Editing Sonic the Hedgehog (section)

==Personality==
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|image1 = CS S US.png
|alt1   = In-game screenshot of Sonic Jam's profile of Sonic. The text reads "Age: 16; Strong Point: Running Speed (can exceed mach 1); Weak Point: He can't swim!; Likes: Fast moving things, Music; Dislikes: The word "slow", Tears"

|image2 = Sonic_profile_SG.png
|alt2   = In-game screenshot of Sonic Generations's profile of Sonic. The text reads "All spikes and speed,  
Sonic the Hedgehog is the fastest hedgehog in the world- big on attitude and with a big heart to match. Like the wind, he's always on the move, living a life of excitement and adventure."

|footer = Sonic's in-game profiles, from ''[[Sonic Jam]]'' (top) and ''[[Sonic Generations]]'' (bottom).
}}
{{Quote left|Run daily whenever in the mood.|Sonic's motto<ref name="JamGuide">{{Cite book|title=ソニックジャム　オフィシャルガイド|publisher=SoftBank|date=October 2, 1997|page=99-100|isbn=978-4797303377|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref group="note">Original text: {{Nihongo|気分のおもむくままに||Kibun no omomuku mama ni}}</ref>}}
Sonic is described as "like the wind",<ref name="SegaUS"/> a free-spirited drifter with an insatiable appetite for adventure.<ref name="JPSHeroes">{{Cite web |url=http://sonic.sega.jp/sonic_heroes/character.html |title=Sonic Heroes official website |author=[[Sega]] |publisher=[[Sega]] |work=Characters: Team Sonic |accessdate=May 25, 2021 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20041207144720/http://sonic.sega.jp/sonic_heroes/character.html |archivedate=December 7, 2004 |language=Japanese}}</ref><ref name="SonicTwitter">{{Cite web |date=January 15, 2023 |title=ソニック・ザ・ヘッジホッグ【公式】 on Twitter |url=https://twitter.com/SonicOfficialJP/status/1614759371480924160?cxt=HHwWgIDU7fnF4-gsAAAA |work=Twitter |accessdate=January 16, 2023}}</ref><ref name="TailsTube1"/> He values freedom above all else and lives by his own rules rather than societal standards.<ref name="SH">{{Cite manual |game=Sonic Heroes |system=PlayStation 2 |region=United States |page=4}}</ref><ref name="ShadowManual">{{Cite manual |fullgame=[[Shadow the Hedgehog (game)|Shadow the Hedgehog]] |system=Nintendo GameCube |region=United States |page=7}}</ref><ref name="SC"/><ref name="SegaUS"/> Sonic's primary passion is speed, and he likes anything that is fast.<ref name="JamProfile">''[[Sonic Jam]]'' ([[Sega Saturn]]) Character House, "[[Media:CS S US.png|Sonic the Hedgehog]]"</ref>

Sonic loves traveling around the world,<ref name="JamGuide"/> interacting with different cultures present on the planet, and tasting regional dishes—particularly [[chili dog]]s—considering himself a [[Wikipedia:Connoisseur|connoisseur]].<ref name="TailsTube1"/> He never stays in one place for long and always seeks his next challenge, viewing life as a never-ending series of adventures.<ref name="SC"/> Sonic hates being constrained,<ref name="BrawlProfile">{{Cite game |dev=Sora Ltd. |date=March 9, 2008 |game=Super Smash Bros. Brawl |system=Wii |pub=[[Nintendo]] |area=Trophy Hoard |quote='''Sonic''' - The world's fastest hedgehog, who can run at supersonic speeds. Generally speaking, he loves being able to do what he wants and loathes being constrained. Holding still is something he would never consider. He's got a bit of an attitude but can't pass by someone in trouble. When he collects the seven Chaos Emeralds, he transforms into the mighty, gold Super Sonic.}}</ref> which tends to make him very uneasy and restless. However, he has shown the ability to remain calm even after six months of imprisonment onboard the [[Death Egg]]. Despite his love for the outdoors, he enjoys quieter activities, such as reading on rainy days.<ref name="2013Joypolis"/>

