Making Sense of SHADOW'S White Space

00:00 - 00:30 Hey everyone, just before the video starts, I want to let you know that this is a Part 2 of a two-part theory video, Hey everyone, just before the video starts, I want to let you know that this is a Part 2 of a two-part theory video, so if you haven’t watched the first one, be sure to check that one out too. so if you haven’t watched the first one, be sure to check that one out too. It’s not strictly necessary to understand what I’ll be talking about here, but it would be greatly appreciated It’s not strictly necessary to understand what I’ll be talking about here, but it would be greatly appreciated and would provide a fuller understanding of the theory as a whole. and would provide a fuller understanding of the theory as a whole. To briefly recap, though, there’s dialogue in both stories featured in Sonic X Shadow Generations that suggest how it is that To briefly recap, though, there’s dialogue in both stories featured in Sonic X Shadow Generations that suggest how it is that White Space operates, and based off of that, I believe that every single level we FIND in White Space is White Space operates, and based off of that, I believe that every single level we FIND in White Space is a pivotal moment in time that Eggman chose that almost guaranteed his victory over Sonic, and so BOTH of the Sonics, Classic and Modern, a pivotal moment in time that Eggman chose that almost guaranteed his victory over Sonic, and so BOTH of the Sonics, Classic and Modern,

00:30 - 01:00 must re-experience those moments in order for the timeline to be restored. must re-experience those moments in order for the timeline to be restored. When we last left off, I had mentioned that while Shadow Generations was marketed as a celebration of SHADOW’S history, When we last left off, I had mentioned that while Shadow Generations was marketed as a celebration of SHADOW’S history, I still believe that HIS White Space is catered to Sonic too. I still believe that HIS White Space is catered to Sonic too. And I’d like to preface this with the fact that Black Doom and his Black Moon exist within White Space completely separately from Eggman’s plan. And I’d like to preface this with the fact that Black Doom and his Black Moon exist within White Space completely separately from Eggman’s plan. He says that this temporal anomaly is helping him reform faster than intended, meaning that he likely is unaware of the Time Eater’s existence, He says that this temporal anomaly is helping him reform faster than intended, meaning that he likely is unaware of the Time Eater’s existence, and as far as we know, bringing Shadow here was not part of Eggman’s plan, nor did he know that Black Doom still lived on. and as far as we know, bringing Shadow here was not part of Eggman’s plan, nor did he know that Black Doom still lived on.

01:00 - 01:30 In fact, the only reason Black Doom may be able to exist in White Space to begin with is because of his link to Shadow, causing a sort of unintended In fact, the only reason Black Doom may be able to exist in White Space to begin with is because of his link to Shadow, causing a sort of unintended chain reaction: Shadow’s here because he has a Chaos Emerald, and Black Doom is here because Shadow’s here. chain reaction: Shadow’s here because he has a Chaos Emerald, and Black Doom is here because Shadow’s here. Yet despite this, no locations from the Black Arms incident are here. Yet despite this, no locations from the Black Arms incident are here. And though one could call into question whether any given one of them really happened or not, And though one could call into question whether any given one of them really happened or not, we know for sure that at least TWO locations from Shadow the Hedgehog must have happened: we know for sure that at least TWO locations from Shadow the Hedgehog must have happened: Westopolis and The Last Way, the former being the first level no matter what path you end up taking, Westopolis and The Last Way, the former being the first level no matter what path you end up taking,

01:30 - 02:00 and the latter being the only level in the canonical Last Story segment. and the latter being the only level in the canonical Last Story segment. Shadow’s adventure begins on the Space Colony ARK, which features motifs that reflect how it was presented Shadow’s adventure begins on the Space Colony ARK, which features motifs that reflect how it was presented in some of the levels in his own game, but much like Green Hill’s Act 1, the ARK’s first Act happens BEFORE the Time Eater sends everyone to White Space. in some of the levels in his own game, but much like Green Hill’s Act 1, the ARK’s first Act happens BEFORE the Time Eater sends everyone to White Space. Despite the level being called “Space Colony ARK”, that's the name of the actual location, not the name of any level in this series. Despite the level being called “Space Colony ARK”, that's the name of the actual location, not the name of any level in this series. The closest thing we have is a level from Shadow the Hedgehog simply named ‘The ARK’, The closest thing we have is a level from Shadow the Hedgehog simply named ‘The ARK’, the only level in the game without a Hero Mission. the only level in the game without a Hero Mission.

02:00 - 02:30 But the only thing that I can think of that the stage BORROWS from ‘The ARK’ is the turrets that act as a defense system. But the only thing that I can think of that the stage BORROWS from ‘The ARK’ is the turrets that act as a defense system. Something to note is that Shadow’s ‘The ARK’ and Generations’ ‘Space Colony ARK’ both remix Final Rush’s theme, ‘Highway in the Sky’, Something to note is that Shadow’s ‘The ARK’ and Generations’ ‘Space Colony ARK’ both remix Final Rush’s theme, ‘Highway in the Sky’, as opposed to Final Chase’s theme, ‘The Supernatural’, almost as if to indicate that Sonic’s stage is the more important, truer version of the stage, as opposed to Final Chase’s theme, ‘The Supernatural’, almost as if to indicate that Sonic’s stage is the more important, truer version of the stage, especially when juxtaposed with the theme from their fight in this area, known as ‘For True Story’. especially when juxtaposed with the theme from their fight in this area, known as ‘For True Story’. Speaking of which, there’s another level in Shadow the Hedgehog that Space Colony ARK Act 1 DOES remind me a bit more of, though, Speaking of which, there’s another level in Shadow the Hedgehog that Space Colony ARK Act 1 DOES remind me a bit more of, though,

02:30 - 03:00 and it’s a level called Space Gadget, a level that, ironically enough, has a very similar Dark Mission to the aforementioned level ‘The ARK’, and it’s a level called Space Gadget, a level that, ironically enough, has a very similar Dark Mission to the aforementioned level ‘The ARK’, and, much like Sonic and Shadow’s encounter in Generations, is also a level where you’re racing Sonic for the sake of a Chaos Emerald, and, much like Sonic and Shadow’s encounter in Generations, is also a level where you’re racing Sonic for the sake of a Chaos Emerald, only for Shadow to end up with it, regardless of if you beat him or not. only for Shadow to end up with it, regardless of if you beat him or not. And the reason it reminds me of this level is because of the sections with the green floors where gravity shifts. And the reason it reminds me of this level is because of the sections with the green floors where gravity shifts. Overall, Act 1 seems to remix elements from Final Rush, The ARK, Space Gadget and the inside sections from Tails’ Eternal Engine. Overall, Act 1 seems to remix elements from Final Rush, The ARK, Space Gadget and the inside sections from Tails’ Eternal Engine. But again, since this is before we end up in White Space, this kind of makes sense: this area hasn’t been affected by the Time Eater and Eggman’s plan. But again, since this is before we end up in White Space, this kind of makes sense: this area hasn’t been affected by the Time Eater and Eggman’s plan.

03:00 - 03:30 Act 2, which IS accessed through White Space DOES feature elements from Final Chase, however, as well as what appear to be Act 2, which IS accessed through White Space DOES feature elements from Final Chase, however, as well as what appear to be inside locations from Lost Colony, since certain areas seem to be deactivated. inside locations from Lost Colony, since certain areas seem to be deactivated. Which would make sense as Lost Colony was the first time Eggman had visited the ARK. Which would make sense as Lost Colony was the first time Eggman had visited the ARK. And it’s strange, right? And it’s strange, right? If I believe that White Space is meant to reflect Sonic and Eggman’s past specifically, why are there If I believe that White Space is meant to reflect Sonic and Eggman’s past specifically, why are there Gravity Cylinders and so many meteors like in Final Chase? Gravity Cylinders and so many meteors like in Final Chase? Well, there’s something to note about how Shadow Generations differs from SONIC Generations. Well, there’s something to note about how Shadow Generations differs from SONIC Generations.

03:30 - 04:00 As I mentioned before, Classic Sonic ventures through Act 1’s, while Modern tackles Act 2’s, and Shadow has to do both. As I mentioned before, Classic Sonic ventures through Act 1’s, while Modern tackles Act 2’s, and Shadow has to do both. But there IS something they share in common: each Act is constrained to a certain dimensional plane. But there IS something they share in common: each Act is constrained to a certain dimensional plane. Classic Acts are in 2D, while Modern Acts are mostly in 3D. Classic Acts are in 2D, while Modern Acts are mostly in 3D. For Shadow, the opposite is true: his first Acts are in 3D while his second ones are constrained to 2D. For Shadow, the opposite is true: his first Acts are in 3D while his second ones are constrained to 2D. But it was during the writing of this script that I came to… But it was during the writing of this script that I came to… Kind of a crazy realization: in this game, Shadow’s first Acts are largely based on Kind of a crazy realization: in this game, Shadow’s first Acts are largely based on

04:00 - 04:30 SONIC’S version of these stages, while his second Acts are based on either Shadow’s version of events, or are entirely new. SONIC’S version of these stages, while his second Acts are based on either Shadow’s version of events, or are entirely new. Rail Canyon is a FANTASTIC example of this. Rail Canyon is a FANTASTIC example of this. If you compare the intro of Shadow’s Act 1 to the intro of Team SONIC’S version of the stage in Heroes, they line up almost exactly. If you compare the intro of Shadow’s Act 1 to the intro of Team SONIC’S version of the stage in Heroes, they line up almost exactly. Team Dark’s version, however, features additional rails with Rhinoliners on them, where you’re grinding for much longer than on Team Dark’s version, however, features additional rails with Rhinoliners on them, where you’re grinding for much longer than on Team Sonic’s version of the stage, which the version in Gens seems to emulate. Team Sonic’s version of the stage, which the version in Gens seems to emulate.

04:30 - 05:00 As well, Act 2’s elements feel more similar to Team Dark’s version of Bullet Station than Team Sonic’s. As well, Act 2’s elements feel more similar to Team Dark’s version of Bullet Station than Team Sonic’s. They’re not too different from each other in Heroes, but the way some of the rails are set up look more inspired by Team Dark’s stage, They’re not too different from each other in Heroes, but the way some of the rails are set up look more inspired by Team Dark’s stage, almost as if to indicate to us that this 2D perspective, the CLASSIC perspective if you will, almost as if to indicate to us that this 2D perspective, the CLASSIC perspective if you will, is more similar to how the events truly happened to the person experiencing it, while Act 1 is how SONIC experienced it. is more similar to how the events truly happened to the person experiencing it, while Act 1 is how SONIC experienced it. What brought this to my attention, and to an extent, what inspired me to talk about this whole concept, was Kingdom Valley. What brought this to my attention, and to an extent, what inspired me to talk about this whole concept, was Kingdom Valley. It was kind of bugging me why Shadow visits the Super Speed Section at the end of his Act 1, It was kind of bugging me why Shadow visits the Super Speed Section at the end of his Act 1,

05:00 - 05:30 when Sonic is the ONLY character who visits this area in ‘06. when Sonic is the ONLY character who visits this area in ‘06. And then, while writing this script, I wanted to compare SHADOW’s version of the stage And then, while writing this script, I wanted to compare SHADOW’s version of the stage to his Act 2 to see if what I had just noticed held up. to his Act 2 to see if what I had just noticed held up. I gotta be honest, Kingdom Valley’s layout isn’t one I remember all too well, so I couldn’t remember how similar I gotta be honest, Kingdom Valley’s layout isn’t one I remember all too well, so I couldn’t remember how similar Sonic, Shadow, and Silver’s versions of the stage were. Sonic, Shadow, and Silver’s versions of the stage were. I can… KIND OF see how Kingdom Valley Act 2 is similar to Shadow’s version in ‘06, because most of it happens indoors, I guess, I can… KIND OF see how Kingdom Valley Act 2 is similar to Shadow’s version in ‘06, because most of it happens indoors, I guess, but then I decided to compare it to SONIC’S version and I was AMAZED at just how much of Sonic’s Kingdom Valley was used in Act 1, but then I decided to compare it to SONIC’S version and I was AMAZED at just how much of Sonic’s Kingdom Valley was used in Act 1,

05:30 - 06:00 beyond just the Super Speed Section. beyond just the Super Speed Section. There's a part at the beginning of Sonic’s version that’s copied almost EXACTLY later in Shadow’s Act 1. There's a part at the beginning of Sonic’s version that’s copied almost EXACTLY later in Shadow’s Act 1. Sonic runs on the wall in his version of the stage, and there’s an alternate path Shadow can take where he does just this. Sonic runs on the wall in his version of the stage, and there’s an alternate path Shadow can take where he does just this. Do you want to know how many air streams Shadow grinds on in his version of the stage in ‘06? Do you want to know how many air streams Shadow grinds on in his version of the stage in ‘06? ONE, at the very end of it. ONE, at the very end of it. Meanwhile, Sonic has MULTIPLE different air streams he uses throughout his version of the stage. Meanwhile, Sonic has MULTIPLE different air streams he uses throughout his version of the stage. And you want to know what else I noticed? And you want to know what else I noticed?

