Preview: Sonic Universe #71

There’s danger lurking in your gadgets for this Christmas time.

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The initial spark has been lit for Sonic Universe #71 to kick off its new tale, and Comic Book Resources has a preview of it. When Nicole is suddenly summoned to the digital world, Tails, Sally and Big head to Isolated Island to get the low-down. Meeting with one Dr Ellidy, he appears to have quite a connection to Sally and Nicole’s lives. But they’re not there for tea and biscuits; there are monsters afoot, perhaps more than they anticipated, and one in particular seems to have its eyes on the AI Lynx. This is “Spark of Life”: part 1;

STORY BY: Ian Flynn, Aleah Baker
ART BY: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash
COLORS BY: Matt Herms
LETTERS BY: Jack Morelli
COVER BY: Tracy Yardley, Ben Hunzeker, Rafa Knight
PUBLISHER: Archie Comics
COVER PRICE: $3.99
RELEASE DATE: Wed, December 24th, 2014
ALL-NEW STORY ARC! “Spark of Life” Part One: Nicole detects a distress signal from the Digital World—but how can that be if nobody is supposed to know about the Digital World?! Sally, Tails and Big must travel to Isolated Island to answer the call for help! Who is Dr. Ellidy? And in what way does he link the lives of Sally and Nicole? Featuring a stunning new cover by Tracy Yardley and “Web Lynx” Variant cover art by rising Sonic star Rafa Knight!

Sonic Universe #71 came out on Christmas Eve. With the presents and the turkey out of the way, now would be a great time to pick it up if you were too busy preparing for the big day!

Source: Comic Book Resources

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Solicitations for Sonic the Hedgehog #271, Sonic Universe #74, Sonic Boom #6 and More

I don’t know if there will be saints with this particular band of March.

To send off the last few days of 2014, it’s time to look at Atchie updates that have come throughout December. For today, we have solicitations for March/April courtesy of Arcade Sushi. First off, the Blue Blur and Rad Red are facing off for the final round in Sonic the Hedghehog #271, and the prize is a Chaos Emerald and the world’s safety. But with several baddies also around for a scrap, this probably isn’t going to be a fair in “Champions”: part 4;

Sonic271

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #271
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Diana Skelly, Terry Austin, John Workman and Gabriel Cassata
Cover: Tracy Yardley, Terry Austin and Ben Hunzeker
Arcade Variant: RAFA KNIGHT
Grab a front row seat for the finale to the brawl-iest, punch-iest, contest-iest Sonic comic saga yet! “Champions” Part Four: It’s the battle you’ve all been waiting for (again!): Sonic versus Knuckles—for the title and the Chaos Emerald! The old rivalry blazes to life as the True Blue and Rad Red throw down for glory—and for the fate of the entire world! But with the vengeful Hooligans waiting in the shadows, and Metal Sonic en route, will they even get to finish their fight, or will their foes beat them to the punch? Featuring new cover art from Sonic art legend Tracy Yardley and a super-special new ARCADE VARIANT by the latest Sonic art superstar RAFA KNIGHT!
Ship Date: 3/25
On Sale Date: 4/8
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Another Sonic story is reaching its final level in Sonic Universe #74. With Phage still at large and dangerous, Tails and Big still under assault from mooks, and Nicole’s artificial life on the line, the weight of the situation falls on Sally to save the day, but what cost will that bring? Find out in “Spark of Life”: part 4;

SonicUniv74

SONIC UNIVERSE #74
Script: Aleah Baker
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash and Ben Hunzeker
TAILS Variant cover art provided by SEGA
The final showdown for the fate of the digital realm is HERE! “Spark of Life” Part Four: It’s pandemonium aplenty in this conclusion to the stunning “Spark of Life” story arc! Who, or what, is Phage? Introductions aren’t necessary—she’s creating havoc for our heroes anyway! Tails and Big—menaced by badniks and Dark Gaia Monsters alike! A Chaos Emerald—about to fall into enemy hands! Nicole—on the brink of deletion! Will Sally sacrifice it all to save her friends and the world? Only the dramatic conclusion to SPARK OF LIFE can tell! Featuring cover art from Sonic comic artist extraordinaire Tracy Yardley, and a special SEGA-art TAILS variant cover!
Ship Date: 3/4
On Sale Date: 3/18
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Next in Sonic Boom #6, we go karting with Eggman as he sponsors a race around the island. The rules are simple and fair, but rules are made to be broken, especially when there’s probably an evil plot to break! Ponder if there really will be Sonic R references in the story in “Everybody’s Super Sonic Racing”: part 1;

SonicBoom6

SONIC BOOM #6
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Ryan Jampole, Jennifer Hernandez, Rick Bryant, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Tracy Yardley and Matt Herms
BOOM-CREW Variant cover art provided by Sega
What…What is that sound? No, really—what on earth is that noise? Waitaminute… is that the sound of go-karts??? IT… IT—IS! LET THE RACE BEGIN IN “EVERYBODY’S SUPER SONIC RACING” PART ONE! (IS THE CAPS LOCK STILL ON, OH WAITAMINUTE, there we go. Much better.) When Dr. Eggman sponsors a go-kart race around Sonic’s Island home, you know that dude is up to no good. The rules are as follows: no special powers, no weapons, and everyone has to drive a kart to keep things fair. Since when does Eggy care about “fair”? What will happen to throw this race into a SPIN? How many rhetorical questions can we ask in one paragraph of solicit text?? Find out in this hyperbole-packed issue! Featuring cover art from Sonic comic extraordinaire Tracy Yardley, plus a new BOOM-Crew Sega art variant!
On Sale Date: 4/1
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

In Sonic Super Special Magazine #14, the upcoming crossover Worlds Unite gets a prequel story to lead us into it. A strange energy signature crops up on Sonic’s World, and it seems like suspicious news for the heroes’ efforts to resolved the shattered world crisis, and could even have a big impact on Worlds Unite itself! Along with “The Genesis Portal”, there’s a slew of other features and stories, including a selection from the first crossover, Worlds Collide;

SONSS14

SONIC SUPER SPECIAL MAGAZINE #14
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Lamar Wells, Rick Bryant, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Ben Bates
As Archie Action Comics races toward the WORLDS UNITE crossover event, prepare yourself with an all-new prequel tale: THE GENESIS PORTAL! When a strange energy signature appears on Sonic’s shattered world, what could it mean for our heroes and their fight to save the planet? And what ominous implications will this have for the WORLDS UNITE event? Featuring new story and art from the superstar Archie Sonic team! The SONIC SUPER SPECIAL MAGAZINE gives you the world of Sonic the Hedgehog comics as you’ve never seen it before, with tons of comic stories, special features and exclusive articles on the latest and greatest in the world of everyone’s favorite blue hedgehog-hero! This issue also features a special encore selection from the history-making “WORLDS COLLIDE” storyline, and much, much more! All this plus the extra features you love, an interview with Sonic newcomer Diana Skelly AND a super special shiny foil-enhanced cover featuring art by Sonic comic superstar Ben Bates!
On Sale Date: 3/11
128-page, full color comic
$9.99 U.S.

Finally, Sonic the Hedgehog graphic novel #3 covers Waves of Change. Dive back under the waters to see the complete tale of how Sonic, Amy and Rotor cleared the name of the local priestess and saved Meropis from the grasp of Dark Gaia’s influence;

STHGNvol3

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3: WAVES OF CHANGE (TR)
Script: Ian Flynn, Aleah Baker
Art: Jennifer Hernandez, Tracy Yardley, Ryan Jampole, Evan Stanley, Terry Austin, John Workman, Matt Herms and Gabriel Cassata
Cover: Ben Bates
The new Sonic comic universe is here! Moving at the speed of sound, keeping the world free from robotic tyranny—it’s SONIC THE HEDGEHOG! One of the oldest, most beloved video game icons speeds into brand new comic book stories with new friends, new foes and new adventures! In this volume of this new graphic novel series, Sonic is on the hunt for the seven Gaia Temples. Only their mysterious power can restore his world to normal! His quest takes him to places he’s never been before—such as the bottom of the ocean! Join Sonic, Amy and Rotor as they encounter a whole new undersea world full of new friends, foes and monsters from the deep! SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3: WAVES OF CHANGE collects SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #260-263.
978-1-62738-939-6
$12.99/$14.99CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16”
TR
104 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 4/8

We will have more on all of these comics closer to their release. Stay tuned in the next couple of days for comic previews of December releases.

Source: Arcade Sushi

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World’s Collide 2: Sonic Vs Sonic Boom Vs Mega Man, Vs Mega Man X

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Oh my goodness, what is happening?

According to IGN UK, the sequel to the Sonic Vs Mega Man comic book Worlds Unite will not just star the Sega Sonic and Mega Man cast, but will also include Sonic Boom and Mega Man X.

The only other bit of information given was that the storyline is set to begin around Spring of 2015.

Are you excited?

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Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog #267

Christmas in a tropical jungle? That’s this month’s issue for you.

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The festive season may be upon us, but this climax is set to be electrifying, and Comicosity has a glimpse into the pages. In Sonic the Hedgehog #267, Sonic has just about learned how to use his furry (furrier, anyway) new form to his advantage. And not a moment too soon either; Sally, Antoine and Bunnie have found themselves in a spot of bother with not only three E100 series models on their tails, but an angry and vengeful little Egg Boss in the shape of Thunderbolt the Chinchilla! Not only will the heroes have to pitch in to stave off the situation, there’s some nasty surprises still around the corner in “Ambushed”: part 2.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #267
Written by: Ian Flynn
Art by: Jamal Peppers, Evan Stanley, Terry Austin, John Workman, Gabriel Cassata
Published by: Archie Comics
Release Date: December 10, 2014
The THUNDEROUS conclusion to the latest Sonic story arc crashes to a close at LIGHTNING speed! “Ambushed!” Part Two: Sonic’s gotten himself into a hairy situation! The savage Werehog threatens to erupt from within, and the vengeful Egg Boss Thunderbolt attacks from without! What’s a cursed hedgehog to do? Unfortunately he won’t get by with a little help from his friends—the Freedom Fighters are far too busy fighting for their lives against three killer E-100 robots! Don’t miss the explosive ending featuring cover art by Stanley, Austin and Hunzeker, plus a hilarious new “Holiday Havoc!” variant cover with pencils by the latest Sonic artist extraordinaire Jennifer Hernandez!

Sonic #267 is out now in comic stores and on digital formats. Swing by your preferred source to catch the action…and watch out for trees.

Source: Comicosity

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Preview: Sonic Boom #2

It was a friction between friends waiting to go…uh, boom.

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Comic Book Resources has a preview for the latest issue of Sonic Boom, and there is treachery afoot! Following from the debut issue’s hijinks, Sonic and the team are out again for some old-fashioned Dr. Eggman beating good times. But there’s traitorship amongst the team that’s going to halt them in their tracks if they can’t get it resolved. And they’ll need to be more diplomatic if they ever hope of doing that. This is “Knuckleduster”.

Get ready for the BOOM, baby! The NEW HIT ONGOING SONIC COMIC BOOK SERIES from Archie Comics continues here with Sonic Boom #2: Knuckleduster! Race along at Sonic speed with the blue blur and his pals Tails, Knuckles, Amy Rose and the newest edition to the team—STICKS! But is there a traitor in our heroes’ midst? Say it ain’t so! Find out in this sensational second issue, featuring explosive new cover art from Sonic art legend Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante, and a super-special “SONIC SPOTLIGHT” variant cover by artist T.REX! Be sure to pick up this next exciting chapter and own a piece of Sonic comic history!
STORY BY: Ian Flynn
ART BY: Evan Stanley, Rick Bryant
COLORS BY: Matt Herms
LETTERS BY: Jack Morelli
COVER BY: Patrick Spaziante
PUBLISHER: Archie Comics
COVER PRICE:: $3.99
RELEASE DATE: Wed, December 3rd, 2014

Sonic Boom #2 is out in stores and digitally later today. Pick up a copy of the newest addition to the brand new comic line for yourself!