Sonic has a calm and carefree demeanor<ref name="SegaUS"/><ref name="SH"/><ref name="SC"/> but can be impatient, impulsive and short-tempered.<ref name="SUM"/><ref name="SegaUS"/><ref name="JPAdventureStylebook">{{Cite book |title=Sonic Adventure Stylebook |chapter=SONIC THE HEDGEHOG |page=9 |language=Japanese |quote=自由気ままが大好きで、曲がったことが大キライ。 直情的で短気だが、困っている人がいると放っておけない優しさも併せ持っている。 とにかくじっとしちゃいられない。 サウンドにはうるさい。[He loves freedom and hates crookedness. He is impulsive and short-tempered, but also has a kindness that can't be ignored when someone is in trouble. He just can't sit still. He is picky about sound.]}}</ref> He can be reckless and quick to act before thinking, acting before thinking and ignoring others' warnings.<ref name="SUM"/> Nevertheless, he is honest,<ref name="SC"/> fearless,<ref name="SaSASRProfile">{{Cite game |dev=[[Sumo Digital]] |date=February 23, 2010 |game=Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing |system=PlayStation 3 |pub=[[Sega]] |area=Character Select screen |quote='''Sonic the Hedgehog''' - Sonic is the world's fastest hedgehog, capable of running at the speed of sound (768 mph). His other abilities include a 'Spin Attack', a 'Spin Dash' and his 'Super Sonic' transformation which makes him indestructible and gives him the gift of run-flight. Sonic is not an expert swimmer, but is fearless – even of Dr. Eggman. Alongside his best friend Tails, Sonic runs around the world stopping Dr. Eggman's schemes.}}</ref> and always keeps his promises.<ref name="SC"/>

