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If the world chooses to become my enemy... ...I will fight like I always have!
„
~ Shadow before defeating Mephiles.
“
Time to unleash the ultimate power!
„
~ Super Shadow.
Shadow the Hedgehog is a major character in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise.
He was created as the "Ultimate Lifeform" by Professor Gerald Robotnik. Shadow is ageless and immortal, however, that doesn't mean that he does not feel pain. Since his debut, Shadow has appeared in a multitude of games, television shows, and comic books. Shadow is Sonic's arch-rival yet frenemy and the leader of Team Dark, with Rouge and Omega.
His past was, for the most part, almost a complete mystery until the game Shadow the Hedgehog revealed the events surrounding his creation. In contrast to Sonic, Shadow is typically portrayed as a tortured, or a renegade who can just as easily serve the forces of evil as those of good. However, he does what he needs to do to accomplish what he knows to be right. According to an official poll, Shadow is the second most popular character in the series, second only to Sonic himself.
Shadow was created 50 years before Sonic Adventure 2, with a project called Project Shadow in the works. Led by Professor Gerald Robotnik, it was a government-sanctioned initiative to create "The Ultimate Lifeform," an immortal being that could be used for the benefit of the nation, likely in a militaristic fashion. While Gerald had initial misgivings to the purpose of the research he was assigned to, he realized that his results might be able to save his granddaughter, Maria. Suffering from the incurable disease Neuro-Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Maria only had a short time left to live, and Gerald was willing to do whatever it took to save her life. Going against his worries of stepping into territory man had no business playing with, the professor immediately began work, hoping that he could apply any newly gained knowledge to find a cure to N.I.D.S.
Even with the resources at his disposal, Professor Gerald was unable to make significant progress. Without alerting anyone, Gerald decided to plea to the stars for help, contacting the Black Arms race, an alien civilization that lived upon the Black Comet, a celestial object that passed near the planet every 50 years. Its leader, Black Doom, offered to assist Gerald in his quest. He offered his blood - which ended up being the key to perfect the ultimate lifeform - in exchange for the seven Chaos Emeralds, which he would collect the next time he passed through. Knowing that the Black Arms' intentions were less than desirable, Gerald made the deal regardless, albeit with preparations to defeat the Black Arms with the cannon built into the ARK, and was able to successfully create Shadow the Hedgehog.
Once brought to life, Shadow immediately befriended Maria, and they became close during their short time together. Gerald, meanwhile, made precautions for the return of the Black Arms, ensuring that the Eclipse Cannon - an extremely powerful laser built into the ARK - was compatible with the seven Chaos Emeralds, so that when they did return with the Black Comet, humanity would be able to defend itself instead of bowing to their whims.
However, Gerald's progress was ruined when it was leaked to G.U.N. how he was able to create the successful prototype. During the meeting between Gerald and the Black Arms, one of the other children aboard the ARK had accidentally seen what transpired and reported back to those in charge. As ties between the ARK and the United Federation had already been strained, hearing the news of the dealings with an alien race scared those in charge. Afraid of the implications, it was decided to launch an invasion and put a stop to the work being done there.
What happened next was nothing short of madness, as G.U.N. troops descended onto the ARK, causing chaos and confusion wherever they went. Immediately they went after the Biolizard, which they thought was the successful "Project Shadow" prototype, and in the process of putting the creature into stasis, lost quite a few soldiers. From there they went about doing damage control, shutting down everything, getting everyone off the ARK, and killing those who resisted if need be. Knowing that the G.U.N. forces would be there at any moment, Maria convinced Shadow to enter an escape pod, her final wish to him that he gives the people on the planet a chance to be happy. Wishing him goodbye, Shadow could do nothing as he watched the G.U.N. soldiers' storm into the lab, firing a shot which would forever change the hedgehog's life as it ended the life of Maria Robotnik.
Learning of his granddaughter's death, Professor Gerald soon went mad with grief, swearing vengeance on humanity for taking away the only thing that ever meant anything to him. Though just what exactly transpired is cloudy, what is known is that both Gerald and the escape pod that held Shadow were gathered by G.U.N., Shadow having to be put to sleep in a stasis capsule within Prison Island, and Gerald being incarcerated and charged with the crimes that happened aboard the ARK.
