Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Release Date, Plot, and All We Know So Far

The Sonic the Hedgehog movie series has been nothing short of a joyride for fans and newcomers alike. Directed by Jeff Fowler, these films managed to bring the beloved video game character to life in a way that’s both nostalgic and exciting.

Sonic The Hedgehog 3 | Credit: Paramount Pictures

While the first movie was a fun introduction, the sequel cranked things up by jumping deeper into Sonic’s world and introducing fan-favorite characters. After the smashing success of the third installment, the blue blur is speeding back to theaters with Sonic the Hedgehog 4! Let’s break down everything we know about the fourth installment so far.

When can we expect Sonic the Hedgehog 4?

Sonic The Hedgehog 3 | Credit: Paramount Pictures

The wait isn’t over yet, but here’s the good news: Sonic the Hedgehog 4 is officially happening, and it’s set to hit theaters in spring 2027 (via Variety). Paramount Pictures made the announcement even before Sonic the Hedgehog 3 premiered, giving fans plenty of time to get excited.

If you’ve been following the release pattern, this timeline won’t be surprising. After all, each sequel so far has been spaced two years apart. The original Sonic the Hedgehog debuted in 2020, followed by the second movie in 2022, and the third in 2024. With 2027 on the horizon, it’s clear the studio is sticking to its strategy.

However, the competition is heating up. Spring 2027 is shaping up to be a blockbuster season, with heavyweights like Marvel’s Avengers: Secret Wars and the next Godzilla and Kong movie also slated for release around the same time. It’ll be exciting to see Sonic race against such big names at the box office!

What’s the story going to be about?

Shadow in the movie Sonic The Hedgehog 3 | Credit: Paramount Pictures

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 left fans with plenty of questions and teases for what’s next. While the third movie wrapped up some storylines, it also paved the way for new adventures in Sonic the Hedgehog 4.

At the end of Sonic 3, we saw Dr. Ivo Robotnik and Shadow teaming up to defeat the menacing Dr. Gerald Robotnik and stop the Eclipse Cannon from destroying Earth. But their victory came at a price. Both characters appeared to meet their end, though Shadow was revealed to have survived. Dr. Robotnik’s fate, however, remains a mystery, leaving fans wondering if he’s truly gone for good.

Sonic The Hedgehog 3 | Credit: Paramount Pictures

Meanwhile, a mid-credits scene introduced a brand-new threat: an army of robotic Sonic clones! Just as things were looking grim, Amy Rose made her grand entrance, wielding her iconic hammer to save the day.

With that setup, it seems likely that Sonic the Hedgehog 4 will center around Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Amy Rose, and possibly even Shadow as they battle these robotic impersonators or Metal Sonic. But the big question remains, who created these mechanical menaces? The mystery will surely keep fans on the edge of their seats.

Amy Rose’s arrival could also shake things up within Sonic’s team. Known for her fiery personality and unwavering crush on Sonic in the games, Amy might create some playful tension and disrupt the trio’s harmony. You can expect plenty of laughs, and drama, along with their usual teamwork to tackle the the challenges they face.

And let’s not forget the Wachowskis! Tom, who’s recovering from his adventures in Sonic 3, might be less eager to join the action this time. Still, the human characters have been an integral part of the series, so you can bet they’ll play a role in supporting Sonic and his friends.

Who’s returning to the cast?

Dr. Ivo Robotnik in the movie Sonic The Hedgehog 3 | Credit: Paramount Pictures

While official announcements about the cast are still pending, it’s safe to assume that most of the familiar faces will be back. The core trio of Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles, voiced by Ben Schwartz, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, and Idris Elba, has been a highlight of the series.

Shadow, who survived the Eclipse Cannon incident, will likely return as well. If Keanu Reeves reprises his role, fans are in for another treat. However, the big question mark is Dr. Robotnik.

Played by Jim Carrey in previous films, the character’s fate and Carrey’s potential involvement in Sonic 4 remain uncertain. Carrey came out of retirement for Sonic 3, so whether or not he’ll do it again is anyone’s guess.

On the human side, James Marsden and Tika Sumpter are expected to return as Tom and Maddie Wachowski. They’ve been Sonic’s steadfast allies throughout the series, and it’s hard to imagine a Sonic movie without them.

As for new faces, Amy Rose is almost certainly set to play a major role in Sonic 4. While her voice actor hasn’t been announced yet, fans are eager to see how this beloved character will be brought to life on the big screen. Additionally, the introduction of robotic Sonics hints at the possible appearance of Metal Sonic, another iconic character from the games.

Don’t miss out on Sonic the Hedgehog 3 which is still playing in theatres.