Why I Love Team Dark | Unscripted Chatter

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Team Dark is arguably the most wholesome trio in the Sonic franchise and it brings out the best of Shadow, Rouge, and Omega.
Super Mario Bros. Z thumbnail is owned by Diamondbolt.

[@shadicboom1695]

"Why do you love Team Dark?" Reformed evil characters as a team of close friends with a way past awesome theme song? Sign me up

[@cooler1679]

Me too^^

[@HuntertheWraithDragon]

Wait... was Rouge ever truly evil?

[@shadicboom1695]

@@HuntertheWraithDragon let me think. She works for G.U.N y'know the people who mistook Sonic and captured him without a second thought,broke the Master emerald with Knuckles after trying to steal it, double crossed the bad guy in SA2 and tried to beat up a child just to get a space robot to help her steal gems(The GBA game Sonic battle). Evil enough to me

[@MarjanAmbroze]

@@HuntertheWraithDragon She's not evil, but her whole theif role and seductive vibe makes her somewhat a rival. That's why she hangs out with Team Dark. She can't help but always go out for treasure and steal things for her pleasure, and that's what makes her a rival to other people.

[@izukumidoriyadeku9846]

@@HuntertheWraithDragon she was an undercover spy in SA2 working for Eggman, where she first appeared, so I guess maybe everybody just took her for that.

[@MegaGlassguy]

Gotta love how these 'dark and brooding' anti-heroes can also be the biggest dorks with each other (especially in the comics). I think it's this duality that makes them stand out so well.

[@littenfire3563]

basically the Phantom Thieves lol. Dark, mysterious, a group of outcasts, but they're stronger together :3

[@gabeitches87]

hey look guys, Persona 5 fans are learning that good friends can also exist in other games

[@iblobliboo8501]

I remember really liking them in the comics!

[@TF2Fan101]

I love how Omega is written in both Archie and IDW. Where Archie Omega is hilariously enthusiastic about causing chaos and destruction, IDW Omega has no filter. And he’s hilarious.

[@louiseechoes]

Rouge's face when Shadow ignores her perfectly summarizes how the fans feel about the characters being butchered

[@___8241]

It constantly annoys me how much the fans show and prove over and over again why sonic characters aren't these stereotypes that everyone makes them out to be, and then sonic team does Something that contradicts said reasoning entirely. (Ex. Forces, The sonic twitter takeover, TSR)

[@lucentshadow]

Yeah those Twitter Takeovers screw Shadow over so much. It's like they're just feeding into the memes or something; I don't know what their rationale is for the flanderization.

[@MegaGlassguy]

@@lucentshadow Tell me about it. And funny thing, I remember that when the internauts were laughing at the Shadow likes Kill La Kill memes because ''ow the edge hurr durr'', there were Shadow fans who actually accepted it as a headcanon because as it so happens, Ryuko did have a similar character arc to Shadow's, a genetically modified lifeform who starts obsessed with revenge but eventually mellows out and gets better thanks to her friends, so it'd make sense for him to relate to such a character on that front. But we all know that's not what the Twitter was thinking when they made that meme, no, it was just another low jab because ''non-Sonic fans thinks Shadow is a try-hard edgelord therefore he is and loves edgy stuff''. When the most in-character thing they do with Shadow is on accident, you know there's a problem.

[@thebrainnameditself9530]

I know right! Now we look crazy to non-fans cause Sega can't simply get their shit together

[@amaterachu1]

@@lucentshadow I thought the Twitter takeover represented Shadow pretty well actually. Every answer he gave was totally expected from me and never caught me off guard like the other characters were. Although I haven't seen the third so I'm not sure about that

[@mc.gemstone]

I can't blame the twitter takeover as a lot of it wasn't scripted so they improv a lot of it without any direction of what to say or do.

[@TheSunflowerGiraffe]

Can I just add Omegas line "The original may exist somewhere" may have given Rouge an idea to figure out if the Shadow they had been traveling with is the real Shadow. She mentions going after the Master Emerald again and Shadow replies "Some things never change do they?" Now you can argue that memory cloning is a thing but I don't think that's the case here. I think Rouge said that to get Shadow to ask what the Emerald is or if he already knew about it that he'd respond with something like he actually said.

[@SuperboyLilly]

Eggman tells Shadow that he's the real one during the final boss fight in Shadow The Hedgehog.

[@jaelonstith9154]

No no, you’ve got a point. That’s a REALLY good way to look at it. Maybe she didn’t completely say “this is him 100%” but that probably gave her a great lead on that it was shadow himself. That probably like 90% confirmed it for her.

[@Axxidous]

That’s a cool way of looking at it. Unfortunately I highly doubt that it is correct. Shadow already knows that she likes Jules and that this is what she was after the whole time anyways. It’s not about the fact that he does or doesn’t know what the master Emerald is. Just the fact that she’s going after another gem. On another note, this was the first time we saw Knuckles just not on the island. Yet Rouge brings up the Master Emerald not being guarded. And later she does so again to taunt Knuckles. This means not only do the writers acknowledge him being off the island that still has the unguarded master emerald but that they even point out that Knuckles is aware. As in him being away from the island does it mean that they forgot about it. They just purposely have him away from the thing. In fact, in later games they were pointed out once in a while As in him being away from the island does it mean that they forgot about it. They just purposely have him away from the thing. In fact, in later games they were pointed out once in a while. In Colors DS he was supposedly “tricked” into getting involved after previously guarding the Master Emerald. And in Forces a little prologue comic shows he was on the island before Silver recruited him. Chaos showed up, and even though it was a fake, Knuckles seemed to not be surprised for some reason. I think it’s because he expected the real one to actually be there. And I think that because even before this game ever existed, I noticed that in knuckles seemed to not be surprised for some reason. I think it’s because he expected the real one to actually be there. And I think that because even before this game ever existed, I noticed that in Sonic Battle, which came out around the time of Heroes, Chaos appeared at the altar and was supposedly guarding the Master Emerald. He would appear if a threat seemed to be present. For this reason, I believe Rouge originally obtained the Master Emerald in SA2 when Knuckles left the island ahead of Sonic to stop Perfect Chaos. This is the only time when the Master Emerald was left unguarded completely. No Knuckles. No Chaos.