{{Quote left|Those who are all talk are the worst. I don't fight for justice or anything like that; I'm only doing what I like. But I'd never betray you.|Sonic, [[Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' (1991)]] Japanese manual<ref>''[[Sonic the Hedgehog (1991){{!}}Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' ([[Sega Mega Drive]]) Japanese instruction booklet, pg. 2.</ref><ref group="note">Original text: {{Nihongo|口ばっかの奴、サイテー。正義のためなんて、やなこった。好きだからやってるだけさ。だけど、ぜったい裏切らねーよ||Kuchi bakka no yakko, saitē. Seigi no tame nante, ya na kotta. Sukidakara yatteru dake sa. Dakedo, zettai uragirane ̄yo}}</ref>}}
Sonic's personality is a juxtaposition of kindness and ferocity.<ref name="SUM">{{Cite manual |game=Sonic Unleashed |system=Xbox 360 |region=United States |page=4}}</ref> He hates deceit, unfairness, and evil in all its forms,<ref name="Hidden"/><ref name="SGManual">{{Cite manual |game=Sonic Generations |system=Xbox 360 |region=United Kingdom |page=4}}</ref><ref name="SC"/> being enraged when witnessing injustice and doing all he can to stop it.<ref name="SH"/><ref name="SUM"/> For this reason, he has a very strong sense of justice,<ref name="SegaUS">{{Cite web |author=[[Sega/Sega of America|Sega of America]] |publisher=[[Sega/Sega of America|Sega of America]] |url=http://www.sega.com/sonic/globalsonic/post_allabout.php?article=soniccharacters |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20050305082053/http://www.sega.com:80/sonic/globalsonic/post_allabout.php?article=soniccharacters |accessdate=October 26, 2017 |work=Sonic Characters |archivedate=March 5, 2005 |title=Sonic the Hedgehog |quote=Like the wind Sonic never stands still and is always on the move. Sonic is cool under pressure, particularly when faced with his arch enemy, Dr. Eggman. He thinks that saving the world is no big feat, and he always protects and fights for the underdog. Sonic hates boredom and is constantly looking for his next adventure. Sonic lives and dies by his own rules. He never thinks twice about what others think or say; he is driven by his own sense of justice and fair play. Sonic was born to run and loves to cover as much ground as fast as he can. His demeanor is always cool and calm. When he finds himself in a pinch, he acts as though no thing can stop him. When faced with a serious situation, Sonic bears down on the task at hand, focused on the challenge.}}</ref> but fights for the ideal of freedom rather the name of the law.<ref name="ESI">{{Cite book |first1=Ian |last1=Flynn |last2=[[Sega]] |title=[[Sonic the Hedgehog Encyclo-speed-ia]] |publisher=[[Dark Horse Books]] |chapter=Sonic The Hedgehog (16-bit) |page=13 |date=December 8m 2021 |isbn=978-1506719276 |quote=Sonic is usually laid back and cool, but he's driven to fight injustice - not in the name of the law, but for the ideal of freedom. }}</ref> He is also very selfless, always standing for the underdog without expecting anything in return.<ref name="SegaUS"/><ref name="Rio">{{Cite game |dev=[[Sega]] |date=June 23, 2016 |game=Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games |system=Wii U |pub=[[Nintendo]] |area=Collectibles (Flags) |quote=A blue hedgehog with a penchant for high speed, Sonic is a free spirit with a love for adventure. He despises anything that is unfair and will get into trouble to help anyone in need. For Sonic, saving the world is just another thrilling episode in his life.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite game |dev=[[Sonic Team]] |date=November 14, 2006 |fullgame=[[Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|Sonic the Hedgehog]] |system=Xbox 360 |pub=[[Sega]] |cutscene=Running through the plains |quote='''[[Princess Elise the Third|Elise]]''': I have no words to express how grateful I am for your help... You're hurt! / '''Sonic''': It's nothing. / '''[[Princess Elise the Third|Elise]]''': Don't say that. I'm sorry. It's all my fault... / '''Sonic''': Smile. Your smile... That's all I need.}}</ref> He is motivated by personal entertainment, indifferent to his fame, and will always do what he sees as correct, even if it means trouble or being despised by others.<ref name="AdventureTokyoInternational">{{Cite book |title=Sonic Adventure Tokyo International Forum Unveiling Booklet |date=August 22, 1998 |chapter=All Star Cast |page=6}}</ref><ref name="Rio"/><ref>{{Cite game |dev=[[Sonic Team]] |date=March 13, 2009 |game=Sonic and the Black Knight |system=Wii |pub=[[Sega]] |area=[[Misty Lake]] |quote='''[[Merlina the Wizard|Merlina]]''': Are you ready? / '''Sonic''': Ready for what? / '''[[Merlina the Wizard|Merlina]]''': If you remove that sword and defeat King Arthur with it... You shall forever be the worst of knights, slayer of kings... / '''Sonic''': Guess I can't be the hero every time.}}</ref> For this reason, he does not consider himself a "hero".<ref name="SonicTwitter" />

Sonic has very strong will and believes that he can do anything as long as he is brave enough, never doubting himself or giving up.<ref>[[Sonic Team]] (December 9, 2008). ''[[Sonic Unleashed]]''. [[PlayStation 3]]. [[Sega]]. Cutscene: No Reason. "'''[[Sonic the Werehog|Werehog]]''': I'll bet it's thanks to you. / '''[[Chip]]''': Hmm? / '''[[Sonic the Werehog|Werehog]]''': Even at night, when I'm like this. I'm still myself. Not like all the other people we've seen. You must have been protecting me this whole time. / '''[[Chip]]''': I haven't done anything, Sonic. You're the reason you haven't changed at all. You're too strong to lose yourself! / '''[[Sonic the Werehog|Werehog]]''': I'm the reason? / '''[[Chip]]''': Yeah! You never doubt yourself, no matter what. You never give in to the night, or to the darkness inside your heart."</ref> His positive attitude fuels his massive internal ego; he thinks that he and his friends will always find a way out of any situation<ref name="TheFinalBattle"/><ref>[[Sonic Team]] (November 7, 2017). ''[[Sonic Forces]]''. [[Nintendo Switch]]. [[Sega]]. Area/Level: World Map. "'''[[Shadow the Hedgehog|Shadow]]''': Exactly. As it stands, there's no way we can win this. / '''Sonic''': Of course we can win this! We always do! We just haven't figured that part out yet."</ref> and views himself as unstoppable,<ref name="SegaUS"/> taking great pride in his skills.<ref name="JamGuide"/> In times of crisis, though, he becomes aggressive and intensely focused.<ref name="SH"/><ref name="SC"/> It is only in the moments of greatest loss that his carefree appearance falls away, like in the apparent deaths of his closest friends or loved ones.<ref name="Sonic06Flames">[[Sonic Team]], [[Blindlight]] (November 24, 2006). ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]''. [[PlayStation 3]]. [[Sega]]. Cutscene: Battleship explosion (Sonic Episode).</ref>

