Editing Shadow the Hedgehog (section)

==Powers and abilities==
[[File:Sonic v Shadow Boss ARK Race.jpg|thumb|left|225px|Shadow matching [[Sonic the Hedgehog|Sonic]] in abilities, from the console/[[PC]] version of ''[[Sonic Generations]]''.]]
Said to be [[Sonic the Hedgehog|Sonic]]'s equal in almost every ability,<ref name="SColors">{{Cite game|dev1=[[Sonic Team]]|dev2=[[Dimps]]|date=12 November 2010|fullgame=[[Sonic Colors (Nintendo DS)|Sonic Colors]]|system=Nintendo DS|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Asteroid Coaster]]|quote='''Shadow''': I'm happy to leave the racing around all day to them, thanks. / '''[[E-123 Omega|Omega]]''': Unable to process. According to data, your ability equals Sonic's.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite game|dev=Sora Ltd.|date=9 March 2008|game=Super Smash Bros. Brawl|system=Wii|pub=[[Nintendo]]|area=Trophy Hoard|quote='''"Shadow" trophy''': Shadow the Hedgehog is a black hedgehog who resembles Sonic. He was created by Dr. Eggman's grandfather, Gerald Robotnik, to be the ultimate life-form. Not only does he look like Sonic, but he has equal abilities. He has great skill with the space-time warping technique called Chaos Control. To reach his goals, he'll use any means necessary.}}</ref><ref>"Matching his great rival Sonic in almost every regard, Shadow is out to prove he's the ultimate competitor." - ''[[Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games]]'' website.</ref> Shadow can easily rival the blue hedgehog's various physical skills.<ref name="S&SAR">{{Cite manual|game=Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing|system=PlayStation 3|region=United Kingdom|page=5}}</ref><ref name="SGenerationsProfile">{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=4 November 2011|game=Sonic Generations|system=PlayStation 3|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Collection Room]]|quote='''Shadow's character profile''': Created as the "Ultimate Life Form" by Professor Gerald Robotnik, Dr. Eggman's grandfather, Shadow is the spitting image of Sonic, sharing his agility and speed. He has a strong sense of purpose and pursues his goals by any means necessary.}}</ref><ref name="SHeroesManual">{{Cite manual|game=Sonic Heroes|system=PlayStation 2|region=United States|page=[[:File:SHEN0010.jpg|8]]}}</ref> His abilities and skills in combat are an extremely powerful force to be reckoned with, and he is a match for even the most powerful foes in the series. He similarly never willingly holds back his immense strength, making him a brutal fighter. On his own, Shadow has been able to take down [[Guardian Units of Nations|G.U.N.]]'s various [[B-3x Hot Shot|combat]] [[Diablon|mechs]], [[Doctor Eggman|Dr. Eggman]]'s [[Egg Breaker|battle]] [[Egg-Cerberus|robots]], [[Black Doom]] and his [[Devil Doom|empowered state]], and even [[Solaris|deities]]. To best put his skills into perspective, Shadow was capable of defeating even Sonic while he had [[Diablon]] for support, as seen in some of the scenarios during the [[Black Arms]] [[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|incident]]. He even managed to best [[Emerl]] in combat after the latter had acquired all seven [[Chaos Emerald]]s as a power source<ref name="SBattle1">{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=27 February 2004)|game=Sonic Battle|system=Game Boy Advance|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Gimme Shelter]] (Shadow's Episode)}}</ref> (although Emerl quickly surpassed him afterward).

