TOP 10 Sonic the Hedgehog Designs / Live-Action Sonic SPEED-ART
Hey everyone, I’m back with another Speed-Art—this time featuring Sonic the Hedgehog from my latest animation! While creating that animation, I explored tons of different Sonic designs across the years, and now, I’m ranking the Top 10 Best Sonic Designs of All Time—including a few power-ups that deserve recognition.
Oh, and stick around, because somewhere in this list, I’ll drop a tiny hint about the next Tell It Animated video! Let’s get started!
10. Sonic R & Sonic 3D Blast (1996)
Kicking off the list is Sonic’s blocky 3D model from Sonic R and Sonic 3D Blast. It may look simple by today’s standards, but for its time, this was a bold step into the world of 3D gaming. The oversized head, chunky hands, and retro aesthetic give it a nostalgic charm that’s hard to beat.
9. Ugly Sonic – Chip ’n Dale (2022)
Say what you want about Ugly Sonic, but his cameo in Chip ’n Dale: Rescue Rangers was hilarious! This version took everything wrong with the original Sonic movie design, leaned into the ridiculousness, and turned it into comedy gold. Plus, the darker blue fur and terrifying close-ups only add to the hilarity.
8. Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)
Love it or hate it, Sonic 06 gave us one of Sonic’s most detailed 3D models yet. The lankier build and brighter blue color set it apart from other modern Sonic designs, and for the first time, Sonic had an actual animatable mouth (at least, I think so!). Even though the game itself was… well, let’s not talk about that, the model helped shape Sonic’s look in later games.
7. Original Japanese Box-Art Design (1991)
Before Modern Sonic, we had Classic Sonic, and the original Japanese box-art nailed his personality. Designed to stand out from Mario, Sonic’s sleek quills, bold red shoes, and expressive face made him instantly iconic. While many fans in the West grew up with the American redesign, the Japanese version remains a timeless classic.
6. Sonic Adventure 2 (2001)
This was Sonic at peak coolness. The Sonic Adventure 2 model refined his "Modern Sonic" look, giving him more expressive animations and detailed shoes (thanks to that sneaker sponsorship). Combined with one of the most legendary Sonic games ever, this design became a fan favorite.
5. Classic Sonic (Sonic Generations, 2011)
The perfect 3D recreation of Classic Sonic. Sonic Generations brought pixel-era Sonic to life in stunning 3D while keeping his cute, round, and nostalgic charm intact. It’s a brilliant mix of old and new, making it one of Sonic’s best designs ever.
4. Modern Sonic Redesign (1998)
In the late ‘90s, Sonic went from cute to cool, thanks to this legendary redesign. Taller, sleeker, and darker blue, this version redefined Sonic for a new generation. This is the definitive Modern Sonic, setting the blueprint for all future games, comics, and animations.
3. Sonic Movie Design (Sonic 3, 2024)
Before I reveal my Top 3, drop your own rankings in the comments! What’s your favorite Sonic look?
Now, at number three, I’m going with Sonic’s live-action movie design, especially in Sonic 3. While some fans don’t love his blue arms or separate eyes, I think they work better in live-action. Plus, the team listened to fans and delivered a near-perfect real-world Sonic.
2. Werehog Sonic (Sonic Unleashed, 2008)
I’ll never understand why Werehog Sonic was so divisive. Sure, it slowed the game down, but the design itself? Absolutely incredible. The bulky frame, sharp claws, and wild fur made Sonic look powerful and beastly, yet still lovable. Plus, this entry might just be a hint about my next animation—stay tuned!
1. Sonic CD Animation (1993)
At number one, we have Sonic’s most stylish design ever—the Sonic CD animation model. This look is sleek, expressive, and packed with personality. It set the standard for animated Sonic, influencing both the Sonic Mania shorts and Sonic Origins animations. For me, this is peak Sonic.
That’s my Top 10 Sonic Designs! What are your favourites? Drop your rankings below, and don’t forget to check out my latest Tell It Animated video to see Sonic’s evolution in animation. Huge thanks to Coby Seedy, Shane Vance, and all my Patreon supporters—you guys make this possible!
Until next time, I’ve been Aaron, and I’ll tell you something later!