[@electrocast]

Also, all the clones were in one spot, while the Shadow she discovered was isolated elsewhere from the rest of them.

[@assassindancer914]

@@electrocast True, and with Omega trapped there as well. There's a reason why Eggman planted them both there and Rogue being a master hunter, was able to find the location. Shadow's memories aren't "Erased" they are just suppressed because he is the original Shadow. Which proves that he didn't die at the end of SA2, he just got injured(especially since his super form would reduce the overall damage, so it makes sense)

[@GiroTakamishi]

Regardless how much Sonic talks about friendship and teamwork, ironically, Team Dark seems to be the one where the characters are the closest.

[@evanbutiforgot]

yep

[@romantheblack-cat]

And thats why we love em

[@YungMiquella]

I seriously hope team sonic is taking notes for their next game rn

[@calebproductions1264]

Pfft, like that’s ever going to happen, I’d rather not have this now terrible video game company like sega doing anything with sonic, and just have Square Enix or sony interactive entertainment do a better job at the franchise instead, because all that sega’s dumbass does is appeal to classictards and nostalgia, they’re moronic fanboys also support failure in this now shitty franchise as well, and don’t get me started with how fucking shit the sonic twitter is.

[@roastsepic3955]

Its Sonic Team, not Team Sonic XD. But I agree with they should really start taking notes.

[@luigines6457]

They won't, but I wish they did.

[@yellowlad5968]

@@calebproductions1264 sadly true. The series hasn't been the same without yuji naka and the other members of sonic team being around.

[@imanobody7911]

Trust me they won't. Their heads are far inside their asses that they can't see what we REALLY want. They just take the critism in a SO wrong way. People didn't like the glitches of 06 and the Elise character but SEGA acts like the fans hated EVERYTHING about the game and that's why they changed all of the personalities of the characters and no longer make serious stories and no longer use like 95% of the side characters. I hate this company so much right now. They are ruining the frenchise that we all love

[@AnonDudeBro]

Another thing I like about Team Dark is that Rouge is actually the true leader of team dark. Especially considering she brought the team together. Shadow is the most powerful, but he actually serves as more of a “poster boy” for the group. (Especially keeping in mind he’s more popular & a male hedgehog that can go super) Rouge developed from a selfish enigma to a leader who brought out the best of Shadow and Omega.

[@voiceacticon667]

It is so pathetic that when you wish to be alone and wish to have a small group of friends, people out right call you a loser and say that you don’t like to have fun as if they got you all figured out. I like team dark because they don’t blur out friendship like Sonic does. The friendship between team dark is a friendship that is shown not told.

[@MoskusMoskiferus1611]

Yeah, A True Deep Friendship

[@yellowmello1223]

And this is why I love them so much. I relate to them a bunch because I have only 3-4 friends I'm actually close to.

[@f1sh113]

This is EXACTLY why I love Team Dark. They all relate to eachother in one way or another and they’re all shown to be close. I’ve only got like, 2-4 people that I’m really close to and trust.

[@user-wg2kj8cd6w]

Yeah, a deep, but very powerful friendship. In my opinion, you feel sympathy for each member. I feel these guys would be the best people to ask for advice when you’re feeling depressed. This is what I would need right now. I like how they always stay together-well, except the game Shadow the Hedgehog. And I have to agree that your friends do empower you. Like I always say, your friends are your greatest strength. You’re never alone when you’re with friends. You can do anything

[@user-wg2kj8cd6w]

This is where I fall with Team Dark. I always stay together with my own friends, and always try to bring out the best in them. I feel so connected to this trio

[@blaacksugar7714]

I always liked how militant they were compared to the other teams. Also, I like how they have contrasting personalities: One is a renegade that's a bit of a dork. One is an actual killing machine that values friendship. And one is a spy/double agent/jewel thief that you can count on. They always felt like they had a lot more going on compared to the other teams and they should get their own game.

[@romantheblack-cat]

Yeah they should.

[@garfieldlazylasagna1234]

i mean shadow did but whe don't talk about that one

[@minicle426]

Rouge: (Joins hands) I now pronounce you, husband and robot.

[@ziggythomas1123]

"Wait, which one of us is the bride?"

[@assassindancer914]

@@ziggythomas1123 Rouge: I am

[@prometheanrebel3838]

Rouge: "You fell right into my trap, now you are my harem."

[@nilo5747]

I've been thinking about Shadow's motorcycle from the Shadow the Hedgehog game. I don't know if it was the Archie comics or an individual piece of artwork that added on the idea that Shadow may overall have a hobby involving motorcycles. It'd be interesting to see that. I can completely see Shadow working on his personal GUN Motorcycle with Omega observing him and thinking of he should attempt to to create one, with miniguns, and rocket launchers. It would incorporate something with both of them, that both of them have individual hobbies that expand their characters somewhat.

[@Aeoncalcos91]

Well if Sonic and Sega All Stars Racing is any indication, I guess he did get his own motorbike. "The Dark Rider".

[@whoeverest_the_whateverest]

It 100% was Archie comics, when Ian Flynn was already in charge (at least the issues I read, I absolutely can't say were it started)

[@Biostar96]

You're thinking of the Sonic Universe arc Treasure Team Tango. Shadow tells Amy that his bike is mandatory as a GUN agent, but Rouge teases him that he still takes good care of it anyway.

[@electrocast]

op i'm now DYING to see some shadow & omega interactions regarding vehicles of any sort, that'd be the perfect combination of cute/wholesome and awesome, which is hard to achieve!