Source: Comic Book Resources

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Covers and Solicitations for Sonic the Hedgehog #270, Sonic Universe #73, Sonic Boom #5 and More Revealed

Bring on the…Zap, for this batch.

Midtown Comics brings us another dose of new covers and solicitations for the Sonic comic, and a holographic Freedom Fighter gets to shine in the side stories. In Sonic the Hedgehog #270, the tournament continues with heads butting heads. Not one to be passive, Eggman throws in Metal Sonic to spice things up, but what link does Breezie have to the machine? This is “Champions”: part 3.

sonic#270

(W) Ian Flynn (A/CA) Terry Austin & Various
‘Champions,’ Part 3. The battle for the Chaos Emerald is reaching a fevered pitch! Hero versus hero! Villain versus villain! Will Dr. Eggman be content to play by the rules? Will Metal Sonic come in and shake things up? And what exactly is the secret history between Metal Sonic and casino mogul Breezie? All of the answers await you in this thrilling, penultimate chapter! Featuring all-new cover art from one of the newest Sonic superstars Jennifer Hernandez, plus a special ‘Marvel at the Showdown’ variant cover by the incomparable Brent McCarthy!

Nicole’s story continues in Sonic Universe #73. Dr Ellidy reveals the origins of Nicole, and it’s not exactly a happy affair. What else isn’t happy is the emergence of new enemy Phage, an entity in the digital world who wants to cause terror across the real world as well, and Nicole is in its way! See if Tails and the gang can save her from this new threat in “Spark of Life”: part 3.

sonicu#73

(W) Aleah Baker (A) Jim Amash & Various (CA) Tracy Yardley
It starts with a spark! ‘Spark of Life,’ Part 3. Shocking truths are exposed as Dr. Ellidy reveals the tragic origin of the beloved A.I., Nicole! Meanwhile, Phage erupts from the shadows of the Digital World to sew chaos on the island! Can our heroes rally to save Nicole and drive off this new threat? Night is falling, and terrible monsters are closing in! Don’t miss this exciting next chapter in the latest Sonic Universe epic, featuring all-new cover art from Sonic artist supreme Tracy Yardley, and a special new ‘EXTREME BFFs’ variant cover from My Little Pony artist Agnes Garbowska!

 

Sonic Boom #5 has Eggman try to bolster his popularity by setting up a carnival called ‘Eggtoberfest’. The only problem is that there’s nobody around to help him run the place, but fortunately he has rescue from the predicament in the form of…Sonic? Let the mind quiz away until the release of “Eggtoberfest”.

sonic boom #5

(W) Bill Freiberger (A) Matt Herms & Various (CA) Patrick Spaz Spaziante
Sonic Boom is your antidote to comics that lack amaze-ma-tude! Eggtoberfest! Dr. Eggman’s sick and tired of no one trusting him! How on earth can he take advantage of people if they don’t trust him to begin with? The answer? Eggtoberfest! Just one small problem: the mechanical master forgot to hire ride operators for his carnivorous carnival creation! So it’s Sonic to the rescue! If a good guy helps a bad guy, is that ‘helping’ at all? Ponder this and other philosophical queries in the latest action-packed issue of Sonic Boom, written by Sonic Boom TV Series writer Bill Freiberger! Featuring cover art from Patrick ‘SPAZ’ Spaziante and an X-RAY variant from the newest superstar Diana Skelly!

Sonic Super Digest #11 brings up the AI Lynx again in a bit of fortuitous timing. Learn even more about her history, and get a selection of stories from previous Sonic comics.

ssd#11

(W) Ian Flynn (A/CA) Lamar Wells & Various
Featuring an all-new edition of Sonic Comic Origins spotlighting the heroic artificial intelligence known as Nicole! This new story serves as both an introduction to the character as well as a side story to the ‘Spark of Life’ arc concurrently occurring in Sonic Universe! But that’s not all! Don’t miss all the classic fun and adventure you love in stories from the comics’ 20+ year history as Sonic and his friends embark on daring adventures, face evil villains and save the day one chili dog at a time! Spin into the fun that only Archie Comics and Sonic Super Digest can bring! Plus new cover art from Sonic rising star Lamar Wells!

Finally, the Sonic Universe graphic novels get into a flap as the Babylon Rogues get to centre stage. Sonic Universe GN #9 revists Babylon Rising (SU#33-36), as Jet and his band of thieves not only have to go against Sonic for the treasure, but the entire Battlebird Armada!

sugn#9

(W) Tracy Yardley (A) Tracy Yardley & Various (CA) Tracy Yardley, Ben Hunzeker
Explore the characters, worlds and dimensions of Sonic’s comic book universe in the wildly successful Sonic The Hedgehog spin-off series! Sonic the Hedgehog is the fastest thing on land, but the ruthless Babylon Rogues are the fastest things in the air! And they need to be, with the sinister Battle Bird Armada close on their tail-feathers! An age-old feud leads to hidden treasure, a buried city, and a startling revelation from beyond the stars! Sonic and Jet race to the finish in this game-changing storyline! Babylon Rising collects issues #33-36 of the Sonic Universe comic book.

We will have more on these comics closer to their release.

Source: Midtown Comics

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Preview: Sonic Universe #70

A year’s worth of comic stories draws to an end in this shattering finale!

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This month’s Sonic Universe is out today, and Comic Book Resources has the preview pages for the end of the comic arc trilogy. In Sonic Universe #70, Knuckles and Shadow are still duking it out, and the rest of the team aren’t enough to keep Eclipse and his Dark Arms away from the Master Emerald! It’s time to focus on the imminent issue at hand, but despite the combined cunning of the two rivals, it may be too late to prevent drastic action that will bring said Master Emerald and Angel Island into broken peril. The Dark trilogy reaches its action-packed conclusion in “Total Eclipse”: part 4.

The FIRST EVER SONIC UNIVERSE TRILOGY reaches its stunning conclusion in “Total Eclipse” Part Four!
Knuckles and Shadow must end their duel—because Eclipse has escaped with the Master Emerald! Can the two chaos-fueled warriors stand up to the power of the Dark Arms? Knuckles may be forced into the one choice he doesn’t want to make! Don’t miss the sense-shattering finale that will change the shattered world crisis and the Sonic comic landscape as we know it!
Featuring stunning new cover art from Yardley, Amash and Hunzeker, plus an awesome SEGA art variant featuring two of the biggest “Total Eclipse” stars: Knuckles and Rouge!
STORY BY: Ian Flynn
ART BY: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash
COLORS BY: Matt Herms
LETTERS BY: Jack Morelli
COVER BY: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Ben Hunzeker
PUBLISHER: Archie Comics
COVER PRICE: $3.99
RELEASE DATE: Wed, November 19th, 2014

Sonic Universe #70 is out in comic stores and digital formats now. Make sure not to miss the end of this epic saga!

Source: Comic Book Resources

The Sonic Stadium may link to retailers and earn a small commission on purchases made from users who click those links. These links will only appear in articles related to the product, in an unobtrusive manner, and do not influence our editorial decisions in any way.

Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog #266

Moss Miyagi teaches us a valuable lesson; “Werehog on, Werehog off”.

Sonic_266-0

Sonic the Hedgehog #266 is out today, and Comicosity has a little look at the preview. In this month’s issue, Sonic is staying with Moss, Mighty and Ray following his outburst as the Werehog. He wants to control that fearsome beast, but what kind of help can his current allies provide for him when he’s already got abilities aplenty? A little bit of zen philosophy, it seems! Meanwhile, Sally takes her own little band of heroes to retrieve another Chaos Emerald, but something sure seems off around their parts. This is all part of “Ambushed”: part 1.

Brand new STORY ARC! “Ambushed!”
Part One: Sonic’s in need of some inner-peace…but it’s going to take more than yoga and meditation! He seeks the guidance of Mighty the Armadillo’s mentor, Moss the Sloth. Can the sage help Sonic tame the savage Werehog within? Meanwhile, Sally leads the Freedom Fighters in recovering a Chaos Emerald—but could she be leading them right into a trap? Featuring all-new cover art from Lamar Wells, Terry Austin and Ben Hunzeker, and part 3 of a 3-part connecting “SUPER SMASH” collector cover set! Collect all 3 covers with Mega Man #42 and Sonic Universe #69!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash and Ben Hunzeker
“SUPER SMASH” Collector Cover: Rafa Knight
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

The comic should be out in stores and on digital formats later in the day. Contemplate a purchase if you want.

Source: Comicosity

 

The Sonic Stadium may link to retailers and earn a small commission on purchases made from users who click those links. These links will only appear in articles related to the product, in an unobtrusive manner, and do not influence our editorial decisions in any way.

My Favourite Fleetway: Knuckles Village of the Damned Part 2

Due to a combination of Sonic the Comic Con and my own laziness, Part 3 has been delayed for a bit, for now, enjoy Part 2.

knuckleswicker5

*dresses up as a vampire and emerges from behind the sofa with a scary put on deep voice*

Hello my children! It’s Halloween! And what better way to celebrate the night of ghosts and goblins by gathering around the campfire to share a scary story, today we continue our tale of conspiracy and horror as we look at a scary tale from the pages of Sonic the Comic.

Come closer as we turn the pages of Knuckles Village of the Damned Part 2! And be sure to check out Part 1 if you have not already done so… we’ll be waiting!

knucklesvillage1

We begin as we left off, Knuckles awakens, confused as he spots a strange parade in the streets below where a young woman is tied to a huge stone being led through the streets. As she begs for help, take note of her clothing why don’t you? And the costumes that the villages are wearing, again we see a small homage to classic horror, as in the previous issue, The Wicker Man makes another appearance.


knucklesvillagewolf

There is one nice inclusion here on the first page too, when Knuckles dives through the window, the artist has included a large full moon behind knuckles which although technically it’s not possible for Knuckles to be in this position with the moon directly behind him. I suspect this is another homage to something, not entirely sure what since the image of a hero or a defiant image in front of a large moon is used to much, whilst I want to say ‘An American Werewolf In London” this image of the moon overshadowing a character is used a lot over a wide range of media, Dracula, Frankenstein, The Wolfman, even other comic book heroes such as Batman have used it.

knucklesvillagewicker2

As Knuckles rescues the girl we see in the background one of the villagers, another homage to The Wicker Man, you may have noticed this individual with the sun mask like face, he bears a striking resemblance to Christopher Lee’s character, Lord Summerisle. Don’t believe me? See for yourself. This character shall play an interesting role later in this story, keep that in mind for part 3.

With Knuckles and the girl on the run, they take refuge inside a barn, whilst no direct parallel here, it reminds me personally of a scene from a zombie movie, in which the heroes are trapped in a remote farmhouse with the zombie hoard outside. Or something like the movie Critters which also features a similar looking barn early in the movie, and least we forget something scary like the Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

knuckleswicker2

After some time resting, Knuckles is woken up by the angry villagers, how did they find him? In his sleep the girl told them where he was hiding. We now discover that the girl was in on the whole scheme, whilst the plot is a direct parallel to The Wicker Man, as Howie discovers that the girl he’s been trying to save is in on the conspiracy and he is actually to be made the sacrifice, there is another small reference here. Lots of old horror movies had a classic ‘angry mob.’ Most famously found in Frankenstein, what characteristics do these mobs have? Grab your pitchforks and sharp farming tools and head towards the monster my children.

knuckleswicker3

In a piece of dialogue almost identical to that of the Wicker Man, we discover that the villagers plan to sacrifice Knuckles in order to improve their crops. And as with Howie in The Wicker Man, Knuckle’s pleas and protests fall on death ears as he’s lead to the Wicker Egg.

knuckleswicker4

And so Part 2 ends my children, will unlike Howie, will Knuckles escape his fate in the Wicker Egg? Or will he too face the fires and burn? What other references and homages will be found inside the pages of part 3? Join me next time as we find out.

When will part 3 come? Very soon, but wait? It’s not Halloween month any more you say? Well my children, at the end of some stories… Halloween never ends! Ah-HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

Happy Halloween!

