The Biggest Death in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Shouldn’t Be a Fake-Out
Dr. Robotnik’s apparent death at the conclusion of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a genuine surprise, and it should not be undone by a typical fake-out return. The villain has been a central threat to the franchise’s cinematic universe, and his fake-out death in Sonic the Hedgehog 2 has already robbed the character of any emotional significance.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 explores themes of love and sacrifice, particularly for Shadow and Dr. Robotnik as they confront the power of their personal vendettas. While Shadow’s emotions lead him to seemingly sacrifice his life, Dr. Robotnik’s actions may have finally come to an emotional turning point as he saves the world.
With the precedent already set by Robotnik’s quick return in the previous film, it would be repetitive and feel unearned if he were brought back again in Sonic the Hedgehog 4. The original film effectively erased Robotnik’s presence, but Sonic the Hedgehog 2 quickly ret-conned the character’s status. A consistent and emotional consequence to his death would be in the best interest of the character and the story.
The concept of cloning opens up possibilities for new versions of Robotnik, allowing the franchise to move forward without compromising his heroic death in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. With a focus on exploring new characters, such as Metal Sonic and Amy Rose, it is essential that past villains remain in the background to avoid emotional whiplash.
Ultimately, it would be better for Sonic the Hedgehog 3’s Dr. Robotnik to remain dead, letting the character grow and evolve beyond his previous misadventures.