Lecture Notes: Analysis of Shadow the Hedgehog

Introduction

• Shadow the Hedgehog is a compelling character in the Sonic franchise, first appearing in Sonic Adventure 2.
• Popularity evidenced by a 2018 Sega Japan poll where Shadow ranked just behind Sonic.
• Shadow's appeal: more than just "cool and edgy."
• Represents real-life struggles and existential questions, unlike the idealistic Sonic.

Core Analysis

• Focus on Sonic Adventure 2 and Shadow the Hedgehog games.
• Includes analysis of song lyrics associated with Shadow.
• Shadow embodies existentialism and Nietzsche's concept of the "Ubermensch."

Character Background

Relationship with Maria

• Maria is central to Shadow’s purpose.
• Grew up on the space Colony Ark, close relationship similar to family.
• Maria's death at the hands of GUN soldiers is a pivotal moment for Shadow.
  • Shadow believes Maria's dying wish was to seek revenge on humanity.

Journey of Shadow

Sonic Adventure 2

• Shadow initially driven by vengeance.
• Final battle with Sonic symbolizes conflicting motivations.
• Lyrics of "For True Story" depict Shadow's nihilistic and materialistic worldview.
• Transformation upon realizing Maria's true wish to save humanity.

Transition from Essentialism to Existentialism

• Shadow's origins tied to others' definitions and desires.
• Essentialism: Shadow's pre-determined purpose by creators.
• Existentialism: Shadow creates his own path and values.
• Theme song "I Am… All of Me" signifies Shadow’s self-determined morality.

Shadow the Hedgehog (Game)

Plot Overview

• Shadow faces multiple potential paths (neutral, dark, hero).
• Canon path involves rejecting external definitions of his identity.
• Final boss, Black Doom, symbolizes Shadow’s past constraints.
• Shadow asserts independence, choosing his own identity.

Philosophical Underpinnings

Relationship to Nietzsche

• Shadow as Nietzsche’s "Ubermensch": surpassing traditional morality.
• Embraces chaos, constructs own values, and overcomes life's challenges.
• "All Hail Shadow" reinforces idea of transcending conventional morality.

Existential Themes

• Angst: Overwhelming freedom and anxiety when deciding life’s path.
• Shadow’s choices reflect existential dilemmas of self-definition.

Critiques and Mischaracterization

• Later games deviate from Shadow’s complex character, reducing him to a stereotype.
• Example: Inconsistencies in character portrayal, such as working for GUN in Sonic 06.

Conclusion

• Despite mischaracterization, Shadow remains true to himself.
• Continues to fight for his beliefs, reflecting the core existential and Nietzschean philosophies.

Closing Thoughts

• Invitation for discussion and further analysis.
• Promotes continued interest in exploring deeper philosophical concepts through video game narratives.