The concept of Tails was conceived during the development of Sonic the Hedgehog 2. When discussions arose about creating a sequel to the original Sonic game, a faction of the Sonic Team collaborated with Sega of America’s Sega Technical Institute. They aimed to introduce a character that would not only accompany Sonic but also attract new players to the franchise.

Yasushi Yamaguchi, known for his work as the main artist and level designer for Sonic Team, won a contest held at STI to create this character. Initially named “Miles Prower,” a play on “miles per hour” and “power,”^[11]Yasushi Yamaguchi’s explains Tails’ creation on the 30th anniversary of Sonic 2. Twitter (21 November 2022). Retrieved on 21 November 2022. the name was later changed to “Tails” at the insistence of marketing personnel Al Nilsen and Madeline Schroeder, despite Yamaguchi’s initial resistance.^[12]Al Nilsen on Twitter. Twitter (29 December 2021). Archived from the original on 29 December 2021. Retrieved on 29 December 2021. The compromise was that “Miles” would be the character’s legal name, with “Tails” serving as his nickname, resulting in the full name of Miles “Tails” Prower.

Initially intended to be a tanuki, inspired by Japanese folklore,^[13]Sonic the Hedgehog – Developer Interview Collection. Retrieved on 19 May 2018. Tails was eventually designed as a fox following guidance from Yuji Naka. Yamaguchi aimed to make Tails cute to appeal to Japanese audiences, drawing inspiration from the character Kitsune in Urusei Yatsura. Tails was given twin-tails for a stronger impact and personality, inspired by Myau from Phantasy Star. Despite rumors,^[14]“The People Making Sega’s Future“. Beep! Mega Drive: 46–48. January 1993. Archived from the original on 29 December 2021. Tails was always intended to be male, and his design included black, round eyes without sclera. Although depicted with three bangs, they were meant to originate from the right side of his head.

During the development of Sonic Adventure, the team struggled to transition the characters to 3D. This led to a redesign for Sonic, Tails, and the rest of the cast, with Kazuyuki Hoshino leading the effort. Yuji Uekawa, winner of an internal contest at Sega, redesigned Tails with visible blue irises, a slimmer physique, and increased height. Sonic Adventure also popularized the name “Tails” in Japan, replacing the previous usage of “Miles” for the character.

Sonic the Hedgehog

Sonic has asked me for the first time to do something for him. I won’t let him down, I won’t give up!

Miles “Tails” Prower, Sonic Adventure 2

Sonic the Hedgehog is Tails’ best friend, as the two have been inseparable since they first met during Sonic the Hedgehog 2. On West Side Island, while feeling sad and depressed, Tails witnessed Sonic running at incredibly high speeds. Impressed by the cool blue hedgehog, Tails developed a strong admiration for him and began following him around,^[39]Sega . ソニック ＆ テイルス (Japanese). Sonic Channel. Archived from the original on 22 December 2020. Retrieved on 23 December 2020. although he initially felt afraid. As they grew closer, the two quickly became close friends, with Tails even risking his own safety to save Sonic from the exploding Death Egg at the end of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and the second part of Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