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Preview: Sonic Universe #69

I’m not saying aliens did it…actually, I totally am.

SonicUniverse_69-0-650x1007

Sonic Universe #69 is out today, and Comic Crusader has a peek into the pages. This month, Knuckles and Shadow finally clash over the fate of the Master Emerald in the wake of the Shattered World Crisis. While our heroes and semi-heroes are struggling to work together, Eclipse is preparing for another attack, this time armed with the wispy Dark Arms! What tricks does he have up his shed sleeves this time? Find out in “Total Eclipse”: part 3.

The FIRST EVER Sonic Universe trilogy rolls on in “Total Eclipse” Part Three! As the DARK TRILOGY inches closer to its shocking conclusion, it’s a no holds barred battle between Knuckles and Shadow for the fate of Angel Island and the Master Emerald! As Sonic’s top rivals clash, the rest of Team Dark and Relic are attacked by Eclipse and the terrifying power of the Dark Arms! Featuring all-new cover art from Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash and Ben Hunzeker, and part 1 of a 3-part connecting “SUPER SMASH” collector cover set! Collect all 3 covers with Mega Man #42 and Sonic the Hedgehog #266!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash and Ben Hunzeker
“SUPER SMASH” Collector Cover (pt 1 of 3): Rafa Knight
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S

Sonic Universe #69 should already be out in comic stores and on digital platforms. Don’t miss the clash of rivals come to the fore!

Source: Comic Crusaders

The Sonic Stadium may link to retailers and earn a small commission on purchases made from users who click those links. These links will only appear in articles related to the product, in an unobtrusive manner, and do not influence our editorial decisions in any way.

Preview: Sonic Super Digest #9

I’ve heard of eating rabbits, but rabbit cyborgs? Can you Digest that?

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To whet the appetite for a preview double feature, Sonic Super Digest #9 is out tomorrow, and Comic Book have a preview of it. On top of the usual reprints and pin-up images, there’s a new chapter in the Sonic Comic Origins series of short stories! Bunnie has always been a kind lass, but how did she go from a cutesy mademoiselle to the Egg Army-bashing tour de force she is in the present? As it turns outs, it was rife with hardships as we get a peek at “The Belle in the Machine”.

SONIC SUPER DIGEST #9
Get ready for a SUPER SPECIAL EDITION of the Sonic Super Digest! Featuring an ALL-NEW STORY continuing the hit SONIC COMIC ORIGINS mini-feature blasts into your hands as that boisterous southern belle, Bunnie Rabbot, takes center stage! Learn how everyone’s favorite bunny bomber overcame her tragic disability to grow into the freedom fighting powerhouse she is today!
Then, continue the fun with more classic adventures from the Sonic comic library as well as special features focusing on the brand new Sonic Comic Universe only Archie Comics and Sonic Super Digest can bring! Featuring an all-new fifth-color cover by Sonic superstar Tracy Yardley, Terry Austin and Vincent Lovallo!
Script: Ian Flynn & Various
Art: Lamar Wells, Rick Bryant, Jack Morelli, Matt Herms & Various
Cover: Tracy Yardley, Terry Austin and Vincent Lovallo
On Sale Date: 10/29
128-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

Sonic Super Digest #9 is out in stores and digitally Wednesday. Ideal for a little bite of comic goodness.

Source: Comic Book

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Preview: Sonic Boom #1

How would one go about bringing on the boom, anyway?

SonicBoom-01-0Var-1D-b7855

The beginning of the Sonic Boom influx is finally at our doorstep, and it all begins with a preview for the debut issue of the new official comic coming out tomorrow! Comic Book Resources brings the preview pages for this month’s issue, and it’s a whopping eight pages worth of insight. In the first issue, Sonic and his friends are doing what they do best; stopping yet another one of Dr. Eggman’s evil schemes. But things go strange when Tails’ House simply disappears! What’s the cause of this abode abduction? Find out in “Getting a Little Boulder”.

STORY BY: Ian Flynn
ART BY: Evan Stanley, Rick Bryant, Jack Morelli, Matt Herms
COVER BY: Patrick Spaziante
, Evan Stanley, Rick Bryant, Matt Herms
PUBLISHER: Archie Comics
COVER PRICE: $3.99
RELEASE DATE: Wed, October 29th, 2014
Here comes the BOOM! FIRST ISSUE in an ALL-NEW ONGOING SONIC COMIC BOOK SERIES! Based on the new hit TV and video game comes SONIC BOOM #1—a new Sonic the Hedgehog comic book series from Archie Comics! Sonic the Hedgehog and his friends are back and ready to do battle with the evil DR. EGGMAN and his diabolical death-machines! This ground-breaking new chapter in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise puts a new “spin” on all your favorite heroes and villains—plus new faces and hilarious new stories chock-full of action—and it’s all brought to you by the folks that bring the hit series Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic Universe to you each and every month! Featuring a stunning first issue cover by Sonic art legend Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante, and 4-part “HERE COMES THE BOOM” collector covers from series artists Evan Stanley, Rick Bryant and Matt Herms!! Collect them all and own a piece of Sonic comic history! Get ready for the BOOM, baby!

Sonic Boom #1 blasts onto shelves and to digital platforms Wednesday. But store shelves are hardly the worst casualties when the fourth wall is at stake!

Source: Comic Book Resources

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Covers and Solicitations for Sonic the Hedgehog #269, Sonic Universe #72 and Sonic Boom #4 Revealed

Man the decks! The ship wars are fast approaching, even if they’re not relevant to the actual stories of January!

Midtown comics has a slew of new covers and solicits. In Sonic #269, the tournament continues with the next round of match-ups going ahead. Of course, when you’re dealing with crooked figures like Breezie and Fang, something’s bound to be up. Sonic takes it upon himself to try and find out what’s going, and the faces he’ll turn to for some help are surprisingly familiar. This is “Champions”: part 2.

sonic#269

(W) Ian Flynn (A/CA) Terry Austin & Various
The contestants are brawlin’ and the saga continues in ‘Champions’ Part Two! The fighting tournament for the Chaos Emerald is in full swing! Tails vs. Honey! Espio vs. Bean! Knuckles vs. Bark! But it’s a sure bet that if a competition’s going down, something’s fixed with thugs like Breezie and Nack involved. Sonic will need some inside info – and he finds it from some surprisingly familiar faces! Featuring new cover art from Jammin’ Jamal Peppers and a SWE (Sonic Wrestling Entertainment) variant cover by the indomitable T.REX!

Meanwhile, in Sonic Universe #72, Dr. Ellidy’s defences are going offline, bad news when Dark Gaia monsters have been a problem for the past few months! Sally and Big are busy investigating the mystery behind the Red Star Rings, whiles Tails and Nicole are trying to fix up the computer systems so Nicole can confront the mystery being who’s waiting for her. It’s all going down on Isolated Island in “Spark of Life”: part 2. Also note the variant cover, which might need a few firewalls itself.

sonicu#72

(W) Ian Flynn, Aleah Baker (A) Jim Amash & Various (CA) Tracy Yardley & Various
What monsters lurk on the mysterious isolated island? Find out for yourself in ‘Spark of Life’ Part Two: Things are getting very creepy in the lab of Dr. Ellidy! His badnik defenses are going offline – which is bad news when there are Dark Gaia Monsters prowling the shores at night! Sally and Big investigate the mystery of the Red Star Rings as Tails and Nicole debug the system – where something, or someone – is waiting for Nicole! Featuring new cover art from Tracy Yardley and an interactive Matchmaker variant cover by rising Sonic star Jennifer Hernandez, where you can ‘ship it yourself’!

Finally, in Sonic Boom #4, Dr. Eggman has been refining Burnbot to its maximum destruction capability, and he appears to have Sonic and his friends on the ropes. But Sticks has an idea for a secret weapon to use against the threat. What is it, and how will it help save the day? Find out in “Sticks and Stones”.

sonic boom #4

(W) Ian Flynn (A) Evan Stanley & Various (CA) Tracy Yardley & Various
The new ongoing Sonic comic book series from Archie Comics keeps on BOOMIN’ with Sonic Boom #4: Sticks and Stones! Dr. Eggman’s Big Boy mech has been refined into its final, deadly form. Sonic and his friends are on the ropes, but have no fear! Sticks has brought her secret weapon! It’s a… wait, seriously? Sticks thinks that’s going to help? Find out what her secret weapon is in the weird and wacky conclusion to the first story arc of the brand-new series Sonic Boom! Featuring cover art from Sonic art guru Tracy Yardley and an all-new ‘Sticks-with-stones-being-chased-by-bones’ variant cover from rising Sonic star Diana Skelly!

We will have more information on all of these comics closer to the time of release.

Source: Midtown Comics

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Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog #265

Don’t get mad, get even more information on Sonic media.

Sonic_265-0

Arcade Sushi has a preview for the upcoming Sonic issue, and it’s quite a howler in time for Halloween! In Sonic the Hedgehog #265, after seeing his friends in agony, Sonic has been consumed by Dark Gaia’s influence and is now Sonic the Werehog! This means bad news for his enemies…but it’s not exactly good news for his allies either. Mighty steps up to subdue the beast, but all his friends have to calm him down while avoiding turning his rage onto themselves in the process in “Control”: part 2. Meanwhile, Rotor gives a whizbang tour of the Sky Patrol’s nifty features, while Eggman concocts an attack on the flying base in “The Grand Tour”.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #265
Script: Ian Flynn, Eric Esquivel
Art: Tyson Hesse, James Fry, Terry Austin, John Workman and Gabriel Cassata
Cover: Tracy Yardley, Terry Austin and Evan Stanley
“SONIC ADVENTURE” Variant Cover: Rafa Knight
On Sale Date: 10/8
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
A-WOOOOOOOO! Get ready to HOWL with horror in “Control” Part Two: The Werehog is unleashed! As the jungle collapses in flames, it’s up to Mighty to bring his feral friend to heel! But can Sonic even tell ally apart from enemy anymore? Then in “The Grand Tour,” Rotor shows off all of the Sky Patrol’s abilities—unfortunately it’s right as a Badnik Horde attacks! Don’t miss a moment of the action, with cover art from the titanic team of Yardley, Austin and Stanley—plus an epic SONIC ADVENTURE variant by the newest sonic superstar: RAFA KNIGHT!

Sonic the Hedgehog #265 will be out tomorrow in stores and on digital formats. Pick it up and sink your teeth into it.

Source: Arcade Sushi

The Sonic Stadium may link to retailers and earn a small commission on purchases made from users who click those links. These links will only appear in articles related to the product, in an unobtrusive manner, and do not influence our editorial decisions in any way.

Preview: Sonic Universe #68

A certain Ultimate Lifeform is fighting for every little thing this month!

SonicUniverse_68-0

Newsarama have a preview on the latest issue of Sonic Universe to hit stores. In Sonic Universe #68, Knuckles, Rouge and Omega are up on Red Mountain to be on the lookout for anything particularly alien and deadly. While they have some time to themselves for reflection, Shadow has no such luxury of time; Eclipse has begun to attack and is fully intent on killing his “brother” now! How will Shadow fight back against Eclipse in all his forms? And just how long can the peace between him and Knuckles last when there’s so much imminent danger against the island? Find out in “Total Eclipse”: part 2.

SONIC UNIVERSE #68
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Tracy Yardley and Ben Hunzeker
Tabloid Variant Cover: Jonathan H. Gray, Jim Amash and Matt Herms
The FIRST EVER Sonic Universe trilogy continues HERE in “Total Eclipse” Part Two! Knuckles leads Team Dark’s Rouge and Omega into the wilds of the Red Mountains, searching for the mysterious Dark Arms. But while the echidna’s away, the darklings will play—but darklings don’t play for fun—they play to kill! With Knuckles’ back turned, the evil Eclipse attacks Shadow the Hedgehog! Can even the ultimate life-form withstand Eclipse’s terrifying Monster Form?! Find out in the second chapter of THE DARK TRILOGY! And don’t miss the new cover art from Tracy Yardley and returning Sonic painter Ben Hunzeker—plus an all-new “TABLOID” variant cover by Jonathan H. Gray, Jim Amash and Matt Herms!
On Sale Date: 10/1
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

The comic is out in stores and on digital formats today. Pick up a copy and let your day be brighter for it.