06:00 - 06:30 Shadow starts his Act 1 coming in holding onto an eagle, and you might think that it’s referencing the fact that Shadow starts his Act 1 coming in holding onto an eagle, and you might think that it’s referencing the fact that he starts off HIS version of the stage with an air glider, and that very well might be. he starts off HIS version of the stage with an air glider, and that very well might be. But here’s the thing: the reason he does so is because he accesses Kingdom Valley by way of a portal inside of a nearby cave. But here’s the thing: the reason he does so is because he accesses Kingdom Valley by way of a portal inside of a nearby cave. Meanwhile, Sonic and Silver get here through the use of an eagle, meaning that Shadow’s the only one who DOESN’T do so. Meanwhile, Sonic and Silver get here through the use of an eagle, meaning that Shadow’s the only one who DOESN’T do so. The only major reference to Shadow’s version of the stage are the water sections where he originally used a Hover Vehicle, now using Doom Surf. The only major reference to Shadow’s version of the stage are the water sections where he originally used a Hover Vehicle, now using Doom Surf.

06:30 - 07:00 And really think about why this level is here, in the context of Sonic and Shadow’s versions of the stage. And really think about why this level is here, in the context of Sonic and Shadow’s versions of the stage. As the second stage in Shadow’s story, his version of Kingdom Valley happens pretty early on, As the second stage in Shadow’s story, his version of Kingdom Valley happens pretty early on, meant to serve as an extraction point for him, Rouge, and the Scepter of Darkness they just stole from Eggman. meant to serve as an extraction point for him, Rouge, and the Scepter of Darkness they just stole from Eggman. But right after this stage is when Mephiles is unleashed, setting in motion the rest of the events of this story. But right after this stage is when Mephiles is unleashed, setting in motion the rest of the events of this story. For Sonic, meanwhile, right after his Kingdom Valley is when the Egg Carrier crashes For Sonic, meanwhile, right after his Kingdom Valley is when the Egg Carrier crashes leading to the deaths of both Princess Elise and Dr. Eggman. leading to the deaths of both Princess Elise and Dr. Eggman. Er, presumably; we know Elise dies and I’m guessing Eggman does as well, assuming he didn’t make a last-minute escape. Er, presumably; we know Elise dies and I’m guessing Eggman does as well, assuming he didn’t make a last-minute escape.

07:00 - 07:30 And the reason Sonic’s version is significant is because it’s where he and Silver team up to use a And the reason Sonic’s version is significant is because it’s where he and Silver team up to use a Dual Chaos Control and send Sonic back in time in order to save them. Dual Chaos Control and send Sonic back in time in order to save them. Sonic’s version is important to Eggman’s survival, while Shadow’s version is significant to the overall timeline: Sonic’s version is important to Eggman’s survival, while Shadow’s version is significant to the overall timeline: Solaris can never be blown out if Mephiles is never released, and he likely wouldn’t have been if Eggman hadn’t ambushed Solaris can never be blown out if Mephiles is never released, and he likely wouldn’t have been if Eggman hadn’t ambushed Shadow and Rouge at the end of their Kingdom Valley. Shadow and Rouge at the end of their Kingdom Valley. At this point, though, I’m starting to notice a trend with Shadow’s White Space, which I’ll touch upon later. At this point, though, I’m starting to notice a trend with Shadow’s White Space, which I’ll touch upon later.

07:30 - 08:00 Sunset Heights was the one that almost CONVINCED me to make this video, because what’s so interesting about it is that it’s the only level Sunset Heights was the one that almost CONVINCED me to make this video, because what’s so interesting about it is that it’s the only level that is CANONICALLY named after a Sonic stage. that is CANONICALLY named after a Sonic stage. Space Colony ARK was the best choice for a name because calling your very first stage Space Colony ARK was the best choice for a name because calling your very first stage “FINAL Rush” or “FINAL Chase” doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. “FINAL Rush” or “FINAL Chase” doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. Not to mention, those names reflect what each respective character is going through at the time they happen: Not to mention, those names reflect what each respective character is going through at the time they happen: Sonic is rushing through the stage, but as the last level for the Hero side Story, it’s the FINAL Rush. Sonic is rushing through the stage, but as the last level for the Hero side Story, it’s the FINAL Rush. The Dark characters have been doing their fair share of chasing, but as the last level, it’s the FINAL Chase. The Dark characters have been doing their fair share of chasing, but as the last level, it’s the FINAL Chase.

08:00 - 08:30 In Sonic Forces, there are various areas that each have multiple levels that take place in them. In Sonic Forces, there are various areas that each have multiple levels that take place in them. This area is known simply as “City”, but each character has their own name for their version of the stage. This area is known simply as “City”, but each character has their own name for their version of the stage. The Avatar’s level is called Park Avenue, Classic Sonic’s is called Ghost Town, The Tag Team one is called Red Gate Bridge, The Avatar’s level is called Park Avenue, Classic Sonic’s is called Ghost Town, The Tag Team one is called Red Gate Bridge, and Shadow’s stage is called Enemy Territory. and Shadow’s stage is called Enemy Territory. But only MODERN Sonic’s version of the stage is known as Sunset Heights, and what’s curious about Shadow’s Act 1 of this stage is that it doesn’t But only MODERN Sonic’s version of the stage is known as Sunset Heights, and what’s curious about Shadow’s Act 1 of this stage is that it doesn’t

08:30 - 09:00 just use elements from Modern Sonic’s Sunset Heights, but where the original stage would’ve ended, just use elements from Modern Sonic’s Sunset Heights, but where the original stage would’ve ended, they added an entirely original second half of the stage, largely inspired visually by the bottom route of Classic Sonic’s Ghost Town. they added an entirely original second half of the stage, largely inspired visually by the bottom route of Classic Sonic’s Ghost Town. The funny thing is, Shadow’s stage, Enemy Territory, is ALREADY based off of Sunset Heights, with a little bit of Park Avenue in between. The funny thing is, Shadow’s stage, Enemy Territory, is ALREADY based off of Sunset Heights, with a little bit of Park Avenue in between. And the differences between each stage aren’t constrained to just the level name because each level has its own music as well. And the differences between each stage aren’t constrained to just the level name because each level has its own music as well. Enemy Territory stands out because it remixes the Westopolis theme from Shadow the Hedgehog, Enemy Territory stands out because it remixes the Westopolis theme from Shadow the Hedgehog, with a little bit of Radical Highway, from Adventure 2. with a little bit of Radical Highway, from Adventure 2.

09:00 - 09:30 In fact, all three Episode Shadow levels feature remixes as opposed to original themes. In fact, all three Episode Shadow levels feature remixes as opposed to original themes. And yet, the music they decided to use, was again, the theme from Sunset Heights. And yet, the music they decided to use, was again, the theme from Sunset Heights. And Act 2 is a bit strange, because it’s a dark, rainy version of the level which we’ve never seen before, and while parts of it resemble the latter And Act 2 is a bit strange, because it’s a dark, rainy version of the level which we’ve never seen before, and while parts of it resemble the latter half of the original Sunset Heights, this one DOES borrow a lot of elements from Enemy Territory, again from the latter half of the stage, half of the original Sunset Heights, this one DOES borrow a lot of elements from Enemy Territory, again from the latter half of the stage, which was more original to Shadow, alongside some of the enemies such as the Galaga Bees. which was more original to Shadow, alongside some of the enemies such as the Galaga Bees.

09:30 - 10:00 Almost as if they were rewriting the future and this was always what Enemy Territory was supposed to look like. Almost as if they were rewriting the future and this was always what Enemy Territory was supposed to look like. EXCEPT for the fact that, because the level is supposed to take place a MONTH before the events of Sonic Forces, there are no Death Egg Robots EXCEPT for the fact that, because the level is supposed to take place a MONTH before the events of Sonic Forces, there are no Death Egg Robots in Enemy Territory, whereas they exist in LITERALLY every other version of the stage, both Acts in Generations included. in Enemy Territory, whereas they exist in LITERALLY every other version of the stage, both Acts in Generations included. As for why it’s relevant enough to be here… I’m not sure? As for why it’s relevant enough to be here… I’m not sure? Nothing really HAPPENS during or immediately after Sunset Heights for Sonic. Nothing really HAPPENS during or immediately after Sunset Heights for Sonic. The only thing I can think of is that, taking Episode Shadow into account, The only thing I can think of is that, taking Episode Shadow into account,

10:00 - 10:30 it’s the very first level of the game, setting off the rest of the events into motion. it’s the very first level of the game, setting off the rest of the events into motion. It’s the place where Classic Sonic meets up with Tails, the Avatar saves a bunch of civilians - or so we’re told - It’s the place where Classic Sonic meets up with Tails, the Avatar saves a bunch of civilians - or so we’re told - it’s where we fight the Phantom Copy of Metal Sonic, but perhaps most importantly, it’s where we fight the Phantom Copy of Metal Sonic, but perhaps most importantly, it’s the place where Sonic gets defeated by Infinite. it’s the place where Sonic gets defeated by Infinite. The only thing is, that doesn’t happen around the time Sonic’s version of the stage takes place. The only thing is, that doesn’t happen around the time Sonic’s version of the stage takes place. Sunset Heights isn’t played until much later, and its only purpose is for Sonic to find Shadow. Sunset Heights isn’t played until much later, and its only purpose is for Sonic to find Shadow. Once they meet up, Shadow informs Sonic that Infinite can create Phantom Copies… But that’s about it? Once they meet up, Shadow informs Sonic that Infinite can create Phantom Copies… But that’s about it?

10:30 - 11:00 I mean, given that Tails and Classic Sonic were about to find out this information anyway, I mean, given that Tails and Classic Sonic were about to find out this information anyway, it doesn’t really amount to much of anything for either Sonic or Eggman. it doesn’t really amount to much of anything for either Sonic or Eggman. The only thing I can think of that would be the reason for this level’s inclusion is that it’s the place that best represents The only thing I can think of that would be the reason for this level’s inclusion is that it’s the place that best represents Eggman’s takeover of the world, and is where Sonic and his friends – known as the Resistance in this game – have their base of operations. Eggman’s takeover of the world, and is where Sonic and his friends – known as the Resistance in this game – have their base of operations. Chaos Island was the weirdest one because it’s the ONLY stage in which, at the time of the game’s release, Shadow wasn’t present in any version of it. Chaos Island was the weirdest one because it’s the ONLY stage in which, at the time of the game’s release, Shadow wasn’t present in any version of it.

11:00 - 11:30 HOWEVER, I think that the game this is from is the key to understanding the entirety of White Space in its current iteration. HOWEVER, I think that the game this is from is the key to understanding the entirety of White Space in its current iteration. Since there’s nothing but the main island to compare it to, I want to shift focus to what we can observe happening during this level in Generations. Since there’s nothing but the main island to compare it to, I want to shift focus to what we can observe happening during this level in Generations. From the offset, one of the first things we can see is the decommissioned Death Egg Robot from the events of Forces, From the offset, one of the first things we can see is the decommissioned Death Egg Robot from the events of Forces, meaning we KNOW this has to be a Chaos Island set after those events. meaning we KNOW this has to be a Chaos Island set after those events. As well, we can see plenty of Eggman technology and structures, which he would’ve installed across the Starfall Islands just before the events of Frontiers. As well, we can see plenty of Eggman technology and structures, which he would’ve installed across the Starfall Islands just before the events of Frontiers.

11:30 - 12:00 But what firmly CEMENTS when this level is taking place is what happens during a certain rail grinding section where we see the volcano erupting. But what firmly CEMENTS when this level is taking place is what happens during a certain rail grinding section where we see the volcano erupting. This tells us that the level is not only taking place DURING the events of Frontiers, but right before Sonic would have fought the Knight Titan. This tells us that the level is not only taking place DURING the events of Frontiers, but right before Sonic would have fought the Knight Titan. If previous Act 2s are possibly taken from Shadow’s versions of these stages, though, If previous Act 2s are possibly taken from Shadow’s versions of these stages, though, what does Chaos Island’s second act borrow from, if Shadow was never there? what does Chaos Island’s second act borrow from, if Shadow was never there? Well, here’s the thing: you know how Sunset Heights’ second Act had sections that didn’t look like anything we’d seen before either? Well, here’s the thing: you know how Sunset Heights’ second Act had sections that didn’t look like anything we’d seen before either?