Sonic and Tails are always there to help each other, their friendship having grown to the point where they have a brotherly relationship, which started with the fox idolizing his friend and calling him his hero.^[40]ZedArchive (10 April 2022). Sonic Adventure Production Presentation At Tokyo International Forum (1998) [ENGLISH CC] (Japanese). YouTube. Retrieved on 7 October 2022.^[41]Sonic Team (9 September 1999). Sonic Adventure. Dreamcast. Sega. Area/level: Story Screen after entering the Mystic Ruins for the first time (Tails’ story). “Tailes: The other day I took my new airplane, the one that’s powered by a Chaos Emerald, for a test flight, but it crashed! To my surprise, Sonic came to rescue me. He’s my hero!” In fact, despite the many adventures he has had with the hedgehog, he still considers him the greatest person in the world. Additionally, Tails’ skills as a mechanic and his intellectual prowess have several times been a great aid to Sonic on his many adventures. During Sonic Advance 3, they were noted to have an “Unbreakable Bond”, and they have even been referred to as the “fastest, coolest duo of all time”. Together, they have proven themselves a near-perfect duo; both provide strengths to the other’s weaknesses (Tails provides the smarts while Sonic handles the muscle), and they have demonstrated profound teamwork in combat. During the Sonic Rivals 2, it was shown that Sonic trains Tails to learn how to run and fight in their free time. Whenever Sonic has an adventure, he always comes to Tails and asks him to come along, and Tails is always ready to help. Tails also used to depend on Sonic a lot, but later realized that he cannot depend on him forever. Despite having gained this mentality, though, Tails can sometimes fall back on his reliance on Sonic when he finds himself in a seemingly hopeless situation, like when he called for Sonic to save him when he got attacked by a Chaos Phantom Copy during the War to Take Back the Planet. Nonetheless, even though he has come to Sonic’s aid on many occasions, from his point of view, the hedgehog is still the coolest person on the planet, and he looks up to him more than anyone else.

Despite his admiration of him, Tails can sometimes get impatient and annoyed by Sonic’s fast-paced behavior and attitude. He downright hates it when his friend ignores him, as seen when they boarded the Egg Carrier during Sonic Adventure, and he gets annoyed when the hedgehog leaves him hanging when he runs off or when he is planning to do reckless things without much thinking, such as when Sonic planned to just smash the Extractor in Sonic Lost World. Despite facing such cases, though, Tails remains loyal to Sonic and stands by his side to aid him no matter what.

Tails cares extremely much for Sonic, having sacrificed himself to save him on different occasions to ensure Sonic’s safety when he is too careless or reckless. Even more so, when Tails thought Sonic was gone for good after his battle with Infinite at the beginning of the War to Take Back the Planet, he lost his way in the aftermath for six months until his spirit was lifted by the arrival of the Sonic of the past. Furthermore, he was overjoyed to learn that Sonic was alive shortly thereafter.

Although Tails always has Sonic’s back, he does not always necessarily approve of his decisions. When Sonic formed an alliance with Eggman to stop the Deadly Six’s abuse of the Extractor in Sonic Lost World, Tails’ friendship with Sonic became strained. Believing that Sonic trusted Eggman, his own nemesis, more than him to shut down the Extractor, Tails became rather frustrated and angry at Sonic’s apparent lack of faith in him, and they even got into an argument when he told him how much it hurt thinking that Sonic trusted Eggman more. It became further strained when Sonic scolded Tails for putting Cubot’s head on a battle mech, which almost got him killed. In the end, however, Tails forgave Sonic after he apologized for doubting him, mending their brotherly bond.

Perhaps the biggest strength of Tails and Sonic’s friendship is the united bond their hearts share. Whenever the two are around each other, they both feel as if they can overcome any struggle they may be facing. Also, without even having to say anything to each other, they know inside themselves what is needed of themselves to be a good partner to the other. As such, it can be speculated that there is something that surpasses even trust between the two of them.

Sonic and Tails’s relationship has also been described by Yasushi Yamaguchi to be inspired by Piccolo and Gohan’s relationship from Dragon Ball Z.^[42]Sonic City (22 November 2023). Sonic 2 Character Designer Shares Interesting Tidbits About Tails, Super Sonic, Mecha Sonic and More! Sonic City. Retrieved on 08 March 2024.

Amy Rose

Amy Rose and Tails generally maintain a cordial relationship. They often accompany each other and Sonic on their missions to save the world. However, Sonic occasionally relies on Tails to divert Amy’s attention or avoid direct interaction with her during these missions, which leaves Tails feeling uncertain, as he dislikes confrontations with her.

