The Knuckles show, recently launched on Paramount+, has sparked a whirlwind of mixed reactions among Sonic fans and critics alike. As a self-proclaimed Sonic aficionado, I delved into the series with high hopes, only to find myself sorely disappointed. In my review for Kotaku, I couldn’t help but express my dismay at the show’s glaring flaws, particularly its treatment of the titular echidna, Knuckles
One of the most significant grievances fans have raised is the startling revelation that Knuckles, despite lending his name to the series, is relegated to a supporting role. Instead, the spotlight is hijacked by Wade Whipple, a comic relief cop grappling with his familial issues and a bowling tournament, of all things. Knuckles, it seems, is merely a peripheral character in his own show, making fleeting appearances that barely scratch the surface of his potential.
Moreover, the inclusion of human characters like Wade’s sister, Wanda, portrayed by Edi Patterson, has left many scratching their heads in bewilderment. Wanda’s abrasive demeanor and lowbrow humor feel out of place in a franchise known for its anthropomorphic charm, echoing thed missteps of the live-action Sonic movies.
Adding insult to injury is the show’s reliance on cheesy licensed music, a departure from the franchise’s iconic soundtrack. Even the most ardent fans couldn’t help but cringe at the predictable needle drops, further detracting from the viewing experience.
Episode 4, “The Flames of Disaster,” emerges as a focal point of fan frustration, epitomizing the series’ penchant for sidelining Knuckles. While the episode delves into intriguing Sonic lore, it does so at the expense of its supposed protagonist, pushing him to the sidelines in favor of human-centric narratives.
Amidst the disappointment surrounding the Knuckles show, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon with the upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie. Set to delve into darker aspects of Sonic lore, the film promises to rekindle fans’ excitement, albeit with a lingering sense of apprehension following Knuckles’ lackluster outing.
Also Read – Who is the new James Bond? The Story of Aaron Taylor-Johnson.
Despite the setbacks, fans can still find solace in the star-studded spinoff, Knuckles, bridging the gap between the second and third Sonic movies. With Idris Elba reprising his role as Knuckles and an ensemble cast including familiar faces from the franchise, there’s reason to believe that Knuckles’ journey is far from over.
How to watch Knuckles Show
For those eager to dive into Knuckles’ escapades, all six episodes are now available on Paramount+ in the US and Canada, with international release dates staggered accordingly. And for travelers or privacy-conscious viewers, a VPN offers a convenient solution to stream the show from anywhere while safeguarding their online activities.
As the Sonic saga continues to unfold, only time will tell if Knuckles can redeem himself in the eyes of fans or if he’ll remain forever relegated to the sidelines of his own story.