Sonic Adventure 2
Sonic Heroes
Shadow the Hedgehog
Shadow serves as the titular main protagonist of this game, where he attempts to find out his true past. When Black Doom and his army of aliens, the Black Arms, invaded, and Black Doom told Shadow that he held the answers, and that he should help him take over the world and bring the seven Chaos Emeralds to him. Shadow was reluctant to obey Black Doom but realized the Chaos Emeralds might have the answers. There are many different paths Shadow can take, Throughout the game, Shadow can choose to help Black Doom, the heroes, sometimes Eggman, or else not help anyone and go straight for the Chaos Emeralds. Because of this, the game has ten normal endings, though the true ending is unlocked by viewing all of them.
Shadow was at first mysterious, cold, and initially vengeful, before turning to the side of justice. He usually acts with cool and businesslike indifference, only occasionally showing his vulnerable side. He is rarely seen with others for an extended period of time and usually distances himself from essentially everyone. He is usually soft-spoken, silent, and only speaks a few words before a fight. However, Shadow never bluffs. If he makes a threat or a promise, he has every intention of carrying it out.
Shadow's personality is the total opposite of Sonic, because while Sonic is carefree, playful, and a joker, Shadow is violent, ruthless, and aggressive. However, like Sonic, Shadow can be extremely arrogant, often belittling his opponents and insulting their lack of strength. He believes no one can beat him, and tends to see anyone as a fool for challenging him. Shadow also has a ruthless and merciless edge in combat that all other characters in the series lack, and displays a natural "killer instinct".
Shadow's infamous ruthlessness and aggression lead to fear and nervousness that inhibits characters from his unshakable intent or sheer power in combat. Numerous characters from the Sonic series have shown absolute dread from encountering Shadow. Shadow's enemies never treat him lightly; he is one of the very few people Sonic takes seriously and acts hostile towards.
Alongside his dark and violent demeanor, Shadow can be smug and stubborn. He often displays a vain and sarcastic sense of humor, and always speaks his mind no matter how cold it may be. He is also one of the more intelligent and logical characters. He was the only one who saw through Mephiles’s deception in Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) and tricked Eggman into fulfilling his revenge plan in Sonic Adventure 2.
On occasion, Shadow appears to have some degree of mental instability. This is demonstrated by his instances of post-traumatic flashbacks to Maria's face before and during the events of Shadow the Hedgehog, though it could be argued that they were simply an effect of his amnesia. Another example could be that in many games Shadow is featured in, he pursues his foes with disturbing determination; that is to say, he'll go to any length to accomplish something he desires or feels should be a certain way, no matter what the cost. In his own game, he also showed a rather coarse language.
Shadow also possesses some sense of identity, as evidenced when after falsely being told that he isn't the Ultimate Lifeform due to a lab report, he states to Rouge that even if his memories were fake, he is still Shadow the Hedgehog. Similarly, in Sonic Heroes, during the Egg Fleet level, he mentions that even without his memories, he is still the Ultimate Lifeform, Shadow the Hedgehog. These qualities make him rarely susceptible to being manipulated by other forces.
Although he does come off as somewhat cold and apathetic, Shadow is extremely compassionate and does care for the well-being of others. When Omega begins his attack in Sonic Heroes, Shadow could have easily forgotten about Rouge and engaged Omega without defending her. Instead, Shadow saves her from Omega, despite having absolutely no memory of her. He was also shown to be legitimately shocked when he learned that his goal of gaining the Chaos Emeralds to restore his memories was manipulated by Black Doom to wipe out humanity. Likewise, when the GUN Commander finally confronts him with his memories of Shadow's nightmarish creation, Shadow agrees to face judgement if he was indeed responsible for the ARK massacre 50 years ago.
Despite being a loner, Shadow is also very protective of his friends, like in Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood, where he went looking for Omega when he was missing and was also quite enraged when he found out that the Marauders had been hurting Omega, and agreed to join Sonic and his friends to get revenge for what they did to him.
Shadow brushes off most kindness or sympathy that is sent his way; in Sonic Heroes, when Rouge showed concern for Shadow when he saw a broken android, Shadow curtly brushed her concern away. Also, in Shadow the Hedgehog, after Sonic suggested some "friendly competition", Shadow bluntly rejected his offer. At times, however, Shadow is also capable of showing gratitude. In Sonic Adventure 2, after Amy made him remember his promise to Maria, Shadow told her that he is keeping his promise both to Maria and her. Also, in Sonic the Hedgehog (2006), when Rouge told him that she would always be by his side, he acknowledged her.
