic (SSBU)

{{ArticleIcons|ultimate=y}}
{{disambig2|Sonic's appearance in ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate''|the character in other contexts|Sonic the Hedgehog}}
{{Infobox Character
|name = Sonic
|image = [[File:Sonic SSBU.png|x250px]]
|game = SSBU
|ssbgame1 = SSBB
|ssbgame2 = SSB4
|availability = [[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]
|tier = S
|ranking = 4
}}
'''Sonic''' ({{ja|ソニック|Sonikku}}, ''Sonic'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''. His return to the series was confirmed on June 12th, 2018. As in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', Sonic is an [[unlockable character]] instead of being a [[starter character]]. Sonic is classified as [[Fighter number|Fighter #38]].

As in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]'', Sonic's voice clips from ''Brawl'' were repurposed for the Japanese version of ''Ultimate'', while his voice clips from ''Sonic Generations'' and the ''{{iw|mariowiki|Mario & Sonic|series}}'' series were repurposed for other versions of ''Ultimate''.

All of the voice actors' portrayals of Sonic are as follows: 

*{{s|wikipedia|Roger Craig Smith}} in English.
*{{s|wikipedia|Jun'ichi Kanemaru}} in Japanese.
*{{s|wikipedia|Alexandre Gillet}} in French.
*Renato Novara in Italian.
*Marc Stachel in German.
*Jonatán López in Spanish, in place of his current Spanish voice actor Ángel De Gracia. ''Ultimate'' is López's last game as Sonic's Spanish voice actor prior to his death in February 2020.

Sonic is currently ranked 4th out of 82 on the ''Ultimate'' [[tier list]], placing him at the top of S tier. This is a slight improvement from his 7th/8th out of 54 placement in ''Smash 4'' (where he was tied with {{SSB4|Fox}}), and is the highest ranking he has achieved throughout his appearances. Sonic maintains his signature hit-and-run playstyle from past games, characterized by blistering speed true to his namesake, and sporting a massive array of burst options with a wide window of unreactable range thanks to moves like [[Spin Charge]] and [[Spin Dash]]. This gives Sonic unparalleled exertion over the [[stage]] as he is able to weave around enemy defenses, [[bait]] out [[approach|approaches]], and control the overall pace of the game.

Sonic's ability to chase opponents both on and off stage thanks to his speed and great [[recovery]] distance is complemented by a strong repertoire of moves that are effective for means of [[Combo|combos]] and [[edgeguarding]], and several attacks like [[forward smash]] and [[forward tilt]] further allow Sonic to space his attacks with generous distance. Despite many of his key traits having been nerfed or reworked since ''Smash 4'', Sonic benefited from cast-wide balance changes, alterations to universal mechanics, and buffs to a number of individual moves that increased the character's combo potency while also giving him even greater mobility, defensive options, and off-stage survivability, courtesy of additions like the directional [[air dodge]].

However, Sonic still sports several flaws. Notable shortcomings from previous games are primarily intact in ''Ultimate'', chief of which is his dearth of KO options. Despite buffs to several moves such as [[Homing Attack]], many others are still plagued with [[ending lag]], while others such as [[back aerial]] have been nerfed. While he has means to confirm into off-stage edgeguards, Sonic is overall better at inflicting damage than KOing outright.

Several of Sonic's moves (such as [[Spin Charge]] and [[up aerial]]) also have occasionally unreliable hit detection, which can render situations where the opponent may inadvertently escape one of his combos. While Sonic can field better in [[Neutral game|neutral]] and disadvantage now thanks to changes in air dodge mechanics, he is still generally disadvantaged against fighters who sport greater ranges and can readily intercept his approaches. These options are also partially weakened thanks to Spin Charge and Spin Dash's lessened on-shield safety, as well as the removal of shield cancelling.

Overall, many players believe that Sonic can play around any matchup, thanks to his pace-dictating mechanics. This has been reflected by his evasive and domineering playstyle commonly resulting in his playerbase achieving consistent success and representation in competitive play, and some of his players (such as {{Sm|Sonix}} and {{Sm|KEN}}) doing so even at major [[tournament]]s.

==How to unlock==
Complete one of the following:
*Play [[VS. match]]es, with Sonic being the 17th character to be unlocked.
*Clear {{SSBU|Classic Mode}} with {{SSBU|Mario}} or anyone in his unlock tree, being the 1st character unlocked.
*Have Sonic join the player's party in [[World of Light]].
Sonic must then be defeated on [[Green Hill Zone]] (the [[Ω form]] is used in World of Light).

==Attributes==
Sonic is a [[weight|lightweight]] who, staying true to his home series, has outstanding mobility. He unsurprisingly possesses the fastest [[dash]]ing speed in the game by default (which is surpassed only by {{SSBU|Hero}} while using [[Command Selection|Acceleratle]]), the 7th fastest [[walk]]ing speed, the 12th fastest [[air speed]] (which tied with {{SSBU|Mario}}, {{SSBU|Donkey Kong}}, {{SSBU|Little Mac}}, and {{SSBU|Inkling}}), and the highest [[traction]] in the game (surpassed only by [[Winged Form]] {{SSBU|Sephiroth}}). When combined with his above-average [[falling speed]] and jump heights, these attributes allow Sonic to move across the stage at a blisteringly quick pace, even in spite of his average [[gravity]] and low [[air acceleration]]. To round out his attributes, Sonic is also capable of [[wall jump]]ing.

Sonic's special moves are quite useful. [[Spin Dash]] and [[Spin Charge]] allow him to travel across stages at varying speeds, inflict damage on contact, and follow up into an aerial attack or uncharged Homing Attack. Despite appearing very similar aesthetically and mechanically, 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 "spin shot" 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, which can bypass even [[Wonderwing]]. The intangible fully charged version can pass through most grounded attacks but will clank with projectiles and aerial attacks.

The non-fully charged version with the hop though can bypass if not beat out almost anything due to being aerial. The fully charged version of Spin Dash will also be intangible whenever Sonic turns the move around. 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 "spin shot", although it can only be done while airborne and can't be reversed.

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 [[C4]] or [[Egg Roll]]). Both moves also have Sonic's hurtbox extend beyond the attack's hitbox. 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 and jump over them on initial contact.

[[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 percentages. [[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 [[edge-guarding]] 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's auto-canceling window makes it a useful and deceptively safe combo starter when SHFF'd. Back aerial's clean hitbox is very powerful, to the point that it is one of Sonic's most reliable KO options. Lastly, down aerial is a [[stall-then-fall]] that has noticeably less ending lag compared to other stall-then-falls. When coupled with its initial hitbox's ability to [[meteor smash]] airborne opponents, down aerial can potentially gimp an opponent, if not KO them outright, and yet still allow Sonic to recover immediately afterward, even if he misses.