[[File:Sonic Advance 3 Ending.png|thumb|left|225px|Sonic with some of his closest friends, from ''[[Sonic Advance 3]]''.|alt=In-game screenshot of the Sonic Advance 3 bad ending, showing a picture of Sonic and his friends. Clockwise from top left: Sonic, Amy, Knuckles, Cream and Cheese, and Tails.]]
Sonic deeply cares about his friends<ref name="SonicTwitter" /> and will risk his life for them without any due consideration.<ref name="SC" /><ref name="SUM" /> He maintains that making others unhappy is the worst thing one could do,<ref>[[Sonic Team]] (February 27, 2004). ''[[Sonic Battle]]''. [[Game Boy Advance]]. [[Sega]]. Area/Level: [[Gimme Shelter]] ([[Cream the Rabbit|Cream]]'s Episode). "'''[[Emerl]]''': Ha! Fodder! You're just fodder! Ha ha ha ha! / [...] / '''[[Cream the Rabbit|Cream]]''': Emerl, please stop! / '''[[Emerl]]''': Haa haa... ...Why? Cream? / '''[[Cream the Rabbit|Cream]]''': *sniffle* *sobs* / '''[[Emerl]]''': Cream... Are you 'sad'? / '''[[Cream the Rabbit|Cream]]''': Yes... / [...] / '''Emerl''': 'There's nothing worse than making a girl cry!' That's what Sonic said..."</ref> and shows great trust and acceptance. While he generally assumes he can deal with things on his own,<ref name="TheFinalBattle">[[Sonic Team]] (November 4, 2011). ''[[Sonic Generations]]''. [[PlayStation 3]]. [[Sega]]. Cutscene: [[Sonic Generations/Script#The Final Battle!|The Final Battle!]]. "'''Sonic''': Destroy me? You [Eggman] and what mustache? I beat you all the time by myself, and now there's two of me!"</ref> Sonic believes strongly in teamwork and the bonds he has made, having noted that he would not have come as far as he has today without his friends and allies.<ref name="SonicXEggmanPart2">{{Cite web |title=スーパーソニック ＆ Dr.エッグマン 後編 |url=https://sonic.sega.jp/SonicChannel/special/coverstory/20211203_002756/ |work=かべがみカバーストーリー |author=[[Sega]] |publisher=[[Sonic Channel]] |date=December 3, 2021 |language=Japanese |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203123123/https://sonic.sega.jp/SonicChannel/special/coverstory/20211203_002756/ |archivedate=December 3, 2021 }}</ref>