Like many of his associates, Shadow is able to move at super speed. Said to possess "ultimate speed,"<ref>{{Cite manual|game=Sonic Battle|system=Game Boy Advance|region=United States|page=4}}</ref> Shadow is able to match the speeds reached by Sonic,<ref name="S&SAR" /><ref name="SGenerationsProfile" /><ref name="SHeroesManual" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040624034444/http://www.sega.com/gamesite/sonicheroes/content.html|title=Sonic Heroes official website|accessdate=24 June 2004|work=Characters: Team Dark|publisher=[[Sega]]|quote=Shadow is the dark incarnation of Sonic, created by the renowned scientist, Professor Gerald at the height of his career. This black hedgehog matches Sonic's great speed and skills and has the ability to distort time and space using "Chaos Control." Shadow was presumed dead after his fall at Colony Arc in Sonic Adventure 2 Battle, but Rouge discovered him hidden away at Dr. Eggman's base. He has no memory of what happened to him but he's anxious to track down Dr. Eggman and find out.}}</ref> who is able to reach light speed. Although Shadow's [[Air Shoes]] have been credited as the source of his speed,<ref name="SR2 manual">{{Cite manual|game=Sonic Rivals 2|system=PlayStation Portable|region=United States|page=8}}</ref><ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sumo Digital]]|date=23 February 2010|game=Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing|system=PlayStation 3|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Media:SASASR Character Profile 17.png|Shadow the Hedgehog's profile card]]}}</ref> his powerful body allows him to easily rival Sonic's world class speed as well.<ref name="ShadowManual">{{Cite manual|fullgame=[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]|system=Nintendo GameCube|region=United States|page=[[Media:Shadow-us-gcn04.png|7]]}}</ref> Due to such speed, he can scale vertical surfaces and ceilings, out-speed bullets, and attack faster than the eye can see.<ref name="Sonic06IntroShadow" /> Even then, Shadow can take his speed further; by enveloping himself in an [[Boost|orange energy field]], he can accelerate beyond the sound barrier on both the ground and in midair for a short time, allowing him to not only smash straight through enemies and obstacles like a living projectile, but also fly immense distances through midair. Using [[Light Speed Dash|certain]] [[Light Speed Attack|techniques]], he can even achieve light-speed momentarily. While there are some inconsistencies about how fast Shadow is compared to Sonic, it is usually stated that they are complete equals.<ref name="SColors" /><ref name="SGenerationsProfile" /> Shadow has demonstrated complete mastery of his speed in any environment. Not only can he run at maximum tilt in straight lines, but also in full tight circles and through sharp turns with full control over his momentum. As far as stamina goes, Shadow's is seemingly limitless as he is never winded from running. His speed also allows him to perform several impressive feats, like [[Black Tornado|spinning in circles]] or [[Spin Kick|rotating his extremities]] at super speed to create winds strong enough to attack or blow away/suck in opponents, similar to aerokinesis.