12:00 - 12:30 I think something we're forgetting is that these stages also take EGGMAN'S version of events into account. I think something we're forgetting is that these stages also take EGGMAN'S version of events into account. We have some clues as to why Shadow’s Act 2 is the way it is, but it requires us to pay attention to what’s happening in the background. We have some clues as to why Shadow’s Act 2 is the way it is, but it requires us to pay attention to what’s happening in the background. At the end of ACT 1 we can see some of Eggman’s boxes which contain things he brought to explore the Starfall Islands At the end of ACT 1 we can see some of Eggman’s boxes which contain things he brought to explore the Starfall Islands and Act 2 starts off near some Eggman-built structures. and Act 2 starts off near some Eggman-built structures. And looking at the background here, we can see the sulphur deposits that Sonic can visit in Frontiers but Shadow can’t in this game. And looking at the background here, we can see the sulphur deposits that Sonic can visit in Frontiers but Shadow can’t in this game. It’s almost as if the 2D plane we’re on is surrounding the main island, going around and INTO a temple, not before passing by It’s almost as if the 2D plane we’re on is surrounding the main island, going around and INTO a temple, not before passing by

12:30 - 13:00 another Eggman structure. This is where things start to seem unfamiliar. another Eggman structure. This is where things start to seem unfamiliar. We can see we’re in a temple, but it has elements to it that we don’t recognize. We can see we’re in a temple, but it has elements to it that we don’t recognize. We start to see lifts and beams that HAD to have been built by Eggman, though, like the ones we see on other parts of the Starfall Islands in Frontiers, We start to see lifts and beams that HAD to have been built by Eggman, though, like the ones we see on other parts of the Starfall Islands in Frontiers, particularly in structures that belonged to the Ancients. particularly in structures that belonged to the Ancients. And the area that most confused me was the room where you can see the symbol of their god in the background, with the floor covered in lava. And the area that most confused me was the room where you can see the symbol of their god in the background, with the floor covered in lava. This doesn’t resemble any area we visit in Frontiers… This doesn’t resemble any area we visit in Frontiers…

13:00 - 13:30 Except that it DOES. Except that it DOES. This is that area that is unlocked after Sonic and Tails activate the broken down Death Egg Robot on the island, This is that area that is unlocked after Sonic and Tails activate the broken down Death Egg Robot on the island, which opens up a path into the underground temple, and you can see its undisturbed form as Sonic. which opens up a path into the underground temple, and you can see its undisturbed form as Sonic. But if the volcano was set OFF by Sonic in Act 1, is this where the lava eventually ended up? But if the volcano was set OFF by Sonic in Act 1, is this where the lava eventually ended up? And are we only able to see it because Eggman built an alternate entrance to this place? And are we only able to see it because Eggman built an alternate entrance to this place? In Frontiers, we hardly see ANY Eggman tech in here, aside from a single green pod, but none of these structures are in the background. In Frontiers, we hardly see ANY Eggman tech in here, aside from a single green pod, but none of these structures are in the background.

13:30 - 14:00 And we KNOW that this is the right location because Shadow’s ACT 2 ends with the exact same upwards ramp, And we KNOW that this is the right location because Shadow’s ACT 2 ends with the exact same upwards ramp, spiraling the exact same tower where we exit as Sonic in Frontiers. spiraling the exact same tower where we exit as Sonic in Frontiers. Is this hinting at a possible future where Eggman returns here to learn more, and so we’re venturing through HIS memory? Is this hinting at a possible future where Eggman returns here to learn more, and so we’re venturing through HIS memory? But… That kind of goes against the theme we’ve had so far. But… That kind of goes against the theme we’ve had so far. Act 2s have always had some sort of Shadow influence in them, so why would Chaos Island be the exception? Act 2s have always had some sort of Shadow influence in them, so why would Chaos Island be the exception? Well, he’s the part where I’m losing my mind because, in Frontiers, Sonic has these random instances Well, he’s the part where I’m losing my mind because, in Frontiers, Sonic has these random instances

14:00 - 14:30 where he’ll stop and mention something from his past, whether it be a location or a character. where he’ll stop and mention something from his past, whether it be a location or a character. These instances are so rare that I can’t really find anybody replicating them, but I had an experience where Sonic mentions that These instances are so rare that I can’t really find anybody replicating them, but I had an experience where Sonic mentions that “at this point, he wouldn’t mind Shadow lending a hand”, and the place where this line played for me just so happens to be “at this point, he wouldn’t mind Shadow lending a hand”, and the place where this line played for me just so happens to be the exact same area where the Goal Ring is found at the end of Shadow’s Act 2. the exact same area where the Goal Ring is found at the end of Shadow’s Act 2. I will admit, the place I found it was probably just a huge coincidence, because the only other video evidence I’ve managed to find I will admit, the place I found it was probably just a huge coincidence, because the only other video evidence I’ve managed to find of someone coming across this line had it playing close to the volcano, but given that it also played during Chaos Island, of someone coming across this line had it playing close to the volcano, but given that it also played during Chaos Island,

14:30 - 15:00 we can assume that this dialogue is LIKELY exclusive to this location. we can assume that this dialogue is LIKELY exclusive to this location. Now, bear in mind, Sonic isn’t just saying this; he’s saying it at a point when the cyber corruption he’s suffering from is reaching its peak, Now, bear in mind, Sonic isn’t just saying this; he’s saying it at a point when the cyber corruption he’s suffering from is reaching its peak, making it difficult for him to continue. making it difficult for him to continue. And the reason I find this significant is because of the things we LEARN about Cyber Space in Frontiers. And the reason I find this significant is because of the things we LEARN about Cyber Space in Frontiers. For one, we learn that the random assets we interact with across the Starfall Islands aren’t actually there. For one, we learn that the random assets we interact with across the Starfall Islands aren’t actually there. They appear to Sonic, Amy, Knuckles, and Tails as a result of their link with Cyber Space; Sonic being able to escape from it They appear to Sonic, Amy, Knuckles, and Tails as a result of their link with Cyber Space; Sonic being able to escape from it

15:00 - 15:30 and absorb cyber corruption through giving his friends their respective Memory Tokens, and absorb cyber corruption through giving his friends their respective Memory Tokens, and the rest of the team being trapped inside it. and the rest of the team being trapped inside it. Their link to Cyber Space begins to create physical manifestations in the real world that more easily allow them to traverse the islands, Their link to Cyber Space begins to create physical manifestations in the real world that more easily allow them to traverse the islands, the same way that Sonic’s memories shape Cyber Space as a whole. the same way that Sonic’s memories shape Cyber Space as a whole. This being the case, how then is Shadow able to interact with these objects during his visit in Generations? This being the case, how then is Shadow able to interact with these objects during his visit in Generations? He’s never visited Cyber Space at all. He’s never visited Cyber Space at all. Well, in one of the Egg Memos, we learn that Cyber Space gathers environmental data Well, in one of the Egg Memos, we learn that Cyber Space gathers environmental data

15:30 - 16:00 from various points across the world, and uses that data to take on its appearance. from various points across the world, and uses that data to take on its appearance. But we learn from Sage that what gives each location its FORM is the visitor’s MEMORY, But we learn from Sage that what gives each location its FORM is the visitor’s MEMORY, which is why so many of them resemble places from Sonic’s past. which is why so many of them resemble places from Sonic’s past. There are a few that are entirely original, but there are TWO specifically that are not taken from Sonic’s memory: 2-4 and 2-6, There are a few that are entirely original, but there are TWO specifically that are not taken from Sonic’s memory: 2-4 and 2-6, which take the form of Radical Highway and Sky Rail, respectively. which take the form of Radical Highway and Sky Rail, respectively. So, why am I telling you all this? So, why am I telling you all this? Well, you’re not gonna believe me, but I think the answer lies with everybody’s favorite large feline, Big the Cat. Well, you’re not gonna believe me, but I think the answer lies with everybody’s favorite large feline, Big the Cat.

16:00 - 16:30 Now, earlier I mentioned that Big’s reason for being in White Space was likely because of Froggy and HIS connection to Eggman’s schemes, Now, earlier I mentioned that Big’s reason for being in White Space was likely because of Froggy and HIS connection to Eggman’s schemes, but Big also makes a surprise appearance in the Fishing Mini-Games from Frontiers, which just so happen to also but Big also makes a surprise appearance in the Fishing Mini-Games from Frontiers, which just so happen to also take place in Cyber Space, not the Starfall Islands themselves. take place in Cyber Space, not the Starfall Islands themselves. But there’s a very important distinction at play: Big can only be found through what are known as Purple Portals. But there’s a very important distinction at play: Big can only be found through what are known as Purple Portals. The game never really makes it clear what the distinction between those and the regular ones is, but as I understand it, where the regular portals are The game never really makes it clear what the distinction between those and the regular ones is, but as I understand it, where the regular portals are

16:30 - 17:00 meant to record the user’s memory, the Purple Portals are the ones that are actually meant to be visited and returned from. meant to record the user’s memory, the Purple Portals are the ones that are actually meant to be visited and returned from. There are no Portal Gates to be found, meaning that this is an area where Sonic can come and go as he pleases. There are no Portal Gates to be found, meaning that this is an area where Sonic can come and go as he pleases. And as we find out in the ‘Another Story’ DLC, the Big that we encounter here isn’t real. And as we find out in the ‘Another Story’ DLC, the Big that we encounter here isn’t real. He, too, is a recreation based off of Sonic’s memories, and the reason he’s able to interact with us He, too, is a recreation based off of Sonic’s memories, and the reason he’s able to interact with us and seems so authentic is because of how strong Sonic’s memory of him is. and seems so authentic is because of how strong Sonic’s memory of him is. And that kind of makes sense, given that the rest of the place just looks like regular Kronos Island, otherwise. And that kind of makes sense, given that the rest of the place just looks like regular Kronos Island, otherwise.

17:00 - 17:30 Maybe the Purple Portals don’t show you locations, and instead they show you people from your memory, specifically. Maybe the Purple Portals don’t show you locations, and instead they show you people from your memory, specifically. But it’s worth noting… Sonic didn’t need to be actively thinking about him for him to appear. But it’s worth noting… Sonic didn’t need to be actively thinking about him for him to appear. And that kind of makes sense, right? And that kind of makes sense, right? Though he and Sonic don’t interact often, they DO run into each other a lot throughout their journeys, Though he and Sonic don’t interact often, they DO run into each other a lot throughout their journeys, even ones where their adventures aren’t related at all. even ones where their adventures aren’t related at all. In fact, Big is the only character to have been to Soleanna and remember it, likely because his visit there had nothing to do with the events of ‘06, In fact, Big is the only character to have been to Soleanna and remember it, likely because his visit there had nothing to do with the events of ‘06, so what a coincidence that the character that Sonic meets in Frontiers because of a subconscious memory so what a coincidence that the character that Sonic meets in Frontiers because of a subconscious memory

17:30 - 18:00 is found at a location that no one else has a conscious memory of. is found at a location that no one else has a conscious memory of. Having said that, it stands to reason that Cyber Space can pull from your subconscious memories Having said that, it stands to reason that Cyber Space can pull from your subconscious memories and give them form, even if you haven’t thought about them for a while. and give them form, even if you haven’t thought about them for a while. So what does ALL of that have to do with Shadow being on Chaos Island, and allowing him to interact with the world in the way that he does? So what does ALL of that have to do with Shadow being on Chaos Island, and allowing him to interact with the world in the way that he does? Well… If Cyber Space can create things based off of subconscious memories… Well… If Cyber Space can create things based off of subconscious memories… How well can it link to actively conscious ones? How well can it link to actively conscious ones? Shadow can visit and interact with Chaos Island, not because he was here, but because someone with a strong link Shadow can visit and interact with Chaos Island, not because he was here, but because someone with a strong link

18:00 - 18:30 to Cyber Space was THINKING about him while they were here. to Cyber Space was THINKING about him while they were here. And if you need any more circumstantial evidence that this might be the case, consider the fact that Sonic and Shadow’s paths cross And if you need any more circumstantial evidence that this might be the case, consider the fact that Sonic and Shadow’s paths cross right AFTER Shadow fully restores Chaos Island. right AFTER Shadow fully restores Chaos Island. Think about how we access Cyber Space on the Starfall Islands, through Portals with a circular opening that bear a reddish-pink light within it. Think about how we access Cyber Space on the Starfall Islands, through Portals with a circular opening that bear a reddish-pink light within it. And what’s contained within these portals? And what’s contained within these portals? Challenges that test the user’s abilities, set in places based on the user’s memories, Challenges that test the user’s abilities, set in places based on the user’s memories,

18:30 - 19:00 sometimes with slight variations, whether that be in layout or the time of day. sometimes with slight variations, whether that be in layout or the time of day. Completing these Challenges to the best of the user’s abilities changes the portals, making them shimmer or change color. Completing these Challenges to the best of the user’s abilities changes the portals, making them shimmer or change color. And what do we receive for completing the Challenges contained within these Portals? And what do we receive for completing the Challenges contained within these Portals? Keys that allow us to access something that returns the power of the Chaos Emeralds to us. Keys that allow us to access something that returns the power of the Chaos Emeralds to us. And what is the ONE crucial connection between Cyber and White Space beyond resembling areas from their past? And what is the ONE crucial connection between Cyber and White Space beyond resembling areas from their past? In White Space, Tails says that Sonic’s speed is what is restoring space-time, and while not directly stated, In White Space, Tails says that Sonic’s speed is what is restoring space-time, and while not directly stated, The End tells Sonic that he was able to escape Cyber Space through his own power. The End tells Sonic that he was able to escape Cyber Space through his own power.

19:00 - 19:30 What’s Sonic’s power, if not his speed? What’s Sonic’s power, if not his speed? And the thing is, too, Sonic isn’t just restoring the locations in White Space, but returning life to his friends, who have their bodies stuck here, And the thing is, too, Sonic isn’t just restoring the locations in White Space, but returning life to his friends, who have their bodies stuck here, while their lives are tied to the locations they’re frozen at. while their lives are tied to the locations they’re frozen at. In fact, when the Cyber Corruption takes hold of Sonic on Rhea Island, he freezes in place much like his friends do in White Space. In fact, when the Cyber Corruption takes hold of Sonic on Rhea Island, he freezes in place much like his friends do in White Space. Something else that the two share in common is that, rather than return to the entrance of the stage in order to exit, Something else that the two share in common is that, rather than return to the entrance of the stage in order to exit, the Sonics and Shadow must reach their respective Goals in order to return to White Space, the Sonics and Shadow must reach their respective Goals in order to return to White Space,

19:30 - 20:00 whereas Sonic needs to find Portal Gates to return from Cyber Space. whereas Sonic needs to find Portal Gates to return from Cyber Space. It isn’t simply that they go to the next stage like they’ve done previously, but they return to the world they entered from. It isn’t simply that they go to the next stage like they’ve done previously, but they return to the world they entered from. And… The portal that opens when the gang first arrives on the Starfall Islands is suspiciously familiar, don’t you think? And… The portal that opens when the gang first arrives on the Starfall Islands is suspiciously familiar, don’t you think? Now, I’m not necessarily saying that they intended for White Space to be a form of Cyber Space; I’m fully aware that these are likely just Now, I’m not necessarily saying that they intended for White Space to be a form of Cyber Space; I’m fully aware that these are likely just coincidences in the real world, and there are plenty of differences between the two as well. coincidences in the real world, and there are plenty of differences between the two as well. But taking into account how Cyber Space is set up, some of the anomalies we’ve talked about start to make a bit more sense. But taking into account how Cyber Space is set up, some of the anomalies we’ve talked about start to make a bit more sense.