Sonic holds everyone to the same level as himself but can often appear rude, specially to authorities.<ref>{{Cite game |dev=[[Sonic Team]] |date=March 13, 2009 |game=Sonic and the Black Knight |system=Wii |pub=[[Sega]] |cutscene=Search for the Lady of the Lake |quote='''[[Caliburn]]''': Onward, my young knave. / '''Sonic''': Stop calling me 'knave!' I'm Sonic the Hedgehog! / '''Caliburn''': Very well then, I shall call you Knave the Hedgehog. / '''Sonic''': Whatever, you oversized letter opener.}}</ref> Despite this, he can be a gentleman when he wants to and be modest with fancy titles.<ref>[[Sonic Team]] (February 20, 2007). ''[[Sonic and the Secret Rings]]''. [[Wii]]. [[Sega]]. Area/Level: [[Sand Oasis]]. "'''[[Shahra]]''': 'When darkness descends upon the Arabian Nights - the legendary blue hedgehog from another world shall come.' / '''Sonic''': Me? Legendary? You've got to be kidding! You're gonna make me blush!"</ref><ref>[[Sonic Team]] (March 13, 2009). ''[[Sonic and the Black Knight]]''. [[Wii]]. [[Sega]]. Cutscene: Head to Avalon. "'''[[Merlina the Wizard|Merlina]]''': The King is on an island known as Avalon. You have become a fine knight. / '''Sonic''': Aw, cut it out. Anyways, I guess I'll go end this thing, then."</ref> He also admires his enemies for their strength and the challenges they present.<ref name="Interview 6">{{Cite web |author=[[Sega/Sega of America|Sega of America]] |publisher=[[Sega/Sega of America|Sega of America]] |url=http://www.sega.com:80/sonic/community/post_sonicqa.php?article=sonicqa |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20040613171218/http://www.sega.com:80/sonic/community/post_sonicqa.php?article=sonicqa |archivedate=June 13, 2004 |title=Sonic Q and A |quote='''Jake B.''': Which bad guy is the biggest pain in your neck? Dr. Eggman, Metal Sonic, Shadow the Hedgehog, Other? / '''Sonic''': Well I really don't consider any of these guys my enemy in the true sense. Dr. Eggman has always found a way to make life an adventure for me and I love spoiling his evil plans. As for Shadow and Metal Sonic, I just enjoy testing my skills against them too. You know me, I love adventures!}}</ref>

Sonic often makes quips and jokes to lighten the mood and will take any opportunity to taunt his opponents.<ref>[[Sonic Team]] (November 7, 2017). ''[[Sonic Forces]]''. [[Nintendo Switch]]. [[Sega]]. Area/Level: [[Infinite (boss)|Infinite]]. "'''Sonic''': See, Infinite? Now we're getting to know each other! So, what's your favorite color? Do you like long, romantic walks on the beach? What's the source of your power? You can skip the first two questions if you like."</ref><ref>[[Sumo Digital]] (May 21, 2019). ''[[Team Sonic Racing]]''. [[PlayStation 4]]. [[Sega]]. Area/Level: Chapter 5: The Race Continues. "'''[[Silver the Hedgehog|Silver]]''': Right, yeah, okay. Winning. You ever have one of those feelings? Like... like... / '''Sonic''': Like you're about to get your car fed to you by a blue hedgehog? No, never. / '''[[Silver the Hedgehog|Silver]]''': I'm not hungry, but thanks. / '''Sonic''': Wow dude, you take all the fun out of trash talking."</ref> He is also very competitive, never holding back when pitted against others in a test of skills and abilities.<ref>[[Sonic Team]] (November 4, 2010). ''[[Sonic Free Riders]]''. [[Xbox 360]]. [[Sega]]. Cutscene: Cutscene 2 ([[Team Sonic|Team Heroes]]' story). "'''[[Amy Rose|Amy]]''': Yeesh, Sonic! Would it have killed you to go a little easy out there? / '''Sonic''': Hey, this is a serious competition, Amy. / '''[[Amy Rose|Amy]]''': Chivalry is serious business, too! I'm a LADY! / '''Sonic''': Hey Tails, Knuckles... Back me up on this, would you? / '''[[Miles "Tails" Prower|Tails]]''': You know that Sonic never holds back, Amy. I thought you liked that about him?"</ref> Nevertheless, Sonic is not one to usually hold ill against others in case he loses in an competition to them.<ref>[[Sonic Team]] (November 4, 2010). ''[[Sonic Free Riders]]''. [[Xbox 360]]. [[Sega]]. Cutscene: Cutscene 7 ([[Babylon Rogues|Team Babylon]]'s story). "'''Sonic''': Looks like you win this time around, Jet. / '''[[Jet the Hawk|Jet]]''': You're awfully calm about it. Aren't you ashamed at being beaten?? / '''Sonic''': Why? Luck is a big part of victory? This just means you were the lucky one today."</ref><ref>[[Sonic Team]] (November 4, 2010). ''[[Sonic Free Riders]]''. [[Xbox 360]]. [[Sega]]. Cutscene: Cutscene 8 ([[Babylon Rogues|Team Babylon]]'s story). "'''Sonic''': I gotta hand it to you, Jet. I couldn't touch you out there today. / '''[[Jet the Hawk|Jet]]''': Then get training. I'll give you a rematch any day of the week."</ref><ref>[[Sonic Team]] (November 4, 2010). ''[[Sonic Free Riders]]''. [[Xbox 360]]. [[Sega]]. Cutscene: Cutscene 5 ([[Team Dark]]'s story). "'''[[Rouge the Bat|Rouge]]''': Well that was certainly over fast. / '''Sonic''': You've improved, Shadow. Next time it's my turn to surprise you. / '''[[Shadow the Hedgehog|Shadow]]''': No matter how many times you try, you can't win."</ref> Despite his penchant for sarcasm, Sonic gets irritated when his species is misidentified, always correcting others to emphasize that he is a hedgehog.<ref>[[Sonic Team]] (February 20, 2007). ''[[Sonic and the Secret Rings]]''. [[Wii]]. [[Sega]]. Area/Level: [[Lost Prologue]]. "'''[[Erazor Djinn|Erazor]]''': You... you must be that blue rat that just got added to the story... / '''Sonic''': Don't you know anything? I'm not a rat! I'm a hedgehog."</ref>