[[File:Kdvshadowflip.jpg|thumb|225px|Shadow displaying his acrobatic skills, from [[Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' (2006)]].]]
An experienced athlete<ref name="JPSHeroes">{{Cite web|url=http://sonic.sega.jp/sonic_heroes/chara_d.html|title=Official Sonic Heroes website|publisher=[[Sega]]|work=Characters: Team Dark|accessdate=29 July 2015|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20041112172004/http://sonic.sega.jp/sonic_heroes/chara_d.html|archivedate=12 November 2004|language=Japanese}}</ref> that shares Sonic's agility,<ref name="SGenerationsProfile" /> Shadow has outstanding acrobatic skills and nimbleness, along with incredible reflexes that let him avoid any incoming obstacles with precise and delicate movements within split-seconds, [[grinding|grind]] expertly on [[Grind Rail]]s, dodge bullets,<ref name="Sonic06IntroShadow">{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=14 November 2006|fullgame=[[Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]|system=Xbox 360|pub=[[Sega]]|cutscene=Shadow's infiltration (Shadow Episode)}}</ref> and perform various [[strafe]] movements. When launched into the air, he can also pull off several [[Trick Action|tricks]] before landing. Using the [[Light Speed Dash]], he is able to dash across a trail of rings at super speed, further strengthening his maneuverability. Shadow also has superhuman strength, enough to match Sonic in power;<ref name="S&SAR" /> with effort,<ref>{{Cite manual|fullgame=[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]|system=Nintendo GameCube|region=United States|page=[[Media:Shadow-us-gcn08.png|15]]}}</ref> he can [[overturn]] objects many times his weight and size such as trucks, buses and large slabs of concrete with one hand. In addition, Shadow possesses astounding kineticism, precision and has reaction time to match his speed. Shadow also has an incredible resilience to damage as he can take lots of major punishment before he goes down for the count. Notably, he is completely bulletproof<ref name="ShadowIntro">{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega Studio USA]]|date=15 November 2005|fullgame=[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]|system=Nintendo GameCube|pub=[[Sega]]|area=Cinematic intro}}</ref> and even withstood [[Wikipedia:Atmospheric entry|atmospheric entry]] at the end of the [[Space Colony ARK]] [[Sonic Adventure 2|incident]] (the latter which only left him with [[wikipedia:Amnesia|amnesia]]<ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega Studio USA]]|date=15 November 2005|fullgame=[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]|system=Nintendo GameCube|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Devil Doom#Battle|Devil Doom]]|quote='''[[Doctor Eggman|Eggman]]''': Shadow, can you hear me? This might be the last chance I have to speak to you, so... what I said, about having created you? It was all a lie. Everyone thought you'd died during that horrible incident, but I rescued you with one of my robots! You'd lost your memory, that's all. You really are the Ultimate Lifeform my grandfather created!}}</ref>). Even when he takes damage though, he is able to recover rather fast.<ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=14 November 2006|fullgame=[[Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]|system=Xbox 360|pub=[[Sega]]|cutscene=Omega appears (Shadow Episode)}}</ref>

Owning to his "ultimate life form" physiology, Shadow possesses an immortal body, meaning he does not age and cannot be killed.<ref name="SHeroesManual" /><ref name="Bios">{{Cite web|url=https://www.olympicvideogames.com/marioandsonic/us/index.html|title=Mario and Sonic Tokyo|publisher=[[Sega]]|accessdate=21 August 2019|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020193217/https://www.olympicvideogames.com/marioandsonic/us/index.html|archivedate=20 October 2020|quote=A black hedgehog known as the ultimate life form. Created with an immortal body, he wields Chaos Emeralds to warp space and time.}}</ref><ref name="Sonic2006 Web">{{Cite web|url=http://sonichedgehog.sega-europe.com/en/index.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070315015023/http://sonichedgehog.sega-europe.com/en/index.html|title=Sonic the Hedgehog European site|publisher=[[Sega]]|work=Characters: Shadow the Hedgehog|archivedate=15 March 2007|accessdate=5 May 2015|quote=This mysterious hedgehog is a near-match for the blue hero though his body doesn't age and he can't be killed. Shadow, the ultimate life-form, is sent to Soleanna on a secret mission from the Federal Government and it's not yet known whether he's there to help or hinder Sonic. With his command of vehicles, Shadow can easily access areas that others can't.}}</ref> Being created as a cure, Shadow has a natural resistance to disease and was able to maintain contact with the [[Zombot]] virus for an extended period of time before getting infected. Furthermore, as seen during the Black Arms incident, due to being partly Black Arms, Shadow has a connection to the Black Arms' hive-mind, allowing him to sense his kind's presence and be immune to the Black Arms' body-paralyzing nerve gas.<ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega Studio USA]]|date=15 November 2005|fullgame=[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]|system=Nintendo GameCube|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Final Haunt]]|quote='''[[Sonic the Hedgehog|Sonic]]''': Once every 50 years, that Black Comet passes by this planet. Oh! Do you think those black creatures are somehow connected with that comet? / '''Shadow''': Black ... Comet. UGH! / '''[[Sonic the Hedgehog|Sonic]]''': Shadow! What's wrong?! / '''Shadow''': I think you're right... I feel it... they're up there. That's where the answers are... I've got to get to that comet!}}</ref> According to [[E-123 Omega]], since the Black Arms are able to turn their body into weaponry, Shadow should theoretically be able to turn his hand into a gun.<ref>Shadow Generations Side Story</ref>