[@nilo5747]

@@electrocast It would work with both characters. Shadow with his love of his motorcycle and his maintenance of it, and Omega with his love of destruction and weaponry. I wouldn't find it out of place for Omega to start building such a weapon of pure destruction with wheels and an engine. It seems like something he would do, and it would show he can actually be excited about something.

[@Mysticgamer]

I liked Shadow's story in Hero'a because you actually get to see him smile and banter with his friends. At the being of the pinball city, he actually calls it a "Cool City".

[@bowmaj8666]

Don't forget when Shadow fights Sonic in the forest in SA2 and say's "I'm the Coolest!" I like those moments when Shadow shows some actual emotions (heck he even smiles in Forces when the Rookie destroys the artificial sun and when the Resistance wins the war. It's not much but it's SOMETHING!) It shows that there's more to him than people/haters give him credit for. People just want to play him off as a moody "edgelord" (man I hate using that word) and nothing more, to the point where even the writers have developed a sort of "if you can't beat em, join em" attitude and make him (and every other Sonic character for that matter) into a complete joke, giving him less and less personality. Sega need to stop listening to negative whiners who think they know what's best for the series (newsflash: they clearly don't) and realise why people liked these characters in the first place and have them act in a more dignified way!

[@Aeoncalcos91]

Team Dark was always so interesting to me, they may all have very different outlooks on life and each of them have their own personal goals but they still look out for one another and they're each willing to stand up for their fellow team members. Case in point, Shadow's story in 06. When the group learns from Mephiles about what happens to Shadow in the future, the three of them are all shaken by this bit of news. Yet, it only makes them an even stronger team. They face forward, let nothing stand in their way and continue to work together both as G.U.N agents and as true friends.

[@mrcteddy20]

Never was a huge fan of these three when I was younger but lately, after realizing the kind of characters they are thanks to videos like this, I've considered them to definitely be the best trio in the series, close to being more of my favorite characters in general.

[@mw6ngi0]

I actually never liked them when I was younger. Now, they're...ok..

[@-voiddemoni-9243]

There was also a lil subplot in chronicles that nobody remembers but Shadow knew that Omega was clearly hurt and something was wrong and he was clearly worried. He didn’t even try to deny it sometimes. He clearly cared for him.

[@Emma-wc4yr]

Team Dark as the found family group of misfits was one of the things that drew me to them as a whole in the beginning, and seeing their growth in ´06 was one of my favorite Sonic storylines. But the scene before they fight Mephiles is hands down one of my favorite parts of that game!

[@jrgaming1163]

" If The Word Chooses to become my enemy, I Will Fight like I've Always Have"!(Also I think they are a animal version of The Guardians of the Galaxy)

[@geniuskhan2520]

Despite his "dark and brooding" attitude, he's a true hero to the very end

[@trumpeterjen]

"animal version" Rocket Raccoon: "Am I a joke to you?!" ... Now that I think of it, if I didn't know who Rocket Raccoon was, I'd probably assume he was a Sonic character based on the name alone.

[@mep6302]

*I Always Have

[@mw6ngi0]

@@geniuskhan2520 he's not "dark and brooding". He's cool and sarcastic. Well, in SA2 and Heroes at least.

[@geniuskhan2520]

@@mw6ngi0 Yeah, I got kinda confused by his inconsistent characterization, made me forget what they were going for

[@Jawerano]

I think Sonic 06 is a game whose goal was to "fix" Shadow. And that's the reason why I love this game

[@cursedseeker1273]

Not at all , in the ending of his game he says he will leave his past behind ( never turn back ) so pretty much in 06 he's a different and better person beacuse of that

[@SteveCrafts2k]

Meaning they fixed Shadow.

[@donathan2933]

Maxu true the game wrote Shadow well and the story was pretty good

[@cerebralassassin2185]

Not really. The true ending of Shadow the Hedgehog alrwady had him fine. He let go of the past to make his own destiny. Shadow's game expanded the character more to make him the character he is in 06

[@edgelord8337]

I don't think I need to explain why I love team dark. Shadow the hedgehog is my favorite sonic character character and I think that rouge and omega are solid characters. The fact that Sega wanted to finish is character arc in shadow the hedgehog despite that being a mediocre game shows that they did care. He went from a cold killer to one of Sonics greatest rivals and allies. He and his team just ooze edgy and cool stuff tbh.

[@AC-xi4yn]

edge lord one of my favorite fictional team ups with my favorite fictional character

[@SuperboyLilly]

You just took the words right out of my mouth. I don't know whether to punch you or kiss you, I'll just do both!

[@Magicman67]

Nice pfp

[@makotoyuki345]

Huh funny that the emotionally reserved characters are the dorkiest, kinda cool to be honest with you

[@AC-xi4yn]

@@makotoyuki345 true that

[@shellknight1323]

When you're in-depth character analysis it's so efficient you *can afford* to resort to *Fan-made* products to make it even better

[@imbigbilly1352]

I think the reason they work so well is because they actually show why friendship can be so powerful. They give a reason for them having unbreakable bonds rather than just saying “friendship” and calling it a day.

[@GoodieGumdropsv.v]

Telling you the comics from Archie really gives Team Dark the love they deserve! They stick together when Blaze calls out Shadow for not giving her the Sol Emeralds. When The Black Arms come back, Omega and Rouge fight Shadow in order to get him back and pull the Maria card knowing that would get him back. When G.U.N. was blaming the group for not getting the Chaos Emeralds from this literal God, Shadow blames it all on himself actually *feeling different emotions*!! I’m summarizing at best and not going big into detail, but Archie really love Team Dark and since Sonic Team as pretty much gotten rid of those comics they could be throwing out everyone’s character development and making it more one note. I know it’s not fair to compare comics to games but still good to talk about.

[@Biostar96]

Their arcs were always my favorites.

[@LuCiaiU]

May I ask on what issues those arcs appear? There's a ton of Archie comics and I'm interested in some plots only, like those you mention.