There are moments when Amy stands up for Tails, such as when Wave the Swallow insulted him, prompting Amy to defend him after Wave departed. Tails has reciprocated this protection by coming to Amy’s aid on multiple occasions when Sonic was unavailable. For instance, in Sonic Adventure, Sonic instructed Tails to swiftly ensure Amy’s safety when the Egg Carrier was descending rapidly. Additionally, Tails rescued Amy from peril in Sonic Adventure 2, shielding her alongside Sonic from the exploding Prison Island and intervening when Eggman threatened her with a weapon aboard the ARK.

Knuckles the Echidna

I’m not ready to give up, just yet!
That’s the spirit, Tails!

Tails and Knuckles, Sonic Heroes

Tails and Knuckles the Echidna share a complex relationship that has evolved over time. Initially, they were adversaries during Sonic the Hedgehog 3, as Knuckles was misled by Dr. Robotnik into believing that Tails and Sonic posed a threat to the Master Emerald. However, their animosity dissolved once Knuckles realized the truth, leading to a friendship between them. Although Tails interacts with Knuckles more frequently than Sonic does, their dynamic is not one of rivalry. However, Tails’ tendency to engage in technobabble occasionally annoys Knuckles, albeit unintentionally. Similarly, Knuckles enjoys teasing Tails on occasion, such as when he joked about confronting Shadow’s ghost, much to Tails’ apprehension. Despite these playful interactions, Knuckles holds Tails in high regard and considers him one of his closest friends. He has demonstrated his care for Tails by offering reassurance during challenging situations, such as when they confronted Dr. Eggman together in Sonic Heroes. Additionally, Knuckles staunchly defended Tails when Wave ridiculed him during the World Grand Prix.

Dr. Eggman

Eggman! I won’t let you get away with this! I promised Sonic I wouldn’t give up and I won’t. I’ll make you pay for this!

Miles “Tails” Prower, Sonic Adventure 2

Dr. Eggman stands as one of Tails’ most formidable adversaries. Their initial encounter took place during Sonic the Hedgehog 2, where Tails, fighting alongside Sonic, opposed the doctor’s schemes. Despite this early clash, their interactions were relatively limited in the beginning. However, their dynamic shifted significantly in Sonic Adventure. Tails thwarted Eggman’s plans to destroy Station Square and later engaged him in combat, ultimately defeating the doctor while he piloted the Egg Walker.

The rivalry between Tails and Eggman intensified in Sonic Adventure 2. Tails actively confronted Eggman on Prison Island and later aboard the ARK after Eggman launched Sonic into space. Despite their adversarial relationship, they set aside their differences to prevent the ARK from colliding with Earth, showcasing a temporary truce.

In Sonic Lost World, Tails displayed heightened animosity towards Eggman compared to Sonic. He criticized Eggman’s lackeys and questioned Sonic’s decision to collaborate with the doctor, harboring resentment towards Eggman’s past betrayals. However, Tails gradually acknowledged Eggman’s capabilities and potential for redemption, albeit briefly, before their enmity was reignited by Eggman’s betrayal.

Throughout the Sonic Forces, Tails maintained a level of rivalry with Eggman. He made pointed remarks about Eggman’s scientific prowess and questioned the validity of his claims during confrontations. Despite their adversarial relationship, Tails demonstrated a grudging respect for Eggman’s engineering skills, expressing admiration for the doctor’s technological creations such as the Egg Carrier.^[43]Sonic Team (9 September 1999). Sonic Adventure. Dreamcast. Sega. Area/level: Egg Carrier. “Tails: This ship’s cool!”^[44]Sonic Team (9 September 1999). Sonic Adventure. Dreamcast. Sega. Area/level: Egg Carrier Hall. “Tails: I wanna make a ship like this one day!”^[45]Sonic Team (9 September 1999). Sonic Adventure. Dreamcast. Sega. Area/level: Egg Carrier Hall. “Tails: I wanna make a ship like this one day!”

Despite their mutual antipathy, Tails acknowledges Eggman’s prowess as an engineer and inventor, albeit begrudgingly. As a budding mechanic and inventor himself, Tails recognizes Eggman’s achievements in the field of engineering, even if their conflicting agendas perpetuate their ongoing rivalry.