20:00 - 20:30 I mentioned that there are two Cyber Space stages that resemble levels that Shadow visited, not Sonic. I mentioned that there are two Cyber Space stages that resemble levels that Shadow visited, not Sonic. And it would make a lot of sense if these stages were found in Chaos Island, but as it so happens, And it would make a lot of sense if these stages were found in Chaos Island, but as it so happens, they’re found on the previous one, ARES Island. they’re found on the previous one, ARES Island. And this could very well be a matter of the past influencing the future in a way unbeknownst to us. And this could very well be a matter of the past influencing the future in a way unbeknownst to us. In Sonic Generations, there are Challenge Gates that feature our friends in locations they’ve never been to, at least not that we’ve seen. In Sonic Generations, there are Challenge Gates that feature our friends in locations they’ve never been to, at least not that we’ve seen. Amy in Chemical Plant and Sky Sanctuary, Amy in Chemical Plant and Sky Sanctuary, Espio in Speed Highway, Espio in Speed Highway,

20:30 - 21:00 Cream in City Escape, Cream in City Escape, and Vector in Crisis City and in Rooftop Run alongside Charmy. and Vector in Crisis City and in Rooftop Run alongside Charmy. Even in Shadow Generations, we see that Rouge enters the portal leading to Sonic and Shadow’s encounter, meaning that characters can certainly Even in Shadow Generations, we see that Rouge enters the portal leading to Sonic and Shadow’s encounter, meaning that characters can certainly visit locations in White Space they’ve never been to before, so long as a version of Sonic is there as well. visit locations in White Space they’ve never been to before, so long as a version of Sonic is there as well. And the reason that’s relevant is because it’s possible that Shadow visiting Chaos Island in Generations could have altered Cyber Space’s data And the reason that’s relevant is because it’s possible that Shadow visiting Chaos Island in Generations could have altered Cyber Space’s data in Frontiers, presenting Sonic with locations he’s never been to before, locations which might subconsciously put Shadow in Sonic’s mind, in Frontiers, presenting Sonic with locations he’s never been to before, locations which might subconsciously put Shadow in Sonic’s mind, making him think of Shadow in the subsequent island. making him think of Shadow in the subsequent island.

21:00 - 21:30 And I believe that this also has an influence on the bosses Shadow encounters. And I believe that this also has an influence on the bosses Shadow encounters. To start, something that’s curious about the Boss Gates in Shadow’s version of White Space is that they aren’t simply To start, something that’s curious about the Boss Gates in Shadow’s version of White Space is that they aren’t simply out in the open the way they are for Sonic. out in the open the way they are for Sonic. Shadow’s are typically contained within Castles made up of bricks like the ones we see at the Lair of the Time Eater. Shadow’s are typically contained within Castles made up of bricks like the ones we see at the Lair of the Time Eater. Unlike the Time Eater’s portal though, these castles don’t seem to be broken or formless. Unlike the Time Eater’s portal though, these castles don’t seem to be broken or formless. They’re carefully constructed, untouched, with the Boss Gates seemingly inaccessible. They’re carefully constructed, untouched, with the Boss Gates seemingly inaccessible. And… Oh my God… And… Oh my God… I think I just came to a realization while typing this out. I think I just came to a realization while typing this out.

21:30 - 22:00 These Boss Gates are only accessible because of Shadow’s Doom Powers. These Boss Gates are only accessible because of Shadow’s Doom Powers. Without them, Shadow would literally be unable to reach them. Without them, Shadow would literally be unable to reach them. As well, where in Sonic Generations, you only need to clear ONE of the ten Challenge Gates to obtain a Boss Key, in Shadow Generations, As well, where in Sonic Generations, you only need to clear ONE of the ten Challenge Gates to obtain a Boss Key, in Shadow Generations, every single Challenge Act needs to be completed. every single Challenge Act needs to be completed. And… Why is so much of Shadow’s White Space covered in water, where there IS none in Sonic’s area? And… Why is so much of Shadow’s White Space covered in water, where there IS none in Sonic’s area? In fact… We see at the end of Shadow’s campaign that he and Rouge head to SONIC’S area of White Space through a bridge found past In fact… We see at the end of Shadow’s campaign that he and Rouge head to SONIC’S area of White Space through a bridge found past

22:00 - 22:30 where you would obtain Doom Surf, and the first thing you would come across if you came in through Sonic’s area is a large body of water. where you would obtain Doom Surf, and the first thing you would come across if you came in through Sonic’s area is a large body of water. And… Remember the Cyber Corruption I mentioned earlier, which, when absorbed enough, freezes Sonic in place? And… Remember the Cyber Corruption I mentioned earlier, which, when absorbed enough, freezes Sonic in place? Well, in Shadow Generations they reintroduce the purple liquid that Mephiles used in ‘06, which Shadow can only navigate through the use Well, in Shadow Generations they reintroduce the purple liquid that Mephiles used in ‘06, which Shadow can only navigate through the use of his Doom Morph, giving it the name “Corruption”, which is primarily found around Chaos Island’s stage entrance and is the only level to feature it. of his Doom Morph, giving it the name “Corruption”, which is primarily found around Chaos Island’s stage entrance and is the only level to feature it.

22:30 - 23:00 Why would there be so many obstacles and ways to prevent you from reaching the Boss Gates, unless you REALLY didn’t want someone to access them? Why would there be so many obstacles and ways to prevent you from reaching the Boss Gates, unless you REALLY didn’t want someone to access them? And mind you, these stage entrances are always there: we see after beating the Biolizard that the rest of Shadow’s White Space takes form, And mind you, these stage entrances are always there: we see after beating the Biolizard that the rest of Shadow’s White Space takes form, but we can also see that Kingdom Valley, Sunset Heights, and Chaos Island – the rest of the locations we HAVEN’T visited – are already there. but we can also see that Kingdom Valley, Sunset Heights, and Chaos Island – the rest of the locations we HAVEN’T visited – are already there. But before they’re unlocked… They’re all surrounded by WATER. But before they’re unlocked… They’re all surrounded by WATER. Are the bosses and locations from Shadow Gens things that Eggman specifically did NOT want Sonic to restore? Are the bosses and locations from Shadow Gens things that Eggman specifically did NOT want Sonic to restore?

23:00 - 23:30 I mean think about it: Space Colony ARK led to Eggman activating the Eclipse Cannon with all seven Chaos Emeralds, which activated I mean think about it: Space Colony ARK led to Eggman activating the Eclipse Cannon with all seven Chaos Emeralds, which activated the ARK’s collision course to Earth, something he helped everyone else stop. the ARK’s collision course to Earth, something he helped everyone else stop. Rail Canyon is where Neo Metal successfully copied everyone’s life form data, leading to his transformation at the end of the game, Rail Canyon is where Neo Metal successfully copied everyone’s life form data, leading to his transformation at the end of the game, which he again, teams up with the heroes for. which he again, teams up with the heroes for. Kingdom Valley is both where Mephiles gets released from the Scepter of Darkness, as well as where Elise dies, Kingdom Valley is both where Mephiles gets released from the Scepter of Darkness, as well as where Elise dies, releasing Iblis and destroying the world. releasing Iblis and destroying the world.

23:30 - 24:00 Sunset Heights is where Classic Sonic, the character who defeated his Egg Dragoon Mk. II Sunset Heights is where Classic Sonic, the character who defeated his Egg Dragoon Mk. II and was instrumental in helping The Resistance take back the world, showed up. and was instrumental in helping The Resistance take back the world, showed up. And, I just remembered, it’s also the place that the Avatar is from, and they’re ALSO the only other character that was vital to Eggman and Infinite’s defeat. And, I just remembered, it’s also the place that the Avatar is from, and they’re ALSO the only other character that was vital to Eggman and Infinite’s defeat. Chaos Island’s was a bit more difficult to figure out since, at large, there’s nothing here that doesn’t happen on the previous two islands, Chaos Island’s was a bit more difficult to figure out since, at large, there’s nothing here that doesn’t happen on the previous two islands, but then I remembered part of the reason I even came to this realization in the first place: but then I remembered part of the reason I even came to this realization in the first place: Chaos Island is the point in the story where Sage accepts that the only way she’ll be able to save Eggman and get him out of Cyber Space safely, Chaos Island is the point in the story where Sage accepts that the only way she’ll be able to save Eggman and get him out of Cyber Space safely,

24:00 - 24:30 is if he agrees to form an alliance with Sonic, something he explicitly states he doesn’t want to do. is if he agrees to form an alliance with Sonic, something he explicitly states he doesn’t want to do. And then Sage mentions the other times he’s done exactly this: And then Sage mentions the other times he’s done exactly this: “Together, you stopped the ARK! “Together, you stopped the ARK! Overcame Neo Metal!” Overcame Neo Metal!” And a point of data they wouldn’t have is the other alliance they formed, where together, they stopped Solaris. And a point of data they wouldn’t have is the other alliance they formed, where together, they stopped Solaris. These points in time that Eggman wants to restrict are every time he’s had to ally himself with his arch-nemesis, or to prevent his most crushing defeat. These points in time that Eggman wants to restrict are every time he’s had to ally himself with his arch-nemesis, or to prevent his most crushing defeat.

24:30 - 25:00 And I think it also explains why there’s no level from Lost World here: that game’s story almost flips this ongoing trope on its head entirely. And I think it also explains why there’s no level from Lost World here: that game’s story almost flips this ongoing trope on its head entirely. During most of these examples, Eggman acts as an antagonist for most of the game, During most of these examples, Eggman acts as an antagonist for most of the game, only to team up with the heroes at the end to overcome a bigger threat. only to team up with the heroes at the end to overcome a bigger threat. In Lost World, though Sonic and Eggman had formed an alliance for most of the game, it ends with HIM being the surprise final boss. In Lost World, though Sonic and Eggman had formed an alliance for most of the game, it ends with HIM being the surprise final boss. I can only imagine that he doesn’t care to include the events of Lost World because, even though Sonic was the one that ruined his control over the Zeti, I can only imagine that he doesn’t care to include the events of Lost World because, even though Sonic was the one that ruined his control over the Zeti, it was clear that without Sonic, Eggman wouldn’t be able to deal with them should they manage to break free of his control in a different way. it was clear that without Sonic, Eggman wouldn’t be able to deal with them should they manage to break free of his control in a different way.

25:00 - 25:30 At any other point in the timeline, at least he would still have control over his Badniks. At any other point in the timeline, at least he would still have control over his Badniks. Against the Zeti, not so much. Against the Zeti, not so much. But anyway, what does that have to do with the bosses I mentioned? But anyway, what does that have to do with the bosses I mentioned? Well, remember how I said that Cyber Space conforms to the memory of the person entering it? Well, remember how I said that Cyber Space conforms to the memory of the person entering it? The Biolizard is an example of a boss that is EXCLUSIVE to Shadow and almost tore my whole theory apart. The Biolizard is an example of a boss that is EXCLUSIVE to Shadow and almost tore my whole theory apart. But then I thought about it… While Sonic never fought the Biolizard in the form that Shadow does, he DOES fight it ALONGSIDE Shadow But then I thought about it… While Sonic never fought the Biolizard in the form that Shadow does, he DOES fight it ALONGSIDE Shadow

25:30 - 26:00 as the Finalhazard, and I think the reason Shadow fights THIS version of the boss has to do with how these portals operate. as the Finalhazard, and I think the reason Shadow fights THIS version of the boss has to do with how these portals operate. During Sonic’s portion of this theory I mentioned that the Chaos Emeralds are superdimensional objects that exist at all moments across time. During Sonic’s portion of this theory I mentioned that the Chaos Emeralds are superdimensional objects that exist at all moments across time. The state in which they exist at any given point is how they exist at all OTHER points. The state in which they exist at any given point is how they exist at all OTHER points. And as we know, Shadow is in possession of one of the Chaos Emeralds while the rest are in Sonic’s area of White Space and this is further exemplified And as we know, Shadow is in possession of one of the Chaos Emeralds while the rest are in Sonic’s area of White Space and this is further exemplified by the fact that we don’t see ANY Chaos Emeralds at the Cannon’s Core, even though that’s where they WERE during this point in time. by the fact that we don’t see ANY Chaos Emeralds at the Cannon’s Core, even though that’s where they WERE during this point in time.

