DC x Sonic the Hedgehog #1 Review: Running Rings Around Other Crossover

There’s a rote rhythm to your regular crossover. Two universes collide for a variety of reasons. The heroes fight. Then they team up. But what the excellent DC x Sonic the Hedgehog #1 presupposes is: what if we skipped all that?

Written by long-time Sonic writer Ian Flynn, with art by Adam Bryce Thomas, this new crossover very much exists in the world of Sonic. Which is to say, spends basically no time on “how did the Justice League get here?” in favor of having a good time and dealing with the problem. Which, in this case, is none other than Darkseid.

Beyond getting to the fun part with a speed that would make even Sonic jealous, Flynn has a blast pairing characters together. The Flash, of course, ends up in a friendly foot race with the titular Hedgehog. Tails and Cyborg immediately become best science buddies. And a surprisingly emotional scene connects Batman and Shadow over the very concept of loss.

Even more surprising? This comic is pretty much an excuse to put out a clothing and merchandise line, which means it should be a crass cash-in that allows the more monetizable aspects of the crossover to exist. Except, on par with DC’s Fortnite crossover, which told a fantastic Batman/Catwoman story in the world of the PvP game, DC x Sonic leans into what works for a joyously fun celebration of both franchises that come together like peanut butter and chocolate.

It’s also, thanks to a quick intro page halfway through the book, easily accessible to fans of both worlds. Whether you love DC, Sonic, or are just a fan of t-shirts who happened to buy a comic for the first time, DC x Sonic the Hedgehog #1 has a little something for everyone. And in that, it runs rings around the competition.

DC x Sonic the Hedgehog #1 Rating:

DC x Sonic the Hedgehog #1 Official Synopsis:

GOTTA. GO. FLASH-FAST. It’s a crossover event unlike any other! The monstrous Darkseid crosses dimensions to invade the world of Sonic the Hedgehog, seeking the ultimate power. Sonic and his friends have faced everything from mad scientists to ancient spirits, but the forces of Apokolips may be too much for them. Thankfully, the full heroic might of the Justice League arrives to back them up! Don’t miss part one of this unique crossover event!

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