Sonic's neutral attack, tilt attacks, and throws have mediocre damage outputs, yet their quick speed can make them difficult to [[punish]]. His grab game is decent overall: while none of Sonic's grabs excel in speed and each of them have average ranges, they are still fairly easy to land thanks to his outstanding mobility. 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 and setting up an edge-guard.

Mastering Sonic's running game is crucial to Sonic's ability to perform at high-level play; thanks to Sonic having the fastest dashing speed, Sonic mains can take advantage of a variety of dash or dash-related techniques. Dash-dancing is extremely useful for mindgames, such as by running in one direction and then quickly turning the other way around to bait an opponent or catch them off-guard. The ability to use any attack out of a dash further compliments this strategy, as Sonic can retaliate almost immediately to an opponent's attack after dash-dancing. As such, it is often regarded by Sonic players that it is better to run away from the opponent and run back than to use [[roll]]s 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 allow for easy grabs. In general, Sonic arguably has the easiest time winning the neutral game 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 KO 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 low 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. Homing Attack can miss if his opponent is moving too fast or is in the middle of an attack when Sonic releases the move. 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.

In all, Sonic has a great offensive play, a strong [[neutral game]], a good off-stage presence, and can very rapidly damage his opponents. However, like other characters of his archetype, he has some trouble KOing and can be difficult to keep track of, even for the player using him, which sometimes leads to accidentally putting him at a disadvantage or even inadvertently [[self-destruct]]ing. Although Sonic's attributes make him a hit-and-run character most of the time, his prowess for using mindgames and switching up tactics encourage multiple playstyles to succeed, which give him a higher learning curve but allows him to match up well against nearly every character in the cast. As such, Sonic commands a strong playerbase at top-level play, with dedicated mains such as {{Sm|Sonix}} and {{Sm|KEN}} achieving great results with him.

==Changes from ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''==
Like most other top tier characters, Sonic was often regarded as one of the most potent characters in ''Super Smash Bros. 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 nerfed overall.

Several of Sonic's key strengths and moves from ''Smash 4'' 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 ending lag, 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 ending lag 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.

[[Dash-cancel]]ling's expanded utility also 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 edge-guarding 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 ''Smash 4'' have either been worsened or have been removed altogether. This has lead to a generally less oppressive character than in ''Smash 4'', 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, gearing towards a more creative and offensive playstyle than in ''Smash 4''.

Regardless, Sonic's initially below-average perception has improved over time, with smashers like {{Sm|KEN}}, {{Sm|Sonix}}, {{sm|Sonido}} and {{Sm|Wrath}} achieving strong results in tournament play. In the end, in spite of his initial mediocre perception, Sonic remains among the most viable characters in competitive play once mastered.

{{SSB4 to SSBU changelist|char=Sonic}}

==Update history==
Aside from glitch fixes, Sonic was buffed via game updates. Update 2.0.0 improved his forward tilt's consistency and decreased his back aerial's landing lag, while update 3.0.0 ensured that Sonic retains his double jump upon using [[Spin Dash]] or [[Spin Charge]] on a platform. Update 7.0.0 enlarged Sonic's shield as part of a near-universal buff, and significantly improved his up smash's reliability against an opponent standing on a platform, the latter of which was shared with {{SSBU|Roy}} and {{SSBU|Chrom}}'s up smashes. 

However, update 9.0.0 brought about Sonic's most significant buffs. His up tilt and dash attack had their ending lag decreased, while the latter's poor damage output was also increased. As a result, both moves are safer on shield. Up smash gained more intangibility, its overall lag was decreased, and its first hit's angle and knockback were adjusted; altogether, these changes improved its consistency and safety. Lastly, up aerial's second hit received another hitbox below Sonic, which improved the move's somewhat infamous inconsistency.

Overall, Sonic fares better than he did at the launch of ''Ultimate'', and he continues to achieve excellent results in both offline and online tournaments.

'''{{GameIcon|ssbu}} {{SSBU|1.1.0}}'''
{{UpdateList (SSBU)/1.1.0|char=Sonic}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssbu}} {{SSBU|2.0.0}}'''
{{UpdateList (SSBU)/2.0.0|char=Sonic}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssbu}} {{SSBU|3.0.0}}'''
{{UpdateList (SSBU)/3.0.0|char=Sonic}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssbu}} {{SSBU|4.0.0}}'''
{{UpdateList (SSBU)/4.0.0|char=Sonic}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssbu}} {{SSBU|7.0.0}}'''
{{UpdateList (SSBU)/7.0.0|char=Sonic}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssbu}} {{SSBU|8.0.0}}'''
{{UpdateList (SSBU)/8.0.0|char=Sonic}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssbu}} {{SSBU|9.0.0}}'''
{{UpdateList (SSBU)/9.0.0|char=Sonic}}

==Moveset==
*Sonic can [[wall jump]].
*Sonic continuously receives damage while [[swimming]]. This trait is shared with {{SSBU|Charizard}}, {{SSBU|Inkling}}, and {{SSBU|Incineroar}}. This is a reference to the classic ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' games where Sonic is unable to swim and needs to constantly collect air bubbles or else he would drown and die instantly.
''For a gallery of Sonic's hitboxes, see [[Sonic (SSBU)/Hitboxes|here]].''