26:00 - 26:30 What that leads me to understand is that, if you don’t have all the Chaos Emeralds and try to revisit a moment in history where they were strictly What that leads me to understand is that, if you don’t have all the Chaos Emeralds and try to revisit a moment in history where they were strictly NECESSARY, you can’t revisit that moment in time, but will instead be met with the closest thing to it. NECESSARY, you can’t revisit that moment in time, but will instead be met with the closest thing to it. And think about it: in the Perfect Chaos fight, Sonic never NEEDED to be Super Sonic, he just needed to And think about it: in the Perfect Chaos fight, Sonic never NEEDED to be Super Sonic, he just needed to be able to run fast enough to go over the water and reach Chaos’ brain. be able to run fast enough to go over the water and reach Chaos’ brain. Even in the original game, you don’t automatically die if you lose your Super Form. Even in the original game, you don’t automatically die if you lose your Super Form. You can’t exactly do anything to win, but you don’t lose right away. You can’t exactly do anything to win, but you don’t lose right away.

26:30 - 27:00 In Generations, Sonic may not have the Chaos Emeralds, but as we talked about before, he now has the abilities needed to defeat him. In Generations, Sonic may not have the Chaos Emeralds, but as we talked about before, he now has the abilities needed to defeat him. But there would be absolutely no way for either Sonic or Shadow to fight the Finalhazard without their Super Forms. But there would be absolutely no way for either Sonic or Shadow to fight the Finalhazard without their Super Forms. Not to mention, that fight required BOTH Sonic and Shadow, so what happens when only ONE of them is here? Not to mention, that fight required BOTH Sonic and Shadow, so what happens when only ONE of them is here? Shadow can only face a version of this fight that didn’t need the Chaos Emeralds and didn’t need Sonic, a fight that exists in HIS memory, Shadow can only face a version of this fight that didn’t need the Chaos Emeralds and didn’t need Sonic, a fight that exists in HIS memory, which would be the base Biolizard fight. which would be the base Biolizard fight. As for why the Biolizard has a new mutation… As for why the Biolizard has a new mutation…

27:00 - 27:30 I think the next two boss fights may explain this as well, so I’ll talk about that in a bit. I think the next two boss fights may explain this as well, so I’ll talk about that in a bit. And we know that this is an important moment in time to restore because defeating the Biolizard, as well as the Finalhazard, And we know that this is an important moment in time to restore because defeating the Biolizard, as well as the Finalhazard, is what allows Sonic and Shadow to stop the ARK’s collision course. is what allows Sonic and Shadow to stop the ARK’s collision course. Eggman wouldn’t have wanted this moment to be restored, because in the event that Sonic were to fail, the Earth would’ve been destroyed. Eggman wouldn’t have wanted this moment to be restored, because in the event that Sonic were to fail, the Earth would’ve been destroyed. Metal Overlord is the boss that most made me consider that the entirety of White Space was meant for Sonic. Metal Overlord is the boss that most made me consider that the entirety of White Space was meant for Sonic. After all, Shadow never fights Metal Overlord, but its predecessor, Metal Madness. After all, Shadow never fights Metal Overlord, but its predecessor, Metal Madness.

27:30 - 28:00 And despite the fact that these two can talk to each other, neither of them point out that this setup is strange. And despite the fact that these two can talk to each other, neither of them point out that this setup is strange. A lot of adjustments needed to be made for this fight to take place, but when you think about it, it’s not unreasonable. A lot of adjustments needed to be made for this fight to take place, but when you think about it, it’s not unreasonable. I mentioned before that if there was a moment in time where all the Chaos Emeralds were necessary to revisit, you wouldn’t be able to, I mentioned before that if there was a moment in time where all the Chaos Emeralds were necessary to revisit, you wouldn’t be able to, and instead would face the closest thing to it, but I believe Metal Overlord is an example of the opposite: and instead would face the closest thing to it, but I believe Metal Overlord is an example of the opposite: what happens when you can’t revisit a fight that strictly requires others to fight it? what happens when you can’t revisit a fight that strictly requires others to fight it? In the Metal Madness fight, you need to attack his weak spot with a formation other than the one it's currently colored as. In the Metal Madness fight, you need to attack his weak spot with a formation other than the one it's currently colored as.

28:00 - 28:30 You can’t attack it with Speed Formation if it’s blue, Fly Formation if it’s yellow, or Power Formation if it’s red. You can’t attack it with Speed Formation if it’s blue, Fly Formation if it’s yellow, or Power Formation if it’s red. Metal Overlord, meanwhile, doesn’t have that weakness anymore, since he’s only damaged using Team Blast. Metal Overlord, meanwhile, doesn’t have that weakness anymore, since he’s only damaged using Team Blast. So, how can Shadow fight Metal Overlord when Team Blast requires… So, how can Shadow fight Metal Overlord when Team Blast requires… You know, a team? You know, a team? And when losing all your rings, you immediately lose the fight? And when losing all your rings, you immediately lose the fight? Well, here’s where I think a lot of technicalities come into play: really think about what happens when you USE Team Blast against Metal Overlord. Well, here’s where I think a lot of technicalities come into play: really think about what happens when you USE Team Blast against Metal Overlord. All Team Sonic does is repeatedly strike him, there’s nothing too special about what happens. All Team Sonic does is repeatedly strike him, there’s nothing too special about what happens.

28:30 - 29:00 As well, while Eggman says that Metal is super strong with everyone’s data, Overlord is just the complete version of Madness. As well, while Eggman says that Metal is super strong with everyone’s data, Overlord is just the complete version of Madness. Much like the Biolizard and the Finalhazard, they’re technically not two separate beings, but the same being in a different context. Much like the Biolizard and the Finalhazard, they’re technically not two separate beings, but the same being in a different context. The Finalhazard is just the Biolizard attached to the Eclipse Cannon. The Finalhazard is just the Biolizard attached to the Eclipse Cannon. In the same way, Metal Madness is just a Metal Overlord that can’t fly yet. In the same way, Metal Madness is just a Metal Overlord that can’t fly yet. Similarly, and as we see in Shadow Generations, if Metal Overlord weren’t flying, all we’d need to do is smack him really hard. Similarly, and as we see in Shadow Generations, if Metal Overlord weren’t flying, all we’d need to do is smack him really hard.

29:00 - 29:30 Honestly, both of those reasons are why Sonic goes Super in the first place. Honestly, both of those reasons are why Sonic goes Super in the first place. Metal Overlord flies away, and the only way Sonic can chase him is by going Super, but the fight doesn’t strictly NEED to happen this way. Metal Overlord flies away, and the only way Sonic can chase him is by going Super, but the fight doesn’t strictly NEED to happen this way. Similarly, I think we can all agree that Sonic would’ve been able to take on Metal Overlord on his own. Similarly, I think we can all agree that Sonic would’ve been able to take on Metal Overlord on his own. He was fully ready to do this himself, but Tails and Knuckles insisted they would join him He was fully ready to do this himself, but Tails and Knuckles insisted they would join him and Sonic protects them by giving them super shields, not proper super forms. and Sonic protects them by giving them super shields, not proper super forms. Now, I have my thoughts as to why this is, which I’d like to go over in a separate video, Now, I have my thoughts as to why this is, which I’d like to go over in a separate video, but all we need to understand right now is that this fight is completely doable with Sonic alone. but all we need to understand right now is that this fight is completely doable with Sonic alone.

29:30 - 30:00 In fact, the name of the Team Blast is Super Sonic Power, meaning that this is only possible BECAUSE of Super Sonic, In fact, the name of the Team Blast is Super Sonic Power, meaning that this is only possible BECAUSE of Super Sonic, not anything that Tails or Knuckles do. not anything that Tails or Knuckles do. Regardless, Tails and Knuckles are super-powered, but aren’t in a Super FORM, and yet they’re still able to help damage Metal Overlord, Regardless, Tails and Knuckles are super-powered, but aren’t in a Super FORM, and yet they’re still able to help damage Metal Overlord, meaning that a Super Form isn’t STRICTLY required to defeat him, and I believe THIS is why Shadow fights this version of Metal. meaning that a Super Form isn’t STRICTLY required to defeat him, and I believe THIS is why Shadow fights this version of Metal. He may be flying, but he can fly above the water while you surf. He may be flying, but he can fly above the water while you surf. If Shadow had had Doom Wings at this point in the story, I don’t doubt that this fight would be a lot more similar to the Neo Devil Doom fight. If Shadow had had Doom Wings at this point in the story, I don’t doubt that this fight would be a lot more similar to the Neo Devil Doom fight.

30:00 - 30:30 He doesn’t have a weak spot that requires a specific formation, and what’s funny is that, the only times Shadow attacks Overlord directly, He doesn’t have a weak spot that requires a specific formation, and what’s funny is that, the only times Shadow attacks Overlord directly, he’s hitting the green light where his weak spot once was. he’s hitting the green light where his weak spot once was. When you think about it, this is another example of just hitting Metal super hard, because he can still move while you use Chaos Control, When you think about it, this is another example of just hitting Metal super hard, because he can still move while you use Chaos Control, but it isn’t Chaos Control ITSELF that makes him vulnerable to an attack from Shadow. but it isn’t Chaos Control ITSELF that makes him vulnerable to an attack from Shadow. It’s Shadow’s ability to use Chaos DASH that lets him travel really fast and hit Metal really hard, just like using the Dash Rings lets him do so. It’s Shadow’s ability to use Chaos DASH that lets him travel really fast and hit Metal really hard, just like using the Dash Rings lets him do so.

30:30 - 31:00 During his second phase, again, Chaos Control isn’t used to be able to strike him, but to knock a substantially large amount of debris into him. During his second phase, again, Chaos Control isn’t used to be able to strike him, but to knock a substantially large amount of debris into him. In fact, the rest of the fight doesn’t require us to hit that green light, since we're using Doom Surf to flick debris INTO Metal, again, In fact, the rest of the fight doesn’t require us to hit that green light, since we're using Doom Surf to flick debris INTO Metal, again, just SMACKING him really hard, meaning that the Chaos Emeralds were never strictly NECESSARY for this fight, they just made it easier to damage him. just SMACKING him really hard, meaning that the Chaos Emeralds were never strictly NECESSARY for this fight, they just made it easier to damage him. Restoring this moment in time is obviously necessary because without Metal Overlord’s defeat, Restoring this moment in time is obviously necessary because without Metal Overlord’s defeat, the world would be completely transformed into a kingdom of robots. the world would be completely transformed into a kingdom of robots. Eggman, meanwhile, hoped to keep this moment locked away so that Metal Sonic never had the chance to transform in the first place. Eggman, meanwhile, hoped to keep this moment locked away so that Metal Sonic never had the chance to transform in the first place.

31:00 - 31:30 Mephiles is the most interesting one because I think his inclusion in this game is the one that has the most visually evident lore implications. Mephiles is the most interesting one because I think his inclusion in this game is the one that has the most visually evident lore implications. For one, it’s the only regular boss not found in White Space itself, nor is it found in a castle. For one, it’s the only regular boss not found in White Space itself, nor is it found in a castle. Instead, it’s hidden in an underground area, someplace where you almost forget that you’re in White Space at all. Instead, it’s hidden in an underground area, someplace where you almost forget that you’re in White Space at all. And the Boss Gate is only accessible by having the only Doom Power that fully transforms Shadow into something he isn’t. And the Boss Gate is only accessible by having the only Doom Power that fully transforms Shadow into something he isn’t.

31:30 - 32:00 The rest of the Doom Powers act as an EXTENSION of Shadow: his Chaos Spears become more powerful, his attacks strike harder, The rest of the Doom Powers act as an EXTENSION of Shadow: his Chaos Spears become more powerful, his attacks strike harder, he grows a mantaray that he can surf on, he grows wings he can use to fly, he grows a mantaray that he can surf on, he grows wings he can use to fly, but Doom Morph is the only thing that allows Shadow to traverse through what we now know as Corruption, and fully changes his form into something else. but Doom Morph is the only thing that allows Shadow to traverse through what we now know as Corruption, and fully changes his form into something else. As well, the Boss Gate down here is the only one across both Sonic AND Shadow Generations that requires FOUR Boss Keys instead of three, As well, the Boss Gate down here is the only one across both Sonic AND Shadow Generations that requires FOUR Boss Keys instead of three, almost as if this is one that is meant to be SUPER locked away. almost as if this is one that is meant to be SUPER locked away. Now, the only version of Mephiles that Sonic ever encountered and fought was Solaris itself, and it would make sense for Now, the only version of Mephiles that Sonic ever encountered and fought was Solaris itself, and it would make sense for

32:00 - 32:30 Solaris to be the one that is guarded extra carefully. Solaris to be the one that is guarded extra carefully. Kingdom Valley, for all intents and purposes, still exists to this day; there’s nothing wrong with it Kingdom Valley, for all intents and purposes, still exists to this day; there’s nothing wrong with it existing out in the open, despite the events of ‘06 being erased. existing out in the open, despite the events of ‘06 being erased. Solaris, however, as a being, was erased ENTIRELY, and revisiting its existence, I imagine, would create some kind of paradox. Solaris, however, as a being, was erased ENTIRELY, and revisiting its existence, I imagine, would create some kind of paradox. How do you consume a timeline that is already non-existent? How do you consume a timeline that is already non-existent? What happens when you try to destroy White Space? What happens when you try to destroy White Space?