Source: Newsarama

The Sonic Stadium may link to retailers and earn a small commission on purchases made from users who click those links. These links will only appear in articles related to the product, in an unobtrusive manner, and do not influence our editorial decisions in any way.

Review: The Great Chaos Caper

Insert some lyrics to one of Knuckles’ numerous rap themes here.

chaosleaves

He must go, his planet needs him. Literally.

It’s rather apt that the second comic arc review I’ve done after Countdown to Chaos is another arc with Chaos in the name, even if not technically in the same comic series (Sonic Universe this time, instead of Sonic the Hedgehog). Believe me; I think the appropriate name linking goes beyond just a word in the title. The Great Chaos Caper, I’d say, is a thematic opposite to Countdown to Chaos at its fundamental core. But I’ll get more into that way later on.

What we have here is the first foray of Knuckles and the Chaotix in the new universe. Knuckles is still as much of a stubborn island loner as ever, but he needs a bit more help if he’s going to try and fix his currently battered island. And it’s not just a gang of petty thieves he needs to face off against, with aliens and monsters also getting mixed into the fray, even if Knuckles himself isn’t the one who encounters them all. So, armed with his wits and a detective trio who want something different but happen to be going the same, how does he fare in this tale of mystery? And how does the story hold up in general? Read on to find out. Spoilers for Great Chaos Caper obviously, and some minor details about Total Eclipse and Champions, nothing very plot specific though.

Comedy and action is a pretty good summary of it.

Comedy and action is a pretty good summary of it.

When Two Tribes Go To War

While Countdown to Chaos showed us the beginning of the shattered world crisis, Great Chaos Caper follows on by showing us the first major character to be affected by it that isn’t a freedom fighter. Knuckles, physically alone while guarding the Master Emerald, is horrified at what’s happening; Angel Island has fallen apart quite literally. Chaos springs to the planet surface for his appearance in Waves of Change and Tikal (the comic wants it to be a mystery but it really isn’t) tells him to the surface for a mission he’ll find out when he discovers it. He gets help in to look after the M.E, the reader is introduced to the new cast of Knuckles comprised of Relic the Pika with Fixit, and he sets off. While a pretty short introductory sequence, it’s an effective one for quickly placing the reader into an entirely new scenario, bringing old game elements and new comic additions together for an intriguing start.

Knuckles’ mission brings him to Pumpkin Hill, and in the path of emerging Dark Gaia monsters. After the Chaotix show out of nowhere and help, the vast majority of the rest of the arc’s narrative can simply be described as “shenanigans”.  The crew navigate Pumpkin Hill while putting up with magic rubber bands and Charmy flying scared. Not long after he’s found again, they run into the Hooligans and begin fighting. When it becomes apparent that neither party has the Chaos Emerald, the Hooligans retreat to Aquatic Mine with the heroes in pursuit. They struggle to work their way around the mine, with Knuckles almost forcibly separating from the Chaotix out of frustration until a few seconds later they run into Chip, who has the Chaos Emerald everyone wants. Knuckles and Charmy bond with Chip for a bit while everyone is walking around, but then the Hooligans show up again to cause trouble, this time managing to take Chip as a by-product of stealing the Emerald. Knuckles and the Chaotix are left to fight a Dark Gaia Titan, which they manage to elude through some quick-thinking from Vector. They catch up to the Hooligans again, take back Chip and the Emerald, fight off the Titan and escape. After a return to Pumpkin Hill where the Chaotix give Knuckles the Emerald for safekeeping during the crisis, Knuckles returns to the Island only to be told by that she suspects an alien invasion, tying up Shadow Fall to this and the upcoming Total Eclipse.

relicshadows

The sub-plot does have some wonderfully eerie shots. Fitting for its purpose.

In terms of total plot, there isn’t that much. The main focus is more on the interaction and character banter. From Bean breaking the fourth wall in a rather obvious manner to Fang being his usual temperamental little self to half-issues dedicated to simply Knuckles going around with the Chaotix and reacting to their eccentric personalities, it seems a comic form of a road trip film for a good chunk of the story.  There is one strong thread of a plot though, and that would be through new girl Relic; disobeying Knuckles’ orders to watch the Master Emerald, she spies on some strange plants on the island, and goes through various zones trying to figure out where they might have come from. It’s this plot, which results in the earlier mentioned alien invasion revelation, that really acts as a bridge between the events of Shadow Fall and Total Eclipse and justifies it as a trilogy of arcs. Otherwise, there is no connection is just standalone fun. One thing I will say is that there’s a single page in between the Chaotix’s escapades where we get to see team Hooligan fall under tensions themselves regarding moral boundaries. There’s no fruit seen in this arc for it, but with the ending page teasing a new story for them to be in (which takes the form of the upcoming Champions arc), it will probably be revisited again in the future.

The big controversy I’ve noticed crop up from this arc is the arrival of Chip, or more specifically how it’s done. In Unleashed, Sonic crashed into him, felt bad because he thought he’d caused the amnesia, named him and then hung around with him not knowing about his Light Gaia status. Here, he’s found in a mine by Knuckles and the Chaotix, named by Charmy after Chip mentioned various dairy products, likes hanging around Knuckles (and Charmy, before he departed) and already knows he’s called Light Gaia thanks to Tikal telling him. Me, I’m on a fence about these changes. While they don’t personally drag the arc down for me, I do have to wonder if the Chip and Sonic stuff will seem as good as Unleashed when (or if) it happens because of all this occurring before, it certainly won’t seem as strong to start with. And I have to raise my eyebrows at how Chip already had enough knowledge of sweet things like chocolate chips and custard to be able to give Charmy the cue to name him, that just felt forced and could have been handled a bit better.

Theatre Role Call

Great Chaos Caper has a pretty big cast lined up for some hi-jinks. Some work well with this ensemble, others seems to lag behind a bit from all the madcap antics going on. I’ve done an individual breakdown to fully explain how they all work, in my view.

  • Knuckles is pretty much the main character in this arc…and the story, in my opinion, suffers for it a bit. Knuckles in the comic was always sombre and full of melodrama. This is worlds away from his game self, who has been comic relief for a long time. Going into the reboot, I was expecting a balance of the two. What I got was more of the sombre Knuckles, and aside from some moments drawn from his shyness around girls, he was a non-entity. In an arc where the character sells it, it’s weird that Knuckles is more just a board for other characters to bounce off than an entertaining character in his own right. What makes it more perplexing is that traits he has in the games that would naturally make for some nice comedy (most prominently his aversion towards ghosts) are given to characters who don’t have them in the games and quite frankly didn’t need them. Ian did great Knuckles characterisation in Worlds Collide, the only reason I can think of for not using that here is to make him fit better in the upcoming Total Eclipse arc. And that’s not really a benefit to him here, nor would I say necessary for the long run. Then again, in the first part of Total Eclipse he seems more in line with that compromise idea anyway, so perhaps he just doesn’t work as well when the rest of the cast is so zany.
  • In this particular arc, Charmy gets to be the character who bounces off Knuckles the most, making comments on him and joining in on befriending Chip by naming him. In the past, he had been brain damaged and very awkward to focus on (only starting to get focus again in Chaotix Quest). Because of this, I can understand why Ian, no longer shackled by his narrative regret, would want to really utilise Charmy for all the interaction he can get. And it’s not like it doesn’t work, so it’s nice to see Charmy flying high with the big guys. And he gets some great moments of humour to boot, especially with Bean.
  • From a story perspective, Chip is a bit confused right now. Amnesiac, but with knowledge of products like cookies and custard (the former is what inspires Charmy’s naming). Unaware of his purpose, but aware of who he is. It’s definitely a system shock for those with familiarity with Unleashed, but we likely don’t have all the pieces yet. From an interaction standpoint, he’s decent. Mostly from how he hangs with the above characters, but he gets a joke or two in with the other people he encounters.
  • Vector is on good form in this arc. There are no notable down to earth, serious moments for him, but he works well as a greedy but clever and big-hearted comic relief. Honestly, if he’d be nothing but comic relief throughout, I (and probably Jason too) would have been a bit miffed about it. Fortunately, he really gets to shine in the last issue of the arc and demonstrates why he’s the head honcho, something which I’d argue the old continuity sold him short on.
  • Espio’s good too, although arguably the member with the least to do in this arc. He spends most of the time bouncing off Vector for humour, he gets a snarky word/serious word in at Knuckles on occasion and he gets to beat up baddies in the usual ninja fashion (and do some hacking). When you have about eight leads for almost every issue, not all of them can get equal share.
  • Nack makes his first appearance since all the way back in Treasure Team Tango, and nothing has been lost in the transition. Aside from getting a very slight redesign to make him look more like his classic self (note how his nose colour changes from black in Universe 63 to blue in Universe 64!), he’s as dastardly as ever and draws out humour from his short fuse and comical reactions.
  • Hot off the heels of Pirate Plunder Panic and their small bit in Countdown to Chaos, Bark (and Bean) reunites with Nack to reform the Hooligans. Bark still is the silent type with a bit of a grumpy attitude on the side. He gets a little more depth here though as he shows that he does have some moral qualms with the work that they’re doing. Perhaps the future story will really start to push him out as an individual.
  • I’ve always been one of the minority who wasn’t so fond of Bean’s humour.
    upsidedown

    I’m not sure what’s more impressive; the fact that Bean can speak upside down, or the fact that Charmy can understand that it’s upside down.

    Despite this, I felt that Pirate Plunder Panic was genuinely one of the best shows for him in the comic and enjoyed the way he was handled there. While not quite up to the bar set by that arc, Great Chaos Caper is another pretty good showing for Bean as he gets to show off his attitude, as well as a surprisingly volatile temper. For some readers, he’ll probably be a scene stealer.

  • Relic is the new character on the block, and she’s nice for what we’ve seen of her. She’s an archaeologist who seems a bit overeager about her work, and her character contrasts with Knuckles effectively. Her subplot is set-up for Total Eclipse so we get to see her curious side as well. I fully expect her to get some great moments in throughout Total Eclipse.
  • Fixit is Relic’s Gizoid helper. He doesn’t really do much here, but his very presence sets up mystery about the exact nature of the Gizoids in the new continuity. A small but appreciated expansion on the lore.

This arc doesn’t have many characters in there that aren’t just bit parts; everyone gets at least a good portion of time at the forefront. Tikal shows up at the end after being the one to send Knuckles on the mission, and she’s shown to deeply respect Chip to the point of divulging his identity to him (although he doesn’t understand the implication of the title). Eggman just shows up for one page as the one who hired the Hooligans, and that’s set up for the aforementioned Champions arc, not really a display of character.

Sketching Out The Suspects

Sonic Universe tends to have just one set of art personnel per arc, and Great Chaos Caper is no different in terms of internal art and regular covers. Tracy Yardley helms the way on pencils, with Jim Amash on inks and Matt Herms on colours. As always, the cover is the first thing you see, so that will be covered first.

  • The regular cover for Sonic Universe #63 (which Yardley has sole credit for)is effective at showcasing just what the comic wants the readers to know about. You have Knuckles as the action guy, Espio as the cool ninja, Vector as the determined leader and Charmy as the less serious member who uses the Spongebob joke about bubbles being equivalent to smoking. Set in what looks to be Mushroom Hill Zone, the bold colours used and the poses chosen make for quite a simple but eye-catching piece of art. Ryan Jampole did the variant cover, and it’s as adorable as the chibi title would lead you to believe. It also shows that Bean isn’t that oblivious to imminent dangers.
  • For Sonic Universe #64, Yardley takes a very stylistic approach for its regular cover. Neon eyes are dotted over darkness, with very little lighting for Knuckles and Bean to boot (Bean’s face being lit by the fuse of his bomb. That’ll end quite messily). It’s a fresh approach that makes it welcome amongst the comic fold. The variant is a SEGA variant, with Knuckles standing amongst shattered Island fragments. The original artwork for the background at least adds spice to the pose
    Just look at that gorgeous sunset lighting.