{{MovesetTable
|game=SSBU
|neutralcount=3
|neutralname=P / PP / PPK
|neutral1dmg=2%
|neutral2dmg=1.5%
|neutral3dmg=4%
|neutraldesc=Sonic's Punch and Punch-Kick from ''Sonic the Fighters''. Its first and second hits are capable of [[jab lock]]ing. Holding the attack button will have Sonic perform the first hit repeatedly.
|ftiltname=Horse Kick ({{ja|馬キック|Uma Kikku}})
|ftiltdmg=4% (hit 1), 7% (hit 2 feet), 5% (hit 2 legs)
|ftiltdesc=Sonic's 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, and as an [[out of shield]] option.
|utiltname=Double Air Kick ({{ja|ダブルエアキック|Daburu Ea Kikku}})
|utiltdmg=2% (hit 1), 6% (hit 2)
|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 Sonic's Skip Kick from ''Sonic the Fighters''.
|dtiltname=Leg Hitter ({{ja|レッグヒッター|Reggu Hittā}})
|dtiltdmg=6%
|dtiltdesc=A legsweep. Unlike in ''Smash 4'', it launches opponents diagonally, which enables it to start combos at low percentages. Its most reliable follow-ups are forward aerial and up aerial. It resembles Sonic's Leg Throw from ''Sonic the Fighters'', and his Foot Sweep from ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' (2006) and ''Sonic Unleashed''.
|dashname=Dash Kick ({{ja|ダッシュキック|Dasshu Kikku}})
|dashdmg=8% (clean), 6% (late)
|dashdesc=A flying kick. A decent follow-up from a down throw, although this requires a read. While its very minimal start-up lag can allow it to pressure unwary opponents, its considerable ending lag makes it quite punishable.
|fsmashname=Wind-Up Punch ({{ja|ぐるぐるパンチ|Guruguru Panchi}})
|fsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|14}}
|fsmashdesc=The Wind-Up Punch, one of Sonic's attacks from ''Sonic the Fighters''. It has high knockback growth and deceptive range, and it can be angled. Altogether, these traits make it one of Sonic's best KO moves, if not his absolute best one. However, it has low base knockback, and thus should be used for KO attempts later instead of earlier. It also has noticeable start-up (frame 18) and ending lag (28 frames), making it risky if used unwisely.
|usmashname=Short Spin Attack ({{ja|ショートスピンアタック|Shōto Supin Atakku}})
|usmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|5}} (hit 1), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|1}} (hits 2-7), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|3}} (hit 8)
|usmashdesc=A jumping Spin Dash. It has moderate start-up (frame 14) and noticeable ending lag, making it risky if used unwisely. It hits multiple times, with the last hit having extremely high knockback scaling but merely average base knockback. As a result, it should be used for KO attempts later instead of earlier. It is also excellent at shield poking, thanks to its somewhat large hitboxes.
|dsmashname=Split Kick ({{ja|スプリットキック|Supuritto Kikku}})
|dsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|12}}
|dsmashdesc=A split kick, similar to {{SSBU|Fox}} and {{SSBU|Falco}}'s down smashes. It has the lowest amount of start-up lag (frame 12) out of Sonic's smash attacks and hits both in front of and behind himself simultaneously, 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, it has considerable ending lag.
|nairname=Air Spin ({{ja|エアスピン|Ea Supin}})
|nairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|12}} (clean), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|8}} (late), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|5}} (latest)
|nairdesc=Sonic's Air Spin from ''Sonic the Fighters''. 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.
|fairname=Sonic Turn ({{ja|ソニックターン|Sonikku Tān}})
|fairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|0.8}} (hits 1-5), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|3}} (hit 6)
|fairdesc=A corkscrew [[wikipedia:Professional wrestling attacks#Battering ram|battering ram]], similar to {{SSBU|Pikachu}}'s forward aerial. It is tied with up aerial for the lowest amount of start-up lag out of Sonic's aerials, coming out on frame 5. When coupled with the last hit's very high knockback growth, it is 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 Sonic's Emerald Dive from ''Sonic the Fighters''.
|bairname=Back Spin Kick ({{ja|バックスピンキック|Bakku Supin Kikku}})
|bairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|14}} (clean), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|10}} (late)
|bairdesc=A hook kick. Its clean hitbox's impressive damage output and high knockback growth make it one of Sonic's best KO moves, especially while edge-guarding. The move is also one of the more powerful of its type when hit clean. However, it does have moderately high start-up lag (frame 13) for a back aerial, which can make it somewhat challenging to hit with.
|uairname=Air Scissors ({{ja|エアシザース|Ea Shizāsu}})
|uairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|3}} (hit 1), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|8}} (hit 2)
|uairdesc=A 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 and Spin Charge, it is a useful combo starter when SHFF'd. Due to its first hit's adjusted launching angles and its second hit's much lower knockback growth, it is noticeably less effective than it was in ''Smash 4'' as both a follow-up from Spring Jump and as a KO option.
|dairname=Shooting Star Kick ({{ja|流星キック|Ryūsei Kikku}})
|dairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|8}} (clean), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|7}}/{{ShortHopDmgSSBU|5}} (late)
|dairdesc=A 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 its noticeably lower 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 Sonic's Stomp Dive from ''Sonic the Fighters'', and his Sonic Rocket from ''Sonic Battle''.
|grabname=Grab ({{ja|つかみ|Tsukami}})
|grabdesc=[[wikipedia:Grappling hold#Clinch hold|Clinches]] the opponent.
|pummelname=Grab Kneebutt ({{ja|つかみニーバット|Tsukami Nībatto}})
|pummeldmg=1.3%
|pummeldesc=A knee strike. A fairly fast pummel.
|fthrowname=Close Kick ({{ja|クローズキック|Kurōsu Kikku}})
|fthrowdmg=1% (hit 1), 6% (throw)
|fthrowdesc=A stretch kick. Due to its launching angle and overall knockback being noticeably lower than in ''Smash 4'', it now functions as a serviceable edge-guard set-up at the very negligible cost of its almost nonexistent KO potential. It resembles Sonic's Top Kick from ''Sonic Battle''.
|bthrowname=Spin Throw ({{ja|スピンスルー|Spin Surū}})
|bthrowdmg=7%
|bthrowdesc=Quickly backflips repeatedly with the opponent in tow before performing the tomoe nage,{{ref|a}} a judo throw. Sonic's strongest throw by far, and his only one that KOs at reasonable percentages.
|uthrowname=Hedgehog Needle ({{ja|ヘッジホッグニードル|Hejjihoggu Nīdoru}})
|uthrowdmg=1% (hit 1), 5% (throw)
|uthrowdesc=Heaves the opponent overhead and then stabs them with his quills to launch them upwards. It can combo into neutral aerial, up aerial and inputted [[Homing Attack]] at low percentages. Due to its ending lag being increased since ''Smash 4'', its Spring Jump-assisted follow-ups less consistent. It also has KO potential, albeit only at very high percentages and when used on highly positioned platforms, such as Battlefield's top platform.
|dthrowname=Spinning Gear ({{ja|スピニングギア|Supinning Gia}})
|dthrowdmg=1% (hits 1-3), 5% (throw)
|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 Sonic's Double Spin from ''Sonic the Fighters''.
|floorfname=
|floorfdmg=6%
|floorfdesc=Spin Dashes in a circle before getting up.
|floorbname=
|floorbdmg=7%
|floorbdesc=Performs a legsweep while getting up.
|floortname=
|floortdmg=5%
|floortdesc=Performs a legsweep while getting up.
|edgename=
|edgedmg=9%
|edgedesc=Spin Dashes forward while climbing up. It resembles the Cliffhanger Flip from ''Sonic the Hedgehog Spinball''.
|nsname=Homing Attack
|nsdmg=7%-20%
|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 at the cost of it inflicting less damage. It can be used as a follow-up from various moves if executed early.
|ssname=Spin Dash
|ssdmg=7%-10.9% (dash), 5% (initial jump), 3% (jump)
|ssdesc=Curls up into a ball, performs a short jump, and then starts rolling toward the opponent quickly. 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.
|usname=Spring Jump
|usdmg=— (jump), 4% (spring)
|usdesc=Bounces off of 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 Spring Jump is used primarily 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.
|dsname=Spin Charge
|dsdmg=1.5%-2.4% (loop), 4% (last), 6% (jump)
|dsdesc=A Spin Dash that hits multiple times and has more momentum. It also has slightly different aesthetics compared to Spin Dash, and requires button mashing in order to charge. However, it lacks a short jump at its beginning, cannot be canceled in any way, and it can only become a "Spin Shot" when used in the air.
|fsname=Super Sonic
|fsdmg=12% (Chaos Emeralds), 6% (ram), 10% (launch)
|fsdesc=Gathers 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.
}}

