AfterSonic Frontiersbroke the boundaries of what to expect from Sonic stories,Sonic X Shadow Generationsseems to be helping establish it as a trend. It’s no secret that Shadow the Hedgehog is one of the franchise’s most popular characters, and nowSonic X Shadow Generationsis making a solo campaign for him that promises to dive deep into his character arc. Trailers so far have shown some exciting scenes and boss battles, but fans have likely only scratched the surface of what the upcoming game has to offer.

Shadow the Hedgehog is a popular character for many reasons, but the way his story has been handled over the years has left much to be desired. With the required reading and playtime it takes to understand the black hedgehog,Shadow is similar to characters like Sephirothwho are very easily given misconstrued motives. In a recent interview, Game Rant sat down with Sonic Creative Officer and creator of Shadow the Hedgehog, Takashi Iizuka, to discussShadow Generations. The anti-hero’s solo campaign promises to clear up many questions and give him an experience that’s uniquely his own.

Sonic X Shadow Generations Tag Page Cover Art

Sonic X Shadow Generations Will Answer The Question of Who Shadow Is Once and For All

It’s no secret thatSonic X Shadow Generationsis happening because of howShadow is being heavily promoted alongsideSonic the Hedgehog 3. In fact, those who believeShadow Generationsis meant to serve as a game that players can pick up to learn more about Shadow would be right, as Iizuka had this to say about the main goal of Shadow’s new solo adventure:

“We get to tell his story. Fans are going to love it because they’re going to be like, ‘Yes. This is everything I love about the character,’ but first-time players are going to get to walk through all of his history and legacy, so they’ll walk away understanding Shadow as well.”

This is great for new players, but it’s very clear that Sonic Team isn’t forgetting those who havebeen with Shadow as far back asSonic Adventure 2. Shadow’s backstory and character are commonly misunderstood, and this game can finally set the record straight on what they aim to do with him in the grand scheme of things. Sonic Team’s confidence is a great sign in this regard, as it may point toward his character being adjusted to fit certain incarnations that many fans have wished for.

Making Shadow’s Experience His Own in Sonic X Shadow Generations

Sonic X Shadow Generationsisn’t just an over-the-top titleas it suits what the package offers with Shadow’s inclusion. It may be a bit strange to consider the new Shadow story and mode its own game, but it’s certainly being developed like one.Sonic Generationswas always about delivering a unique look at Sonic’s history, and in order to haveShadow Generationsfit in with the package, Iizuka says it’ll offer a similar experience in that previous games and stages will be explored while also being developed with Shadow in mind exclusively.

“ForSonic Generations, a lot of the storytelling and presentation was found in the stages and being able to play them in both 2D and 3D, which was the fun and nostalgic experience you could get through that gameplay.Shadow Generationsis made in the sameGenerationsformat, but the focus isn’t on the fact that these stages are 3D then 2D. It isn’t about playing both stages to get both the 2D and 3D experience. We’re leaning a bit more into the story side of things, and getting into who Shadow is as a character and some of the things Shadow has experienced.”

With these two things being found at “the heart” ofShadow Generationsaccording to Iizuka, it’s very clear that this will most likely be Shadow’s strongest solo adventure in decades. He isn’t just being included as another fast-paced character alongside Sonic; he’s having a subsection made for him and him alone.

It shows the dedication to Shadow that Sonic Team is willing to commit to, which makes the idea that fans will adore what Shadow Generationsas well asthe Year of Shadowas a whole bring to the table incredibly promising. Shadow the Hedgehog fans most certainly have a lot to look forward to andSonic X Shadow Generationshas the potential to be the best gift ever for those who have supported the anti-hero for the last 23 years.

Sonic X Shadow Generations

WHERE TO PLAY

THE RETURN OF SHADOWIn this new standalone campaign, Shadow’s nemesis, Black Doom, has reemerged and threatens to take over the world once again. Shadow must journey into his past, confront his painful memories, and unlock new dark powers to save the world.

SHADOW EVOLVEDHarness Shadow’s new Doom Powers to battle hordes of enemies and tackle platforming challenges like never before. Surf on water, fly over obstacles, and stop time with the return of Chaos Control!A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME AND DIMENSIONSExperience the ultimate showdown between Shadow and Black Doom in a new boss battle that will test your skills and reflexes. Use all of Shadow’s abilities to defeat Black Doom and save the world!EXPLORE THE NEW WHITE SPACEStretch your legs in an all-new hub world inspired by the open-zone gameplay of Sonic Frontiers. As Shadow gains new powers, he can explore further and uncover the secrets hidden throughout!