Connect with us
'Sonic the Hedgehog' #37 review
IDW Publishing

Comic Books

‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ #37 review

IDW Sonic is always a fun book to check in on every month, especially if you like long form storytelling.

Since Sonic the Hedgehog moved into IDW’s hands following the cancellation of the beloved Archie Comics tenure, fans had to make a lot of adjustments. Under the pen of fan favorite Sonic-scribe Ian Flynn, the book’s first few years were a definite hit. But after the emotional ride that was the Metal Virus Saga, it’s been a nice change of pace having a new head writer in the driver’s seat. Ian Flynn had been giving his all on Sonic’s main book for nearly two decades, and despite how much I love the guy’s work, it’s very refreshing to see somebody else take the reigns and give their own take on the Blue Blur.

Evan Stanley is a great match for the book, unsurprising given her history with the character and his universe. Not only is she a great artist, but is now really proving her chops as a writer under the editorial pressure of a licensed property. Her run so far has been filled with a levity and charm that feels so distinctly Sonic — even newcomer character Belle feels right at home in the supersonic hedgehog’s world. Given her history with creating popular fan works, I’m certainly happy to say I’m not surprised.

Listen to the latest episode of our weekly comics podcast!

On that note, this issue was all about the aforementioned Belle, a robot who feels more Pinocchio than the usual Badnik styled ‘bots we’re used to. The issue is solely focused on building mystique for Belle, and on endearing her to us further. Not that hard when she’s that absolutely adorable. She’s been keeping secrets ever since her debut a few issues back, a trend continued here, with little hints being dropped as to what her real story is all about.

Sonic the Hedgehog #37

IDW Publishing

The issue mostly focuses on her antics as she attempts to adjust to the characters’ hidden underground bunker. She’s a fish out of water here, much like Tangle the Lemur from the beginning of IDW Sonic, trying to adjust to the crazy world that she’s suddenly entered. Fittingly, Tangle herself is the one who tries to help her fit in, which also serves as a reminder of just how far she’s come since being the new kid on the block.

Sonic comics have always had very solid characterization, dating as far back to the good ol’ Archie days, and that legacy still holds true here. Even if we don’t get much from our core cast in this issue, Belle and Tangle more than carry us through with their fun personalities. I look forward to seeing how their friendship grows in upcoming issues.

The artwork is stellar, as per usual with IDW Sonic. Adam Bryce Thomas’ style is the perfect kind of expressive for these characters, able to balance quirky and funny with sleek and cool, just like Sonic should be. Again, as a veteran of Sonic comics by now, this comes as no surprise. In addition, Reggie Graham’s (great name!) coloring job deserves so much praise on its own. The textured look he brings to the page is utter eye candy and some of my favorite color work in comics right now. I’ll also draw special attention to the final few pages, which have a trippy psychedelic feel that remind me of the classic Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog cartoon.

Sonic the Hedgehog #37

IDW Publishing

IDW Sonic is always a fun book to check in on every month, especially if you like long form storytelling. Unfortunately, that also means not every issue is a great jumping on point for newcomers. This issue drops you into the middle of things without much of an explanation, which can be very jarring if you aren’t actively following the book month to month. Devoting time in every issue of an ongoing story to helping the reader play catch up isn’t an easy (or practical) endeavor however, so it’s a shortcoming that’s more than excusable.

The important thing to remember when reading Sonic is to, ironically, be patient. Though there isn’t a lot of plot in this issue, Evan made sure to take her time getting us a bit more familiar with a new cast member, while also setting up a ton for payoff in the next issue. If she hasn’t already won you over, I’d be surprised if this arc’s conclusion doesn’t do it for you.

'Sonic the Hedgehog' #37 review
‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ #37 review
Sonic the Hedgehog #37
A strong entry in the ongoing adventures of Sonic and friends, if a bit hard to follow for a newcomer.
Reader Rating1 Vote
8.7
Strong and dynamic characterization that feels flawlessly natural for this cast
Stellar artwork that really pops off the page
Belle is adorable
A bit alienating if you aren't already following the book along closely
8
Good

Join the AIPT Patreon

Want to take our relationship to the next level? Become a patron today to gain access to exclusive perks, such as:

  • ❌ Remove all ads on the website
  • 💬 Join our Discord community, where we chat about the latest news and releases from everything we cover on AIPT
  • 📗 Access to our monthly book club
  • 📦 Get a physical trade paperback shipped to you every month
  • 💥 And more!
Sign up today
Comments

In Case You Missed It

WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024 WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024

WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024

Pro Wrestling

AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024 AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024

AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024

Pro Wrestling

AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024 AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024

AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024

Pro Wrestling

Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in 'Blood Hunt' Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in 'Blood Hunt'

Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in ‘Blood Hunt’

Comic Books

Connect
Newsletter Signup