Shadow the Hedgehog

Shadow the Hedgehog and Tails crossed paths for the first time during Sonic Adventure 2, where they initially found themselves on opposing sides. However, circumstances later compelled them to join forces in order to thwart the ARK’s threat to the planet.

Their relationship appears to be largely influenced by their respective objectives. In Sonic Heroes, a brief skirmish ensued between Tails and Shadow, incited by the latter and Rouge provoking Team Sonic into battle. Despite this initial conflict, they eventually teamed up to confront their common enemy. Similarly, during Sonic Battle, tensions arose when Shadow demanded Emerl from Tails. Despite Tails’ admiration for Shadow’s determination, he refused to yield, leading to a confrontation. Following their clash, Shadow issued a warning to Tails, vowing to return for Emerl. However, Rouge intervened and urged Shadow to depart for Night Babylon.

Despite occasional disagreements, Shadow and Tails share a mutual respect and understanding. Tails acknowledges Shadow’s abilities and contributions during their joint endeavors, demonstrating a level of trust in his capabilities. Despite their differing perspectives, Tails remains supportive of Shadow to some extent, recognizing his strengths and enduring through their shared adventures.^[46]Sega Studio USA (18 November 2005). Shadow the Hedgehog. PlayStation 2. Sega. Area/level: The Last Way. “Tails: Shadow, I believe in you! you can do it!”^[47]Sonic Team (25 February 2015). Sonic Runners. iOS. Sega. Area/level: Birthday on Windy Hill. “Tails: Thanks, Shadow! You really got us out of a jam there! / Shadow: No need to thank me. That thing was in my way is all.”

Wave the Swallow

Wave the Swallow and Tails share a rivalry as inventors, both being mechanical prodigies in their own right. This rivalry was evident during the first World Grand Prix, where Wave, though impressed by Tails’ inventions, was reluctant to admit it, dismissing his creations as inferior. She even took to teasing Tails, referring to him as “shorty.”

Despite their competitive dynamic, during Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity, their rivalry took a backseat. When Wave found herself in trouble due to the robots, Tails set aside their rivalry to assist her, helping her to her feet.

However, during the second World Grand Prix, their rivalry resurfaced, though their interactions were minimal. Despite this, the competitive spirit between them remained palpable.

Rouge the Bat

Tails and Rouge the Bat share a generally friendly but occasionally tense relationship. While they typically get along, Rouge enjoys teasing Tails from time to time, often using playful nicknames like “Cutie” and “Foxboy.”

Their interaction began with some intrigue during Sonic Adventure 2 when Rouge was tasked by Eggman to spy on Tails as he sought the President. After this initial encounter, their paths diverged until they were brought together again during the crisis involving the Ark’s collision course with Earth.

In Sonic Battle, Rouge’s teasing continued, with her using her charm to engage Tails, even going as far as kissing him when he lost a bet for an access card. Despite her playful antics, she proved to be helpful to Tails, providing him with crucial assistance in navigating challenges and resolving conflicts.

Their relationship faced strains in Sonic Free Riders, where Tails became frustrated with Rouge’s self-serving behavior, particularly in her treatment of her teammate E-10000B.

In The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog, Rouge sought Tails’ assistance in a heist involving a valuable Fabergé Egg from the Mirage Express. Despite Tails’ reservations about the morality of the endeavor, he ultimately contributed his genius to the plan, aiding in disarming security measures and deducing the true nature of the egg. While uncertain at first, Tails ultimately found satisfaction in their successful collaboration, admitting that he enjoyed working with Rouge despite the questionable nature of their endeavor.

Cream the Rabbit

Tails and Cream the Rabbit share a friendship that is evident throughout various instances in the games. Although their interactions are limited, it’s clear they have a positive relationship when they appear together in story cutscenes.