Even though Shadow often fights for the greater good, he is considered an anti-hero for the most part due to his morality. He does whatever is necessary to get what he wants or feels is right, though this enthusiasm causes him to take risks and jump into situations without fully thinking it through. Regardless, Shadow does have his moments of selflessness, helpfulness, and heroism. He nearly gave his life at the end of Sonic Adventure 2 to save Earth and helped Silver uncover the truth of the Solaris Project, after saving Sonic from Silver.
Appearance
Normal Form
Shadow is a black spotted Hedgehog. He sports red highlights in his spines, and they are turned upward, similar to Sonic's when in his Super state.
Super Form
Shadow has Lemon/Yellow Fur. He still retains his red highlights in his spines, but his speed and abilities are greatly enhanced, similar to Sonic in his Super state.
Powers and abilities
Chaos Energy Manipulation
Shadow's trademark ability. He can use Chaos energy in various ways, such as in energy bursts, time-stopping, teleporting, defending, increasing his stats, and many other ways. This power can be upgraded if Shadow removes his Inhibitor Rings, which increases his power so great that he could destroy an entire army of perfect clones of a time demon; However, his stamina depletes much faster than normal.
Gravity Manipulation
Shown in Sonic Free Riders, Shadow can control gravity to dive and to make maneuvers in his Extreme Gear.
Space-Time Manipulation
Shadow can alter space-time, allowing him to stop the time, teleport, distort it and to create dimensional/chaotic rifts. He's also able to move freely while everything is motionless for a brief period giving him the advantage of time.
Minor Super Strength
Shadow has shown great strength, being able to lift heavy concrete plates and to break solid metal with strong attacks.
Super Speed
Shadow is one of the fastest characters of all franchises, being able to par with Sonic(although it is still slower than the same). His max normal speed is immeasurable, considering sonic is able to escape places that are infinite(null space)and he can be faster by using the chaos control.
Gigantic Resistance
Shadow is very resistant to damage, shown in feats such as surviving from a fall from space to Earth, being shot multiple times, being struck by a gigantic robot, and many other things. Shadow can hold his own with most enemies and is as durable as Sonic is.
Proficient Gunman
Shadow is very proficient in using guns, being able to effectively aim and shoot at insane speeds. He's also able to use different varieties like machine guns and handguns.
Skilled Swordsman
Shadow is apt to use swords and katanas as weapons since he managed to defeat many G.U.N. agents, Eggman robots, and Black Arms aliens using swords. He's able to go head-to-head with Sonic although with the latter winning Shadow still showed prowess.
Master hand-to-hand combat
Shadow is master at the art of physical damage with his bare hands, having his fighting style, depicted as brutal and quick, with swift punches, karate chops, and roundhouse kicks as part of his arsenal.
Skilled Biker
Shadow is a skilled motorcycle/bike user and can drive better than many people. He's also able to do many stunts like jumping with it or spinning as well.
Homing Attack
Although not used often, Shadow has a homing attack just like Sonic and works just as efficiently.
Transformation
Shadow can, currently, transform into three (canon) forms: Dark Shadow (boosts his attack, grants infinite ammo to any weapon that he is currently using, and allows him to keep using Chaos Blasts; He needs one Chaos Emerald and to be enraged), Hero Shadow (boosts his space-time manipulation, allowing him to teleport to very far distances and to stop time for a longer time (?); He needs a Chaos Emerald and to be calm) and Super Shadow (needs all 7 Chaos Emeralds; Gives him 100% physical damage reduction, faster than before and many other abilities, such as major super strength).
Possessions
Inhibitor Rings
Shadow has rings that control his power around his wrists and on the socks. If he removes those rings, his power increases greatly, but he loses much more stamina too.
Darkness/Air Shoes (Extreme Gear)
Shadow has shoes that can make him hover around the ground, and that allows him to skate rather than run, granting him more durability on races, but he is slower on some types of terrain.
Heroic Acts
Sonic Adventure 2
Rescued Rouge from the Prison Island explosion.
Helped Sonic defeat the Biolizard and its fused form with the Eclipse Cannon, Finalhazard.
Sacrificed himself to save humanity, despite his grudge against them.
