Sonic Team Explains Why Sonic Is An Android In Fortnite

When Sonic the Hedgehog recently joined Fortnite via a new update and zone, players may have wondered how the famous Sega mascot could wield weapons in Epic Games' battle royale title. According to Sonic Team boss Takashi Iizuka, the collaboration required some creative liberties to respect the character's core identity.

Speaking to IGN, Iizuka shared that Epic Games approached Sonic Team more than a couple of years ago regarding a crossover. Because the blue blur is a character who will "never hold a gun," integrating him directly into standard Fortnite gameplay presented a unique design challenge. To solve this dilemma, the development teams created "Android Sonic."

Iizuka explained that by making an android version of the character, Sega was able to give approval for the collaboration. This technical distinction allows players to control Android Sonic, hold weapons, and fully integrate into the mechanics of the free-to-play battle royale game. Unsurprisingly, the explanation has already drawn humorous references from the fandom regarding Shadow the Hedgehog's 2005 standalone outing.