Shadow also possesses an indomitable will and determination. His absolute refusal to give up in any situation and resolve to see his goals through to the end allows him to keep on persevering even in seemingly impossible situations. His enormous will even let him psychologically resist mind control powers; notably, Shadow was able to regain control of his body from [[Black Doom]] despite him being part Black Arms and therefore susceptible to Black Doom's mind control.<ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega Studio USA]]|date=15 November 2005|fullgame=[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]|system=Nintendo GameCube|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[The Last Way]]|quote='''[[Black Doom]]''': Such bravado for a little hedgehog! I thought you were different from the rest... but maybe not. We are more alike than you think... the same blood runs through our veins. / '''Shadow''': This can't be... Uugghh... Just... who are YOU? / '''[[Black Doom]]''': Don't you know? You were created from my blood... / '''Shadow''': Wha...what!? / '''[[Black Doom]]''': That's right... You are a part of me... do you feel that? I can control you... You can cannot escape me... nor can you escape your past! Hahahahaha... / ... / '''[[Black Doom]]''': Gerald.. you fool! Shadow is already in my control... What's this?! Well, well, well... seems like you're immune to my mind control. / '''Shadow''': You have no control over me, Black Doom! I now understand why I am here... I made a promise and I'm here to keep it! Today, I put my past behind me!}}</ref>