Sonic Heroes
Defended Rouge from Omega, despite not remembering her.
Assisted Amy in finding Cream and Cheese the Chao, who were missing, and protected them both from Eggman in his Egg Breaker.
Vowed to admit full responsibility to GUN Commander's accusations if he was correct about his actions.
Destroyed Black Doom and vowed to protect the planet from thereon, fulfilling Maria's last wish.
Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)
Rescued Rouge multiple times throughout the game.
Saved Sonic from Silver.
Helped Silver to realize that Mephiles wasn't trying to help him, but merely using him for his gain.
Repaired Omega.
Helped Sonic and Silver defeat Mephiles and Iblis combined as Solaris.
Sonic Forces
Rescued Omega from Eggman and Infinite.
Saved Sonic from being attacked by a Fake Shadow that was created from the Phantom Ruby by Infinite to serve in the Eggman Army.
Assisted Sonic in defeating Eggman and Infinite's army.
Quotes
As Himself
“
MARIA...!!
„
~ Horrified by Maria's death.
“
Disappear!
„
~ Throwing Chaos Spear.
“
Chaos Control!
„
~ Shadow controlling time and space.
“
Chaos Blast!
„
~ Destroying everything in a large blast area.
“
Exactly.
„
“
What's this?
„
“
It all starts with this...
„
“
Outta my way!
„
“
Interesting...
„
~ Shadow about things he's mostly interested in.
“
This is the ultimate power!
„
~ Showing the ultimate power
“
Ultimate victory!
„
~ Shadow winning
“
Maria... I just don't know anything anymore. I often wonder why I was created; What my purpose is for being here. Maybe if I go down there, I will find the answers. Maybe...
„
~ Shadow while watching the Earth from above with Maria since fifty years ago.
“
Shadow: My name is Shadow. Since you were so kind to release me, my master, I will grant you one wish. Eggman: Now what?! Shadow: Behold the true power I possess!
„
~ Shadow's first words in Sonic Adventure 2.
“
I'll be waiting for you.. In the central control room... on the space colony ARK.
„
~ Shadow as Eggman warns him to wait before leaving Prison Island.
“
Hmph, how pathetic!
„
~ Surrounded by police forces.
“
Maria... I still remember what I've promised you: For the people of this planet... I promise you... REVENGE!
„
~ Shadow promising Maria revenge on the humans.
“
It all starts with this... A jewel containing the ultimate power!
„
~ Shadow with the stolen Chaos Emerald from the Federal Reserve Bank.
“
My name's Shadow. I'm the world's ultimate life form. There's no time for games... FAREWELL!
„
~ Shadow introducing himself to Sonic before leaving.
“
Shadow: I've been waiting for you, doctor. Now, I will show the glorious achievement of what the world's leading scientist, Professor Gerald has created. The ARK was the first space colony created by mankind. Not many people know that the ark contained a top secret research facility where weapons of mass destruction were being created. This is one of them. A weapon capable of destroying an entire planet... code named: The Eclipse Cannon. Eggman: Destroying an entire planet, was this my grandfather's legacy? Shadow: But, it's been deactivated for sometime, now. To reactivate it, large amounts of energy are necessary. (...) Eggman: Oh... So THAT'S Why we needed the Chaos Emerald! Shadow: Exactly. To reactivate the machine, We need the seven Chaos Emeralds. Once you have that, then you'll have the ultimate power of destruction to use as you please. And then... The world could be yours!
„
~ Shadow to Eggman that the world will belong to Eggman.
“
Ahh... Shoot! Troublemaker!
„
~ On his way to rescue Rouge after she's trapped inside a locked safe with a Chaos Emerald.
“
That blue hedgehog again of all places..!
„
~ Stumbling upon Sonic again.
“
Faker!? I think you're the fake hedgehog around here! YOU'RE comparing yourself to me?! HA! You're not even good enough to be my fake!
„
~ His first clash with Sonic.
“
I guess he was just a regular hedgehog after all.
„
~ Witnessing the capsule Sonic's trapped inside explode.
“
So that was your plan from the very beginning, huh? Or was it a direct order from the president? NOW I know who you are! You're that government spy, Rouge the Bat, aren't you?!
„
~ Shadow meeting Rogue again in the central control room.
“
You never cease to surprise me, blue hedgehog. I thought that capsule you were in exploded in space.