{{Quote left|Every world has its end... I know it's kind of sad, but that's why we gotta live life to the fullest in the time that we have. At least, that's what I figure.|Sonic explaining his philosophy on life to [[Merlina the Wizard]], ''[[Sonic and the Black Knight]]''}}
Sonic is very insightful, capable of seeing through deception or noticing things that others would have overlooked.<ref name="SonicXRougePart1">{{cite web |url=https://sonic.sega.jp/SonicChannel/special/coverstory/20210729_002626/ |title=ソニック ＆ ルージュ 前編 |author=[[Sega]] |publisher=[[Sonic Channel]] |date=July 29, 2021 |accessdate=October 26, 2021 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210729090311/https://sonic.sega.jp/SonicChannel/special/coverstory/20210729_002626/ |archivedate=July 29, 2021 |language=Japanese }}</ref><ref name="SonicXRougePart2">{{cite web |url=https://sonic.sega.jp/SonicChannel/special/coverstory/20210817_002627/ |title=ソニック ＆ ルージュ 後編 |author=[[Sega]] |publisher=[[Sonic Channel]] |date=August 17, 2021 |accessdate=October 26, 2021 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817030258/https://sonic.sega.jp/SonicChannel/special/coverstory/20210817_002627/ |archivedate=August 17, 2021 |language=Japanese }}</ref> He can likewise give valuable and comforting advices that drastically change the outlook of others. He has an adversion for eternity, believing that a world that goes on forever is dull and maintaining that life is meant to be enjoyed to the fullest. He also has a remarkable capacity to forgive, one example of this being when he partnered with [[Silver the Hedgehog|Silver]] and worked with him after the latter had tried to kill him twice.

[[File:DJ Popcultcha Sonic art.png|thumb|225px|Sonic as a DJ, from ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog DJ Style Party]]''.|alt=Stock artwork of Sonic wearing headphones and using a DJ set.]]
Sonic loves nature and scenic views,<ref>[[Sonic Team]] (November 16, 2010). ''[[Sonic Colors]]''. [[Wii]]. [[Sega]]. Area/Level: [[Tropical Resort]]. "'''Sonic''': He [Eggman] loves to hear his own lips flap, but I gotta hand it to the Eggster, this place is epic. Everyone and their brother is gonna want to come here. / '''[[Miles "Tails" Prower|Tails]]''': No doubt but now I'm not sure why we're here? This place looks totally harmless. / [...] / '''Sonic''': Plot or not, you can't be mad at this view. This place is takin' beauty to the next level."</ref><ref>{{Cite game |dev=[[Sega]] |date=March 31, 2023 |fullgame=[[The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog]] |system=Steam |pub=Sega |level=Dining Car |quote='''Sonic''': Aw man! The windows are all covered up now... I never got to look at the pretty views... / '''*[[Barry the Quokka]]''': W-what? What's wrong?? / '''Sonic''': Amy was saying the train's sights couldn't be beat. I was excited!}}</ref> and detests environmental pollution as a result.<ref>[[Sonic Team]] (November 16, 2010). ''[[Sonic Colors]]''. [[Wii]]. [[Sega]]. Area/Level: [[Planet Wisp (Sonic Colors)|Planet Wisp]]. "'''Sonic''': You know, as alien as this place is, there is something very... Eggmanish about it. / '''[[Miles "Tails" Prower|Tails]]''': I think he's transforming it somehow. Making it part of his theme park. / [...] / '''Sonic''': It looks like the 'theme' of his park is universal domination and conquest of alien races. / '''[[Miles "Tails" Prower|Tails]]''': It's more than a theme; it's a reality. He's using them like some kind of living intergalactic gasoline. / '''Sonic''': That's pretty low, even for a sleazeball like Eggman."</ref> Additionally, he enjoys cool music and frequently breakdances, incorporating such moves in his attacks.