Their most notable interaction occurs in Sonic Free Riders, where Tails compliments Cream’s Extreme Gear during a race, and Cream responds with gratitude, acknowledging Tails’ expertise. In Sonic Rush, Tails advises Cream to escape from Blaze, demonstrating a level of trust and concern for her well-being. When Cream describes Tails to Blaze, she mentions that he is “neat” and enjoys spending time with Sonic, highlighting their close association with their mutual friends.

Additionally, in handheld versions of the Mario & Sonic series, they are depicted as friendly towards each other. For instance, in Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games, Tails assures Cream of her safety during an encounter with adversaries, and in Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, they showcase excellent teamwork as partners in Beach Volleyball, as noted by Cream herself.

E-123 Omega

Hmm, that should’ve done it… I couldn’t figure it out for you, buddy. I’m sorry I wasn’t smart enough.

Miles “Tails” Prower, Sonic Forces

At present, Tails stands as the sole member among Sonic’s inner circle who has engaged in direct communication with E-123 Omega. In contrast, the others, including Sonic himself, have only had fleeting encounters with the robot, often marked by ignorance of his identity or engaging in combat, as seen in Sonic Heroes.

Furthermore, in Sonic Forces, Tails made a valiant effort to repair Omega within the City. Despite his expertise, the extent of the damage inflicted by Infinite rendered Omega beyond Tails’ ability to repair. This unfortunate outcome led Tails to express remorse as he apologized to Omega’s inert form for his inability to restore him.

Marine the Raccoon

Marine the Raccoon and Tails quickly formed a friendship upon meeting in the Sol Dimension. Tails proved to be a valuable ally to Marine, assisting her in constructing ships for their adventures. Despite Marine appointing herself captain and designating Tails as her assistant without his consent, Tails found himself often frustrated by Marine’s bossy demeanor and insistence on giving orders. Similar to Sonic, Tails grew genuinely annoyed by Marine’s antics, which often bordered on recklessness.

Despite his frustrations, Tails tolerated Marine’s behavior out of friendship, although her disregard for his warnings and tendency to dismiss his concerns caused him considerable worry. When Tails inadvertently revealed his exasperation with her behavior, Marine felt betrayed and reacted harshly, calling him names.

However, as Marine matured and ceased her commanding attitude towards Tails, their relationship improved. Tails returned home with Sonic, and Marine earned his respect through her newfound maturity. Expressing their mutual admiration,^[48]Sonic Team, Dimps (14 September 2007). Sonic Rush Adventure. Nintendo DS. Sega. Area/level: Ending. “Marine: Sonic… Tails… / … / Marine: Th… thanks, guys. You’re the best mates ever.” Marine vowed to reunite with Tails in the future, though she couldn’t help but feel saddened by his departure.

Classic Sonic

Give it your all, Sonic! You’ll always be our shining hope!

Miles “Tails” Prower, Sonic Forces

Tails initially encountered Sonic’s past self during Sonic the Hedgehog 2, encountering his own past self concurrently. However, his present self first met Sonic’s past self during Sonic Generations, although Tails initially mistook him for the present Sonic during their initial encounter. Once they clarified their identities, Tails joined forces with Classic Sonic and their allies to thwart the Time Eater’s plans.

Their paths crossed again during the War to Take Back the Planet. After Classic Sonic rescued Tails from a Chaos Phantom Copy, they collaborated to safeguard the world and assist Classic Sonic in returning to his time. Despite reuniting with the present Sonic, Tails maintained a close bond with Classic Sonic, deeply appreciating his contributions to the Resistance. When the time came for Classic Sonic to return to his era, they exchanged a farewell fist bump, leaving Tails saddened by his friend’s departure.

Mighty the Armadillo

Tails encountered Mighty during Sonic Mania Plus, where Mighty and Ray aided Tails and his allies in thwarting Dr. Eggman’s attempt to acquire the Phantom Ruby. Similar to his experiences with Ray, Tails and Mighty embarked on numerous adventures together in the past, fostering a strong bond between them. However, at some juncture, they lost touch with each other, though Tails cherishes the memories of their past adventures.^[49]TailsTube #5 (Remember When?). YouTube. Sonic the Hedgehog (October 10, 2023). Retrieved on November 10, 2023.