32:30 - 33:00 Fortunately, because Sonic’s not here, we don’t have to figure that out and I think the reason Mephiles is whom you encounter here is twofold: Fortunately, because Sonic’s not here, we don’t have to figure that out and I think the reason Mephiles is whom you encounter here is twofold: not only are the Chaos Emeralds, as well as Sonic AND Silver’s presence necessary for the Solaris fight to take place again, not only are the Chaos Emeralds, as well as Sonic AND Silver’s presence necessary for the Solaris fight to take place again, but given the existence of Crisis City in Sonic’s White Space, it’s possible that Solaris can’t currently exist anyway, but given the existence of Crisis City in Sonic’s White Space, it’s possible that Solaris can’t currently exist anyway, because Iblis is the one responsible for Crisis City’s being in the state that it is. because Iblis is the one responsible for Crisis City’s being in the state that it is. So what happens when Shadow the Hedgehog tries to access Solaris’ portal without the means to fight it, and when one half of it is already somewhere else? So what happens when Shadow the Hedgehog tries to access Solaris’ portal without the means to fight it, and when one half of it is already somewhere else?

33:00 - 33:30 That would only leave Mephiles, at the point in time in Shadow’s story right before he joins with Iblis again. That would only leave Mephiles, at the point in time in Shadow’s story right before he joins with Iblis again. And the reason I can determine the exact moment Mephiles might be from is because, originally, And the reason I can determine the exact moment Mephiles might be from is because, originally, Shadow came here with Rouge and Omega, but Mephiles was completely free. Shadow came here with Rouge and Omega, but Mephiles was completely free. He came here to find the remaining Chaos Emerald and... He came here to find the remaining Chaos Emerald and... Wait, which Chaos Emerald was he here to collect? Wait, which Chaos Emerald was he here to collect? No WAY, dude! No WAY, dude! The YELLOW ONE? The YELLOW ONE? The one Shadow has RIGHT NOW during the events of GENERATIONS? The one Shadow has RIGHT NOW during the events of GENERATIONS? It’s no wonder this is the fight we’re revisiting, in the same way that the fake yellow Emerald It’s no wonder this is the fight we’re revisiting, in the same way that the fake yellow Emerald

33:30 - 34:00 probably ADDS to why Sonic and Shadow revisited their fight aboard the ARK! probably ADDS to why Sonic and Shadow revisited their fight aboard the ARK! And actually… What Chaos Emerald does Metal Sonic have in Sonic Generations? And actually… What Chaos Emerald does Metal Sonic have in Sonic Generations? The purple one. The purple one. Literally the only time Metal Sonic can collect a Purple Chaos Emerald is in Sonic Drift 2, coincidentally, Literally the only time Metal Sonic can collect a Purple Chaos Emerald is in Sonic Drift 2, coincidentally, the very first game where you can even PLAY as Metal Sonic, which also just so happens to be a Classic-era game. the very first game where you can even PLAY as Metal Sonic, which also just so happens to be a Classic-era game. Sonic R doesn’t HAVE a purple Emerald, and even so, if you unlock Super Sonic after collecting all the Emeralds, Sonic R doesn’t HAVE a purple Emerald, and even so, if you unlock Super Sonic after collecting all the Emeralds,

34:00 - 34:30 that must mean that Eggman and his team never had ANY of them, right? that must mean that Eggman and his team never had ANY of them, right? You never go Super Sonic in Sonic Drift 2! You never go Super Sonic in Sonic Drift 2! And the Emerald you collect from SILVER is the white one, one of the two he had at the end of his campaign in ‘06. And the Emerald you collect from SILVER is the white one, one of the two he had at the end of his campaign in ‘06. Funnily enough, the other one he had, the cyan one, is one you collect in this era as well, after defeating the Egg Dragoon! Funnily enough, the other one he had, the cyan one, is one you collect in this era as well, after defeating the Egg Dragoon! There’s no WAY they thought about this as much as we have, right? There’s no WAY they thought about this as much as we have, right? But, okay, back to Mephiles; in ‘06, after defeating him in his second phase, Shadow tries to reseal him in the Scepter of Darkness But, okay, back to Mephiles; in ‘06, after defeating him in his second phase, Shadow tries to reseal him in the Scepter of Darkness

34:30 - 35:00 he and Rouge crafted in Soleanna, which Mephiles immediately breaks out of. he and Rouge crafted in Soleanna, which Mephiles immediately breaks out of. And how does the fight in Generations start? And how does the fight in Generations start? With Mephiles escaping the Scepter of Darkness once Shadow approaches it, followed by Mephiles using the same attack that he used to kill Sonic, With Mephiles escaping the Scepter of Darkness once Shadow approaches it, followed by Mephiles using the same attack that he used to kill Sonic, one that he NEVER used against Shadow in ‘06. one that he NEVER used against Shadow in ‘06. And there’s yet another great reason as to why this is the fight Shadow re-experiences as opposed to their first encounter at Flame Core: And there’s yet another great reason as to why this is the fight Shadow re-experiences as opposed to their first encounter at Flame Core: there, Shadow needed Omega’s help to defeat him, while here, despite having Rouge and Omega at his side, they really didn’t do much besides have his back. there, Shadow needed Omega’s help to defeat him, while here, despite having Rouge and Omega at his side, they really didn’t do much besides have his back.

35:00 - 35:30 And of course, there’s the line of dialogue that ties so much of this entire theory together: at the very beginning of the fight, And of course, there’s the line of dialogue that ties so much of this entire theory together: at the very beginning of the fight, Mephiles says “I will defeat you, then restore myself to the timeline”, meaning he KNOWS that he has existed somewhere outside of the timeline since he was erased. Mephiles says “I will defeat you, then restore myself to the timeline”, meaning he KNOWS that he has existed somewhere outside of the timeline since he was erased. But I don’t think that this knowledge necessarily applies to everyone: We know that Modern Eggman knows this in the Egg Dragoon fight, But I don’t think that this knowledge necessarily applies to everyone: We know that Modern Eggman knows this in the Egg Dragoon fight, though it’s unclear if Classic Eggman knows in the Death Egg Robot one, I just suspect that he doesn’t. though it’s unclear if Classic Eggman knows in the Death Egg Robot one, I just suspect that he doesn’t. Mephiles clearly knows, but Metal Overlord seems to have JUST transformed in his fight, Mephiles clearly knows, but Metal Overlord seems to have JUST transformed in his fight,

35:30 - 36:00 evidenced by him saying that he is “NOW the True Sonic”, alongside not mentioning anything about taking on this form again. evidenced by him saying that he is “NOW the True Sonic”, alongside not mentioning anything about taking on this form again. The outliers are Perfect Chaos and the Biolizard, since they can’t communicate, The outliers are Perfect Chaos and the Biolizard, since they can’t communicate, meaning we don’t know what’s going through their mind right now. meaning we don’t know what’s going through their mind right now. But, I think we can venture a guess with the context clues we already have. But, I think we can venture a guess with the context clues we already have. Perfect Chaos and Metal Overlord must be from moments in time where they had just transformed, Perfect Chaos and Metal Overlord must be from moments in time where they had just transformed, so their knowledge and abilities mirror those they had during those original encounters. so their knowledge and abilities mirror those they had during those original encounters. Mephiles uses a few new techniques, ones that he didn’t have in the original fight, which makes sense Mephiles uses a few new techniques, ones that he didn’t have in the original fight, which makes sense

36:00 - 36:30 if he’s a Mephiles that not only was MEANT to be Solaris, but who KNOWS he’s removed from the timeline. if he’s a Mephiles that not only was MEANT to be Solaris, but who KNOWS he’s removed from the timeline. Similarly, if the Biolizard was meant to be the Finalhazard, but is from a moment in time when it was first released from the Cannon’s Core, Similarly, if the Biolizard was meant to be the Finalhazard, but is from a moment in time when it was first released from the Cannon’s Core, it stands to reason that it remembers this fight, which is why it almost IMMEDIATELY tries to do something new, when what it used to do before fails the first time. it stands to reason that it remembers this fight, which is why it almost IMMEDIATELY tries to do something new, when what it used to do before fails the first time. As well, I think Mephiles’ line confirms that these are moments in the timeline that we’re revisiting. As well, I think Mephiles’ line confirms that these are moments in the timeline that we’re revisiting. If this was a moment that was only just happening NOW, If this was a moment that was only just happening NOW, Mephiles would still be erased from time. Mephiles would still be erased from time.

36:30 - 37:00 But if he defeats Shadow in the past – even a past removed from existence – Shadow never helps collect the Chaos Emerald used to revive Sonic, But if he defeats Shadow in the past – even a past removed from existence – Shadow never helps collect the Chaos Emerald used to revive Sonic, nor does he manage to help defeat Solaris in the past, meaning Solaris never gets blown out, meaning he gets reinstated in the timeline. nor does he manage to help defeat Solaris in the past, meaning Solaris never gets blown out, meaning he gets reinstated in the timeline. And I think it goes without saying why this is both a pivotal moment in time that needs to be restored, And I think it goes without saying why this is both a pivotal moment in time that needs to be restored, as well as why Eggman wouldn’t have wanted it to be revisited. as well as why Eggman wouldn’t have wanted it to be revisited. Now, Radical Highway is a location that exists outside of White Space, which makes sense because Now, Radical Highway is a location that exists outside of White Space, which makes sense because Sonic never canonically ventured through that level. Sonic never canonically ventured through that level.

37:00 - 37:30 It’s a location that Shadow continuously experiences throughout his adventure by way of what’s known as the Doom Zone, It’s a location that Shadow continuously experiences throughout his adventure by way of what’s known as the Doom Zone, a dimension created by Black Doom to test Shadow’s Doom Powers. a dimension created by Black Doom to test Shadow’s Doom Powers. What I find so curious about the Doom Zone, and this was something else that made me question what the rules behind White Space might’ve been, What I find so curious about the Doom Zone, and this was something else that made me question what the rules behind White Space might’ve been, is that despite Shadow gaining his Doom Powers throughout the game, the Doom Zone only made appearances during certain levels: is that despite Shadow gaining his Doom Powers throughout the game, the Doom Zone only made appearances during certain levels: Space Colony ARK, Rail Canyon, and Sunset Heights. Space Colony ARK, Rail Canyon, and Sunset Heights. The thing those three share in common is that, out of the five levels we find in Shadow’s White Space, The thing those three share in common is that, out of the five levels we find in Shadow’s White Space, those are the three that Shadow has been to in the current timeline. those are the three that Shadow has been to in the current timeline.

37:30 - 38:00 No memory of Kingdom Valley, and outside of his visit in this game, he’s never been to Chaos Island. No memory of Kingdom Valley, and outside of his visit in this game, he’s never been to Chaos Island. On top of that, I believe that there is a thematic significance to the places he gets the Doom Gears, the objects that allow Shadow to unlock his Doom Powers. On top of that, I believe that there is a thematic significance to the places he gets the Doom Gears, the objects that allow Shadow to unlock his Doom Powers. Before Sonic X Shadow Generations had released, I was working on a video where I talked about what the link between Before Sonic X Shadow Generations had released, I was working on a video where I talked about what the link between Shadow and the bosses we knew he would face in this game were. Shadow and the bosses we knew he would face in this game were. Back then, it was more wishful thinking, maybe even seeing something where maybe there was nothing… Back then, it was more wishful thinking, maybe even seeing something where maybe there was nothing… But now, I’m not so sure. Now, I think I was kind of spot on. But now, I’m not so sure. Now, I think I was kind of spot on. The reason the Doom Zone highly reflects Shadow’s very first stage isn’t because Black Doom just REALLY likes Radical Highway, The reason the Doom Zone highly reflects Shadow’s very first stage isn’t because Black Doom just REALLY likes Radical Highway,

38:00 - 38:30 but because of what that level means for Shadow as a character, which was something else I talked about in that video. but because of what that level means for Shadow as a character, which was something else I talked about in that video. Radical Highway in Adventure 2 was the first level we ever played through as Shadow, and this was when we learned what Shadow was motivated by. Radical Highway in Adventure 2 was the first level we ever played through as Shadow, and this was when we learned what Shadow was motivated by. At this point in Shadow’s life, he wants nothing more than to exact revenge on humanity for what happened to Maria, and though I doubt Black Doom At this point in Shadow’s life, he wants nothing more than to exact revenge on humanity for what happened to Maria, and though I doubt Black Doom has any connection to this place personally, we know that he can conjure and maybe even understand parts of Shadow’s memory that he can then use against him. has any connection to this place personally, we know that he can conjure and maybe even understand parts of Shadow’s memory that he can then use against him.

38:30 - 39:00 In Shadow the Hedgehog, Black Doom makes Shadow relive his past in the level The Doom, In Shadow the Hedgehog, Black Doom makes Shadow relive his past in the level The Doom, at a time where we can surmise that Black Doom wasn’t present, but still knows what happened aboard the ARK. at a time where we can surmise that Black Doom wasn’t present, but still knows what happened aboard the ARK. He does this to remind Shadow of why he resents humans so much, in order to use Shadow as a warrior fighting for the Black Arms. He does this to remind Shadow of why he resents humans so much, in order to use Shadow as a warrior fighting for the Black Arms. Here, it’s no different: the Doom Zone resembles Radical Highway so much because it’s a place that should remind Here, it’s no different: the Doom Zone resembles Radical Highway so much because it’s a place that should remind Shadow of his desire for revenge against humanity. Shadow of his desire for revenge against humanity. So what does all this have to do with the Doom Gears? So what does all this have to do with the Doom Gears? Well, think about when we get them. Well, think about when we get them. Despite there being five Doom Powers and five White Space stages, we don’t get a Doom Gear after every stage. Despite there being five Doom Powers and five White Space stages, we don’t get a Doom Gear after every stage.