„
~ Meeting Sonic again on the Space Colony ARK.
“
Before this is over... I'll show you the true power of CHAOS CONTROL!
„
~ Shadow, just before his second fight with Sonic.
“
Impossible...! I am the ultimate life...
„
~ Shadow's groan of defeat
“
It's all going according to plan. There's no reason for me to help them. Besides, there's no way to save anyone.
„
~ Shadow trying to ignore.
“
That's what I've promised her. And I must keep that promise. That's what Maria wished for.
„
~ Shadow realizing what he has to do.
“
I gotta go now! I have to keep my promise to Maria - And you.
„
~ After Amy reminded Shadow of Maria Robotnik.
“
Maria, this is what you wanted, right? This is my promise I made to you...
„
~ Shadow, as he falls to Earth after after saving humanity from destruction, leaving everyone to believe he is dead.
“
Stay here!
„
~ Shadow under attack by E-123 Omega
“
Is that so? Well then... It'll be a date to DIE for!
„
~ Shadow confronting Team Sonic.
“
Let's GET MOVING!!!
„
~ Shadow.
“
What's wrong with me?
„
~ Getting an E-rank in Sonic Heroes.
“
You'll regret this, Doctor. Even if I'm not real, I'm still the ultimate lifeform, Shadow the Hedgehog!
„
~ Before attacking the Egg Fleet, Sonic Heroes.
“
Useless heaps of metal!
„
~ Seeing Badniks.
“
So you're the one behind all of this, huh?
„
~ Learning Metal Sonic copied every team's data.
“
Sonic, we're counting on you!
„
~ Shadow after battle with Metal Madness.
“
You won't be able to move when he casts Chaos Control. Turn the Control/Left Analog/Left Thumb stick quickly to minimize the stop time.
„
~ Shadow's hint about when Metal Sonic uses Chaos Control.
“
You best try your hardest, or else you'll get hurt.
„
~ Before fighting Emerl, Sonic Battle.
“
Shadow the Hedgehog... Why does that name haunt me...? It's the only thing I can remember... And... that gruesome image...
„
~ Suffering from amnesia, his own game.
“
Hmm. Look how pathetic they are! I don't have time for these humans.
„
~ Witnessing the arrival of the Black Arms.
“
Just what was that all about? If he says he knows the truth about who I am... Then like it or not, I have to believe him. The only way I'm going to get the secrets to my past is to get those Chaos Emeralds!
„
~ From the prologue of his own game.
“
You might look like me, but I know you're just a fake.
„
~ In multiplayer battle mode.
“
(cackling) The pieces are coming together. This ultimate life form they keep referring to is the black hedgehog, and he... Died! And I'm it's copy. I must be the android Dr. Eggman created. And it's clear what needs to be done! Doctor... You're going straight to the place you've created me from.
„
~ Learning who he actually is and ready to drive Eggman out for creating him.
“
A Chaos Emerald? You've gotta be kidding me, guys! This is like taking candy from a baby, which is fine by me!
„
~ Before taking a hidden Chaos Emerald on board Tails' spaceship.
“
I'll be there Maria! I swear! Whatever it takes, I'll take care of the ARK and the professor!
„
~ Promising Maria to save the ARK from the Artificial Chaos.
“
If what you say is true, then I will respectfully accept my fate. (...) But I just need some time... to uncover the real truth.
„
~ To Abraham Tower before leaving him to buy himself some time.
“
Goodbye, Doctor!
„
~ Putting an end to Eggman.
“
I'm Shadow the Hedgehog, and I made a promise that I intend to keep. With the power of these emeralds, Black Doom and his army are finished! This is WHO I AM!!
„
~ Pure Hero ending.
“
It's do or die, Sonic the Hedgehog.
„
~ After defeating Sonic and Diablon in the Final Haunt.
“
I've heard enough. You're boring me to death, Black Doom! You're going DOWN!
„
~ Confronting Black Doom.
“
You have no control over me. I know the reason why I'm here. I've made a promise, and I'm here to keep it! Today... I PUT MY PAST BEHIND ME!!
„
~ Shadow to Black Doom before he puts an end to him.
“
Goodbye forever, Shadow the Hedgehog.
„
~ Abandoning his past.
“
My assignment was to rescue you, nothing more.
„
~ Shadow to Rouge about what he needed to do in Sonic (2006).
“
Let's get this over with.