    Just look at that gorgeous sunset lighting.

    chosen.

  • Sonic Universe #65 sees the whole team on the regular cover, and I have mixed feelings on this one. On its own, it’s a neat cover focusing on Knuckles, the Chaotix and the Hooligans scrapping over Chip in a fun and dynamic way. With the variant cover to Sonic Universe 63 being the way it is, it sort of feels very similar in idea and execution, and I find it easy to confuse the two. The variant is another SEGA variant, this time with Chaotix on a surreal background heavily based off the Knuckles Chaotix title screen. It feels less contextual than the last SEGA variant, although the composition and colours seem better.
  • Sonic Universe #66 goes back to action for the regular cover, with Knuckles beating on a Dark Gaia Titan in a flooding shaft. Definitely the most dynamic of all the covers, but I’d argue it’s not quite as eye catching as previous covers in the arc. I have no idea what the deal is with the variant though.  This effort from Brent McCarthy certainly looks the part, with a great use of contrast and effects to give the clash of the two heroes some punch. Trust me when I say that no such confrontation lies within the pages; Sonic doesn’t even show up in this arc.

With the entire arc being done by three people, the artistic tone throughout is very consistent from one issue to the next. In this case, that’s a very good thing. All three are very skilled in their particular areas, and the result is a vibrant looking arc that has some genuinely awesome moments throughout. From the rocky crevices of Pumpkin Hill to the caverns of the Aquatic Mines to more bit places like Launch Base Zone and Flying Battery Zone, each location is given life through its art. And every character is bursting with energy and a treat to look at (even with the occasion bout of off-model art for certain situations). Every issue certainly is a treat if you want some good artwork to look at while reading through the caper.

The Logic of Case Solving

Within the boundaries of the comic itself, there isn’t that much emotional core with this arc. And that’s not particularly a bad thing in this case; Great Chaos Caper from the start makes it very clear that this an arc that’s more focused on light-hearted fun than deep character moments and has various moments of referential humour (re-read #63 with Ghost Pumpkin’s Soup’s lyrics on hand). It’s cool to see arcs like this from time to time, especially when all the arcs in the new continuity so far have been more about the consequences of the shift and its effect on the population therein. Knuckles’ Island was affected, but that’s more a motivation for his story than the focus of the entire thing, and aside from a brief flash at the detective office the Chaotix don’t make mention of it. It’s just a normal caper for them. There was a brief moment of potential drama when Knuckles wanted to ditch the Chaotix, but that’s resolved in less than a page. And Relic’s story was emotional in that the emotion it conveyed was tense, which is pretty different. But on a more metaphorical sense, this arc is a pretty sharp counterpoint to Countdown to Chaos.

Drowning in feels? Not particularly. Drowning in water? Plenty of that.

Drowning in feels? Not particularly. Drowning in water? Plenty of that.

In Countdown to Chaos, the fact of old characters not being seen was more of a general footnote for reference. Here, it’s definitely more apparent. While the main comic has focused on Sonic and SatAM characters, and Shadow and Blaze’s history are pretty independent of comic exclusive stuff, Knuckles and the Chaotix had deep roots in comic exclusive lore. From around 1995, Knuckles had huge swathes of lore surrounding his family and society, including the Brotherhood of Guardians, Julie-Su and Finitevus. The Chaotix, meanwhile, were Knuckles’ equivalent of a freedom fighter group including Mighty (because of Knuckles Chaotix) and Julie-Su, and gained some more members through associations (Ray being Mighty’s friend, Saffron being the 16 year old Charmy’s fiancé). Even in the more modern run they stuck with the old 1995 set-up, and there were only showings of a more modern Chaotix literally the last full Universe arc before the crossover. With a combination of SEGA wanting the comic to be more in tune with the game versions of the characters and the lawsuit that went down, everything about these characters has been rearranged.

Knuckles is once again the last of his kind, but he still has much of the same attitude from before the crossover.  Relic and Fixit are support, effectively usurping Julie-Su’s role but without the romantic tension (in fact, the idea of romantic tension between them has been mocked by the comic itself multiple times now). It’s actually quite a bit of fresh air that allows Knuckles’ characters to spread his proverbial wings further. The Chaotix are now the three-man detective trio. While they still know Knuckles and the duo of Mighty and Ray from past adventures the comic has not shown us, you can tell right away that the dynamic has altered between them and that they’re not Knuckles’ groupies any more. Even when comparing the dynamic between Vector, Espio and Charmy to their older versions, there’s a marked difference from Charmy’s distant status (whether it be through princely duties or mental wiping) and the general friends hanging out on occasion vibe, instead leaning towards a closer family unit of sorts. I like the change since I’ve always preferred the post-Heroes take on them in the games, but this change will likely be more infuriating to those who liked the old set-up. Fortunately, with the two most awkward groups being dealt with in one arc, this is the last time the old continuity will linger on any characters.

In Conclusion

The Great Chaos Caper is meant to be a light-hearted, comical arc, and it pulls it off well. While there’s not so much stake involved with the events and there’s very little in the way of emotional moments, if you just want a fun romp with some great art all the way through then this will probably be right up your alley. You might notice that Knuckles is fairly reserved here, but it’s really a minor point when everything else is on great form.

Best Issue: It’s a hard toss-up between #63 and #66 because they’re both at showing their cast at their most fun and dynamic. At a push, I’d edge slightly towards #63 for Pumpkin Hill being a cool setting and the interaction being a bit tighter.

Worst Issue: Universe #64 isn’t a bad issue by any means, but in the scope of the whole arc it’s the one that starts to feel like it drags due to not much going on in it. After the fight with the Hooligans, not much of anything happens until Chip shows up…which is the final page of the issue.

As it turns out, Great Chaos Caper was part two of the Dark trilogy, with Shadow Fall being the first. Total Eclipse brings the two arcs together to bring a conclusion to both Shadow and Knuckles’ stories, and it seems to have the stakes a lot higher. Part 1 is already out, but you’ll have to keep an eye out for the rest in the coming months to see the fate of the Dark Arms and Angel Island!

alienbaby

Pictured: The main villain of a year’s worth of Sonic Universe

The Sonic Stadium may link to retailers and earn a small commission on purchases made from users who click those links. These links will only appear in articles related to the product, in an unobtrusive manner, and do not influence our editorial decisions in any way.

Covers and Solicitations for Sonic the Hedgehog #268, Sonic Universe #71, Sonic Boom #3 and More Revealed

Christmas really is the time of giving; Archie’s giving us a media blowout bursting with surprises!

Comic Vine has the latest released solicits from Archie Comics, and December is on course to be a huge month for Sonic comic fans. There’s not one, not two, but six comics, magazines and books to be on the lookout for! To kick things in grand fashion, Sonic the Hedgehog #268 sees Sonic enter a fighting tournament to nab another Chaos Emerald for the quest. The line-up is bound to be full of familiar favourites, and there’s even the Fighter Vipers reference Honey the Cat in it to win. On top of that, the variant brings in one Breezie the Hedgehog (Robot), not seen since her appearance in Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog! All this excitement is in “Champions”: part 1.

sonic#268

TEST YOUR MIGHT with the first chapter in an all-new 4-part SAGA! “Champions” Part One: Sonic is in for the fight of his life! Casino Park is holding an epic fighting tournament, and the grand prize is a much sought-after Chaos Emerald! How many fighters will answer the call? Which champions will make the roster? The knock-down, drag-out battle for the world starts right here! Featuring new cover art from Sonic rising star Evan Stanley, plus all-new variant art introducing Breezie the Hedgehog by Sonic artist Jonathan H. Gray!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Diana Skelly, Terry Austin, John Workman and Gabriel Cassata
Cover: Evan Stanley, Terry Austin and Ben Hunzeker
Breezie Variant Cover: Jonathan H. Gray, Terry Austin and Gabriel Cassata
Ship Date: 12/31
On Sale Date: 1/14
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Sonic Universe #71 brings us into new mystery and intrigue. Nicole detects a distress call from the supposedly unknown Digital World. It’s up to Tails, Sally and Big to answer the call and head to Isolated Island to find out just what’s going on, the deal with Dr Ellidy and how this all links the lives of Sally and Nicole together. This is “Spark of Life”: part 1.

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ALL-NEW STORY ARC! “Spark of Life” Part One: Nicole detects a distress signal from the Digital World—but how can that be if nobody is supposed to know about the Digital World?! Sally, Tails and Big must travel to Isolated Island to answer the call for help! Who is Dr. Ellidy? And in what way does he link the lives of Sally and Nicole? Featuring a stunning new cover by Tracy Yardley and “Web Lynx” Variant cover art by rising Sonic star Rafa Knight!
Script: Ian Flynn & Aleah Baker
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Tracy Yardley & Ben Hunzeker
Web Lynx Variant Cover: Rafa Knight
Ship Date: 12/10
On Sale Date: 12/24
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

On the lighter side, we have Sonic Boom #3. Amy’s beloved hammer is gone, and if she can’t find it then she’s wont to lose something else! The boys try to find it, while Sticks offers to show Amy a new arsenal of weapons. You can imagine how well this would go before the release of “Hammer Spaced”.

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ARE YOU READY FOR THE BOOM?! The NEW ONGOING SONIC COMIC BOOK SERIES from Archie Comics continues its frantic fun with Sonic Boom #3: Hammer Spaced! Amy’s most precious possession, her piko hammer, has gone missing! And if she can’t find it, her hammer won’t be the only thing she’ll lose! While the boys are on a hammer-hunting quest, Sticks tries to show Amy a new arsenal—but will she survive the experience?! Don’t miss the exclusive tie-in comic to the new TV Show and Video Games from Sega, featuring cover art from Sonic comics legend Tracy Yardley and a special “TEAM SONIC” variant edition!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Evan Stanley, Rick Bryant, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Tracy Yardley, Rick Bryant and Matt Herms
Team Sonic Variant Cover art provided by SEGA
Ship Date: 12/17
On Sale Date: 1/7
32-page, full color comic $3.99 U.S.

Sonic Super Digest #10 brings more Sonic Boom with it, focusing on the comic side. It has some of the cover art from the new line, features on it and even a special preview of the comic. Meanwhile, there are stories focused on Shadow, Knuckles and Sally for extra variety.

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Get ready for fun & adventure—it’s Sonic Super Digest! Featuring classic stories from the comic’s 20+ year history! Join Sonic and his friends as they embark on daring adventures, face evil villains and save the day one chili dog at a time!
This month features a special spotlight on the newest Sonic comic series from Archie Action — Sonic Boom! Check out awesome BOOM cover art, features and a special preview of the anticipated new series! Plus stories featuring Shadow and Knuckles in the wake of the epic “DARK TRILOGY,” and everyone’s favorite FF leader Sally Acorn! Spin into the fun that only Archie Comics and Sonic Super Digest can bring! Featuring bonus content you can only find in this exclusive digest collection!
Script: Ian Flynn & Various
Art: Various
Cover: SEGA
Ship Date: 12/3
On Sale Date: 12/17
128-page, Full Color
$4.99 U.S.

There’s even more Sonic Boom in Sonic Super Special Magazine #13. Looking more at all aspects of Sonic Boom, it gives us information on the cartoon, the games and the comic. With reprints mixed into the fray, it’s a pot full of stories old and new.

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“Sonic Boom-tacular!”: The mega-magazine stuffed with Sonic goodness comes speeding at you with exclusive SONIC BOOM special features, awesome art from the comic series and the inside scoop on the biggest Sonic event in decades! SONIC BOOM is the newest Sonic sensation bringing brand new games, cartoons—and now—comics!
The SONIC SUPER SPECIAL MAGAZINE gives you the world of Sonic the Hedgehog comics as you’ve never seen it before, with tons of comic stories, special features and exclusive articles on the latest and greatest in the world of everyone’s favorite blue hedgehog-hero! Featuring an awesome special FOIL cover featuring the cast of Sonic BOOM!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Various
Cover art provided by SEGA
Ship Date: 12/3
On Sale Date: 12/17
128-page, full color comic
$9.99 U.S.