39:00 - 39:30 We only get them in places where Shadow would feel the most vulnerable. We only get them in places where Shadow would feel the most vulnerable. We get the first one after completing Space Colony ARK, a place that holds a lot of painful memories for Shadow. We get the first one after completing Space Colony ARK, a place that holds a lot of painful memories for Shadow. This is where he was created and is where he lost the people he most loved. This is where he was created and is where he lost the people he most loved. We get the second one at Rail Canyon, where he first learns of the existence of the Shadow Androids. We get the second one at Rail Canyon, where he first learns of the existence of the Shadow Androids. The third one is obtained after defeating the Biolizard, a reminder of Project Shadow, the nature of Shadow’s existence, The third one is obtained after defeating the Biolizard, a reminder of Project Shadow, the nature of Shadow’s existence, and what he was meant to live up to. and what he was meant to live up to. The fourth one we get after defeating Metal Overlord, a robot that has copied his data. The fourth one we get after defeating Metal Overlord, a robot that has copied his data.

39:30 - 40:00 If a machine can do that… Is Shadow possibly one of the Androids he encountered before? If a machine can do that… Is Shadow possibly one of the Androids he encountered before? And finally, Mephiles, someone that seems to know Shadow very well, and bears a striking resemblance to him. And finally, Mephiles, someone that seems to know Shadow very well, and bears a striking resemblance to him. Though Shadow doesn’t remember him, Mephiles too, tried to get Shadow to resent humanity and cause their destruction, Though Shadow doesn’t remember him, Mephiles too, tried to get Shadow to resent humanity and cause their destruction, even trying to sow doubt in his friends. even trying to sow doubt in his friends. Shadow may not remember, but time left an imprint on his subconscious memory. Shadow may not remember, but time left an imprint on his subconscious memory. Radical Highway is the only level that takes place inside the Doom Zone, meaning that it isn’t a part of White Space in any way, Radical Highway is the only level that takes place inside the Doom Zone, meaning that it isn’t a part of White Space in any way,

40:00 - 40:30 and we know this because the first time it happens is in Space Colony ARK Act 1, before the Time Eater does anything. and we know this because the first time it happens is in Space Colony ARK Act 1, before the Time Eater does anything. This is one of the main reasons why I think White Space was meant exclusively for Sonic. This is one of the main reasons why I think White Space was meant exclusively for Sonic. Why would Radical Highway, a place that even BLACK DOOM knows holds vital importance to Shadow’s history, not be a part of his White Space? Why would Radical Highway, a place that even BLACK DOOM knows holds vital importance to Shadow’s history, not be a part of his White Space? I think it’s also worth mentioning that Radical Highway’s second Act is the only one in the game that isn’t in 2D, but fully in 3D, I think it’s also worth mentioning that Radical Highway’s second Act is the only one in the game that isn’t in 2D, but fully in 3D, adding to my theory that the Act 1s in White Space are Sonic’s memory, while the Act 2s are taken from Shadow’s version of events, if not entirely reconstructed. adding to my theory that the Act 1s in White Space are Sonic’s memory, while the Act 2s are taken from Shadow’s version of events, if not entirely reconstructed.

40:30 - 41:00 Act 1 is mostly taken from the original Radical Highway, while Act 2 has hints of Westopolis, but is mostly new, Act 1 is mostly taken from the original Radical Highway, while Act 2 has hints of Westopolis, but is mostly new, even introducing a Black Arms we’ve never seen before. even introducing a Black Arms we’ve never seen before. And remember, even these fully realized versions of Radical Highway are still… Wrong. And remember, even these fully realized versions of Radical Highway are still… Wrong. The buildings are upside down, sideways, the roads somehow make LESS sense than the original, there are things that shouldn’t be there, The buildings are upside down, sideways, the roads somehow make LESS sense than the original, there are things that shouldn’t be there, billboards that make reference to the fact that you’re in a dimension different to where you were before. billboards that make reference to the fact that you’re in a dimension different to where you were before.

41:00 - 41:30 You can’t use Chaos Control here, your signature ability is stripped from you. You can’t use Chaos Control here, your signature ability is stripped from you. They do everything they can to make it perfectly clear that this is not the Radical Highway we know: this is the Doom Zone. They do everything they can to make it perfectly clear that this is not the Radical Highway we know: this is the Doom Zone. And it affects the entirety of Shadow’s White Space. And it affects the entirety of Shadow’s White Space. Boss Gates now have a Hard Mode, new Challenge Gates appear that take one of the existing Challenges and make them more difficult, Boss Gates now have a Hard Mode, new Challenge Gates appear that take one of the existing Challenges and make them more difficult, and even the Time Switches around White Space are more challenging to complete. and even the Time Switches around White Space are more challenging to complete. In fact… Those Time Switches don’t show up until you defeat the Biolizard, and neither do Gerald’s Journals, held inside balloons that are carried by In fact… Those Time Switches don’t show up until you defeat the Biolizard, and neither do Gerald’s Journals, held inside balloons that are carried by

41:30 - 42:00 the Flying Targets you find in Rail Canyon, meaning the pages of Gerald’s Journal are somehow being protected by Eggman. the Flying Targets you find in Rail Canyon, meaning the pages of Gerald’s Journal are somehow being protected by Eggman. Which makes sense when you consider that G.U.N. retrieved the remains of the journal after the events of Adventure 2, Which makes sense when you consider that G.U.N. retrieved the remains of the journal after the events of Adventure 2, as stated in the note left by Professor Victoria to the Commander. as stated in the note left by Professor Victoria to the Commander. Quote: “This journal was recovered during the investigation of Dr. Eggman’s stronghold following the latest incident with the ARK”. Quote: “This journal was recovered during the investigation of Dr. Eggman’s stronghold following the latest incident with the ARK”.

42:00 - 42:30 The same diary that Eggman hands to Rouge in Adventure 2, and what a coincidence that they don’t start to appear in White Space until after The same diary that Eggman hands to Rouge in Adventure 2, and what a coincidence that they don’t start to appear in White Space until after the Boss fight where we encountered the Time Switches and read the diary, protected by things Eggman used in the very next entry in the series. the Boss fight where we encountered the Time Switches and read the diary, protected by things Eggman used in the very next entry in the series. And yet… None of this ever affected Sonic. And yet… None of this ever affected Sonic. Sonic never saw the Doom Zone. Sonic never saw the Doom Zone. As far as he knew, none of what Shadow experienced ever happened. As far as he knew, none of what Shadow experienced ever happened. You can’t access Sonic’s White Space from Shadow’s area. You can’t access Sonic’s White Space from Shadow’s area. The one time the two cross paths is after completing Chaos Island, the place where Sonic was thinking about Shadow, The one time the two cross paths is after completing Chaos Island, the place where Sonic was thinking about Shadow,

42:30 - 43:00 but after their fight over the Emerald, Shadow reappears in his own White Space. but after their fight over the Emerald, Shadow reappears in his own White Space. A place Sonic was never meant to find. A place Sonic was never meant to find. And what was another incident that Eggman likely wishes would never happen? And what was another incident that Eggman likely wishes would never happen? Though far from teaming up with you, Dr. Eggman surely didn’t want the Black Arms invading again, so it’s no wonder that Black Doom Though far from teaming up with you, Dr. Eggman surely didn’t want the Black Arms invading again, so it’s no wonder that Black Doom and his minions only appear in the area of White Space that Sonic isn’t meant to visit. and his minions only appear in the area of White Space that Sonic isn’t meant to visit. And there are no levels there that Sonic would be able to visit since Sonic had little influence over that point in the timeline. And there are no levels there that Sonic would be able to visit since Sonic had little influence over that point in the timeline.

43:00 - 43:30 Devil Doom all but confirms what our suspicions have been thus far. Devil Doom all but confirms what our suspicions have been thus far. His fight isn’t revisiting the one from Shadow the Hedgehog. His fight isn’t revisiting the one from Shadow the Hedgehog. This is a fight happening NOW. This is a fight happening NOW. The Chaos Emeralds aren’t necessary this time around. The Chaos Emeralds aren’t necessary this time around. Just Shadow and his Doom Powers. Just Shadow and his Doom Powers. And nothing makes this clearer than his transformation into NEO Devil Doom, a brand new phase we’ve never faced before. And nothing makes this clearer than his transformation into NEO Devil Doom, a brand new phase we’ve never faced before. And once Devil Doom is defeated, his influence in White Space disappears almost immediately. And once Devil Doom is defeated, his influence in White Space disappears almost immediately.

43:30 - 44:00 The Black Moon is gone, Shadow’s Doom Powers are gone, and the Radical Highway platforms fade away too. The Black Moon is gone, Shadow’s Doom Powers are gone, and the Radical Highway platforms fade away too. But everything else in White Space remains. But everything else in White Space remains. Except, of course, for Gerald and Maria, who begin to fade away as well, but… Except, of course, for Gerald and Maria, who begin to fade away as well, but… Why? Why? Why would defeating Black Doom, who didn’t know he’d end up in White Space in the first place, be the reason Gerald and Maria are here too? Why would defeating Black Doom, who didn’t know he’d end up in White Space in the first place, be the reason Gerald and Maria are here too? As far as we know, none of the other characters return to their own time once Black Doom is defeated, so why do the Robotniks? As far as we know, none of the other characters return to their own time once Black Doom is defeated, so why do the Robotniks?

44:00 - 44:30 Well, the only thing I can think is that them being here is an accident as well. Well, the only thing I can think is that them being here is an accident as well. If Black Doom’s intent was to cause Shadow pain in order to be able to take control of his body, part of that pain may have manifested in the form of If Black Doom’s intent was to cause Shadow pain in order to be able to take control of his body, part of that pain may have manifested in the form of Gerald and Maria, but rather than being illusions brought forth by Black Doom, or characters brought here by Eggman, Gerald and Maria, but rather than being illusions brought forth by Black Doom, or characters brought here by Eggman, I think Gerald and Maria being in White Space is for a similar reason that the Time Switches, as well as Gerald’s Journal appear: I think Gerald and Maria being in White Space is for a similar reason that the Time Switches, as well as Gerald’s Journal appear: they’re linked to events that Shadow restores. they’re linked to events that Shadow restores. Shadow only notices Maria after restoring Space Colony ARK, and it seems as if both she and the professor had only just arrived NOW. Shadow only notices Maria after restoring Space Colony ARK, and it seems as if both she and the professor had only just arrived NOW.

44:30 - 45:00 As well, and I’m only JUST realizing this, neither Gerald nor Maria ever mention seeing the Time Eater, meaning they simply showed up here As well, and I’m only JUST realizing this, neither Gerald nor Maria ever mention seeing the Time Eater, meaning they simply showed up here from some point in the past, after Shadow’s creation, but before the raid on the ARK. from some point in the past, after Shadow’s creation, but before the raid on the ARK. And if Shadow eliminates that which is trying to cause him pain, the source of his pain must disappear as well. And if Shadow eliminates that which is trying to cause him pain, the source of his pain must disappear as well. Isn’t it strange that some of these characters appear where they do while having no connection to these places? Isn’t it strange that some of these characters appear where they do while having no connection to these places? The same can be said about Sonic Generations, since some characters don’t seem to have much of a connection to the place they’re found near, The same can be said about Sonic Generations, since some characters don’t seem to have much of a connection to the place they’re found near,

45:00 - 45:30 but you could make the argument that they were trying to fill in the blanks. but you could make the argument that they were trying to fill in the blanks. Tails wasn’t in Sonic 1, but there’s no one else who would be so closely related to Sonic’s first adventure, so they put him there, Tails wasn’t in Sonic 1, but there’s no one else who would be so closely related to Sonic’s first adventure, so they put him there, and Amy in the Sonic 2 location in lieu of a Sonic CD one. and Amy in the Sonic 2 location in lieu of a Sonic CD one. Knuckles makes sense in Sky Sanctuary, Cream can be found in Station Square in the Director’s Cut version of Sonic Adventure, Knuckles makes sense in Sky Sanctuary, Cream can be found in Station Square in the Director’s Cut version of Sonic Adventure, which was released a year after Cream’s debut in Advance 2. which was released a year after Cream’s debut in Advance 2. Rouge makes perfect sense in City Escape, Espio makes sense in Seaside Hill and Blaze makes sense in Crisis City, Rouge makes perfect sense in City Escape, Espio makes sense in Seaside Hill and Blaze makes sense in Crisis City, though maybe a bit less sense IN universe. though maybe a bit less sense IN universe.

