The Best Sonic Cartoons and Animated Series

Summary

• 1. Sonic X (2003-2006)
• 2. Sonic Prime (2022-2024)
• 3. Sonic the Hedgehog, aka "SatAM" (1993-1994)
• 4. Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog (1993)
• 5. Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie, the OVA (1996)
• 6. Sonic Boom (2014-2017)
• 7. Sonic Underground (1999)
• Summary table
• FAQ

Long before conquering the big screen, Sonic took over the small screen! Since 1993, the blue hedgehog has inspired a slew of animated series and films, from classic 90s American productions to today's Netflix shows. Here's our ranking of the best animated adaptations of Sonic. (For live-action cinema films, see our dedicated guide to the cinematic saga.)

🦔 Before the ranking, a reminder of the mascot's origins: (re)read the rise of Sonic the blue hedgehog.

1. Sonic X (2003-2006)

Undoubtedly the most famous Sonic anime. Sonic X, which aired starting in 2003, follows Sonic and his friends as they are transported to Earth, where they befriend a young boy, Chris, while thwarting Dr. Eggman's plans. The series blends action, humor, and emotion, and even adapts some major game arcs. It's the adaptation that introduced an entire generation to the Sonic universe.

📺 We even have a complete feature on it: (re)read Sonic X, the cult cartoon.

The hero of all screens

Sonic The Hedgehog Figure

The same Sonic, from the 1993 cartoon to Netflix: the essential figurine.

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2. Sonic Prime (2022-2024)

The most recent, and visually most ambitious. Sonic Prime, released on Netflix in three seasons (December 2022, July 2023, and January 2024), sends Sonic into a chaotic multiverse after a mysterious crystal shatters. This provides an opportunity to encounter surprising alternate versions of his friends. Modern 3D animation, fast-paced action: a real breath of fresh air.

🦊 One of these alternative versions has its own profile: discover Tails Nine, the cybernetic fox.

3. Sonic the Hedgehog, aka "SatAM" (1993-1994)

Nicknamed "SatAM" (in reference to its Saturday morning broadcast on ABC), this 26-episode series offers a much darker and more epic tone. Sonic leads the Freedom Fighters against a tyrannical Robotnik who has enslaved the planet Mobius. A cult classic, still adored by fans for its dramatic atmosphere.

4. Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog (1993)

The same year, but in a completely opposite vein: Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog (often abbreviated "AoStH") focuses on slapstick comedy. With its 65 fast-paced episodes, continuous gags, and Sonic-Tails duo facing a buffoonish Robotnik, it's the cartoonish and zany side of the same era.

5. Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie, the OVA (1996)

Heading to Japan with the OVA (Original Video Animation) Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie, released in 1996. This short format (two episodes often combined into one "movie") offers polished animation and an adventure where Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles confront Eggman… and a certain Metal Sonic. A little gem sought after by collectors.

6. Sonic Boom (2014-2017)

Sonic Boom (2014-2017) is a CGI series with a decidedly comedic tone, attached to its own universe (games and spin-off products). Sonic navigates with Tails, Knuckles, Amy, and newcomer Sticks, exchanging jokes with a more ridiculous than menacing Eggman.

🪃 The most original recruit of this series has her own profile: discover Sticks the Badger.

7. Sonic Underground (1999)

The most atypical of the bunch. Sonic Underground (1999, 40 episodes) imagines Sonic accompanied by two siblings, Sonia and Manic, forming a rebellious music group. Together, they search for their mother, Queen Aleena, while resisting Robotnik. A musical proposition unlike any other.

Summary table

FAQ

• What is the most famous Sonic cartoon?
  Sonic X (2003-2006) is generally considered the most popular animated adaptation.
• What is the most recent Sonic animated series?
  Sonic Prime, released on Netflix from 2022 to 2024.
• What was the first Sonic animated series?
  Two series appeared in 1993: Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog (comedic) and Sonic the Hedgehog known as "SatAM" (darker).
• Is there a Sonic animated film?
  Yes, the Japanese OVA Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie (1996). The cinema films, however, are live-action.
• What is Sonic Underground?
  A 1999 series where Sonic forms a band with his brother and sister, Sonia and Manic.

🧸 Find the hero of all these screens in our Sonic toys.

🔎 To learn more: Chris Thorndyke: the human from Sonic X, the Sonic films in cinema and the complete list of Sonic games.