[[File:Sonic Heroes Chaos Inferno Inversion.png|thumb|left|225px|Shadow using [[Chaos Control]], from ''[[Sonic Heroes]]''.]]
Shadow is naturally able to tap into the [[Chaos Emerald energy|arcane powers]] of nearby Chaos Emeralds, either through physical contact or from a distance,<ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega Studio USA|Sonic Team USA]]|date=23 June 2001|game=Sonic Adventure 2|system=Dreamcast|pub=[[Sega]]|cutscene=After [[Radical Highway]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega Studio USA|Sonic Team USA]]|date=23 June 2001|game=Sonic Adventure 2|system=Dreamcast|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Sonic Adventure 2/Script (Dark)#After Defeating Sonic|After Defeating Sonic]]}}</ref> to empower himself and access different [[chaos powers]]. According to Shadow himself, he is the only one who knows how to use the Chaos Emeralds' true power.<ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=27 February 2004|game=Sonic Battle|system=Game Boy Advance|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Central City (Sonic Battle)|Central City]] (Shadow's Episode)|quote='''Shadow''': Hmph! The only one who can use the true power of the "Chaos Emeralds" is me."}}</ref> His trademark ability in the field of chaos powers is [[Chaos Control]], a technique achieved with the Chaos Emeralds that lets him warp time and space for various effects.<ref name="SHeroesManual" /><ref>{{Cite manual|game=Sonic Adventure 2|system=Dreamcast|region=United States|page=[[Media:Sonic Adventure 2 (U) 05.jpg|7]]}}</ref> With this technique giving him control over time and space,<ref name="Radical Train">{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=14 November 2006|fullgame=[[Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]|system=Xbox 360|pub=[[Sega]]|cutscene=10 years ago (Shadow Episode)|quote='''Shadow''': Don't bother. With a Chaos Emerald's power, I control time and space. You can't break free.}}</ref> Shadow is able to warp himself and those close by across space instantaneously<ref name="CCQuiz">{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega]]|date=13 November 2011|game=Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games|system=Wii|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[London Party]]|quote='''Shy Guy''': Do you know what Shadow's Chaos Control lets him do? / ... / '''Shy Guy''': I hear he can stop time and move to another place in an instant!}}</ref> over a range further than an [[Prison Island|island]]-annihilating explosion or between [[Chaotic Inferno Zone|dimensions]], slow down or freeze time entirely,<ref name="CCQuiz" /><ref name="ShadowCActions">{{Cite manual|fullgame=[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]|system=Nintendo GameCube|region=United States|page=[[Media:Shadow-us-gcn09.png|16]]}}</ref> and create areas of distorted space.<ref name="CMagic">{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=27 February 2004|game=Sonic Battle|system=Game Boy Advance|pub=[[Sega]]|quote='''[[Chaos Magic]]''': Shadow's ground shot. He hits his opponents with distorted space created with Chaos Control.}}</ref> Shadow is noticeably adept in using Chaos Control for anything between large-scale usages to small-scaled and delicate chaos powers inside and outside of combat. He can for example use it to either freeze or slow down opponents in time to give himself the speed advantage,<ref name="Radical Train" /> launch surprise attacks by suddenly warping up in front or behind opponents,<ref name="ShadowIntro" /> distort space around [[C. Nightmare|his]] [[Chaos Upper|fists]] for strikes that can blow opponents away, hide himself away in [[Chaos Burst|distorted space]], attack foes with spots of [[Chaos Magic|distorted]] [[Roaming Chaos|space]], and even power his own [[Shadow Heal|healing abilities]] and [[Shadow Guard|guarding skills]]. However, Shadow cannot perform Chaos Control if he does not have any Chaos Emeralds to draw power from.<ref name="Iizuka Chaos Control Confirmation">{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nzxRoIX4QU|title=Sonic Boom 2013 - Part 2/3 - Q&A Session (41:30)|work=YouTube|publisher=MajinReid|date=13 August 2013|accessdate=26 May 2021|quote='''[[Takashi Iizuka]]''' (as translated by the Q&A board's translator): If [Shadow the Hedgehog] doesn't have a Chaos Emerald he cannot use Chaos Control}}</ref>
[[File:Shadow chaos spear gens.webp|thumb|225px|Shadow using his [[Chaos Spear]] attack in [[Sonic Generations]]]]
Beside Chaos Control, Shadow is able to use a number of additional chaos powers. One of these chaos powers include his [[Chaos Spear]] technique, in which he throws up to several bolts of [[Chaos Emerald energy]] at his opponent that can either paralyze or injure an opponent, depending on its power level. Shadow's most powerful technique, however, is the [[Chaos Blast]], a chaos power where he releases a discharge of Chaos Emerald energy in a massive explosion that eliminates everything within a range of 10-20 yards.<ref name="ShadowCActions" />
[[File:Heroes BlackTornado.png|left|thumb|225px|Shadow's signature [[Black Tornado]] attack in ''[[Sonic Heroes]]''.]]
One of Shadow's main offensive maneuvers is the [[Spin Attack]], a technique where he curls into a concussive ball or cutting disk and directs himself at his targets. With it, Shadow can shred or burrow through just about any substance given enough speed. Highly adept in its usage, Shadow can utilize several variants of the Spin Attack for both grounded and aerial maneuvers, including the [[Spin Dash]], [[Spin Jump]], [[Double Jump]], [[Homing Attack]], [[Air Dash]], [[Somersault]], [[Dark Spin Dash]] and the [[Light Speed Attack]], which attacks at the speed of light.

Even without his Spin Attack, Shadow is a powerful hand-to-hand combatant. In line with his nature and potent abilities, Shadow uses a fighting style where he utilizes strong blows, such as [[Shadow Chop|powerful chops]], [[Kick|flying kicks]], [[Edge Attack|sideways kicks]], [[Shadow Kick|high spin kicks]], [[Shadow B. Kick|reverse spin kicks]], [[Shadow Rocket|downward dive]] [[Shadow Eagle|kicks]], or just [[Chaos Attack|barrages of punches]] [[Attack|and kicks]]. In addition, many of Shadow's stronger hand-to-hand combat moves revolves heavily around his usage of Chaos Control for space distortion effects to knock opponents away and his Air Shoes' [[Shadow Slider|exhaust for burning opponents]].

Shadow is an effective combat strategist, able to make split second calculations or adjustments to succeed in battle. His strategies can range from creative uses of his environment, manipulating his opponent's shortcomings, and outmaneuvering enemies.