===[[Announcer]] call===
{{audio|Needs announcer calls from other languages.}}
<gallery>
Sonic English Announcer SSB4-SSBU.wav|English/Japanese/Chinese
Sonic French Announcer SSBU.wav|French
</gallery>''

===[[On-screen appearance]]===
*Spin Dashes onto the stage from the foreground and strikes a pose.
<gallery>
SonicOnScreenAppearanceSSBU.gif|Sonic's on-screen appearance.
</gallery>

===[[Taunt]]s===
*'''Up taunt''': Somersaults and then crosses his arms with his index finger pointing out, one of his signature poses (most notably from ''{{s|wikipedia|Sonic Adventure}}'') while making a "tsk" sound three times.
*'''Side taunt''': Performs the [https://sonic.fandom.com/wiki/Super_Peel_Out Super Peel Out], a technique that debuted in ''{{s|wikipedia|Sonic CD}}'', while grinning.
*'''Down taunt''': Performs the {{iw|wikipedia|windmill|b-boy move}}, a breakdancing move.
<gallery>
SSBUSonicTaunt1.gif|Sonic's up taunt.
SSBUSonicTaunt2.gif|Sonic's side taunt.
SSBUSonicTaunt3.gif|Sonic's down taunt.
</gallery>
Sonic's taunt quotes in each language are:
{|class=wikitable
! !! Side !! Down
|-
! scope="row"|English
|"Sonic Speed!" || "Come on!"
|-
! scope="row"|Japanese
|"{{ja|遅すぎだぜ！|Oso sugi da ze!}}"<br>(''You're too slow!'') || "Come on!"
|-
! scope="row"|French
|"Vitesse Sonic !"<br>(''Sonic Speed!'') || "Allez !"<br>(''Come on!'', lit. ''Go!'')
|-
! scope="row"|Italian
|"Velocità supersonica!"<br>(''Super Sonic Speed!'') || "Andiamo!"
|-
! scope="row"|German
|"Lichtgeschwindigkeit!" || "Los geht's!"
|-
! scope="row"|Spanish
|"¡Velocidad sónica!"<br>(''Sonic Speed!'') || "¡Vamos!" <br> (''Let's go!'')
|}

===[[Idle pose]]s===
*Looks at the camera for a moment while tapping his foot impatiently. It is his idle animation from the ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' games for the Sega Genesis.
*Looks at the camera and wiggles his finger in a patronizing manner while smirking. It resembles the animation he performs after clearing an Act or defeating a boss in ''Sonic the Hedgehog 3'' and ''Sonic Mania'' or his introduction in many 2D ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' games and in the [[wikipedia:Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog|three]] [[wikipedia:Sonic the Hedgehog (TV series)|American]] [[wikipedia:Sonic Underground|DIC Entertainment]] cartoons as well as the animation he does before jumping offscreen in ''Sonic CD'' if the game is left idle for three minutes.
<gallery>
SSBUSonicIdle1.gif|Sonic's first idle pose
SSBUSonicIdle2.gif|Sonic's second idle pose
</gallery>

===[[Crowd cheer]]===
<div class="tabber">
<div class="tabbertab" title="English, Japanese/Chinese, Italian, Dutch, French">
{| class="wikitable" border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="1"
|-
!{{{name|}}}
!Cheer (English)
!Cheer (Japanese/Chinese)
!Cheer (Italian)
!Cheer (Dutch)
!Cheer (French)
|-
! scope="row"|Cheer
|[[File:Sonic Cheer English SSBU.ogg|center]]||[[File:Sonic Cheer Japanese SSBU.ogg|center]]||[[File:Sonic Cheer Italian SSBU.ogg|center]]||[[File:Sonic Cheer Dutch SSBU.ogg|center]]||{{NTSC}} [[File:Sonic Cheer French NTSC SSBU.ogg|center]] <br> {{PAL}} [[File:Sonic Cheer French PAL SSBU.ogg|center]]
|-
! scope="row"|Description
|So - nic! || Go! Go! So - nic! || Sooooooo - nic! || Gooooo - Sonic! || Allez So - nic!
|}
</div>
<div class="tabbertab" title="German, Spanish, Russian, Korean">
{| class="wikitable" border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="1"
|-
!{{{name|}}}
!Cheer (German)
!Cheer (Spanish)
!Cheer (Russian)
!Cheer (Korean)
|-
! scope="row"|Cheer
|[[File:Sonic Cheer German SSBU.ogg|center]]||{{NTSC}} [[File:Sonic Cheer Spanish NTSC SSBU.ogg|center]] <br> {{PAL}} [[File:Sonic Cheer Spanish PAL SSBU.ogg|center]]||[[File:Sonic Cheer Russian SSBU.ogg|center]]||[[File:Sonic Cheer Korean SSBU.ogg|center]]
|-
! scope="row"|Description
|Sooooooo - nic! || Sooooooo - nic! Sooooooo - nic! {{NTSC}}<br>Este Sonic! Este Sonic! E! E! {{PAL}} || So - nic! *claps 3 times* || So - nic!
|}
</div>
</div>

===[[Victory pose]]s===
*'''Left:''' Sprints off-screen and then sprints back on-screen before giving a thumbs up. It is 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. His Japanese line comes from ''Sonic Heroes'' after battles.
*'''Right:''' Performs his Sonic Flare from ''Sonic Battle'', then strikes a pose. His Japanese line comes from ''Sonic Adventure'' after defeating a boss. 
[[File:SonicVictoryUltimate.ogg|thumb|[[wikipedia:Sonic the Hedgehog (2006 video game)|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' (2006)]]'s orchestrated remix of the tune that plays when a character has passed an Act in ''{{s|wikipedia|Sonic the Hedgehog 3}}'', entitled "Mission Clear", albeit with a slightly abridged ending.]]
<gallery>
SonicVictoryPose1SSBU.gif
SonicVictoryPose2SSBU.gif
SonicVictoryPose3SSBU.gif
</gallery>
Sonic victory quotes in each language are:
{|class=wikitable
! !! Left !! Up !! Right
|-
! scope="row"|English
|"That was almost too easy!" || "Piece of cake!" || "Let's do that again sometime!"
|-
! scope="row"|Japanese
|"{{ja|モタモタしてると置いてくぜ!|Motamota shi teru to oite ku ze!}}"<br>(''Leaving behind to be dawdling!'') || "{{ja|A piece of cake! 楽勝だぜ!|A piece of cake! Rakushō daze!}}"<br>(''A piece of cake! An easy win!'') || "{{ja|Hey guys! また遊んでやるぜ!|Hey guys! Mata asonde yaru ze!}}"<br>(''Hey guys! I'll play again next time!'')
|-
! scope="row"|French
|"C'était presque trop facile !"<br>(''That was almost too easy!'') || "Du gâteau !"<br>(''Piece of cake!'', lit. ''Some cake!'') || "Faudra se refaire ça un jour !"<br>([We] ''need to do that again sometime!'')
|-
! scope="row"|Spanish
|"¡Pero que fácil!" || "¡Chupado!" || "¡A ver si lo repetimos!"
|-
! scope="row"|Italian
|"Persino troppo semplice!" || "Un gioco da ragazzi!" || "Rifacciamolo presto!"
|}