„
~ Confronting Egg Cerberus.
“
Ha! There's no strength in numbers!
„
~ Destroying enemies.
“
Who are you? And how do you know my name?
„
~ Meeting strangers who know him.
“
Same to you.
„
~ As Sonic warns Shadow to not be late.
“
DON'T TOUCH IT!
„
~ Shouting at Rouge to stay away from the Chaos Emerald because Iblis is emerging.
“
Shadow: That's absurd. Whatever it is you wanna do, you can do it alone. Mephiles: You forgive humanity this folly then? Shadow: I determine my own destiny.
„
~ Confronting Mephiles.
“
Don't bother to try and deceive me. I know who I am!
„
~ In the beginning of the first fight with Mephiles.
“
I'm Shadow. Shadow the Hedgehog.
„
~ Introducing himself in Sonic's way.
“
Don't bother. With a Chaos Emerald's power, I control time and space. You can't break free.
„
~ About Chaos Control.
“
Shadow: Mephiles isn't trying to help you create a better future, he's trying to eliminate the past. Silver: What?! What are you talking about? Shadow: To discover what happened, it seems we must see what took place ten years ago. Follow me if you want the truth.
„
~ Shadow telling Silver that Mephiles is lying to Silver.
“
We'll have to split up. I'll pursue Mephiles.
„
~ Shadow demanding Silver to find their own target from the accident.
“
You have no desire for revenge. You only crave destruction. Your only lust is to fuel Iblis until there is nothing left of time itself.
„
~ Shadow to Mephiles.
“
Certainly, It might have been possible, if he was still alive.
„
~ Mourning Sonic.
“
The time space rift is expanding. There's no more time, I need to hurry.
„
~ In the beginning of the final act in End of the World.
~ Shadow thinking about having three people in a team after winning a race.
“
This had to be a mistake! How could I lose!
„
~ After being beaten by the Babylon Rogues the third time.
“
If you don't believe me, let's go again.
„
~ after winning a race
“
This victory will be an honor of our fallen comrade.
„
~ Shadow claiming that defeating Team Rose will honor the broken E-10000B in Team Dark's story.
“
They'll witness the true speed!
„
~ At the start of a race.
“
Hmph, finally. (...) Didn't think I'd find you still hanging around here.
„
~ Shadow meeting Sonic and Tails at Eggman's incredible interstellar amusement park in Sonic Colors.
“
You're finally here, Sonic. I don't know where we are, nor do I care. This is where I finish you, Sonic.
„
~ Approached by Sonic for the first time, Sonic Generations.
“
Hah, back for more, Sonic? Guess you never learn your lesson.
„
~ Approached by Sonic again.
“
Why you...!
„
~ Losing rings when hit by Sonic.
“
Eat THIS!!
„
~ Throwing Chaos Spears after getting two to three energy cores.
“
Get lost.
„
~ Taunting Sonic
“
You've got this, Sonic!
„
~ Cheering the two Sonics up.
“
This one looks like fun.
„
~ Demanding that Sonic's friends will help the two Sonics.
“
Let's finish this one off quick!
„
~ Ready to fight the Time Eater.
“
Sonic, you can switch with the Y/Triangle Button.
„
“
Sonic, attack with the A/Cross Button.
„
“
Sonic, press LB and RB/L1 and R1 Buttons at the same time to combine your powers.
„
“
Quickly rotate the left stick to escape.
„
“
Switch and go after it!
„
~ When the Time Eater changes areas.
“
It's attacking!/Look out!/It's a warping arm attack!
„
~ Watching an arm warp out and in.
“
That's a homing shot!/Be careful, Sonic!
„
~ About a shot that tracks Super Sonic.
“
You won't be able to move if that gets you!
„
~ About the restraint trap.
“
Keep dodging or you'll be crushed!
„
“
Charge into the core!
„
“
Hey, don't let your guard down, now.
„
~ After the first and third hits.
“
Time energy is building up!
„
“
Time's going to slow down!
„
“
The time flow will be restored!
„
“
Incoming laser!
„
“
What's wrong? Tired of being so weak?
„
~ Shadow's all-star move, Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed.
“
Someone needs to be taught his place.
„
~ Shadow's all-star move.
“
It was one month before the doctor took over the world. The first time I encountered... him.
„
~ Shadow telling us his story in the beginning of the prequel of Episode Shadow.
