Metal Knuckles : Le double mécanique de Knuckles dans l’univers Sonic

Metal Knuckles: Knuckles' mechanical double in the Sonic universe

713 mots | Temps de lecture : 3 minute(s)

Metal Knuckles is a robotic character from the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. Designed as a mechanical and super-powered version of Knuckles the Echidna, Metal Knuckles embodies brute strength and technological coldness . Although he only appears in a limited number of games, he has become a cult character for passionate fans of the Sonic universe, fascinated by his untapped potential and unique design .

Origin and first appearance

Metal Knuckles made his first and main appearance in the game Sonic R (1997) for Sega Saturn and PC. Developed by Traveller's Tales, Sonic R is a 3D racing game that featured not only classic playable characters, but also several robotic doubles like Metal Sonic, Metal Knuckles or EggRobo. The idea was to offer a more original cast and to reinforce the rivalry between organic nature and cold technology , omnipresent in the Sonic universe.

Although Metal Knuckles never received a thorough narrative development, its impressive design and captivating concept made a lasting impression.

Character Profile

  • Name: Metal Knuckles
  • Creator: Dr. Eggman (Robotnik)
  • First appearance: Sonic R (1997)
  • Species: Robot / Android
  • Based on: Knuckles the Echidna

Unlike the loyal and protective Knuckles, Metal Knuckles embodies a cold , methodical version entirely devoted to Eggman's orders, without emotion or free will.

Design and features

Metal Knuckles' design features a menacing , mechanized version of Knuckles:

  • Red metallic body with silver undertones
  • Bright yellow eyes, without pupils
  • Fists reinforced with metal spikes
  • Dorsal vents, interpreted as propellers

His appearance imposes an intimidating presence , merging Knuckles' natural strength with the cold perfection of a machine—an echo of Sonic's theme of fighting against mechanization.

Abilities and powers

  • Super strength equal to or greater than Knuckles
  • Flight / flotation thanks to its thrusters
  • Improved speed for a heavy robot
  • High resistance to physical attacks

Appearances in games

Sonic R (1997)

A hidden character that can be unlocked after winning certain races and collecting Chaos Emeralds. With his floating ability and robustness, he is one of the toughest opponents in the game.

Other appearances

  • Archie Comics – Brief non-canon appearance, reprogrammed to act autonomously.
  • Mobile Games – Skins inspired by Sonic Forces: Speed ​​Battle .
  • Fan-games and mods – Very present in the community, notably Sonic Robo Blast 2 .

Since Sonic R , Metal Knuckles has never been officially reintroduced, fueling his legendary status .

Relationship with Metal Sonic

Like Metal Sonic, Metal Knuckles is the mechanical double of his organic alter ego. But unlike the often-updated Metal Sonic (Neo Metal Sonic, etc.), Metal Knuckles has remained frozen, which reinforces his mysterious aura .

Why is Metal Knuckles a cult classic?

  • Impressive design : perfect fusion of Knuckles and 90s robot
  • Rarity : Exclusive character, never reappeared
  • Untapped potential : a return would thrill the fan base

Possibilities for a return

  • New Sonic racing game to rival Knuckles
  • Fighting game where he would be an upgraded secondary boss
  • Organic/Robotic Rivalry Story Arc

Conclusion

Metal Knuckles remains one of the most fascinating and underutilized supporting characters in the Sonic universe. His fusion of Knuckles' brute strength and Eggman's technological coldness deserves to be rediscovered in a future main game or dedicated story.

‎

D'autres articles similaires:

Back to blog