[@SCSHShine]

L. H. V. Me too

[@GoodieGumdropsv.v]

L. H. V. They were from Sonic Universe issues, 4, 21, and 61.

[@kunlesanders]

I really want more stories for Team Dark (Shadow the hedgehog, Rouge the bat, and E-123 Omega) in future Sonic games. Also, I want Shadow to get a new enemies/rivals too. Because I'm sick and tired of Sonic (himself). He has more enemies and rivals than anyone else. And that's too much for him. (All these years wasted.)

[@monsieurXVIII]

Team dark go to the desert Shadow : Hm, the desert... Count how many sand is here Omega. That's your first mission. Omega : Okay. 1. 2. 3. 4. Rouge : Why the f*** would you make him do that ? Omega : 5. 6. 7. Rouge : It's gonna take so long! Shadow : It passes the time. Omega : 8. 9. 10. 11. Rouge : Shadow! It's gonna be so annoying! Omega : 12. 13. Shadow : (Almost laughing) I'm curious what it thinks its number is. (Cast laughs hysterically) Omega : 14. 15. 16. 17. Rouge : No! He's just gonna be counting forever! Omega : 18. 19. Shadow : Perhaps... Omega : 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. (Cast continues to laugh hysterically) Omega : 27. 28. 29. 30. Rouge : Shadow, what have you brought? This is your fault! Omega : There are only 30 million sand particles in this desert. Shadow : See ? That was easy. [Rouge] Oh f***.. Oh my God. Even if it’s a fan dub, we agree that it’s canon, right ?

[@kayleighdriessen]

Y E S

[@LDtheBrachio]

I've eaten nothing but rocks :P

[@rodrigoreynaga1662]

Yeah

[@edwheezer6231]

You know, being an independent g- shhh, please don't interrupt me.

[@traktor420]

Finally, a grand slam

[@zemox2534]

Shadow, Rouge and Omega need their own game.

[@smothmoongazer]

I feel like there's something you forgot to mention at 5:18. Not only does Omega tell Shadow the truth, he shows actual emotion when doing so, portraying that he doesn't want to do it. And Shadow looks hurt by it, but ultimately forgives him, showing just how unbreakable their bond really is. Not only did he not immediately kick him out because he felt threatened, he let him stay because he didn't want to believe his friend would do that.

[@hawk6901]

Team Dark = Best Team

[@mw6ngi0]

Team Sonic = Best Team

[@autobotdrift7805]

Team sonic is meh

[@mw6ngi0]

@@autobotdrift7805 it's an opinion

[@gabeitches87]

@@mw6ngi0 A trash one

[@brandongarzon5203]

I'm not going be toxic but I agree team sonic is your basic anime showen team you see everywhere team dark is more unique and complex

[@izukumidoriyadeku9846]

team dark literally defines 'don't judge a book by its cover'

[@trailduster6bt]

If we’re going to keep getting Pontac and Graff Sonic sitcom games, can we at least get a spinoff for Team Dark that doesn’t constantly lampoon itself and is written by some people who understand the characters and their history?

[@MegaGlassguy]

Yes please! It'd be nice to see what the trio has been doing at G.U.N., heck it'd be a good opportunity to expand on the organization too.

[@makaylafloyd8156]

I'd actually be interested in trying to write that (at least a short story format. I don't write games very well)

[@trailduster6bt]

MegaGlassguy I’m torn on whether or not to bring back the old GUN Commander, but if they do he better have a name!

[@trailduster6bt]

Makayla Floyd honestly, most Sonic games can be summed up in short stories anyway

[@MegaGlassguy]

@@trailduster6bt Technically he already has one: Abraham Towers. Personally I'd like to see how his meeting with Shadow after the events of his game went.

[@SladeTheHedgehog]

RiP team Dark. Greatest team to play with in the Sonic Heros

[@unbelievable8833]

Team sonic racing : am I a joke to you?

[@SladeTheHedgehog]

@@unbelievable8833 it just doesn't feel the same

[@mw6ngi0]

I like Team Sonic more, but cool.

[@shinsou_simp81]

I see Shadow's and Omega's friendship as: "I'm kicking his ass, you in?" "Affirmative."

[@justanuser9503]

*at a recent Bumblekast* Q: "Ian, do Shadow and Rouge have any romantic feelings for each other or are they just friends?" Ian Flynn: "according to SEGA, neither" Ian Flynn at Bublekast #87: "Shadow is not an agent of G.U.N. I ran into this factoid myself when writing Shadow Fall. SEGA was very specific about that, Shadow does not work with ANYBODY, in ANY CAPACITY." *They are taking them away from us*

[@marchaelbarras200]

So no ShadRouge?

[@AnnStyle]

Wait are you saying that shadow doesnt want be friends with anybody. This is the main reason why sega now sucks at writing characters

[@Genowhirl910]

I absolutely loved this series of videos. Team Dark are my favorite fictional characters of all time. I love their dynamic and friendship, it's a very comforting and exciting trio to see work together. I love watching them work together as a team and see how they love and care for eachother despite their hard pasts. It's good to know there are other people who understand the importance of Team Dark.

[@mw6ngi0]

Ok

[@superhedgehog6447]

I really hope they make good sonic stories in games again for the 2020s. The last decade has been crappy when it comes to representing the characters all because some critics and older biased fans didn't understand the stories or what made the characters special in the first place.

[@lynxfresh5214]

TSR animation (despite looking amazing) perfectly shows how wasted Team Dark currently is. Shadow is a jerk who ignores his teammates, Rouge is just another "female character" who doesn't act like a spy and Omega is just another meathead with barely a personality. "Team Dark aren't friends" indeed (they're actually family in my head-canon).

[@TophDaGreat]

Back in the day when I was in High School, I'd boot up the Gamecube and listen to Team Dark's theme song in the Sonic Heroes menu section. So catchy.

[@comicfan1324]

I think team dark was always the most enjoyable group in sonic heroes. And in nearly every appearance of the group I’ve enjoyed their dynamic. Whether it be Heroes, 06, or Forces i’ve been joyed their interactions.