As shown during the [[Sonic Free Riders|second EX World Grand Prix]], Shadow is talented with an his [[Extreme Gear]] ([[Darkness]] and [[Black Shot]]). During the tournament, he was able to put up quite a fight and even defeat some of the world's best Extreme Gear riders. When riding on an Extreme Gear, Shadow is skillful enough to ride on Grind Rails, execute complex tricks while in midair, and [[Attacks in the Sonic Riders series|perform]] chaos powers and combat moves with ease.
[[File:Shadow-the-hedgehog--with-motorcycle-min_(1).png|right|thumb|225px|Shadow's [[Dark Rider]], from ''[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]''.]]
Shadow also has extraordinary skill when it comes to driving or piloting all forms of vehicles. Not only is he one of the best race car drivers in the universe with the [[Dark Reaper]], but he is also able to perfectly operate [[Buggy|weaponized buggies]], [[Dark Rider|armed motorcycles]], [[Glider|modified gliders]], [[Hover Craft|hover crafts with machine guns]], [[Jump Vehicle|bipedal mechs]] and [[Air Saucer|alien devices]]. Shadow is as well an expert gunner, capable of using weaponry like the [[Gun Lift|G.U.N. Lift]]s and [[GUN turret|G.U.N. turret]]s with perfect accuracy. Also, whereas Sonic dismisses firearms, Shadow is not above using such weaponry, and has demonstrates proficient skills in a [[Weapons in Shadow the Hedgehog|very wide range of weapons]] during the Black Arms incident, such as close combat weapons, guns, cannons, lock-on weapons and lasers. Shadow may also have some knowledge about machinery, having once been able to fiddle with a deactivated [[E-123 Omega|Omega]] and deduce he was in standby mode.<ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=14 November 2006|fullgame=[[Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]|system=Xbox 360|pub=[[Sega]]|cutscene=Omega located (Shadow Episode)}}</ref> A miscellaneous ability Shadow has demonstrated as well is telekinesis, which is potent enough to let him move an [[Extreme Gear]] around with his mind with ease.<ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=21 February 2006|game=Sonic Riders|system=Nintendo GameCube|pub=[[Sega]]}}</ref>

[[File:ShadowWithoutLimiters.png|thumb|left|225px|Shadow using his full power, from [[Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' (2006)]].]]
As powerful as he is, Shadow is able to make himself stronger up tapping into an even greater power within himself. This power is so potent that should he remove his [[Limiter Ring]]s, he becomes a walking dynamo of raw power. Eggman compares the overall output of the resulting energy from the rings' removal to that of a raging furnace in his log.<ref name="Shadow101">{{Cite web|url=https://youtu.be/1KhKd1bj7G0?si=lSkjGLXrSvcpzk53|work=[[Wikipedia:YouTube|YouTube]]|publisher=Sonic the Hedgehog|title=Shadow 101: A Brief History of Shadow the Hedgehog|date=11 July 2024|accessdate=11 July 2024|quote='''[[Doctor Eggman|Dr. Eggman]]''': Second item of note: Shadow's Limiter Rings. These are designed to keep his power in check. When he takes them off- ho-ho-hoo, boy... It's like a raging furnace. He's virtually unstoppable for a short time. Perhaps I can trick him into overexerting himself? ...at the cost of a whole army. Nevermind!|language=English}}</ref> When unleashing this power, he releases such tremendous amounts of energy that it forms an impenetrable barrier around himself.<ref name="ChaosShadow">{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=14 November 2006|fullgame=[[Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]|system=Xbox 360|pub=[[Sega]]|cutscene=Showdown with Mephiles (Shadow Episode)}}</ref> While in this state, Shadow gains increased strength and speed,<ref name="Rio">{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega]]|date=13 November 2011|game=Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games|system=Wii|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[London Party]]|quote='''Shy Guy''': What does Shadow wear on his wrists and ankles? / ... / '''Shy Guy''': He's faster and stronger without the rings, but he gets worn out more quickly!}}</ref> enough to overpower hundreds of clones of [[Mephiles the Dark]] at once.<ref name="ChaosShadow" /> However, using his full power tires him out more quickly.<ref name="Rio" />


