The Early Days of Sonic
It’s hard to imagine Sonic the Hedgehog looking any different than the blue speedster we know and love today. However, Sonic’s first design was vastly different from what we see on our screens today. The first design was created back in 1990 by artist Naoto Ohshima.
The original concept for Sonic was a rabbit with a human girlfriend named Madonna. However, Sega wanted a more modern and edgy character, which led to the creation of Sonic. Ohshima’s design featured a hedgehog with a round body, a human-like mouth, and a spiked hairstyle.
The Controversial Design
When the original Sonic game was released in 1991, the character’s design was met with mixed reviews. Some fans loved the new character’s attitude and speed, while others criticized his appearance. Many felt that Sonic’s design was too human-like, and his eyes were too small, which made him look creepy.
Despite the mixed reviews, Sonic’s popularity continued to grow, and he became a beloved video game character. However, even with his success, Sega knew that they needed to update Sonic’s appearance to make him more appealing to a wider audience.
The Evolution of Sonic’s Design
Over the years, Sonic’s design has gone through several changes. In 1998, Sonic Adventure was released, which featured a more detailed and realistic-looking Sonic. His eyes were larger, his body was sleeker, and his spikes were longer and more defined.
In 2010, Sonic’s design was updated again for the game Sonic Colors. This time, Sonic’s body was made shorter and more compact, and his eyes were made larger and more expressive.
The Legacy of Sonic’s Original Design
Despite the mixed reviews of Sonic’s original design, it’s hard to imagine the character looking any other way. His round body, spiky hair, and human-like mouth are now iconic features that are instantly recognizable to fans around the world.
Today, Sonic is still going strong, and his popularity shows no signs of slowing down. With new games, movies, and merchandise being released all the time, Sonic will always be a beloved character in the world of entertainment.
The Future of Sonic’s Design
As technology and design continue to evolve, it’s likely that Sonic’s appearance will continue to change as well. However, no matter what changes are made, Sonic will always be a beloved character among fans.
Whether you prefer the classic round-bodied Sonic or the sleeker, more modern version, there’s no denying that Sonic the Hedgehog is a cultural icon that has stood the test of time.
Conclusion
The original design for Sonic the Hedgehog may have been controversial, but it paved the way for the character we know and love today. Sonic’s unique appearance and attitude have made him a beloved character among fans around the world, and his popularity shows no signs of slowing down. As we look back on Sonic’s early days, we can appreciate the evolution of his design and the impact he has had on the world of entertainment.