“
Hmph, should've hired some defense squads for the defense squad, eh, doctor?
„
~ Teasing Eggman for hiring Jackal Squad.
“
Worthless. Don't show your pathetic face around me ever again.
„
~ Shadow after defeating Infinite since a couple of months ago, Sonic Forces.
“
I can't imagine the doctor would do something like that without reason. (...) Yeah... looks like this won't be your garden variety recon mission. (...) I'm more than enough on my own. I'll handle things my way. (...) Cut the chatter, I'm on my way.
„
~ Shadow in the intro of Episode Shadow.
“
Got it!
„
~ Following orders in his own game, and Sonic Forces.
“
You should've known better than to send Omega an op like this.
„
~ Shadow disappointed about Omega going on ahead of him.
“
Already on it! Heh, I knew it. So much for recon!
„
~ Following Rouge's orders as Rouge lost Omega's signal.
“
Omega, what happened? What's going on over there?!
„
~ Trying to provide support to Omega.
“
What is going on here...?
„
~ Approaching to Omega's destination.
“
I don't know you. And the only thing of no consequence around here is that big mouth of yours.
„
~ Shadow having forgotten the first time he met Infinite.
“
What the-! Where am I? That guy... What happened to Infinite?
„
~ Shadow confused about who's Infinite.
“
This is where Omega was destroyed... but there's no sign of him here.
„
~ Finding where Omega disappeared.
“
Ugh... What is this? My head...!
„
~ Hearing "I am not weak" echo through his mind.
“
Ngh... What...? Where? I'm back here? No, is this an illusion?
„
~ After escaping virtual reality.
“
Sonic? What are you plotting? (hears an explosion) What--IS this...?! STOP!! WHERE DO YOU THINK YOU'RE GOING, INFINITE!?
„
~ Realizing Infinite's going up against Sonic and chases after him.
“
Rgh! Withdrawing now! What's the meaning of all this?
„
~ Shadow before escaping the collapsing facility.
“
Rouge, are you telling me the truth?
„
~ While Rouge is explaining what happened.
“
What is it, Rouge? What happened?
„
~ When Rouge shouts his name to get over here.
“
That was a fake.
„
~ After saving Sonic's life from his duplicate.
“
Shadow: Infinite can create virtual reality projections. They have mass and form, but no heart and soul. Sonic: Virtual Reality? So all those familiar faces who were a part of Eggman's army... Shadow: Replicas. The problem is, they may not be real, but their powers are as formidable as the originals. According to Rouge, Infinite can create unlimited numbers of them. Sonic: So fight after fight, he can just keep cranking up counterfeits? Shadow: Exactly. As it stands, there's no way we can win this. Sonic: Of course we can win this! We always do! We just haven't figured that part out, yet.
„
~ Shadow to Sonic.
“
This should effectively put a stop to the doctor's greatest weapon.
„
~ After the Death Egg blows up.
“
There's no more time. We have to break into the fortress now.
„
~ Before the final battle begins.
“
The Doctor hasn't given up. Don't let your guard down yet.
„
~ At the beginning of the Imperial Tower.
“
You deserve that!
„
~ attacking someone in Team Sonic Racing
In his Super Form
“
Sonic, leave it to me, I'll destroy him!
„
~ Super Shadow against the Finalhazard.
“
Here I come, you creep!
„
~ Super Shadow at the beginning of his turn.
“
He's still very powerful! What kind of monster is this? How are you doing, Sonic?
„
~ Super Shadow commenting the Finalhazard.
“
Hahaha, Sonic! I think I've discovered what the ultimate lifeform is... it might be you!
„
~ Super Shadow late in the battle against the Finalhazard.
“
Maria... watch me. I will fulfill your wish!
„
~ Shadow's determination.
“
I must destroy all the evil the Professor has created.
„
~ Super Shadow after defeating the Finalhazard.
“
Now, Sonic!
„
~ Super Shadow before casting Chaos Control with Super Sonic together.
“
This is the end of you, and the end to my cursed past!
„
~ Super Shadow after defeating Devil Doom.
“
Only one thing left to do... To put the past behind me!!
„
~ Super Shadow as he sends the Black Comet back into space
“
A Super-Dimensional being… Heh. This might even be a fair fight!
„
~ Super Shadow when first facing Solaris.
“
No, it's not over yet!