Shadow is an extremely powerful individual and combatant, capable of going toe-to-toe with and sometimes even overwhelming [[Sonic the Hedgehog|Sonic]] in fierce combat. He boasts superb agility and reflexes to match his rocket skate-induced speed, allowing him to act accordingly to even Sonic's split-second movements. Like Sonic, he can perform the [[Spin Attack]], a technique where he curls into a concussive ball or cutting disk and directs himself at his targets. With it, Shadow can shred or burrow through just about any substance given enough speed.<ref name="StH6">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 6|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #6]], "The Fate of Dr. Eggman, Part 2"</ref> Likewise, although he can only keep up with Sonic's level of super speed using his rocket skates, he is still faster than the average person, enough to chase after a speeding truck.<ref name="StH20">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 20|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #20]], "Crisis City, Part 2"</ref>[[File:IDW61ChaosControl.png|thumb|left|239x239px|Shadow performing [[Chaos Control (IDW)|Chaos Control]], from [[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 61|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #61]].]]In addition, Shadow commands a number of Chaos Powers. He can warp space and time with [[Chaos Control]], which allows him to teleport himself and, with the help of a [[Chaos Emerald]]s, he can teleport others instantaneously over wide distances at will. Chaos Control can alternatively be used to stop time temporarily. Shadow can also form spears out of green energy called [[Chaos Spear|Chaos Spears]] that he can either throw at opponents or wield as a solid melee weapon.<ref name="StH10">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 10|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #10]], "The Battle for Angel Island, Part 2"</ref><ref name="StH19">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 19|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #19]], "Crisis City, Part 1"</ref><ref name="StH6" /><ref name="StH59">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 59|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #59]], "Urban Warfare, Part 3"</ref> When Shadow attacked [[Eggperial City]], he was able to manipulate the [[Giant Fake Chaos Emerald]]s to create a tower of them and to trap Eggman's central tower.<ref name="StH61">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 61|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #61]], "Urban Warfare, Part 5"</ref> Shadow has impressive hand-to-hand combat skills as well, being able to utilize a mix of brutal punches and kicks, as he was able to beat up even [[Neo Metal Sonic (IDW)|Neo Metal Sonic]], albeit with a surprise attack.<ref name="StH10" />

=== Equipment===
[[File:Hover_Shoes_flying.png|thumb|225px|Shadow using his [[Air Shoes]] to hover, from ''[[Sonic Adventure 2]]''.]]
Shadow wears a pair of specialized shoes called [[Air Shoes]]. These footwear are the primary source of Shadow's speed,<ref name="SR2 manual" /> producing small jet streams that let him hover-skate at speeds supposedly even surpassing [[Sonic the Hedgehog|Sonic]]'s speed.<ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sonic Team]]|date=27 February 2004|game=Sonic Battle|system=Game Boy Advance|pub=[[Sega]]|quote='''[[Shadow Run]]''': Shadow's running skill. With help from his Air Shoes, he can run faster than Sonic.}}</ref> Alternatively, Shadow can use his Air Shoes' exhausts to [[Shadow Slider|attack opponents with fire]], [[Shadow Jump|empower his jumps]], or achieve midair hovering.

Shadow wears four [[Limiter Ring]]s, one on each of his wrists and ankles, that limit the amount of power he uses during combat and other situations. By removing them, Shadow is able to utilize his full power.

During the [[Black Arms]] [[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|incident]], Shadow made use of a vast selection of [[Weapons in Shadow the Hedgehog|weaponry]]. This included anything from close combat weapons like [[Survival Knife|Survival Knives]] and [[Black Sword]]s; guns like [[Pistol]]s and [[Sub-Machine Gun]]s; cannons like [[Bazooka (Shadow the Hedgehog)|Bazookas]] and [[Grenade Launcher]]s; lock-ons like [[8-Shot RPG]]s and [[Worm Shooter]]s; to lasers like [[Laser Rifle]]s and [[Refractor]]s.