[@ahmesfabinfaizal3692]

Except zombot arc ....That trash arc

[@DonAsirobi]

I would love to see characters interact much more like Team Dark in the next sonic games. The character development that those 3 went through just makes them even more likeable... but after Colors, I feel like every character just got worse....I do hope they will rethink how those characters should act in the future games.

[@keylakettlemjardim8282]

You should team up with Game Apologist to make some kind of Fan-Fic about Sonic. I bet it will be Ian Flynn level stuff

[@gymguy8780]

Ian Flynn not a good writer

[@keylakettlemjardim8282]

Well, from i heard, i thought he was good

[@rainpooper7088]

Erik Valiente Your arguments are very convincing.

[@Mysticgamer]

@@keylakettlemjardim8282 He writes for the IDW sonic comic now. You check it out via comixology if your curious.

[@yoshimasterleader]

I've thinking about how a Team Dark would play out. The game story would be simple. GUN sends them out to an infiltration mission to receive something but the mission turns out to be bigger than they thought. There will be three gameplay types Stealth for Rouge, Combat for Omega and a regular sonic style stage for Shadow. Rouge's stealth sections could play like the Arkham games and Omega's stages would be linear but wide. Perhaps with multiple pathways. They would mostly communicate through coms and a couple of them would meet in person. Perhaps they team up for levels and effect each other's play styles. All three teammates come together in the final act.

[@93SuperSonic]

That line about finding friends like yourself to connect with at the end; Very true words, indeed 😃😢.

[@UltimateTS64]

I was just about to mention the irony that Boom Shadow says friends make you weak, when the OG Shadow is stronger with his friends

[@mainmanstan7405]

To this day, it baffles me how of all the sonic games, 06 got this team right the most while newer games get they're dynamic completely wrong. A lot of which has to do with the writers making Shadow the very thing fans DIDN'T want after STH, while Rouge and Omega have been neglected for 10+ years (fuck I'm old). Out of the entire sonic cast whose writing I really want fixed, its these three.

[@KavinCatastrophe]

A shadow of myself, just who am I? Scan horizons A tragic mystery You could have left me here, sealed inside the pod No one would ever know - The chaos control My true identity The power that is me We all danced in fire Trapped in this machine Don't know how long we've waited As the Eggman's watching We all danced in fire Looking thru the screen Don't know how long we've waited As the Eggman watches With Rouge in the fight - electric lives Change surroundings A jewel in history A treasure disappears - as she goes Miss her as you look away - and no one knows This power is a key This power changes me We all danced in fire Trapped in this machine Don't know how long we've waited As the Eggman's watching We all danced in fire Looking thru the screen Don't know how long we've waited As the Eggman watches E-123 You didn't know - now I'm gonna show you The power that is me You try to take me down-stop the show Seems you've never tasted fear- or loss of control The power lives in me The power that is me We all danced in fire Trapped in this machine Don't know how long we've waited As the Eggman's watching We all danced in fire Looking thru the screen Don't know how long we've waited As the Eggman watches

[@keybladehuntress]

By Julien-K

[@NintenGril101]

Yes

[@KavinCatastrophe]

When he starts the video let create a chain for this song.

[@NintenGril101]

@@KavinCatastrophe Yesss!!

[@keybladehuntress]

@@KavinCatastrophe sure!

[@rushink]

The story of Team Dark is really the only one to show any real development that actually sticked for many games. All the others either have little development in the games or get reset back to something they no longer are. Shadow is a loner because he fears he will lose the people he cares for. It already happened with Maria and Gerald, and he sees it for a moment during Sonic 06. But then, when he's on his lowest point, there's always people with him to support him: Rouge promised to be with him, even when the world is against him; Omega will go through the edge of time to help him with anything, even going against what's basically a god. It really shows how human connections and relations can spin a person's character around. He is still snarky and has a little bit of an ego, but he doesn't present himself as "the ultimate lifeform" anymore. Omega follows Gamma's arc of being a machine that learns it has a heart, but being less on-the-face about it. He really cares about Shadow, realizing both of them are one and the same. Both were created to serve a purpose, but they ended up going against it to become more, to become part of something greater. He even (partially) lets go of the gurdges that originated thanks to a Robotnik. All of what he feels for both Shadow and Rouge led him to go through the edge of time to help Shadow, even if that meant going against what's basically a god, and having the courage to tell Shadow what he will do if he has to. Rouge was solely interested in profit, but slowly came to realize the value in people and relationships through her interactions with Shadow, which culminated her letting go of the pieces of the emeralds and genuinely feeling bad for Shadow after what she read. She really feels bad for how both Shadow and Omega ended up in the same room, but she knows she can help them go through it now. She really learnt to appreciate their friendship enought to the point where she'll stick with them even when the whole is after them. It really is ironic how Shadow, the loner, is the one who brought the three of them together, and it's a very good development seeing how Rouge is the one keeping it that way.

[@juicyd9233]

The thing is Sonic 06 has bad writing, but does has GOOD characterization; that means the character still themselves. Shadow the hedgehog has bad writing and bad characterization. Sonic Colors era has bad characterization and NO WRITTING OR STORY

[@donathan2933]

true but I think Shadow the hedgehog's confusing story is what made the game have bad writing

[@pedrosouza3085]

"Sonic 06: bad writing, good characterization" Except for Sonic. The only time he was himself was at the intro cutscene

[@donathan2933]

@@pedrosouza3085 the writing wasn't exactly bad more like mediocre. The story overall: decent, characterization: good (except team Sonic)

[@pedrosouza3085]

@@donathan2933 that's what i Said. Everybody was themselves in the game, xcept Team Sonic.

[@donathan2933]

@@pedrosouza3085 yup, how do you fuck up the main characters personalities but get everyone else's character right? Like WTF? 🤣

[@teamtx1578]

0:14 is probably the first time one of my comments ever showed up in a video so thanks for including it.