==In [[competitive play]]==
===Tier placement and history===
Upon the release of ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate'', Sonic was initially seen as a far less viable fighter than he was in ''Super Smash Bros. 4'' due to a number of changes: [[Spin Dash]] losing its ability to be held indefinitely or shield canceled, up aerial's adjusted knockback and launching angles worsening its consistency, and [[Spin Charge]] being unable to cross-up a shield unless fully charged as well as its newfound inconsistency at launching opponents upward with the jump (with the latter being arguably his most negative change). This led to Sonic garnering a mixed reception: in general, he was seen as a mid tier fighter in general, yet some top players actually perceived him as being a low tier fighter.

However, Sonic retained his superb mobility and long-distanced recovery, while his combo game remained mostly useful and several moves gained slight improvements to their respective KO potentials. Although Sonic's moveset was adjusted in a number of ways to tone down his notorious hit-and-run playstyle from ''Smash 4'', said playstyle remained largely viable, thus allowing multiple top players to resort to [[time out]] strategies. By capitalizing on these strengths, Sonic's playerbase garnered a rise in results as the metagame progressed thanks to notable major placements from players such as {{Sm|Sonido}}, {{Sm|Wrath}}, and {{Sm|KEN}}.

Despite his improved reception, update 9.0.0 granted Sonic a few worthwhile buffs, such as lag decreases for a few moves and, most notably, his up aerial becoming more consistent thanks to it gaining an additional hitbox. Furthermore, Sonic's representation continued to rise, with the post-online metagame notably introducing {{Sm|Sonix}}, a player who has since seen multiple top 8 finishes at the largest tournaments of the year. As a result, the general perception of him has improved significantly: Sonic is ranked 4th on the current tier list, with some players arguing he could potentially be the best fighter on the roster.

Within the online metagame, Sonic is commonly considered one of the game's strongest characters and has seen exemplary 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. Due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on competitive Smash|COVID-19 pandemic]] forcing competitive events to be held online throughout 2020, 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 does not warrant a ban in online play, many have argued for stricter rules in terms of camping and timing players out. Sonic's competitive results around this time were also partially bolstered by non-US players and [[Wi-Fi Warrior]]s, such as {{Sm|Sonix}} being able to compete in more tournaments, who is ranked 4th in the [[Wi-Fi Warrior Rank v6]], and has since gone on to translate his online success into offline tournaments..

===Most historically significant players===
<!--This character has a ten player limit for this section. Before adding and/or removing a player, read these guidelines: https://www.ssbwiki.com/SmashWiki:Notability#%22Most_historically_significant_players%22_guidelines -->

''See also: [[:Category:Sonic players (SSBU)]]''

*{{Sm|Daige|Mexico}} - The best Sonic player 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}} with wins over {{Sm|Ang}}, {{Sm|Maister}}, and {{Sm|Nanon}}. Ranked as high as 37th on the [[Mexican Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|KEN|Japan}} - Co-mains Sonic alongside {{SSBU|Sephiroth}}, and is one of the best Sonic players in the world. Placed 1st at both {{Trn|Sumabato SP 6}}, {{Trn|Kagaribi}}, and {{Trn|Battle of BC 4}}, 2nd at {{Trn|Umebura SP 7}}, and 3rd at {{Trn|Temple: Hermès Edition}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|MkLeo}}, {{Sm|Shuton}}, and {{sm|Zackray}}. Ranked 21st on the [[LumiRank Mid-Year 2023]].
*{{Sm|Peli|UK}} - The best Sonic player in Europe. Placed 1st at both {{Trn|DAT BlastZone 31}} and {{Trn|VCA 2021}}, 3rd at {{Trn|Invasion}}, 5th at {{Trn|SWT: Europe Ultimate Regional Finals}}, 7th at {{Trn|VCA 2022}}, and 17th at {{Trn|Battle of BC 4}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Glutonny}} and {{Sm|BassMage}}. Ranked 17th on the [[PGRU v3 EU]].
*{{Sm|Sonido|USA}} - The best Sonic player in the United States. 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}}, and 33rd at {{Trn|The Big House 9}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Samsora}}, {{Sm|Mr E}}, and {{sm|Salem}}. Ranked in the Area 51 on the [[Spring 2019 PGRU]].
*{{Sm|Sonix|Dominican Republic}} - The best Sonic player in the world. Placed 1st at {{Trn|CEO 2022}} and {{Trn|Get On My Level 2023}}, 2nd at {{Trn|Smash Factor X}}, 3rd at {{Trn|Let's Make Big Moves 2023}} and 4th at {{Trn|GENESIS 9}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|MkLeo}}, {{Sm|Tweek}} and {{Sm|Sparg0}}. He is also one of the best players online, winning {{Trn|The Quarantine Series: Major Tournament 1}} and {{Trn|The Airlock}}. Ranked 4th on the [[LumiRank Mid-Year 2023]] and 2nd on the [[Wi-Fi Warrior Rank v7]].
*{{Sm|SuperGirlKels|Canada}} - The best Sonic player in Canada, but has since retired from competitive play. Placed 2nd at {{Trn|Terry Christmas}}, 4th at {{Trn|Lan ETS 2022}}, 7th at both {{Trn|DreamHack Montreal 2019}} and {{Trn|Path to Glory}}, and 17th at {{Trn|Battle of BC 4}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Ally}}, {{Sm|Dark Wizzy}}, and {{Sm|JW}}. Ranked 21st on the [[Smash Canada Rankings Ultimate]].
*{{Sm|Taikei|Japan}} - Placed 3rd at {{Trn|Sumabato SP 18}}, 5th at {{Trn|Seibugeki 12}}, 9th at both {{Trn|Seibugeki 8}} and {{Trn|WINNER! -Next 1-}}, and 13th at {{Trn|Kagaribi 8}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|kameme}}, {{Sm|Abadango}} and {{Sm|Paseriman}}. Ranked 54th on the [[Experimental Smash Player Rankings]].
*{{Sm|TonyZTank|USA}} - One of the best Sonic players in the United States. Placed 4th at both {{Trn|Spotlight}} and {{Trn|Frosty Faustings XII 2020}}, 17th at {{Trn|Riptide}}, and 25th at {{Trn|Low Tide City 2021}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Fatality}}, {{Sm|Ned}} and {{Sm|LeoN}}. Ranked as high as 1st on the [[Nebraska Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|VaLoR|USA}} - One of the best Sonic players in the United States. Placed 1st at {{Trn|Speedy Summit 3}}, 9th at {{Trn|LAN King Smash Royale XI}}, 13th at {{Trn|GameTyrant Expo 2019}}, and 17th at both {{Trn|GENESIS 7}} and {{Trn|Super Ascension}} with wins over players like {{Sm|Salem}} and {{Sm|Sinji}}. Ranked 3rd on [[Utah Power Rankings#Super Smash Bros. Ultimate rankings|Utah Ultimate Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|Wrath|USA}} - The best Sonic player in the United States during the early metagame. Placed 1st at {{Trn|Just Roll With It! 12}}, 5th at {{Trn|Frostbite 2020}}, 7th at {{Trn|DreamHack Atlanta 2019}}, 17th at {{Trn|MomoCon 2019}}, and 25th at {{Trn|2GG: Kongo Saga}} with wins over players such as {{sm|Glutonny}}, {{Sm|kameme}}, and {{sm|Tweek}}. Ranked in Area 51 on the [[Fall 2019 PGRU]].

