Sonic the Hedgehog has become the latest in a series of films based on video game series. It’s been one of the better-received movies in this genre, although that came as something of a surprise as the expectation wasn’t for the movie to be the success it has become.
With interest in the video game film genre now at a high, as well as the appeal of Sonic also greater than before, fans have become interested in searching for shows or films that have a thematic similarity to Sonic the Hedgehog. Look no further, as we’ve brought a collection of TV series and films that will make Sonic fans feel right at home. Here are 10 of these that you need to start watching right now.
Wreck-It Ralph (2012)
A stereotypical game villain in an arcade looks to step out to prove he can be more than his reputation suggests. Along the way, he encounters numerous characters from many other well-known game series.
This is a film where you can also find Sonic among the multitude of video game protagonists, although Wreck-It Ralph is a movie that can be enjoyed for its originality as well. Still, it does help that the film provides a setting where the viewer can familiarize themselves with the characters available in the video game universe.
Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2017)
Four teenagers are trapped in the fictional game world of Jumanji, and have to embrace their avatars for all their strengths and many weaknesses if they are to survive and escape with all their lives intact.
Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle is one film that really shows how much fun a game world would be. There’s never any real danger for the characters here, making it a family-friendly affair that celebrates the fandom that comes along with being a gamer, as the scenarios they encounter feel pleasantly familiar to regular video gamers.
Ben 10 (2005-08)
A 10-year-old boy accidentally dons an alien weapon known as the Omnitrix, which gives him the ability to turn into a number of aliens at will. Unfortunately for Ben, he becomes a target for every alien in the universe as a result.
Ben 10 was a real breath of fresh air back in the day, being a show that was both original and appealing toward younger audiences by presenting cool aliens of all kinds. We had aliens that were fast, strong, small, and even fiery. It’s a diverse series that ticks all the right boxes.
Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2019)
The disappearance of his father and the subsequent arrival of a Pikachu that can communicate shakes up the world of a young ex-Pokémon trainer, who begins an investigation to cover a hidden plot that will affect the world.
This might just be the closest likeness to Sonic the Hedgehog, as Detective Pikachu also has a sudden appearance from a talking animal with super abilities. The movie shined well mainly for its effective use of introducing the Pokémon in live-action, along with bringing a surprisingly touching story about family.
Digimon: Digital Monsters (1999)
A group of kids get sucked into a digital world, where they encounter a number of creatures called Digimon. As it turns out, the kids are meant to be paired with Digimon of their own, as they fulfill their destiny to save this world and their own.
While the Digimon series has grown from where it started, the first series is easily the best there has been. Featuring cool Digimon who have their own sets of powers, the series also teaches kids the value of being responsible and the meaning of friendship. You can even consider this to be a reverse case of what happens in the Sonic movie.
The Life And Times Of Juniper Lee (2005-07)
A preteen girl is thrust in the role of the protector of her city, which is a hub for all kinds of magical activity. Endowed with powers herself, and with the help of a dysfunctional crew, Juniper fulfills her destiny as the defender of Orchid Bay.
If you’re wondering how this show might compare to Sonic, that would be because both these series showcase a crew that like each other yet can’t stand one another either. Juniper Lee also has a host of cool characters with their own sets of powers, and a protagonist thoroughly exasperated by her surroundings but who rises to save the day.
Ratchet & Clank (2016)
A duo of an alien Lombax and a defect robot team up to save the universe from the plans of a villain before it’s too late. During their travels, the pair grows close to become the best of friends and partners.
Ratchet & Clank had been an attempt at a cinematic universe from an established game series, and while it wasn’t the absolute best, it’s worth a watch all the same for the feel-good ride. With a potential Sonic sequel bringing in new characters, this film is one of your best bets to stay ahead of the curve and see what that dynamic would be like with this similar effort.
Justice League (2001-06)
The greatest heroes in the universe band together after the core Justice League members bring everyone together. Their battles pit them against foes far more powerful than they could imagine, but their combined efforts prove their mettle as a group.
Justice League, of course, features The Flash, who has been compared to Sonic in a debate over who might be faster. On its own, the series might be targeted at a younger audience, but all of its storylines have a mature take on things and can be enjoyed by demographics of all kinds. The series is even better than most of the superhero films released in the last year.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987-96)
Four mutated turtles, trained in the art of combat taught by their equally mutated rat master, regularly face their despised rival who makes numerous attempts to gain power. As teenagers, the turtles struggle to come to terms with their place in the world.
Easily the most family-friendly version of the show, this series is the best for those who like Sonic, as it has none of the dark material in other Turtles incarnations and all of the camaraderie. With many fantastical elements in place, it’s a good, long-running show that will have you occupied for hours.
The Incredibles (2004)
A former superhero suffering from a midlife crisis gets another chance at glory, only to learn he’s been targeted by a rival who intends to kill him. To rescue him, his family don their own superhero identities and form The Incredibles.
Out of every other Pixar film, this one has the most mileage as it has only gotten more relevant as the years have gone by. With superb action sequences and the flavor of the superhero genre, it’s an evergreen release by the studio. Sonic fans will have the equally mischievous Dash to relate to, as this young superhero serves as the breakout character of The Incredibles.