[@naturalace5375]

Like I said in the previous video: I see Rouge as a big sister to Shadow (despite Shadow being older than her but only chronologically) and Omega since she’s technically the leader of team dark.

[@megapokesonicx]

Shadow, Rouge, and Omega kinda remind me of Android 16, 17, and 18

[@marchaelbarras200]

Holy crap, I never thought of it that way!

[@smashmaster521]

@Siper Android 17 never struck me as the gloomy sort.

[@endo8835]

@@smashmaster521 He was always more playful and easy going really

[@smashmaster521]

@@endo8835 I know, which is why comparing him to Shadow seems rather bizarre.

[@thesecretroman]

I can't wait! Team Dark have always been my favourites since I was a kid and it's really great to see them getting some love.

[@thesuntitan]

Why do I love Team Dark? *This Machine playing in the distance*

[@CosmicPersephone]

Rouge and Shadow have always been my favourite characters so to have them form a team with a third member and have some of the best written amd most wholesome dynamics is just awesome to me and it's why I've always loved them

[@V4DER200D7]

Shadow and Rouge is like Black Widow and Hawkye in Avengers: endgame

[@winnerthecoolguy2009]

A seeing more and more of myself in Shadow because this KZbin channel,I'm slowly seeing a little bit on my personality and traits and Shadow in a way

[@JsReviews]

Excellent video. Team Dark really did mean to me, what you said at the end of video, when I was a kid playing Sonic 06.

[@kyaraborg]

3:53 reminds me of Sonic Universe “shadow fall” with the introduction of Eclipse the Darkling who tries to turn shadow into the black arms side, succeeds but the Rouge and Omega beat some sense into his head and he gets back at eclipse eheheh really cool moment.

[@VishisTV]

I would really love to see team sonic more interactive with one another like team dark. Similarly to how they were in the Sonic OVA. Knuckles and Sonic being just chill bros would be sick. I always felt knuckles and tails could be good friends but its like sonic is their only friend and they are just casual mutual friends lol. Even Cream and Big are closer lol

[@lanturn3239]

Sonic 06 may have been generally a train wreck but I absolutely love it for 3 things: 1. It took the risk of being off-beat, weird, or intense rather than sticking to a stale, safe storyline. How that turned out is uh...up for debate, but I appreciate the effort and it had some gems. 2. Mephiles was a genuinely intelligent, compelling, and terrifying villain who brought out the best in Team Dark fighting him. 3. Shadow and Team Dark were written PERFECTLY. I was so happy to hear you say '06 was Team Dark at their best because that is TRUTH and I've been saying it for a long time. It's the quiet, deep, mutual care, ok?? IT GETS ME

[@ecaterina9915]

i love the team dark , i love their relationship and their friendship, i am a lovely family

[@NoelTFaulk]

Yo I agree with everything in this video, Team Dark has the perfect synergy.

[@undisputedforever2719]

They’re just one of a kind. You got Hedgehog with a Dark, depressing past, a jewel thief helping out those who are in need and a destructive machine with a warm human heart

[@pablozanoto5801]

The only thing I wanted for Team Dark is more participation from Omega, as we don't know so much about him yet, and also from the group leader, Rouge, as we usually only see her with the others.

[@electrocast]

I love Team Dark as a trio, Shadow is my favourite character who I connect more and more with as I age, and one thing I really appreciate is the Omega love here. Omega's friendship with Shadow is one of the best imo, and it's seriously under-appreciated. Sure, Shadow and Rouge have some amazing moments, especially in 06 and Sonic Battle, but more people talk about that one, you know?

[@hannahsflahnnels]

"my child is completely fine" your child's favorite sonic relationship dynamic is team dark

[@undoingruin4203]

You’re becoming one of my favorite channels on KZbin, I can’t wait to see what the future of your channel will bring! Love the videos dude, keep em coming 🤘

[@callumcrane241]

Team Dark truely means the INTIRE Sonic franchise to me. The 3 of them NEED there own game staring them all.

[@shellyvision9693]

Shoutouts to the fact that Shadow and Omega weren't invited to Sonic's birthday party in Generations, and Omega only appeared as a figure, meaning they missed the chance for Omega to interact with Sonic. Oh well, at least it's better treatment than Team Rose gets. Only Amy regularly appears, and Cream was flat out replaced.

[@DannyBenS94]

They need their own spin-off game (if Sega will let someone do it and do it right).

[@ShadowTheHedgehogCZ]

I must say I am so glad somebody noticed this 15 years after I started saying this. But in the years of Color Era, it was popular to say that Shadow is emo or evil bastard and that all Sonic characters should be removed and Shadow should die for good. Nobody cared about the old stories that actually had a heart and everyone was entertained by stupid food jokes and wanted more of them. Curious that no matter how diverse and random Sonic stories are (Sonic universe doesn't even have solid setting and everything keeps changing), the one theme all Sonic stories try to have in common is "friendship". But they do it badly. Oh they do it so badly. Because most of the time, it's just Sonic lecturing everyone and the viewer that friendship is everything and if you don't have friends, you are a loser. And we are meant to take away from those simplistic stories that Sonic is the role model of a good friend. The irony is however that Sonic is the opposite of that. And this "evil" Team Dark is the real lesson about friendship. Because it's how completely different people with dark antagonistic characteristics met... and then they overame their differences, learned to work together and genuinely learned to like each other. This is how a strong friendship bond is created. Not by being around constantly upbeat jackass that teases you. That doesn't really sound believable. Yet people kept imagining that Team Dark are those evil people who want each other dead and are completely selfish assholes. To the point where the official writers start believing that and then we have Pontac and Graff and Boom Shadow. Well, even Sonic himself was written way better before this Era. I don't wanna say that Sonic was always parody on friendship as he is now since Colors. It is nice that a decade after I gave up hope that people stop bashing at Shadow, Team Dark and the concept of stories in general, someone rediscovered what I saw from the beginning. Alas, it's too late. The public opinion that misunderstood the characters shaped the actual content by creating a twisted feedback loop. Now the official content treats threats the characters like their bad faith parody versions of themselves.

