Sonic the Hedgehog 3 didn’t include one important character from Shadow’s backstory, but the next movie should take the opportunity to introduce them to the film franchise. The latest installment in Paramount’s Sonic the Hedgehog movie franchise featured Shadow’s debut, utilizing his backstory from his first game, Sonic Adventure 2. This included Shadow befriending Maria Robotnik, who was tragically killed when GUN tried forcibly shutting down Gerald Robotnik’s research on the Ultimate Lifeform. These events led to the story of Sonic the Hedgehog 3, featuring his decision to destroy humanity alongside Gerald as an act of revenge.
However, by the end of Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Shadow sees the error of his ways, helping Sonic stop the Eclipse Cannon, ultimately sacrificing himself to save the world. Luckily, Sonic the Hedgehog 3‘s post-credits scene reveals he’s still alive, picking up one of his inhibitor rings from a crater on Earth. Another story featuring Shadow appears guaranteed at this point, possibly expanding on his backstory in the process. This could include one important character from his past not featured in the latest movie, but who could appear in the next one.
Emerl Didn’t Appear In Sonic The Hedgehog 3 Despite His Connection To Shadow
The Robot Debuted In 2003, With Strong Ties To Shadow & Gerald
Despite his connection to Shadow’s past, Emerl never appeared as a character in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Introduced in 2003’s Sonic Battle, Emerl is a 4,000-year-old robot responsible for destroying an ancient people known as the Fourth Great Civilization. He was discovered by Gerald, who took him aboard Space Colony ARK in hopes of reprogramming him for good. While Dr. Eggman discovered him and tried using him to conquer the world, he instead allied himself with Sonic, only to be destroyed after he malfunctioned and went rogue.
In Sonic Advance 3, Dr. Eggman uses Emerl’s data to create Gemerl, a similar-looking robot that also ends up betraying him. In the end, he’s reprogrammed and becomes one of Sonic’s allies.
It’s also revealed during the game-canon animated series Sonic x Shadow Generations: Dark Beginnings that Shadow previously fought Emerl aboard the ARK during one of his malfunctions. This gives the pair a connection that could have been translated over to Sonic the Hedgehog 3 had the ancient robot been included. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case, with Shadow’s backstory instead focused on his revenge storyline. While this made sense, giving the movie proper focus without introducing too many small details, Emerl should still be part of the movie universe because of the pair’s connected background.
Emerl Can Still Show Up In The Next Sonic The Hedgehog Movie
Sonic 4 Could Introduce Him Alongside Metal Sonic & Amy Rose
Despite not having a role in Shadow’s debut movie, Sonic the Hedgehog 4‘s story could incorporate Emerl in some capacity. While it’s clear the focus will be on Metal Sonic and Amy Rose, he could show up thanks to a connection with GUN, either as a weapon they themselves developed, or keeping his original game backstory. His robotic appearance means he could team up with Metal Sonic, offering a reason for Shadow to return should the duo have some past connection that hasn’t been explored yet.
Despite not appearing in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Emerl could have an important role in the next movie, especially because of how important a role he plays in Shadow’s game backstory. The robot would be the perfect excuse to bring the Ultimate Lifeform back in the next installment, giving him an important role that continues to expand upon his storyline. Although there’s no confirmation if the ancient robot will show up, his importance makes it seem inevitable he will.
Sonic the Hedgehog 4 speeds into theaters on March 19, 2027.