„
~ Super Shadow after defeating Solaris for the first time.
“
I will release you from the chains of your past!
„
~ Super Shadow When attacking Solaris.
“
Time to unleash the ultimate power!
„
~ Super Shadow.
As Lancelot
“
The king's orders are absolute, Gawain.
„
~ Lancelot to Sir Gawain when Gawain questions the King's orders.
“
Shadow: I have found you, apprentice knight, enemy of my King! Sonic: Who the heck are you? Shadow? Shadow: I am Lancelot, Knight of the Round Table. I challenge you to a duel!
„
~ Lancelot's first words during Sonic's first encounter with Lancelot, and introducing himself in the first fight against Sonic.
“
What shall it be? Will you abandon your sword and flee?
„
~ Lancelot when beginning to fight Sonic.
“
Very well, then! Brace yourself, Knave the Hedgehog!
„
~ Lancelot after Caliburn tells him that Sonic's name is Knave.
“
Now we shall see what you can do.
„
~ Entering into battle against Sonic.
“
Knave the Hedgehog, eh? A fitting name, I'd say.
„
~ Lancelot teasing Sonic.
“
Are you truly a knight? You seem more like a court jester.
„
~ Lancelot fighting Sonic.
“
I was far too careless. Tsk...
„
~ Lancelot after losing to Sonic after their first fight.
“
I thought I was the Ultimate Knight...
„
~ Lancelot after losing to Sonic after their second fight.
“
We have orders from the king. Have you any last words?
„
~ Lancelot to Merlina the Wizard.
“
For the kingdom and its people!
„
~ Lancelot and Gawain when they retrieve their swords.
“
Anyone who can remain hidden from me can rightfully boast a great deed.
„
~ When starting a "find the hidden fairies" mission.
“
Time to fly!
„
~ During the "Reach the Goal" mission in the Shrouded Forest.
“
There is nothing that I cannot do.
„
~ While fighting during a mission in Great Megalith.
“
A stone? In the Dragon's lair?!
„
~ When starting the "Reach the Goal" mission for the Dragon's Lair.
“
A battle against a dragon? This is going to be interesting indeed.
„
~ After encountering the dragon in the Dragon's Lair.
“
You are the one and true king Arthur?!
„
~ Lancelot, Gawain, and Percival realizing the truth about Sonic.
“
Ultimate victory!!
„
~ Receiving five mastery stars in a mission.
“
Out of my way!
„
~ Overtaking an opponent with a boost item in sonic and all stars racing transformed.
Theme Samples
Super Shadow
Trivia
Shadow seems to be ambidextrous, as he leads with his left hand in Shadow the Hedgehog and uses his right hand in the Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) and other games.
Concept art's of Shadow depict him in multiple different designs, while Shadow is often looking grumpy, some show him with a happier look compared to the final version.
Some concept art's also show him in a dark navy blue colour as apposed to black, one of them even depicts him with black sclera eyes and a red iris with the other one missing, similar to the eyes of Metal Sonic.
Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) is the only game where he and Sonic worked together without any arguments.
Shadow (along with Knuckles) was supposed to appear in Sonic Unleashed but was scrapped (for unknown reasons). However, in one of Brenda's interview questions asking what coming from the planet's core, the player can have Sonic incorrectly answer 'Shadow the Hedgehog'.
Shadow's line "Where's that damn fourth Chaos Emerald?" from his solo game became an Internet meme among the fans of the franchise.
Coincidentally, in Sonic Generations, Sonic can fight Shadow for the fourth Chaos Emerald (if the character defeats Perfect Chaos beforehand).
Shadow is one of the older characters in the series (chronologically being 50-years old). However, since he was stuck in suspended animation for most of his life and possesses eternal youth he is physically and arguably mentally 16 years old.
Shadow also appeared in the Flash movie "Sonic: Nazo Unleashed" and the upcoming movie "Return of Nazo" created by Chakra-X, where he is helping Sonic and his friends to save the world from the villainous hedgehog, Nazo.
Shadow is a supporting non-playable character and a quest giver in LEGO Dimensions.
Shadow's favorite anime is Kill la Kill as revealed in the Sonic the Hedgehog Twitter Takeover 3.
During Shadow's tenth Town Mission in Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) his IQ is determined as 200 by his colleague Frances, only 100 points lower than Dr. Eggman's.