=={{SSBU|Classic Mode}}: At the Speed of Sound==
[[File:SSBU Congratulations Sonic.png|thumb|Sonic's congratulations screen.]]
Sonic's opponents reference characters from a variety of {{uv|Sonic the Hedgehog}} games. Each Round also proceeds in the chronological order of each console generation to feature Sonic, starting from the 4th generation (Sega Genesis) to the 8th generation (Wii U), complete with Rounds 1 through 6 playing music from the ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' series (regardless of what universe the stage originates from). The title of Sonic's Classic Mode route also references a portion of the lyrics of "Escape from the City" from ''Sonic Adventure 2''.
{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
!Round!!Opponent!!Stage!!Music!!Notes
|-
|1||{{CharHead|Fox|SSBU|hsize=20px}}||[[Green Hill Zone]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Green Hill Zone}}''||Fox references [[Miles "Tails" Prower]], a fox who is Sonic's best friend and sidekick.
|-
|2||{{CharHead|Captain Falcon|SSBU|hsize=20px}}||[[Figure-8 Circuit]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Super Sonic Racing}}''||Captain Falcon, the stage, and the music all reference ''Sonic R'', a racing game.
|-
|3||Giant Metal {{CharHead|Sonic|SSBU|hsize=20px}}||[[Fourside]] ([[Ω form]])||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Open Your Heart}}''||The stage and the music likely reference the boss battles against Chaos in ''Sonic Adventure'', particularly the one against Chaos 0. Giant metal Sonic and the stage could also reference the Metal Sonic boss fight at the end of Stardust Speedway Zone in ''Sonic CD''. Giant metal Sonic will also use Sonic's default appearance, albeit while clad in metal, even if the player is also using Sonic's default appearance.
|-
|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}} (×3)||[[Halberd]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Sonic Heroes}}''||The Kirbys represent the character types in ''Sonic Heroes'': Speed (Blue), Flight (Yellow), and Power (Red). The stage 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}}''||Sheik, the stage, and the music 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}}''||Giant Incineroar references Zavok, the leader of The Deadly Six, who debuted in ''Sonic Lost World''.
|-
|colspan="5"|[[Bonus Stage]]
|-
|Final||{{SSBU|Master Hand}}||{{SSBU|Final Destination}}||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Super Smash Bros.|Master Hand}}'' <small>(Less than 7.0 intensity)</small><br>''{{SSBUMusicLink|Super Smash Bros.|Master Hand / Crazy Hand}}'' <small>(Intensity 7.0 or higher)</small>||On intensity 7.0 and higher, {{SSBU|Crazy Hand}} fights alongside Master Hand.
|}

[[Credits]] roll after completing Classic Mode. Completing it as Sonic has ''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Live & Learn}}'' accompany the credits.
{{clr}}

==Role in [[World of Light]]==
[[File:WoL-38Sonic.jpg|thumb|Finding Sonic in World of Light|left]]
Sonic was among the fighters summoned to the cliffside to assist in defeating an army of [[Master Hand]]s.

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 out to 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.

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

===Fighter Battle===
{|class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
!style="width:5%;"|No.
!style="width:5%;"|Image
!Name
!Type
!Power
!Stage
!Music
|-
|38
|[[File:Sonic SSBU.png|center|108x108px]]
|Sonic
|{{SpiritType|Attack}} <center>{{color|#dc1029|Attack}}</center>
|9,800
|[[Green Hill Zone]] ([[Ω form]])
|''{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Green Hill Zone}}''
|}
{{clr}}

==[[Spirit]]s==
Sonic's fighter spirit can be obtained by completing {{SSBU|Classic Mode}}. It is also available periodically for purchase in the shop for 300 Gold, but only after Sonic has been unlocked. 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. His fighter spirit has an alternate version that replaces it with his artwork in ''Ultimate''.

Additionally, Sonic makes an appearance in a few primary spirits in other forms.

<center>
<gallery>
SSBU spirit Sonic the Hedgehog.png|775. '''''Sonic the Hedgehog'''''
SSBU spirit Super Sonic.png|778. Super Sonic
SSBU spirit Sonic the Werehog.png|796. Sonic the Werehog
</gallery>
</center>