Shadow wears a pair of specialized [[Air Shoes|shoes]]. These footwear are the primary source of Shadow's speed, producing small jet streams that lets him hover-skate at speeds rivaling Sonic's supersonic running speed.<ref name="StH63">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 6|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #6]], "The Fate of Dr. Eggman, Part 2"</ref><ref name="StH202">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 20|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #20]], "Crisis City, Part 2"</ref> Alternatively, Shadow can use his rocket skates to produce fire to attack opponents with or achieve midair hovering.<ref name="StH103">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 10|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #10]], "The Battle for Angel Island, Part 2"</ref><ref name="StH193">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 19|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #19]], "Crisis City, Part 1"</ref>

===Transformations===
{{main|Shadow the Hedgehog/Miscellaneous#Transformations}}
====Super Shadow ====
{{main|Super Shadow}}
[[File:Super shadow final.png|thumb|left|225px|Shadow [[Super transformation|transformed]] into [[Super Shadow]], from ''[[Sonic Art Assets DVD]]''.]]
By harnessing the power of the seven [[Chaos Emerald]]s, Shadow can enter a [[super transformation|Super State]], transforming him into '''Super Shadow'''. In this state, all of Shadow's abilities far surpass his normal ones and his chaos powers are increased to their full limit. He is also able to fly and is nearly invulnerable. Initially, Shadow found it difficult to stay in this state due to inexperience,<ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega Studio USA|Sonic Team USA]]|date=23 June 2001|game=Sonic Adventure 2|system=Dreamcast|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Finalhazard]]|quote='''[[Super Shadow]]''': Gutha! I don't have enough energy to transform into my Super Form!}}</ref><ref>{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega Studio USA|Sonic Team USA]]|date=23 June 2001|game=Sonic Adventure 2|system=Dreamcast|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Finalhazard]]|quote='''[[Super Shadow]]''': クゥッ…！どうやら、ボクの体にこのスーパー化は無理があったようだ…。 (Gah...! It seems impossible for my body to keep this Super form...)}}</ref> but he has since mastered it. In addition, this transformation consumes a lot of energy, meaning it cannot be maintained for long.

==== Hero Shadow/Dark Shadow==== 
:''Main article: [[Hero Shadow]] & [[Dark Shadow]]''
[[File:Hero Shadow.jpg|thumb|225px|Shadow in his [[Hero Shadow]] state, from ''[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]''.]]
When his mind is fueled by thoughts of justice, Shadow is able to attain an enhanced state known as '''Hero Shadow'''.<ref name="GoodAndEvil">{{Cite game|dev=[[Sega Studio USA]]|date=15 November 2005|fullgame=[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]|system=Nintendo GameCube|pub=[[Sega]]|area=[[Westopolis]]|quote='''[[Sonic the Hedgehog|Sonic]]''': The power of justice lets you use the teleport using Chaos Control. If you are fueled by evil though, you'll be able to unleash the destruction of Chaos Blast.}}</ref><ref name="GoodAndEvilManual">{{Cite manual|fullgame=[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]|system=Nintendo GameCube|region=United States|page=[[Media:Shadow-us-gcn09.png|17]]}}</ref> In this state, Shadow is temporarily invincible and can perform a large-scale use of [[Chaos Control]]. However, this state only lasts for a short period of time.
[[File:Darkshadow36.jpg|thumb|225px|left|Shadow in his [[Dark Shadow]] state, from ''[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]]''.]]
When his mind is fueled by thoughts of evil, Shadow is able to attain an enhanced state known as '''Dark Shadow'''.<ref name="GoodAndEvil" /><ref name="GoodAndEvilManual" /> In this state, Shadow is temporarily invincible and can perform a large scale-use of [[Chaos Blast]]. However, this state only lasts for a short period of time.
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