It’s time to Live and Learn, Sonic fans. The first official trailer for the highly-anticipated “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” hasbeen released. In it, we see our first glimpse atKeanu Reeves, known for his roles in “The Matrix” and “John Wick”, as Shadow the Hedgehog, Sonic’s longtime rival.
An official synopsis can be found below:
Sonic the Hedgehog returns to the big screen this holiday season in his most thrilling adventure yet. Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails reunite against a powerful new adversary, Shadow, a mysterious villain with powers unlike anything they have faced before. With their abilities outmatched in every way, Team Sonic must seek out an unlikely alliance in hopes of stopping Shadow and protecting the planet.
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All Hail Shadow
For those who don’t know, Shadow the Hedgehog is a playable character introduced as the antagonist/anti-hero in Sonic Adventure 2. Since his first appearance, he’s become a staple of the series, even getting his own titular video game for the PlayStation 2. Shadow is also set to co-leadSonic x Shadow Generations, releasing this Fall. This will be the first time the character has been brought to live-action.
Keanu, a Canadian actor, got his shot in the spotlight as Ted in the “Bill and Ted” comedy film franchise. He proceeded to rise into fame, specifically in the action genre, with movies like “Point Break”, “Speed”, and “Johnny Mneumonic”. However, it was his portrayal of Neo in “The Matrix” films that cemented him as an icon in the film industry. Modern audiences will know Keanu more for his leading role as the titular John Wick in the action series of the same name. Plus, he’s no newcomer to gamers, as he portrayed rocker Johnny Silverhand inCyberpunk 2077and delivered a ‘breathtaking’ monologue at Xbox’s E3 showcase in 2019.

The action star isn’t the only new face to the franchise. “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” isalso bringing aboard"Jessica Jones" actress Krysten Ritter, “Ted Lasso” actor Cristo Fernández, and “The Lonely Island” member Jorma Taccone, just to name a few. He’ll be joined by “Parks & Rec” actor Ben Schwartz as Sonic, original Tails actress Colleen O’Shaughnessey, “Luther” (andCyberpunk 2077: Phantom Libertyco-star) actor Idris Elba as Knuckles, and, coming back from retirement,Jim Carreyas Dr. Robotnik and, seemingly, Gerald Robotnik.
Both Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic the Hedgehog 2 can be streamed on Paramount+.

Recently, Paramount+ debutedKnuckles, a television series staring everyone’s favorite red Echidna warrior. While the reviews were a bit shaky for the project, it still shows how successful the movies have been, despite thescary beginning. As a big Sonic fan myself, the film coinciding with the release of Sonic x Shadow Generations is enough to spring me back into high gear for the franchise.
“Sonic the Hedgehog 3" speeds onto the big screen on December 20th, 2024. Meanwhile, Sonic x Shadow Generations spin-dashes to Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S on October 22. Pre-orders are availablenow.

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Sonic X Shadow Generations
THE RETURN OF SHADOWIn this new standalone campaign, Shadow’s nemesis, Black Doom, has reemerged and threatens to take over the world once again. Shadow must journey into his past, confront his painful memories, and unlock new dark powers to save the world.SHADOW EVOLVEDHarness Shadow’s new Doom Powers to battle hordes of enemies and tackle platforming challenges like never before. Surf on water, fly over obstacles, and stop time with the return of Chaos Control!A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME AND DIMENSIONSExperience the ultimate showdown between Shadow and Black Doom in a new boss battle that will test your skills and reflexes. Use all of Shadow’s abilities to defeat Black Doom and save the world!EXPLORE THE NEW WHITE SPACEStretch your legs in an all-new hub world inspired by the open-zone gameplay of Sonic Frontiers. As Shadow gains new powers, he can explore further and uncover the secrets hidden throughout!