==In Spirit Battles==
===As the main opponent===
{|class="wikitable sortable" style="width:100%;"
! colspan=4|Spirit
! colspan=7|Battle parameters
! colspan=1|Inspiration
|-
! style="width:5%;"|No.
! style="width:5%;"|Image
! Name
! Series
! Enemy Fighter(s)
! style="width:5%;"|Type
! style="width:5%;"|Power
! Stage
! Rules
! Conditions
! Music
! Character
|-
|778
|{{SpiritTableName|Super Sonic|link=y|size=64}}
|''Sonic The Hedgehog'' Series
|•Gold {{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Green}}
|{{SpiritType|Grab}}
|13,700
|[[Windy Hill Zone]]
|•Sudden Final Smash
|•The enemy will suddenly have a Final Smash
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Live & Learn}}
|
|-
|780
|{{SpiritTableName|Metal Sonic|link=y|size=64}}
|''Sonic The Hedgehog'' Series
|•Metal {{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Green}} (100 HP)
|{{SpiritType|Shield}}
|4,600
|[[Windy Hill Zone]]
|N/A
|•Timed [[stamina battle]] (2:00)<br>•The enemy is metal<br>•The enemy starts the battle with a [[Rocket Belt]]
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Sonic Heroes}}
|
|-
|782
|{{SpiritTableName|Chaotix|size=64}}
|''Sonic The Hedgehog'' Series
|•{{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Purple}}<br>•{{SSBU|Pichu}} {{Head|Pichu|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Cyan}}<br>•{{SSBU|King K. Rool}} {{Head|King K. Rool|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Blue}}
|{{SpiritType|Grab}}
|1,600
|[[Windy Hill Zone]]
|•Invisibility
|•The enemy is invisible
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Sonic Heroes}}
|[http://sonic.fandom.com/wiki/Espio_the_Chameleon Espio the Chameleon]
|-
|788
|{{SpiritTableName|Shadow the Hedgehog|link=y|size=64}}
|''Sonic The Hedgehog'' Series
|•{{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Cyan}}
|{{SpiritType|Attack}}
|9,100
|[[New Pork City]] ([[Battlefield form]])
|•Assist Trophy Enemies (Shadow)<br>•Item: [[Timer]]
|•The enemy's dash attacks have increased power<br>•Hostile assist trophies will appear<br>•The enemy is easily distracted by items
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Live & Learn}}
|[https://sonic.fandom.com/wiki/Sonic_the_Hedgehog Sonic the Hedgehog]
|-
|795
|{{SpiritTableName|Silver the Hedgehog|link=y|size=64}}
|''Sonic The Hedgehog'' Series
|•{{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=White}}
|{{SpiritType|Attack}}
|3,600
|[[Green Hill Zone]]
|•Item: Throwing Types
|•The enemy starts the battle with a [[Black Hole]]<br>•The enemy is easily distracted by items
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Rooftop Run}}
|
|-
|797
|{{SpiritTableName|Infinite|size=64}}
|''Sonic The Hedgehog'' Series
|•Metal {{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Black}} (140 HP)
|{{SpiritType|Attack}}
|4,400
|[[Big Blue]]
|•Hazard: Screen Flip
|•The screen will suddenly flip after a little while<br>•[[Stamina battle]]<br>•The enemy is metal
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Fist Bump}}
|
|-
|848
|{{SpiritTableName|Able Sisters|size=64}}
|''Animal Crossing'' Series
|•{{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Green}}{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Orange}}{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Purple}}
|{{SpiritType|Attack}}
|9,100
|[[Town and City]]
|N/A
|•The enemy starts the battle with a [[Drill]]
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Animal Crossing|Outdoors at 7 p.m. (Sunny) / Main Street - Animal Crossing: New Leaf}}
|{{iw|Nookipedia|Labelle}}, {{iw|Nookipedia|Mabel}}, and {{iw|Nookipedia|Sabel}}
|-
|1,262
|{{SpiritTableName|Dillon|link=y|size=64}}
|''Dillon's Dead-Heat Breakers''
|•{{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Black}}
|{{SpiritType|Attack}}
|9,800
|[[Midgar]] (hazards off)
|•Assist Trophy Enemies (Dillon)
|•The enemy's special moves have increased power<br>•Hostile assist trophies will appear<br>•The enemy favors special moves
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Other|Frontier Battle}}
|
|-
|1,285
|{{SpiritTableName|Rayman|size=64}}
|''Rayman'' Series
|•{{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Black}} (160 HP)
|{{SpiritType|Neutral}}
|9,100
|[[The Great Cave Offensive]] ([[Battlefield form]])
|•Assist Trophy Enemies ([[Sukapon]])
|•The enemy's physical attacks have increased power<br>•[[Stamina battle]]<br>•Hostile assist trophies will appear
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Sunset Heights}}
|
|}

===As a minion===
{|class="wikitable sortable" style="width:100%;"
! colspan=4|Spirit
! colspan=7|Battle parameters
! colspan=1|Inspiration
|-
! style="width:5%;"|No.
! style="width:5%;"|Image
! Name
! Series
! Enemy Fighter(s)
! style="width:5%;"|Type
! style="width:5%;"|Power
! Stage
! Rules
! Conditions
! Music
! Character
|-
|776
|{{SpiritTableName|Dr. Eggman|link=y|size=64}}
|''Sonic The Hedgehog'' Series
|•[[Bowser Jr. (SSBU)|Roy]] {{Head|Bowser Jr.|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Roy}}<br>•Metal {{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Green}}
|{{SpiritType|Grab}}
|13,200
|[[Green Hill Zone]]
|•[[Bob-omb]] Festival<br>•Item: Shooting Types
|•Bob-ombs will rain from the sky after a little while<br>•The enemy's shooting items have increased power<br>•Items will be pulled toward the enemy
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Sonic The Hedgehog|Green Hill Zone}}
|[https://sonic.fandom.com/wiki/Metal_Sonic Metal Sonic]
|-
|1,087
|{{SpiritTableName|Nico Fire|size=64}} {{Flag|North America}}<br>Nico Flame {{Flag|PAL}}
|''StreetPass Mii Plaza'' Series
|•{{SSBU|Ness}} {{Head|Ness|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Green}}<br>•{{SSBU|Fox}} {{Head|Fox|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Black}}<br>•{{SSBU|Sonic}} {{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Purple}}
|{{SpiritType|Attack}}
|1,500
|[[Big Blue]]
|•Uncontrollable Speed
|•All fighters move faster and can't stop quickly
|{{SSBUMusicLink|Other|Wii Sports Resort}}
|StreetPass Cats
|}

==[[Alternate costume (SSBU)#Sonic|Alternate Costumes]]==
{|style="margin:1em auto 1em auto;text-align:center"
|-
|colspan=8|[[File:Sonic Palette (SSBU).png|link=Palette swap (SSBU)#Sonic|1000px]]
|-
|{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=50px}}
|{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=50px|cl=Purple}}
|{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=50px|cl=Cyan}}
|{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=50px|cl=White}}
|{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=50px|cl=Black}}
|{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=50px|cl=Yellow}}
|{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=50px|cl=Orange}}
|{{Head|Sonic|g=SSBU|s=50px|cl=Green}}
|}