Ray the Flying Squirrel

I loved hanging out with him. He could use his tail in special ways, just like me. And he was a master at gliding. Oh, he could go on forever.

Miles “Tails” Prower, “TailsTube #5 (Remember When?)“

Tails encountered Ray during Sonic Mania Plus, where Ray and Mighty aided Tails and his allies in preventing Dr. Eggman from obtaining the Phantom Ruby. Similar to his experiences with Mighty, Tails and Ray embarked on numerous adventures together in the past, fostering a strong bond between them. Tails greatly admired Ray’s exceptional gliding abilities, considering him a “master” at it, and applauded his remarkable feats. However, at some point, they lost contact with each other, though Tails continues to cherish the memories of their adventures together.

Friends/Allies

• Amy Rose (good friend)
• Ariem
• Avatar
• Big the Cat
• Blaze the Cat
• Barry the Quokka
• Cheese
• Chip
• Chocola
• Coconut Crew
• Conductor
• Conductor’s wife
• Cream the Rabbit
• Dodon Pa
• Elder Scruffy
• E-123 Omega
• Emerl
• Froggy
• Gemerl
• Honey the Cat
• Illumina
• Lumina Flowlight
• Marine the Raccoon
• Mighty the Armadillo
• Motobud
• Knuckles the Echidna (best friend)
• K-TBR 199.2
  • Nite the Owl
• Omochao
• Professor Pickle
• Ray the Flying Squirrel
• Restoration
  • Belle the Tinkerer
  • Jewel the Beetle
  • Lanolin the Sheep
• Rouge the Bat
• Rowdy
• Salamander
• Scrapniks
• Shadow the Hedgehog
• Silver the Hedgehog
• Sonic the Hedgehog (best friend and mentor, close as brothers)
• Sticks the Badger
• Tangle the Lemur
• Team Chaotix
  • Charmy Bee
  • Espio the Chameleon
  • Vector the Crocodile
• Tikal
• Trip the Sungazer
• United Federation
  • Guardian Units of Nations
    • Commander
  • President
• Vanilla the Rabbit
• Whisper the Wolf
• Wisps
  • Jade
  • Mother Wisp
  • Yacker

Neutral

• Babylon Rogues
  • Jet the Hawk
  • Storm the Albatross
  • Wave the Swallow (arch-rival)
• Brady
• Chaos
• E-102 Gamma
• Herschel
• Kitsunami the Fennec
• Noah
• Sage
• Void

Enemies

• Artificial Chaos
• Babylon Guardian
• Battle Kukku Empire
  • Battle Kukku XVI
  • Dr. Fukurokov
  • Great Battle Kukku
• Biolizard
• Black Arms
  • Black Doom
• Captain Whisker
• Deadly Six
  • Master Zik
  • Zavok
  • Zazz
  • Zeena
  • Zomom
  • Zor
• Dr. Starline
• Eggman Empire
  • Amy Doll
  • Badniks
    • Hard Boiled Heavies
    • Mecha Sonic (Sonic the Hedgehog 2)
    • Metal Fighters
      • Metal Amy
      • Metal Knuckles
      • Metal Sonic
      • Metal Tails (robotic doppelgänger)
      • Metal Trip
    • Mirage Express
    • Silver Sonic
    • Tails Doll
  • Cubot
  • Dr. Eggman
  • Eggman Doll
  • Infinite
  • Orbot
• Eggman Nega
• Fox Bullies
• Fang’s Gang
  • Bark the Polar Bear
  • Bean the Dynamite
  • Fang the Hunter
• Iblis
• Ifrit
• Johnny
• Mimic
• Mini & Mum
• Rough the Skunk
• SCR-HD
• Surge the Tenrec
• Time Eater
• Tumble the Skunk
• Witchcarters
  • Bearanger
  • Carrottia
  • Hocke-Wulf
  • Witchcart