And finally, Sonic Select #10 brings us a mish-mash of comics from Sonic’s history, whether it be one of the many fights between Sonic and Knuckles, a revisit to the arc that began the altered reality we have now, or even stories from the limited number Free Comic Book Day Specials. There’s a variety in there that’s bound to satisfy a number of tastes.

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Sonic the Hedgehog’s most popular graphic novel series is BACK! It’s non-stop action in this collection of some of Sonic’s newest, greatest—and strangest—battles! Witness one of the craziest clashes between Sonic and Knuckles in Sonic’s home city! Witness the newest adventures of Sonic and his friends as they enter the new Sonic comic universe! All this and more in Sonic Select vol. 10—collecting stories from Free Comic Book Day, Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic Universe, the Sonic Super Specials, and more!
Script: Ian Flynn & Various
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, John Workman, Jason Jensen & Various
Cover: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
$11.99/$13.99CAN
6 x 9”
Trade Paperback
128 pp, full color comic
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 1/7

We will have more details on the comics closer to their release.

Source: Comic Vine

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Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog #264

The situation’s about to get hairy for our heroes!

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Multiversity has the preview up for the latest upcoming Sonic issue! In Sonic the Hedgehog #264, Sonic, Amy and Sally are still on their Chaos Emerald retrieval quest when circumstances of a badnik kind lead them to running into some familiar faces; Mighty and Ray! But it’s not all casual in the rainforest as a new Egg Boss called Thunderbolt makes it their mission to take out Sonic the Hedgehog. How much more can Sonic take before the negativity consumes him? Find out in “Control”: part 1. Then, Antoine and Bunnie reflect on their marriage after a rescue mission gone a bit awry in “It’s a Nice Day to Start Again”.

Written by Ian Flynn, Joey Esposito and Benjamin Bailey
Illustrated by Tyson Hesse, James Fry, Terry Austin, John Workman, Gabriel Cassata

A-WOOOOOOOOO! THE WAIT IS OVER! Prepare yourself for the terrifying debut of SONIC THE WEREHOG! “Control” Part One: Sonic, Amy and Sally venture deep into the rainforest in search of a Chaos Emerald. What they find are Mighty, Ray – and serious trouble! Will Egg Boss Thunderbolt push Sonic to the breaking point? Then, in “A Nice Day to Start Again,” Bunnie and Antoine experience the effects of the Shattered World Crisis in a very personal way! Featuring new cover art from PATRICK “SPAZ” SPAZIANTE and an “UNLEASHED” SEGA variant!

Sonic the Hedgehog #264 is out in stores and digitally this Wednesday. You can even buy it at night if you wished on the digital side, but just look out for full moons.

Source: Multiversity Comics

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Exclusive Archie Comic Inside of Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal

SonicBoomPanel

Not since the Sonic and the Secret Rings Target exclusive has Archie comics content been included in a Sonic video game but this November, you won’t need to go to any one store to enjoy an exclusive Archie Sonic Boom Story written by Ian Flynn and art by Evan Stanley. IGN has a full article and coverage of several panels from the included comic. As you can see, they are all in a letterbox format to fit the 3DS screen. What I wonder is, will the Comic Art be in 3D as well? Also, will it be available from the start or as an unlockable?

Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal will be on the 3DS on November 11 in the USA and Novermber 21st in the UK. You can check out the IGN article here.

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Preview: Sonic Universe #67

The past eight months start to fall into place with the start of the final part of the trilogy!

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Comicosity has another preview, this time for Sonic Universe #67! The events of Shadow Fall and Great Chaos Caper merge with each other as team Dark head onto Angel Island to look for one of the remaining Dark Arms left, Eclipse. Knuckles is also on the island, and he isn’t too happy about his island having guests. What can our heroes agree to do in such a tense situation? Especially when Eclipse himself is busy recuperating and ready to strike against Shadow and his allies if the opportunity arises! The Dark Trilogy’s final part begins in “Total Eclipse”:part 1.

SONIC UNIVERSE #67
Written by Ian Flynn
Art by Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, Matt Herms
Published by Archie Comics
Release Date: August 27, 2014

BRAND NEW STORY ARC! The events of “Shadow Fall” and “The Great Chaos Caper” have clashed to collision in the epic new tale — “Total Eclipse” Part One! The third chapter in the DARK TRILOGY begins here as Team Dark comes to Angel Island on the hunt for Eclipse. But Knuckles isn’t known for his hospitality! Sparks begin to fly as he and Shadow clash over how to protect the world! Meanwhile, the sinister Eclipse hunts our heroes! It’s the first-ever SU TRILOGY and you’ll be in on the ground floor with this titanic new issue, featuring cover art from TRACY YARDLEY and BEN HUNZEKER and a special “Pixel Cutscene” variant cover from RYAN JAMPOLE!

Sonic Universe #67 should be out in stores and on digital formats today, so don’t left in the dark and grab yourself a copy!

PS; There are five pages in the preview below, but pages 2 and 3 are in a double spread, which is why it looks so odd.

Source: Comicosity

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Covers and Solicitations for Sonic the Hedgehog #267, Sonic Universe #70 and Sonic Boom #2 Revealed

Two more arcs end with a shattering bang, while the new comic picks up steam with its second issue!

 

Midtown Comics has the covers and solicitations for the comics coming out in the holiday month, but these issues are going to be anything but peace on earth! In Sonic the Hedgehog #267, Sonic is still trying to get his wild side under control, but he’s got to do it quickly because he’s still under fire from the relentless Egg Boss Thunderbolt! The other Freedom FIghters are being attacked by several E100s, so they’re just as hot under the collar in “Ambushed”: part 2.

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SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #267
(W) Ian Flynn (A) Jamal Peppers, Terry Austin (CA) Evan Stanley, Terry Austin

The thunderous conclusion to the latest Sonic story arc crashes to a close at lightning speed! ‘Ambushed!’ Part Two: Sonic’s gotten himself into a hairy situation! The savage Werehog threatens to erupt from within, and the vengeful Egg Boss Thunderbolt attacks from without! What’s a cursed hedgehog to do? Unfortunately he won’t get by with a little help from his friends; the Freedom Fighters are far too busy fighting for their lives against three killer E-100 robots! Don’t miss the explosive ending featuring cover art by Stanley, Austin and Hunzeker, plus a hilarious new ‘Holiday Havoc!’ variant cover with pencils by Sonic artist extraordinaire Jennifer Hernandez!

 

In Sonic Universe #70, Eclipse has joined the list of individuals that have nabbed the Master Emerald, and it’s serious enough that Shadow and Knuckles need to stop fighting and get it back. But with the full force of the Dark Arms now on their backs, there might only be one thing left for Knuckles to do, and he won’t like it one bit. This is “Total Eclipse”: part four.

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SONIC UNIVERSE #70
(W) Ian Flynn (A) Jim Amash, Tracy Yardley (CA) Tracy Yardley & Various

The first ever Sonic universe trilogy reaches its stunning conclusion in ‘Total Eclipse,’ Part Four! Knuckles and Shadow must end their duel because Eclipse has escaped with the Master Emerald! Can the two chaos-fueled warriors stand up to the power of the Dark Arms? Knuckles may be forced into the one choice he doesn’t want to make! Don’t miss the sense-shattering finale that will change the shattered world crisis and the Sonic comic landscape as we know it! Featuring stunning new cover art from Yardley, Amash and Hunzeker, plus an awesome SEGA art variant featuring two of the biggest ‘Total Eclipse’ stars: Knuckles and Rouge!

Finally, in Sonic Boom #2, we rejoin our heroes in this new continuity for more shenanigans, but there might be a traitor amongst their ranks. Guess who, and perhaps why, in “Knucklesduster”.

sonic boom #2

SONIC BOOM #2
(W) Ian Flynn (A) Evan Stanley, Rick Bryant (CA) Patrick Spaz Spaziante

Get ready for the BOOM, baby! The new hit ongoing Sonic comic book series from Archie Comics continues here with issue #2, ‘Knuckleduster!’ Race along at Sonic speed with the blue blur and his pals Tails, Knuckles, Amy Rose and the newest edition to the team – Sticks! But is there a traitor in our heroes’ midst? Say it ain’t so! Find out in this sensational second issue, featuring explosive new cover art from Sonic art legend Patrick ‘SPAZ’ Spaziante, and a super-special ‘Sonic Spotlight’ variant cover by artist T.REX!

We’ll have more on all of these issues closer to the time of release.

Source: Midtown Comics

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Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog #263

Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog #263

Our deep sea dive is due to surface in the final part of the oceanic arc! Our look at the city of Meropis and its plight draws to an end in this month’s issue of Sonic the Hedgehog, and Newsarama

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Preview: Sonic Universe #66

The titanic mystery is coming to a close in this month’s issue of Sonic Universe!

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Uproxx brings us another preview for the latest comic, and it’s a final scrap for the sake of Chip! The Hooligans have left Knuckles and the Chaotix to the beastly claws of the Dark Gaia Titan, and that’s their only problem as the waters come rushing in. Our heroes need to find a way out of there and rescue Chip before anything happens to him. How will they overcome the situation? How will they fare again team Hooligan once again? And what mysteries are there still left to discover? All this is covered in “The Great Chaos Caper”: part 4.

(W) Ian Flynn (A) Jim Amash & Various (CA) Tracy Yardley
‘The Great Chaos Caper.’ This is it, the frantic finale full of flustered fighters! In one corner, trying to complete his mission and save the world, is Knuckles! In the other corner, a titanic Dark Gaia beast! The Chaotix and Hooligans continue to tussle, a wounded spirit and Chaos Emerald are being tossed about, and the flood waters are pouring in! Don’t miss this crazy conclusion to the ‘Great Chaos Caper!’

Sonic Universe #66 is out in stores and on digital platforms this Wednesday. Don’t miss the last clue to this case!

Source: Uproxx

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Sonic Boomcast Episode 1

Welcome to the first episode of Sonic Boomcast! A monthy podcast dedicated to the Sonic Boom franchise where we’ll be talking all things Sonic Boom related along with a few other Sonic things should the need arise. Hosted by me, Jason Berry of that other Sonic podcast (Sonic Talk). I’ll have a slightly different roundtable of guest hosts each month with some staying for the long run. This months hosts include Shayne Edwards, Lidice Garcia, Tanner Bates (Oglvie in the SSMB) and Christian Gausin. You may know them as the folks who helped bring the first big Sonic convention “Sonic Revolution” to life in Southern California. This months episode focuses on the history of the franchise from before the major announcement back in February all the way to the recent comic book announcement. So listen in, and I hope you enjoy!

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Covers and Solicitations for Sonic #266, Sonic Universe #69, SSD #9 and Sonic Boom #1 Revealed

Smash! Boom! Shazaam! All comic titles, not all of them Sonic-related as we delve into onomatopoeias aplenty.

Midtown Comics has released new solicits for the comics coming out in November, and it is literally more jam-packed than ever before! Sonic the Hedgehog #266 sees Sonic look for help with his hairy anger issues from Mighty’s mentor, but can he help him? Meanwhile, Sally and the other Freedom Fighters get into a less literally hairy situation with the possibility that the new Chaos Emerald hunt might have led them right into a trap. All of this is in “Ambushed”: part 1.

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‘Ambushed,’ Part 1. Sonic’s in need of some inner peace, but it’s going to take more than yoga and meditation! He seeks the guidance of Mighty the Armadillo’s mentor, Moss the Sloth. Can the sage sage help Sonic tame the savage Werehog within? Meanwhile, Sally leads the Freedom Fighters in recovering a Chaos Emerald – but could she be leading them right into a trap? Featuring all-new cover art from Lamar Wells, and part 3 of a 3-part connecting ‘SUPER SMASH’ collector cover set!