==Gallery==
<gallery>
Sonic artwork.jpg|Sonic artwork, as posted on the official Japanese Sega Twitter account.
SSBU Sonic Number.png|Sonic's fighter card.
Sonic unlock notice SSBU.jpg|Sonic's unlock notice.
SSBUWebsiteSonic1.jpg|Sonic [[idling]] on [[Wrecking Crew]].
SSBUWebsiteSonic2.jpg|[[Running]] on [[Mushroomy Kingdom]].
SSBUWebsiteSonic3.jpg|Attacking {{SSBU|R.O.B.}} with his [[up tilt]] on [[Skyworld]].
SSBUWebsiteSonic4.jpg|Coming to a halt before a [[Shy Guy]] on [[Mario Circuit (SSBB)|Figure-8 Circuit]].
SSBUWebsiteSonic5.jpg|Attacking {{SSBU|Shulk}} with [[Spin Charge]] on [[Mario Galaxy]].
SSBUWebsiteSonic6.jpg|With one of {{SSBU|Bayonetta}}'s butterflies on Skyworld.
SSBUWebsiteFalco3.jpg|Running with {{SSBU|Falco}} on [[Prism Tower]].
SSBUWebsiteOlimar2.jpg|With {{SSBU|Olimar}}, {{SSBU|Pac-Man}}, and {{SSBU|Mario}} on [[Gaur Plain]].
SSBUWebsiteRobin3.jpg|Sonic and {{SSBU|Villager}} getting hit by {{SSBU|Robin}}'s down smash on [[Wily Castle]].
SSBUWebsiteDeath'sScythe1.jpg|Sonic holding [[Death's Scythe]] on the [[Bridge of Eldin]].
SSBUWebsiteKnuckles3.jpg|Sonic and [[Knuckles]] posing on [[Palutena's Temple]].
KnucklesSmashUltimate.png|Sonic and Knuckles posing on [[Garden of Hope]].
SSBUWebsite14.jpg|Idling on [[Distant Planet]].
</gallery>

===Fighter Showcase Video===
{{#widget:YouTube|id=138MW7zOw0M}}

==Trivia==
[[File:SonicUltimateMoviePose.jpeg|thumb|Sonic recreating his ''Ultimate'' render pose in the 2020 ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' film.]]
*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 persists even if Sonic auto-cancels his down aerial by using it from high enough as stated by the tip.
**This tip is recycled from ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]'', where it is correct, as Spring Jump in said game does not incur additional landing lag.
***It could, however, mean that 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 ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate''.
*Sonic's stock icon in ''Ultimate'' bears a striking resemblance to several logos and icons in the {{uv|Sonic the Hedgehog}} series, namely:
**The logo on the box art of ''{{s|wikipedia|Sonic & Knuckles}}''.
**The logo for {{s|wikipedia|Sonic Team}}.
**Sonic's [[mariowiki:File:MyS emblem Sonic.png|character icon]] in some ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' spin-off games.
**The [https://sonic.wikia.com/wiki/File:One_up_sonic_dif.png life icon and 1-ups] in ''{{s|wikipedia|Sonic Unleashed}}'' (when Sonic is not in his Werehog form), as well as [https://sonic.wikia.com/wiki/File:Cmn_obj_oneup_dif_SD.png the 1-ups] from ''{{s|wikipedia|Sonic Colors}}''.
***It is also one of six to show the character's eyes, the others being {{SSBU|R.O.B.}}, {{SSBU|Kirby}}, {{SSBU|Meta Knight}}, [[Steve (SSBU)|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 fighters 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 is the only sole third-party fighter with this distinction.
*Sonic and {{SSBU|Mega Man}} are the only third-party fighters whose respective series features more than one [[Knuckles the Echidna|assist]] [[Shadow the Hedgehog|trophy]].
*Sonic's shoes and cuffs in his Player 7 and Player 8 alternate costumes were swapped in the transition from ''Smash 4'' to ''Ultimate'', but his fur color was not.
*Unlike other installments in the ''Super Smash Bros.'' series, Sonic slowly receives damage if he falls in any body of water, which is a nod to his inability to [[swim]] in his own series.
**This makes Sonic the only third-party fighter to have this trait.
*''Ultimate'' is the first game where Sonic was the first third-party character announced. {{SSBB|Snake}} was announced before him in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', and {{SSB4|Mega Man}} was announced before him in ''Smash 4''.
*Sonic is one of only four fighters to face a metal opponent in Classic Mode, facing a giant metal version of himself. The others are {{SSBU|Bowser}} (who faces [[Metal Mario]] upon normal Mario's defeat in the Final Round), {{SSBU|Kazuya}} (who faces a metal version of himself upon defeating his normal self in the Final Round), and {{SSBU|Sora}} (who faces a metal version of himself in the Round 6).
*Interestingly, {{SSBU|Little Mac}} is absent from Sonic's Classic Mode route despite possessing the 3rd fastest dashing speed in the game.
*Sonic is the only fighter who travels to [[Green Hill Zone]] and [[Figure-8 Circuit]] in Classic Mode.
*Prior to update 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 edge, Sonic would be instantly sent into the horizontal blast line.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyylKx0Jgg8</ref>
*As is the case with ''Smash 4'', Sonic's snoring and surfacing voice clips are taken directly from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', in which he was voiced by Jason Griffith, despite otherwise being voiced by Roger Craig Smith.
**Also, like in ''Smash 4'', Jason Griffith is uncredited in the credits.
**These voice clips are also used in the French, Italian, German, and Spanish versions of the game, as Sonic was not voiced in these languages in ''Brawl''.
*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.
*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 one used by [[Shadow the Hedgehog]] as an Assist Trophy.
*Sonic's pose in his official ''Ultimate'' render has been [[List of Super Smash Bros. references in other franchises|referenced]] in at least three later sources of media:
**In the 2020 film, ''{{iw|wikipedia|Sonic the Hedgehog|film}}'', Sonic avoids one of Dr. Robotnik's attacks while striking a very similar pose to his official ''Ultimate'' render. According to Sonic's voice actor in the film, {{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>
***This pose is additionally referenced in the 2022 sequel film, ''{{iw|wikipedia|Sonic the Hedgehog 2|film}}'', in a dance scene.
**In a promotional image of the collaboration between the ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' series and the 2020 action game ''{{iw|wikipedia|Ninjala}}'', Berecca (who wears a Sonic costume) strikes a pose identical to Sonic's official ''Ultimate'' render.<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 fighter unlocked in [[The Dark Realm]] with a power level lower than 10,000.
*When Sonic gets KO'd in [[Stamina Mode]], his downed pose is similar to the pose he strikes in his 3D games when he is hit by an enemy while lacking Rings.
*When fighting off the fifty puppet fighter army as Master Hand in World of Light, Sonic is one of the eight fighters fought there, being affiliated with Dharkon.
*If Sonic's size changes due to a [[Super Mushroom]], [[Poison Mushroom]], or something else while charging [[Homing Attack]], Sonic will no longer gain height.
*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''". The official Sonic Twitter page [https://twitter.com/sonic_hedgehog/status/1407383749377945602?s=20 referenced this meme] when an official ''Minecraft'' collaboration with the ''Sonic the Hedgehog'' series occurred.

==Notes==
:1.{{note|a}}translates to "Circle Throw"

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{SSBUCharacters}}
{{Sonic universe}}
[[Category:Sonic (SSBU)| ]]
[[Category:Third-party characters]]
[[Category:Sega]]
[[Category:Spirits]]
[[es:Sonic (SSBU)]]
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