[@DrMechano]

I really liked the dynamics of the original SA2 Team Dark too. Funnily, the dastardly Eggman was the only one of the three *not* overtly shown to be plotting to double-cross the other members. He was upfront about wanting to take over the world and probably would have been content to let Shadow and Rouge be high-ranking officials in his empire if they'd been loyal.

[@megacrashthehedgehog5377]

An excellent analysis on three of my favorite Sonic characters. I would honestly love it if you did something like this for Team Chaotix.

[@lucentshadow]

I've always felt Shadow - at least, old, not-modern Shadow - was the most relatable and real of the cast. I do enjoy Sonic as a character and personality more, but Shadow just feels much more close to an actual person. With all the mental trauma and issues going on in his head taking its toll on him and perpetually weighing him down, he's just trying to do what's right and best for him and everyone around him. He's not the happiest person out there - but then again, who actually is? A lot less than who isn't, I'm sure. And he's not an overt jerk to people, unless they've done something to merit it. It's like Sonic is the ideal, and Shadow is the reality; which is ironic because Shadow's supposed to be the ultimate one. If they had just made Shadow some stereotypical antihero whose sole purpose was to be edgy and cool, I would not like him at all. But they didn't. At least, they didn't start off with him as that. He was just a troubled soul looking for answers and trying to do what he thought was right. We as people on the outside can't imagine the extent to what must be going on inside *anyone's* head. You can't imagine what kind of chaos can be warring inside someone's mind. And if your best friend was some little girl, I'm sure you can't be all mean and super serious and no-nonsense, no-fun. I feel like Shadow was at least very similar to Sonic personality-wise before the whole ARK thing, because there's times where Shadow does feel like a less loud Sonic. Idk, a lot to say for a fictional character I really didn't even think much of when I first saw him, but, well, you can't just judge somebody you don't even know. I don't even know if I was trying to make a point or just get thoughts out.

[@tigerlowe5002]

I love this comment so much for so many reasons. Shadow has always been the most relateable character since day 1 for me and used to be my favourite. You just named everything Shadow was (supposed to be) but an edgelord. I really miss that old Shadow and cant stand "Ow ThE eDgE" at all. I saw some analyses about Shadow being, well, Sonic's shadow, a sort of reflection (at least that's what I heard and I agree. Also the SA2 logo reminds me of Yin & Yang) As you say, Sonic is the "perfect", free spirited, carefree hero and Shadow is the real, serious, relateable anti-hero. Now that I am older and we got Whisper the wolf in the IDW comics, I really do wonder how he did not end up like her, cuz they both went through alot of trauma. One can only imagine what he used to be like. And what he must have gone through, if you're an outsider. I just really like that you said "You can't judge somebody you don't know", I know what that feels like too well.

[@SteveCrafts2k]

@@tigerlowe5002 well, different people suffer different kinds of trauma.

[@SteveCrafts2k]

So...Shadow would have Reshiram, and Sonic would have Zekrom?

[@aprilcelesti]

I love how this guy will still admit & point out flaws, but he breaks labels put on Sonic characters and shows a different perspective! I freaking LOVE it. And at 7:47, I find it adorable. Especially with Shadow & Rouge. No, not because of the shipping but because you see Rouge's little dainty hand on top of Shadow's more heavy, large hand. And despite Rouge basically making them, neither of them busted her head open & just let her which says something! Basically what he mentioned in the video but I just wanted to use that to make my feelings of "awe" more justified lol

[@mizu9222]

Everything about Team Dark is so precious im cryin everytime im looking at them oof

[@giganshon9539]

for what it was i think one under appreciated moment for team dark comes from sonic chronicles when shadow mentions omegas capture and he is legitimately both concerned and livid that the marauders would dare lay a hand on -his- friend

[@rmzing]

Compared to Team Dark's bonds, Team Sonic's seem... superficial. I can't think of many deep moments the three have had together.

[@GrayFox_74]

Boom Shadow feels like he never had a Maria to teach him that having friends is good nor had that moment with Amy where she pleads to him to give people a chance

[@alkittycat]

I want SEGA to bring back team Dark, we all miss them so let's pray they make a come back in the future!

[@KotCR]

If you want to see the softer...even fatherly...side of Shadow, you need to play Sonic Battle. Omega is absent, but Rouge and Shadow basically act like harsh but caring parents to Emerl. I really enjoyed the interactions between Shadow and Emerl in Sonic Battle. The two are peas in a pod; Both created for destruction in the same facility; Shadow as the ultimate lifeform, Emerl as the ultimate weapon. But this means when Emerl ends up making the same ultimate sacrifice Shadow once made in Sonic Adventure 2, the game really does do a good job of making you feel like Shadow feels as though he has lost a part of himself. I think it's the only time we see Shadow cry.

[@AngelsBeauty98]

i relate to shadow the most after losing someone close being misunderstood he's someone i feel like i can always relate to

[@CookienSonicStudios]

I am very late, but I have some things to say about this video: first of all, it is perfectly made. You described my feelings exactly for why I like Team Dark. Second, Shadow, Rouge, and Omega are my top favorite characters (possibly ever), and I completely agree with your presentation. And finally, these characters are relatable in a sense, and again, you presented that well. I like these characters because I can relate to them, they have such a close bond, and they flow so well together. All in all, great work on the video!!