Sonic Universe #69 sees Shadow and Knuckles still duking it out over the fate of the Master Emerald and the Island it sits on. Not helping is Eclipse attacking the other members of team Dark, and this time he’s brought the Dark Arms with him! This is “Total Eclipse”: part 3.

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The first-ever Sonic Universe trilogy rolls on in ‘Total Eclipse,’ Part 3! As the Dark Trilogy inches closer to its shocking conclusion, it’s a no holds barred battle between Knuckles and Shadow for the fate of Angel Island and the Master Emerald! As Sonic’s top rivals clash, the rest of Team Dark and Relic are attacked by Eclipse and the terrifying power of the Dark Arms! Featuring all-new cover art from Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash and Ben Hunzeker, and part 1 of a 3-part connecting ‘SUPER SMASH’ collector cover set!

Next, Sonic Super Digest #9 collects more classic Sonic stories for easy reading. Amongst the reprints is a new installment of Sonic Comic Origins, this time focusing on Bunnie Rabbot and how she managed to become a Freedom Fighter even in the wake of her traumatic injuries!

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Get ready for a super special edition of the Sonic Super Digest! Featuring an all-new story continuing the hit Sonic Comic Origins mini-feature blasts into your hands as that boisterous southern belle, Bunnie Rabbot, takes center stage! Learn how everyone’s favorite bunny bomber overcame her tragic disability to grow into the freedom fighting powerhouse she is today! Then, continue the fun with more classic adventures from the Sonic comic library as well as special features focusing on the brand new Sonic Comic Universe only Archie Comics and Sonic Super Digest can bring!

And finally, Sonic Boom #1 makes it’s debut into the line-up in the wake of the news brought earlier today. Not much has been revealed on the plot, but expect plenty of comedy and robot-smashing action!

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Here comes the BOOM! Based on the new hit TV and video game comes Sonic Boom, a new ongoing Sonic the Hedgehog comic book series from Archie Comics! Sonic the Hedgehog and his friends are back and ready to do battle with the evil Dr. Eggman and his diabolical death-machines! This ground-breaking new chapter in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise puts a new ‘spin’ on all your favorite heroes and villains – plus new faces and hilarious new stories chock-full of action! Featuring a stunning first issue cover by Sonic art legend Patrick ‘SPAZ’ Spaziante, and 4-part ‘Here Comes the Boom’ collector covers from series artists Evan Stanley, Rick Bryant, and Matt Herms!

We will have more information on these issues closer to the time of their release. The Sonic Boom variants can be seen in detail in our earlier article on the comic.

Source: Midtown Comics

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Archie Comics Sonic Boom Title Revealed

Trouble keeps you running faster

Trouble keeps you running faster

Sonic fans, get ready to open your wallets a little more to make room for THREE monthly Sonic titles. While not officially announced yet, Archie Comics own website has a brand new Sonic Boom comic available for subscription with the first issues cover officially revealed. Here’s the official description.

Here comes the BOOM! Get in on the ground floor with the ALL-NEW ONGOING SONIC COMIC BOOK SERIES from Archie Comics based on the new hit TV series and video game: Sonic Boom! This ground-breaking new chapter in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise puts a new “spin” on all your favorite heroes and villains—plus new faces and hilarious new stories chock-full of action—and it’s all brought to you by the folks that bring the hit series Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic Universe to you each and every month! Subscribe today and own a piece of Sonic comic history!

But “GASP!” does this mean that Sonic Universe could be cancelled as some have pondered?! The bigger question is, why would it? It’s not like regular, old Archie has a million other titles under his belt and Ian Flynn’s written four books a month before. Not only that, but Sonic X has a had several writers during it’s short tenure. As this is based on a show known for short stories, the basis could be the same here. Myself, I wouldn’t be surprised to see two or three short stories in each issue.

Big thanks to SSMB poster PC The Hedgehog for finding this on Archie’s site.

 

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More Details Revealed About Archie’s Sonic Boom

The paper adaptation of the upcoming cartoon is starting with a bang!

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Earlier today, we reported on the Sonic Boom comic sighting on Archie’s comic website. Now, thanks to an exclusive reveal from IGN, the comic is officially confirmed. Not only that, but we know more about how it’ll work when it comes out! Here’s just a few main points from the article itself;

  • The stories in the comic will be stand alone adventures, separate from the cartoon and video games presumably. Despite this, they will be building up to some awesome stuff happening later on.
  • Ian Flynn will be handling writing, as he does for Archie’s Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic Universe, while the art will be done by veteran artist Evan Stanley.
  • The first arc will focus on setting the tone for the series and the character relationships between the main cast…and a recurring killer robot.
  • It’s too early to comment on Metal Sonic appearing, and others are up to SEGA, but we’ve been promised plenty of surprises down the line for developing the game characters and mythology.
  • The series is a more casual read which is more focused on comedy and adventure than the main comic’s focus on action-adventure drama. Plenty of pick-up value.
  • Sonic and Tails are pretty unchanged from their main series selves bar their designs, Knuckles is goofier but still has the friendly rivalry that has defined the dynamic between him and Sonic, Amy is the sensible one of the group. at least for the most part.
  • Stick’s personality makes a great addition to the existing cast, according to Kaminski.
  • There’s plenty of Eggman to look forward to.
  • Issue 1 will come with four variants that are styled quite similarly to how the Countdown to Chaos main covers were done!

You can read the whole interview through the link above. We will have more information on the new comic as it is disclosed.

Source: IGN

 

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Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog #262

The water’s getting deep in this month’s issue of Sonic!

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Uproxx has an exclusive preview of Sonic the Hedgehog #262, and the pressure’s mounting on our heroes! Sonic and his friends are facing a huge problem in Meropis; the mystic forcefield has lowered, so Dark Gaia Monsters are teeming into the city and terrorising the populace! It’s a double effort as the group needs to drive out the monsters and raise the protection, but it’s bound to be fraught with perils in “Waves of Change”: part 3. Meanwhile, Tails and his troupe have found the Chaos Emerald they were after, but the path back out isn’t all that easy as Eggman’s forces close in on them. Read the conclusion to this back-up story in “Light in the Dark”: part 3.

(W) Ian Flynn, Aleah Baker (A) Evan Stanley & Various (CA) Ben Bates
Catch some sun and ride the wave as the aquatic adventure continues in ‘Waves of Change,’ Part 3! Sonic faces a city invasion by the ominous Dark Gaia Monsters! To make it even worse, the invasion is underwater – and Sonic can’t swim! As the struggle turns desperate, will it be Amy’s mission to find the key to saving them all, or will Sonic be left to drown? Then, in ‘The Light in the Dark,’ Part 2, the Freedom Fighters find what they’re looking for – but will their own divisions bring them down? Featuring new cover art from Ben Bates and an extra-special ‘monster movie’ variant from artist T.REX!

Sonic the Hedgehog #262 will be out in comic stores and through digital formats on Wednesday 16th. Pick it up to continue the watery tale!

Source: Uproxx

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Preview: Sonic Universe #65

The hunt is on for a certain individual that was unleashed during the crisis!

SU_65-0

 

Comicosity has a preview of Sonic Universe 65! In this issue, Knuckles and the Chaotix have stumbled across Light Gaia, and both parties have their own reason to want to get hold of the little furball. But they’re not the only ones after him, as the Hooligans are still in there and hunting down the Chaos Emerald he has. On top of all this, the Aquatic Mines are a perilous place, even more so when you add in a few Dark Gaia Minions to the already busy fray! The story continues in “The Great Chaos Caper”: part 3.

Sonic Universe #65
Bust out your detective hats and hop on the case in “The Great Chaos Caper” Part Three: Knuckles and the Chaotix are in the heart of the Aquatic Mines—a dangerous coal pit shrouded in darkness and water. How on earth (and below earth!) can they make it out alive?! And once they do, they’ve got to chase down the unlikely Chaos Emerald thief before Nack’s team of Hooligans beat them to it! Add in ravenous Dark Gaia Monsters, and there may be too much for our heroes to handle! Featuring new cover art from Sonic comic guru Tracy Yardley and an awesome SEGA game art variant cover starring the Chaotix!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Game Art Variant Cover Art provided by SEGA
On Sale: 7/2
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 U.S.

The issue should be out in comic stores and digitally today, so make a note to trek down to your nearest provider if you want to see the action for yourself!

Source: Comicosity

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Covers and Solicitations for Sonic the Hedgehog #265 and Sonic Universe #68 Revealed

Darkness falls over the comics (literally), and one must wonder how eclipses affect lycanthropes.

 

Midtown Comics has a bunch of new details about the September/October issues coming up, and the themes are quite apt leading up to Halloween in a few months. In Sonic the Hedgehog #265, Sonic has been pushed across his brink and has gone full Werehog on the gang, and he isn’t a fluffy puppy! As the flames are up in the surrounding jungle, it’s up to Mighty to try and bring him to sense in “Control”: part 2. Meanwhile, Rotor’s keen to show off what the Sky Patrol can do, but runs into bother thanks to a Badnik Horde in “The Grand Tour”.

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(W) Ian Flynn, Joey Esposito (A) Terry Austin & Various (CA) Tracy Yardley & Various
‘Control,’ Part 2. The Werehog is unleashed! As the jungle collapses in flames, it’s up to Mighty to bring his feral friend to heel! But can Sonic even tell ally apart from enemy anymore? Then in ‘The Grand Tour,’ Rotor shows off all of the Sky Patrol’s abilities; unfortunately, it’s right as a Badnik Horde attacks! Don’t miss a moment of the action, with cover art from the titanic team of Yardley, Austin and Stanley – plus an epic Sonic Adventure variant by the newest Sonic superstar Rafa Knight!

Sonic Universe #68 turns tact with Knuckles searching for the Dark Arms in the mountains with Rouge and E-123 Omega in tow. Shadow’s solitude does not go unnoticed, and ‘little brother’ Eclipse goes on the attack against his kin! Shadow starts facing off against this monster relative in “Total Eclipse”: part 2

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(W) Ian Flynn (A) Jim Amash & Various (CA) Tracy Yardley, Ben Hunzeker
The first-ever Sonic Universe trilogy continues here in ‘Total Eclipse,’ Part 2! Knuckles leads Team Dark’s Rouge and Omega into the wilds of the Red Mountains, searching for the mysterious Dark Arms. But while the echidna’s away, the darklings will play – but darklings don’t play for fun-they play to kill! With Knuckles’ back turned, the evil Eclipse attacks Shadow the Hedgehog! Can even the ultimate life-form withstand Eclipse’s terrifying Monster Form? Don’t miss the new cover art from Tracy Yardley and returning Sonic painter Ben Hunzeker-plus an all-new ‘Tabloid’ variant cover by Jonathan H. Gray, Jim Amash and Matt Herms!

We will have more on both of these issues closer to the release date.

Source: Midtown Comics

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Ian Flynn, Tracy Yardley and more at Heroes Con on June 21st (Updated)!

Close to Charlotte, North Carolina and like the Archie comics? This could be something for your diary!

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Over this coming weekend, a comic convention called Heroes Con is being held at the Charlotte Convention Centre in Charlotte, NC. Amongst the guest list across the three-day event are several representatives for the Archie comic, and there’s a dedicated half to the panel for Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic Universe and Mega Man with Paul Kaminski (editor), Ian Flynn (writer) and Tracy Yardley (artist). The official website has the specific schedule for the Archie panel;

Room 201
PART I :: ARCHIE: Life, Afterlife and Beyond
Join moderator Jimmy Aquino (COMIC NEWS INSIDER) in a talk about the major events happening at Archie Comics – from the hit horror series AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE to the upcoming “Death of Archie” in the pages of LIFE WITH ARCHIE and much more – with an all-star cast of Archie staff and stars, including artist FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA (Afterlife with Archie), PAUL KAMINSKI (Archie Comics Executive Director of Editorial) and Red Circle Comics Editor and Archie SVP – Publicity and Marketing ALEX SEGURA.
PART II :: ARCHIE: SONIC THE HEDGEHOG and MEGAMAN
Get the inside scoop on what’s coming up in Archie’s best-selling “Action” line of video game titles, including SONIC THE HEDGEHOG, SONIC UNIVERSE and MEGA MAN, with SONIC/MEGA MAN editor PAUL KAMINSKI and long-time Sonic and Mega Man creators IAN FLYNN and TRACY YARDLEY

You can get a three day pass in advance of the event until the end of June 18th, or you can get a one day pass on the day for $20 if you wish to get in for Archie on June 21st. If you want a potential day out, this might be something to consider! More details about the location and other technical details are on the Heroes Con website.