===IDW Publishing===
[[File:Sonic playfully boasting.jpg|thumb|225px|left|Sonic playfully showing off after defeating some {{IDWlink|Badnik}}s, from [[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 1|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #1]].]]
Always prepared to put his life on the line to protect others, be they friends or civilians, Sonic is a carefree spirit and a fearless daredevil at heart.<ref name="StH1">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 1|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #1]], "Fallout, Part 1"</ref> He is driven by his own personal code of justice that compels him to respond to any form of evil, no matter how great or how overwhelming its threat is.<ref name="SonicTradingCard">[[Media:IDWTradingCards - Sonic2.jpg|Sonic the Hedgehog Trading Card]].</ref> This attitude sometimes gets him in trouble, but it also makes him the answer to evil anywhere and everywhere.<ref name="SonicTradingCard"/> Unlike most others, Sonic finds fun in fighting and thwarting evil, primarily in the form of {{IDWlink|Doctor Eggman|Dr. Eggman}} and his {{IDWlink|Eggman Empire|empire}}.<ref name="StH1"/> Even when locked in a battle to the death, Sonic cannot help finding excitement and entertainment in such situations, namely because he has experienced them so many times that the stakes of such fights hardly faze him anymore.<ref name="StH50">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 50|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #50]], "Battle for the Empire"</ref> Regardless, he will still confront his enemies with a serious demeanor when the situation warrants it.<ref name="StH42">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 42|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #42]], "Zeti Hunt, Part 2"</ref> Despite his usual cocky and laid-back attitude and massive ego, Sonic's defining traits have always been his pure heart of gold and his utter dauntlessness in the face of danger.<ref name="StH1"/> Despite his ego, Sonic is willing to swallow his pride for the greater good, as shown when he used obsequious flattery to convince his rival, {{IDWlink|Jet the Hawk|Jet}}, to help him save the world.<ref name="StH25">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 25|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #25]], "A Sudden Shift"</ref> Also, despite his devotion to the greater good, he is notably rash, often throwing himself into trouble without much of a plan in mind.

{{Quote left|It's what I do. Just keep moving, doing good, saving folks, and living as free as the wind. Living by my way. My own way.|Sonic the Hedgehog, [[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 2|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #2]]}}
In keeping with his footloose lifestyle, Sonic values freedom above all else and strives to live his life according to his own rules rather than the standards of those around him or for the sake of heroism and duty. As such, despite his loyalty to his friends and allies, Sonic is typically reluctant to commit to anything that requires him to act primarily under the authority of others, including his friends. As a result, he does not consider himself a part of larger organizations like the {{IDWlink|Resistance}} or [[Restoration]], believing that he knows what is best for himself and and can do much more on his own without being tied down by a greater power.<ref name="StH2">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 2|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #2]], "Fallout, Part 2"</ref> At one point, Sonic found error in his ways as he was an indirect catalyst for Eggman's return and the spread of the [[Metal Virus]].<ref name="StH24">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 24|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #24]], "The Last One Out"</ref>