[@mizu9222]

I love your explanation, you mentioned everything very well!! Team Dark's chemistry is the best one in the entire Sonic franchise. I especially love how they were written in Sonic 06. Best Team hands down

[@Xezian]

i'd love to see you go indepth on Mephiles one day, Mephiles acts as a perfect foil for Sonic, Silver, and Shadow. He's shadow's dark reflection, what shadow would've become if he had continued down his path of vengeance in SA2, and is pretty much entirely motivated by vengeance from shadow trapping him in the scepter of darkness for like a decade, much like shadow he's an artificial being and shares themes of having no past, he's the perfect antithesis to Shadow's redemption and character arc. He's obsessed with Shadow, unable to let go of him because Shadow is directly related to a traumatic event in his past, and his main motivator, just like how Shadow struggles to let go of Maria, this is why he constantly tries to convince Shadow to join him even though Shadow knows full well what Mephiles is and what he's like, Mephiles should be smart enough to know he can't convince Shadow, but he doesn't stop trying cause he feels like on some level he needs Shadow, that Shadow somehow defines him. He's like a sadistic version of Sonic. He's cocky like Sonic, but because he's a literal god and knows he can't be defeated, if it weren't for the fact we knew he was constantly scheming something he would seem laid back with how easy everything is for him. He uses a similar charm and charisma, but for the exact opposite reasons, where sonic is constantly trying to get others to see the best of the world, to just get out there and enjoy life and be whoever they want to be, Mephiles uses it to twist their views into wanting to destroy life. He convinces Silver to kill Sonic and constantly tries to push him to stop at nothing all for the sake of defeating Iblis, he tries to convince Shadow that humanity will turn on him and he should destroy them all. This is directly opposed to every cutscene with sonic is him showing Elise how wonderful life is and how you should just take the time to enjoy it. Silver's naive and desperate, Mephiles is cunning and in complete control of the situation, where Silver bassically knows nothing about the situation and only does what he does to stop Iblis and save the future, Mephiles is controlling everything and knows every little detail. Silver is prone to bursts of anger, Mephiles is calm and collected. Silver's naivety is perfeclty preyed upon and directly countered by Mephiles' near omnipotence.

[@helixwither2837]

Character-wise, 06 was perfect for Team Dark.

[@59rlmccormack]

Friendship is important, not to mention teamwork!

[@nascarconnor1254]

I would say the Archie comics did team dark well. Especially shadow since he actually a chill guy and not a edgy grump non socializing loner hedgehog.

[@lolibear7553]

This is basically me and my friends, we don't have much in our group but we're kinda the mistfits of school, we hate it but we go there to see each other, they're my second family, team dark is also my second family :)

[@JKDrixter]

Have you ever realized in sonic 06 blaze doesnt interact with anyone except silver

[@fanthonyfictions]

If I could change one thing about dark, I'd want the triangle dive to be Omega holding Rouge and Shadow on his shoulders while jetpacking up a cliff.

[@adammalkovich187]

I like teams where the characters are unconventionally synchronized with each other. Team Sonic is your typical yet well played group of heroes who agree with everything, bounce off of each other wildly and loudly, and persistently motivate each other's moral to keep pressing forward and never give up. The Team Dark members, on the other hand, have a common enemy but don't exactly share the same opinion, are reserved with their more personal issues, and differentiate each other through personality and mission dialogue.

[@MegaGeek-gr6ts]

Hope SEGA is watching all your videos and taking notes.

[@tannerbruning868]

Black doom: you are nothing but a machine! Omega: and you will soon be nothing but a stain!

[@The_AuraMaster]

I didn't realize it until you pointed it out, but I don’t just like Team Dark because their cool and edgy, but I actually can relate in some ways. I'm very introverted, I like to keep to myself, my memory ain't the best, I don't like being involved in others business, and there's just some people out there I plain out hate because they treated me like shit, but even with all that, I'd do anything for my friends, I'll stick with them until the end.

[@christian8657]

damnnn this was a great character analysis! Team Dark needs to make a big comeback. In fact, sonic team needs to write the Sonic characters more faithfully .

[@miwhitty8316]

I love this team so freaking much, abd i hope the guys at SEGA watch videos like yours and TAKE NOTES. LISTEN TO THE FANS. Screw Boom!Shadow and his 'ultimate lifeform loner' complex, bring back Team Dark and write them as they're supposed to be; a ragtag family of anti-heroes, or if you read the archie comics and wanna be fluffy about it, dorky delinquents who love to kick names and take ass, as a Team!

[@iblobliboo8501]

I always loved Team Dark more than every other team, Shadow, Rouge and Omega's relationship between the three is the most interesting one because we saw it change and get stronger throughout the games and the Archie comics( I remember really liking them there). I absolutely hate how they are now, Shadow especially, he just cares about himself, is a complete jerk, an idiot and just wants to be the best. I overall dislike a lot of things in this franchise right now. This is the true dark age lol.

[@IsaiahEFisher]

You and SpeedSuperSonic really changes the way I see Shadow and Team Dark as a whole. I’ve seen Shadow develop and grow, but I’ve never thought about it like this. And I’ve been into this franchise for almost a decade now. This video both made me want to see Shadow as more of a hero than an anti-hero or a complete jerk. And not only did you make me not like how Shadow is now, but you made me hate Boom Shadow even more. You two have really changed my perspective, big time.

[@aramiren6587]

This video is 2 years old already, so I don't think anyone would read this comment, but I just have to comment this wonderful video that exactly shows the brilliance of Team Dark! How I very love this team out of all teams in Sonic franchise. This team won over me ever since their debut in Sonic Heroes! And speaking about Sonic Heroes, you forgot to mention how at the end of the opening intro, Shadow and Rouge actually fist-bumped! That's not something Shadow would do to just anybody! (^w^)

[@charactersin-depth3472]

Oh, shoot! How could I overlook that?

[@NEO-cj1jx]

I like when he said: Shadow and Omega (And maybe Knuckles) are the only people she can feel comfortable enough to be fully honest... Great video btw!

[@kunlesanders]

The reason why Dr. Eggman put Shadow in the capsule between the events of Sonic Adventure 2 and Sonic Heroes, because he was trying to recover and restore Shadow's lost memories. However, Rouge the Bat released and woke up Shadow, and his memories were not fully recover and restore yet. This was all Rouge the Bat's fault. If she never found Shadow in Dr. Eggman's secret base in the first place, none of this would ever happen.