UPDATE: It’s not June 20th at 4pm as the schedule said at the time of posting, it’s June 21st at 2pm! Make sure you don’t get confused and get there a day early! Although several Archie people will be at tables throughout the weekend anyway.

Table details are listed on the official Bumbleking website.

Source: Heroes Online

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Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog #261

The waters begin to boil over in this month’s issue!

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Tensions are rising in Meropis, and Uproxx has an exclusive preview of the next part of the undersea adventure. Coral has been approached by the royal guard for her failure to reincarnate the ancient chao, so Sonic and Amy go with her and Razor to confront the rulers of the underwater city. But can they win over the government when friction is at an all time high? And what of the Dark Gaia Monsters lurking outside? Find out in “Waves of Change”: part 2. Meanwhile, Sally, Antoine and Tails continue their mission for a Chaos Emerald within Eggman’s base in “Light in the Dark”: part 2.

(W) Ian Flynn, Aleah Baker (A) Evan Stanley & Various (CA) Matt Herms, Tracy Yardley
Dive into the action in ‘Waves of Change’ Part Two! Sonic, Amy, and Rotor-in the deep sea and in deeper trouble! When their new friend Coral has run afoul of her government, will Sonic and the Freedom Fighters stand by her side? Or will they risk becoming fugitives? Then, in ‘The Light in the Dark,’ Sally’s simple raiding plans take a turn for the worse! Featuring new cover art from Sonic superstar Ben Bates and a hilarious new ‘Is it Summer Yet??’ Variant cover by Tracy Yardley! and Matt Herms!

Sonic the Hedgehog #261 is out digitally and in stores this Wednesday. Drown yourself in the experience by picking it up!

Source: Uproxx

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Preview: Sonic Universe #64

Away from the zoo lane, we have a scuffle between the detectives and the thieves.

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To start June off on the comic front, Multiversity Comics have a preview of Sonic Universe #64. Knuckles and the Chaotix find themselves getting into fisticuffs with the Hooligans. While the scuffle for the Chaos Emerald is going on between the teams on opposite sides of the law, tensions are raised for both sides on all fronts. Meanwhile, Knuckles has his own mission to take care of, and he (with the trio) eventually finds something he didn’t expect. What is this light amongst the darkness? Find out in “The Great Chaos Caper”: part 2.

SONIC UNIVERSE #64
Knuckles and the Chaotix are back in action! “The Great Chaos Caper” Part Two: It’s hijinks and high explosives galore with Knuckles caught in the middle of all the action! The Chaotix and the Hooligans are falling all over each other to get to a Chaos Emerald – the key to saving (or dooming) the world! It’s up to Knuckles to power through the madness and complete his own mission and, in his travels, you’ll never believe who he finds! Featuring new cover art from Tracy Yardley and a rad red SEGA Variant cover!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Tracy Yardley
Game Art Variant Cover Art provided by SEGA
On Sale: 6/4
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

Sonic Universe #64 will be available to purchase in comic stores and on digital formats this Wednesday. Get your copy and follow along with the intrigue!

Source: Multiversity Comics.

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Sonic the Hedgehog #264 and Sonic Universe #67 Covers and Solicitations Revealed

Sonic Super Special Magazine #12 has a booming update, as well.

Comic Vine has a bunch of new covers and solicitations for viewing pleasure, and all of them kick off a new chapter in the comic series! In Sonic the Hedgehog #264, Amy and Sally explore the rainforest for a Chaos Emerald that’s been detected. What they didn’t count on was finding Mighty and Ray during all the mess! Sonic is also fighting new Egg Boss Thunderbolt, and it seems he’s being pushed to the brink as the Werehog comes out to play in “Control”:part 1. But that’s not all, as the crisis takes its toll on Antoine and Bunnie in “A Nice Day to Start Again”.

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A-WOOOOOOOOO! THE WAIT IS OVER! Prepare yourself for the terrifying debut of SONIC THE WEREHOG! “Control” Part One: Sonic, Amy and Sally venture deep into the rainforest in search of a Chaos Emerald. What they find are Mighty, Ray – and serious trouble! Will Egg Boss Thunderbolt push Sonic to the breaking point? Then, in “A Nice Day to Start Again,” Bunnie and Antoine experience the effects of the Shattered World Crisis in a very personal way! Featuring new cover art from PATRICK “SPAZ” SPAZIANTE and an “UNLEASHED” SEGA variant!
Script: Ian Flynn, Joey Esposito and Benjamin Bailey
Art: Tyson Hesse, James Fry, Terry Austin, John Workman, Gabriel Cassata
Cover: Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
Unleashed Variant Cover: SEGA
Ship Date: 8/27
On Sale Date: 9/10
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Hope you’ve been following Shadow Fall and Great Chaos Caper (aka the last two Sonic Universe arcs), because Sonic Universe #67’s new arc ties them both together! With Eclipse suspected to be on Angel Island, team Dark go on the hunt for him. Predictably, Knuckles is none too happy about this! Eclipse himself isn’t slacking on the pursuit either, all in “Total Eclipse”: part 1.

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BRAND NEW STORY ARC! The events of “Shadow Fall” and “Chaos Caper” have clashed to collision in the epic new tale — “Total Eclipse” Part One! The third chapter in the DARK TRILOGY begins here as Team Dark comes to Angel Island on the hunt for Eclipse. But Knuckles isn’t known for his hospitality! Sparks begin to fly as he and Shadow clash over how to protect the world! Meanwhile, the sinister Eclipse hunts our heroes! It’s the first-ever SU TRILOGY and you’ll be in on the ground floor with this titanic new issue, featuring cover art from TRACY YARDLEY and a special “PIXEL CUTSCENE” variant from Ryan Jampole!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, Matt Herms
Cover: Tracey Yardley and Ben Hunzeker
Pixel Cut Scene Variant Cover: Ryan Jampole
Ship Date: 8/13
On Sale Date: 8/27
32-page, full color comic
$3.99

Finally, we have a bit of an update to deliver! If you recall, we initially looked at Sonic Super Special Magazine #12 back in March. The information was updated along with the batch of new covers. Alongside the Mega Drive retrospective and exclusive interviews, there’s an exclusive behind the scenes look at the upcoming Sonic Boom! You might want to keep a close eye on this one if you’re starving for game hype!

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Celebrate 25 years of the SEGA GENESIS with this extra-special anniversary edition of SONIC SUPER SPECIAL MAGAZINE! Take a look back at the SEGA system that started a revolution with this anniversary issue featuring the origins of such hit games as Golden Axe, Altered Beast, Streets of Rage and more—alongside awesome new pin-up art from the Archie team! Also featured is a special look at the all-new SONIC BOOM games and TV show, with exclusive info you won’t find anywhere else! The SONIC SUPER SPECIAL MAGAZINE gives you the world of Sonic the Hedgehog comics as you’ve never seen it before, with tons of comic stories, special features and exclusive articles on the latest and greatest in the world of everyone’s favorite blue hedgehog-hero! Plus an interview with Sonic inker supreme Terry Austin and an all-new foil-enhanced cover from the incomparable BEN BATES! This issue is jam-packed with awesomeness!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante, Ben Bates, Tracy Yardley, Erik Ly, Jerry Gaylord, Brent McCarthy and more!
Cover: Ben Bates
Ship Date: 8/6
On Sale Date: 8/20
128-page, full color comic
$9.99 U.S.

We will be taking a closer look at Sonic the Hedgehog #264 and Sonic Universe #67 nearer their release dates.

Source: Comic Vine

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Preview: Sonic the Hedgehog #260

We’re under the sea, but is the situation better down where it’s wetter?

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Here in the sunny UK, the weather has been rather hot recently, so a dip in the water is warranted. Comic Book Resources have released the preview for Sonic the Hedgehog #260, and what better way to kick off the summer of the Sonic comic, then, than to have a whole new adventure under the ocean waves! Sonic, Amy and Rotor are sent out to search for a Gaia temple, when they are called upon by an undersea civilisation to help them. What new faces will we meet there, and what’s going on deep down beyond the Dark Gaia monsters popping up and beginning to attack the area? Find out in “Waves of Change”: Part 1. Meanwhile, Sally, Nicole, Antoine and Tails are starting their little mission into an Eggman base, in the search for a much-needed Chaos Emerald in “Light in the Dark”: part 1.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #260
Journey under the sea with Sonic the Hedgehog in the first chapter of an EPIC new SAGA! “Waves of Change”: Part One – What could be worse than a world shattered to pieces? How about dark monsters rising from the abyss?! While Sonic and the Freedom Fighters race to find the Chaos Emeralds and Gaia Temples, Sonic ends up discovering a whole new world of adventure deep beneath the waves! But will those he encounters prove to be friend or foe? Then, in “Light in the Dark”: Part One – Sally, Nicole, Tails and Antoine venture into the Eggman’s latest grab for power to retrieve a desperately-needed Chaos Emerald! Featuring all-new cover art from superstar artist Ben Bates and a special SONIC VERSUS variant cover from Sonic artist Evan Stanley!
STORY BY: Ian Flynn, Aleah Baker
ART BY: Evan Stanley, Jennifer Hernandez, Terry Austin, Gabriel Cassata, Matt Herms, John Workman
COVER BY: Ben Bates, Evan Stanley, Jack Morelli
PUBLISHER: Archie Comics
COVER PRICE: $2.99
RELEASE DATE: Wed, May 21st, 2014

Sonic the Hedgehog #260 should be out digitally and in comic book stores May 21st. Pick up the issue and start on your maiden voyage into the depths!

Source: Comic Book Resources

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Preview: Sonic Universe #63

You know us, the Sonic Stadium, and we’re going to Pumpkin Hill. You ready?

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It’s Knuckles’ turn to shine in Sonic Universe #63, and IGN has a sneak peek into the pages. As Angel Island goes completely haywire in the wake of the shattered crisis, Knuckles entrusts the island to a friend as he’s guided to find a solution by a mysterious voice. He won’t be alone on this hunt though as the Chaotix, sent on a mission for a Chaos Emerald by princess Sally, join him for the ride. Mysteries await as the four of them explore around Pumpkin Hill, whether the danger be from undead spirits or Dark Gaia monsters. And there may be even more lethal surprises out for the Chaos Emerald beyond that! This is “The Great Chaos Caper”: part 1.

SONIC UNIVERSE #63
BRAND NEW STORY ARC! Fly high above the clouds with Knuckles and the Chaotix in “THE GREAT CHAOS CAPER: Part One”! Knuckles the Echidna has been tasked by a mysterious force to fix the shattered planet – but when the Dark Gaia monsters emerge from the world’s core, our hero finds himself in a fight for his very life! Luckily the ever-adventuring Chaotix are around to lend a hand, hired by Princess Sally to gather the all-important Chaos Emeralds. But wait, who’s that lurking in the dark? New characters, new lands, and the return of some familiar faces await you in this new storyline with interior and cover art from Sonic artist supreme Tracy Yardley! Plus a special CHIBI variant cover from Ryan Jampole!
Script: Ian Flynn | Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli and Matt Herms
Cover: Tracy Yardley | Chibi Variant Cover: Ryan Jampole
On Sale: 5/14 | 32-page, full color comic | $2.99 US

Sonic Universe #63 is out now digitally, and should be out in comic stores May 14th. Don’t let them get to you, just go creep to your nearest provider!

Source: IGN

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