Sonic is an optimistic individual; as mentioned by his friends, he always puts a positive spin on things.<ref name="StH12">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 12|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #12]], "The Cost of the Battle for Angel Island"</ref> He thus refuses to give into despair, even when faced with a hopeless situation, although he has been known to drop his positivity in the darkest moments in favor of a more sympathetic outlook and somber mood.<ref name="StH23">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 23|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #23]], "The Last Minute, Part 3"</ref><ref name="StH24"/> Despite this, he never gives up and always fights to the end, believing firmly in the righteousness of his decisions and refuses to compromise his ideals and morals out of fear.<ref name="StH23"/><ref name="StH44">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 44|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #44]], "Zeti Hunt, Part 4"</ref> Also, since he is a hedgehog of action and is constantly looking for new adventures and challenges for himself, having nothing to on an adventure will severely bore Sonic, and staying cooped up for too long tends to make him uneasy due to his hatred of confinement.<ref name="StH34">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 34|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #34]], "Chao Races and Badnik Bases, Part 2"</ref>

[[File:IDW_advert_Sonic.png|thumb|Sonic the Hedgehog, from [[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 1|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #1]].]]
Sonic's personality is a juxtaposition of kindness and ferocity. Extremely benevolent, Sonic's heroism is an extension of his philosophy;<ref name0"FCB2021">''[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Free Comic Book Day 2021|Sonic the Hedgehog Free Comic Book Day 2021]]'', "Race to the Empire"</ref> preferring to keep things simple, Sonic lives for the moment and wants to see the world and enjoy all the thrills and adventures that come from that.<ref name="StH50"/> Sonic lives his life according to this sense of freedom and wants everyone else to have the freedom to do that too. As such, if he were to take a life, he would be taking away that person's freedom too, which goes against his own rules. Similarly, the peace he has made with several of his enemies in the past has taught him that there are better alternatives to neutralizing a threat than eliminating it, having experienced difficult cases of villains who wanted to destroy the world but were reformed by him and his allies.<ref name="StH50"/> As such, while he does everything he can to snuff out evil, he is always willing to give people that he has "a rocky start" with a chance to rebound and reform themselves so they can restart their relationships on better terms, a philosophy that he is willing to extend even to villains like Dr. Eggman or [[Doctor Starline|Dr. Starline]].<ref name="StH50"/> He similarly cannot turn away when someone is in need of aid. Most noticeably, after helping defeat {{IDWlink|Metal Sonic}}, he compassionately had the robot repaired in hopes he could convince him to abandon his evil ways.<ref name="StH12" /> He likewise believes that even the worst person has good in them.<ref name="StH23"/> Far from a pacifist, however, Sonic refuses to let anyone take away the freedom of others, even when they follow his own philosophy, and will willingly resort to physical methods when a peaceful route is not feasible.<ref name="StH50"/> As such, he recognizes that peaceful methods do not always work, especially when dealing with an unpredictable enemy. 

If Sonic has a flaw besides recklessness and a certain disregard for authority, it is that he tends to take things too much upon himself.<ref name="StH16">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 16|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #16]], "Infection"</ref><ref name="StH31">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 31|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #31]], "Recovery, Part 1"</ref> Another flaw of his is that he puts a lot of faith in the belief that everyone, even villains like Eggman, has some good in them and are redeemable, something that he himself sometimes regrets and individuals like {{IDWlink|Shadow the Hedgehog|Shadow}} and {{IDWlink|Espio the Chameleon|Espio}} challenge.<ref name="StH23"/><ref name="StH6">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 6|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #6]], "The Fate of Dr. Eggman, Part 2"</ref><ref name="StH24"/> Also, because he knows that giving others a choice cannot prevent them from making poor decisions, Sonic tends to become disappointed when those he gives a second chance to choose an undesirable path.<ref name="StH50"/> This does not make him naïve, because he is still aware when enemies pose too much of a threat to be reasoned with.<ref name="StH25"/>

Sonic cares deeply for his many friends. Despite his loyalty to them, though, he never lingers too long in one place. However, his friends know he will be cruising back into their lives in no time.<ref name="SonicTradingCard"/>

As the amnesiac Mr. Needlemouse, Sonic was a more aloof and relaxed individual, taking great interest in learning new things he had not heard of before.<ref name="StH31" />