45:30 - 46:00 Vector is a big strong guy with sharp teeth, similar to the Werehog, so I guess that’s why he’s at Rooftop Run Vector is a big strong guy with sharp teeth, similar to the Werehog, so I guess that’s why he’s at Rooftop Run and Charmy’s a small flying dude, much like the Wisps, so maybe that’s why he’s at their planet. and Charmy’s a small flying dude, much like the Wisps, so maybe that’s why he’s at their planet. But in Shadow Generations even more so. But in Shadow Generations even more so. Omega, as far as we know, has never even been CLOSE to the ARK. Omega, as far as we know, has never even been CLOSE to the ARK. Orbot and Cubot made their debut WELL after Heroes, but fit the color scheme of the Flying and Power Formations, Orbot and Cubot made their debut WELL after Heroes, but fit the color scheme of the Flying and Power Formations, if you think of Metal Sonic, another of Eggman’s robots, as the Speed Formation. if you think of Metal Sonic, another of Eggman’s robots, as the Speed Formation. Big, we didn’t even know had BEEN to Soleanna until this game, and here’s the thing: Big, we didn’t even know had BEEN to Soleanna until this game, and here’s the thing:

46:00 - 46:30 Sunset Heights and Chaos Island are locations from Sonic’s future. Sunset Heights and Chaos Island are locations from Sonic’s future. If Sonic hadn’t already rescued Rouge, nobody would BE at Chaos Island, If Sonic hadn’t already rescued Rouge, nobody would BE at Chaos Island, which makes Gerald and Maria’s position at Sunset Heights make a bit more sense. which makes Gerald and Maria’s position at Sunset Heights make a bit more sense. They were never supposed to BE here. They were never supposed to BE here. But there may yet be ANOTHER explanation: in the cutscene just before fighting the Time Eater, Classic Eggman clearly has But there may yet be ANOTHER explanation: in the cutscene just before fighting the Time Eater, Classic Eggman clearly has no idea who Rouge and Shadow are, meaning his future self never disclosed information about Sonic’s allies, or the enemies he makes in the future. no idea who Rouge and Shadow are, meaning his future self never disclosed information about Sonic’s allies, or the enemies he makes in the future.

46:30 - 47:00 And it’s not just that he doesn’t know who they are; clearly he wouldn’t because he has no reason to, And it’s not just that he doesn’t know who they are; clearly he wouldn’t because he has no reason to, but it’s as if he’s confused that anyone else is here at all. but it’s as if he’s confused that anyone else is here at all. That means that either Modern Eggman didn’t disclose the full plan to his past self, or that the Time Eater acted in a somewhat independent way, That means that either Modern Eggman didn’t disclose the full plan to his past self, or that the Time Eater acted in a somewhat independent way, which makes sense when you consider that it specifically went to the ARK to place it somewhere in White Space, not necessarily to take Shadow himself. which makes sense when you consider that it specifically went to the ARK to place it somewhere in White Space, not necessarily to take Shadow himself. Everyone at Sonic’s birthday seems scared and are trapped in limbo. Everyone at Sonic’s birthday seems scared and are trapped in limbo. So why aren’t the people in Shadow’s White Space? So why aren’t the people in Shadow’s White Space? Omega says that he was hunting down the Time Eater when it unleashed a temporal anomaly, Omega says that he was hunting down the Time Eater when it unleashed a temporal anomaly,

47:00 - 47:30 which explains why Omega seemed like he had just been knocked down when we first showed up. which explains why Omega seemed like he had just been knocked down when we first showed up. Black Doom just so happened to reemerge at the same time ON the ARK, which is why when we first appear, the Black Moon is entirely inactive. Black Doom just so happened to reemerge at the same time ON the ARK, which is why when we first appear, the Black Moon is entirely inactive. When we talk to Orbot and Cubot, they admit that Eggman had just followed the Time Eater and disappeared, meaning they’re likely from the ending of Colors. When we talk to Orbot and Cubot, they admit that Eggman had just followed the Time Eater and disappeared, meaning they’re likely from the ending of Colors. We don’t really know how much time has passed between the events of that game and this one, We don’t really know how much time has passed between the events of that game and this one, so it’s entirely possible that they’re saying that because that’s the last relevant thing they remember. so it’s entirely possible that they’re saying that because that’s the last relevant thing they remember. Big, as always, was just chasing after Froggy and, much like Gerald and Maria, he ALSO never mentions the Time Eater, Big, as always, was just chasing after Froggy and, much like Gerald and Maria, he ALSO never mentions the Time Eater,

47:30 - 48:00 saying he was just going about his day and somehow wound up here, entirely unrelated to ANYTHING, saying he was just going about his day and somehow wound up here, entirely unrelated to ANYTHING, and again, I think HIS presence here explains a lot of how White Space works. and again, I think HIS presence here explains a lot of how White Space works. If you notice, much like Sonic Generations, you can’t interact with the characters until you complete both Acts of a stage, If you notice, much like Sonic Generations, you can’t interact with the characters until you complete both Acts of a stage, but that isn’t true for Omega. but that isn’t true for Omega. He’s fine as soon as we get here, meaning that these characters aren’t necessarily tied to the locations we find them at, which makes a lot of sense. He’s fine as soon as we get here, meaning that these characters aren’t necessarily tied to the locations we find them at, which makes a lot of sense.

48:00 - 48:30 If Sonic had access to this part of White Space, I don’t doubt he would’ve found them in different locations. If Sonic had access to this part of White Space, I don’t doubt he would’ve found them in different locations. Big at Space Colony ARK due to his cameo appearances throughout the levels in Adventure 2, Omega at Rail Canyon as his debut game, Big at Space Colony ARK due to his cameo appearances throughout the levels in Adventure 2, Omega at Rail Canyon as his debut game, and Orbot and Cubot at Sunset Heights, where Sonic sees them right before being sent to Null Space, and again after returning from it. and Orbot and Cubot at Sunset Heights, where Sonic sees them right before being sent to Null Space, and again after returning from it. White Space, Null Space, Cyber Space, all places Sonic escapes with his speed; I’m not gonna get into that again. White Space, Null Space, Cyber Space, all places Sonic escapes with his speed; I’m not gonna get into that again. The reason I think he would find them here, despite them not doing much in Forces, The reason I think he would find them here, despite them not doing much in Forces, is because he at least knows who they are at this point, and if they know Shadow, he probably knows them too. is because he at least knows who they are at this point, and if they know Shadow, he probably knows them too.

48:30 - 49:00 Since Shadow clearly has no memory of the events of ‘06, it’s likely why Elise is nowhere to be found. Since Shadow clearly has no memory of the events of ‘06, it’s likely why Elise is nowhere to be found. And… Did you notice that we all end up here in pairs? And… Did you notice that we all end up here in pairs? Shadow and Omega, Orbot and Cubot, Big and Froggy – I assume he’s here somewhere – and Gerald and Maria. Shadow and Omega, Orbot and Cubot, Big and Froggy – I assume he’s here somewhere – and Gerald and Maria. But there are two key characters from locations that are here that don’t appear anywhere: Infinite and Sage. But there are two key characters from locations that are here that don’t appear anywhere: Infinite and Sage. My only guess is because they don’t exist in anyone’s memory yet, while these locations DO. My only guess is because they don’t exist in anyone’s memory yet, while these locations DO. Crisis City may not exist in its current state, but it’s a place that DOES exist in some form, Crisis City may not exist in its current state, but it’s a place that DOES exist in some form,

49:00 - 49:30 and though we never see Iblis directly, we know he must exist here because of his minions. and though we never see Iblis directly, we know he must exist here because of his minions. We see Sunset Heights taken over by Eggman as a result of Infinite defeating Sonic, but we never see Infinite himself, We see Sunset Heights taken over by Eggman as a result of Infinite defeating Sonic, but we never see Infinite himself, nor any of the Phantom Copies or illusions he creates. nor any of the Phantom Copies or illusions he creates. And I believe the reason to be because the Eggman and Sonic that are currently occupying White Space have no memory of them. And I believe the reason to be because the Eggman and Sonic that are currently occupying White Space have no memory of them. Classic Sonic may not have any memory of the more contemporary locations and characters he’s met with, but his Modern self DOES. Classic Sonic may not have any memory of the more contemporary locations and characters he’s met with, but his Modern self DOES.

49:30 - 50:00 Something else to note is that Shadow restoring these moments in time has nothing to do with him facing Black Doom. Something else to note is that Shadow restoring these moments in time has nothing to do with him facing Black Doom. Shadow could be ANYWHERE, experiencing ANYTHING and Black Doom would still test his new abilities. Shadow could be ANYWHERE, experiencing ANYTHING and Black Doom would still test his new abilities. The levels Shadow goes through just so happen to be the backdrop where this happens. The levels Shadow goes through just so happen to be the backdrop where this happens. To wrap things up, I’m also going to talk about the DLC level, Tokyo, which is an interesting little addition to Generations To wrap things up, I’m also going to talk about the DLC level, Tokyo, which is an interesting little addition to Generations and though we know that it’s essentially non-canon – it’s just a fun, little side thing – and though we know that it’s essentially non-canon – it’s just a fun, little side thing – I still don’t think it contradicts anything we’ve talked about so far. I still don’t think it contradicts anything we’ve talked about so far. The game calls the rift that contains the Ring Gate an anomaly, meaning that this is yet another thing that’s not supposed to be here. The game calls the rift that contains the Ring Gate an anomaly, meaning that this is yet another thing that’s not supposed to be here.

50:00 - 50:30 Once we approach it is when the Ring Gate appears, something you can do as early as when you first ARRIVE in White Space, Once we approach it is when the Ring Gate appears, something you can do as early as when you first ARRIVE in White Space, and we know that the characters we meet in Shadow’s adventure don’t just appear after we complete the respective stages we find them near. and we know that the characters we meet in Shadow’s adventure don’t just appear after we complete the respective stages we find them near. They’re here as soon as we are too, and if Gerald and Maria are only here because of Black Doom’s influence, They’re here as soon as we are too, and if Gerald and Maria are only here because of Black Doom’s influence, it could very well be that this space-time rift is here for similar reasons. it could very well be that this space-time rift is here for similar reasons. Once we enter, we’re sent to what the game calls the World of Movies, set during the events of the third live-action Sonic film, Once we enter, we’re sent to what the game calls the World of Movies, set during the events of the third live-action Sonic film,

50:30 - 51:00 specifically the part where Shadow arrives in mainland Tokyo, right after escaping from Prison Island following his 50-year encapsulation. specifically the part where Shadow arrives in mainland Tokyo, right after escaping from Prison Island following his 50-year encapsulation. What’s interesting about this is that this is yet another location that Shadow shares with Sonic, What’s interesting about this is that this is yet another location that Shadow shares with Sonic, since this is where their first encounter and chase sequence occurs. since this is where their first encounter and chase sequence occurs. But I think it’s no coincidence that this is set in a time and place where G.U.N. would be persecuting Shadow, But I think it’s no coincidence that this is set in a time and place where G.U.N. would be persecuting Shadow, something his GAME counterpart knows he wouldn’t normally have to worry about. something his GAME counterpart knows he wouldn’t normally have to worry about. It’s also a time and place where Movie Shadow’s resentment is at an all time-high, the wound is still very fresh. It’s also a time and place where Movie Shadow’s resentment is at an all time-high, the wound is still very fresh.

51:00 - 51:30 And when you consider all this, in a way, Tokyo is the movie’s version of Radical Highway, so it makes total sense that, And when you consider all this, in a way, Tokyo is the movie’s version of Radical Highway, so it makes total sense that, much like it in THIS game, Tokyo is the only other level to feature a musical track based off of a Shadow level and not a SONIC one, much like it in THIS game, Tokyo is the only other level to feature a musical track based off of a Shadow level and not a SONIC one, remixing the theme from Westopolis, the very first stage from his OWN game. remixing the theme from Westopolis, the very first stage from his OWN game. As well, the way this stage is entered and left ALSO doesn’t align with the other stages: we enter from a Ring Gate, As well, the way this stage is entered and left ALSO doesn’t align with the other stages: we enter from a Ring Gate, never come across a Goal Ring or any other traditional end goal, and leave through another Ring Gate that happens to appear. never come across a Goal Ring or any other traditional end goal, and leave through another Ring Gate that happens to appear.

51:30 - 52:00 Actually… The Ring Gate we enter places us at the location where and time when Sonic and Shadow first MEET in the movie. Actually… The Ring Gate we enter places us at the location where and time when Sonic and Shadow first MEET in the movie. Remember, Shadow had arrived at Shibuya Crossing well before this, and we see him discover just how long he’d been trapped, Remember, Shadow had arrived at Shibuya Crossing well before this, and we see him discover just how long he’d been trapped, followed by G.U.N.’s arrival to recapture him, but the game places us at a point in time when Shadow has already taken them all out. followed by G.U.N.’s arrival to recapture him, but the game places us at a point in time when Shadow has already taken them all out. As well, the Ring Gate we EXIT from shows up at the location where Sonic and Shadow’s fight ENDS, at the Tokyo Tower. As well, the Ring Gate we EXIT from shows up at the location where Sonic and Shadow’s fight ENDS, at the Tokyo Tower.

52:00 - 52:30 Even across dimensions, this anomaly can’t help separate Shadow from Sonic, because White Space is CATERED to Sonic. Even across dimensions, this anomaly can’t help separate Shadow from Sonic, because White Space is CATERED to Sonic. Westopolis may be a level from Shadow’s own game, but at the forefront of Black Doom’s invasion is SONIC, who doesn’t know what’s going on. Westopolis may be a level from Shadow’s own game, but at the forefront of Black Doom’s invasion is SONIC, who doesn’t know what’s going on. As far as HE knows, this is the start of a new adventure for HIM as well. As far as HE knows, this is the start of a new adventure for HIM as well. When you think about it, Westopolis is as much SONIC’S first level from this game as it is SHADOW’S, so it’s no wonder that a location in When you think about it, Westopolis is as much SONIC’S first level from this game as it is SHADOW’S, so it’s no wonder that a location in space-time, where another version of Sonic is chasing a literal black alien through a dark city full of G.U.N. soldiers, space-time, where another version of Sonic is chasing a literal black alien through a dark city full of G.U.N. soldiers,

52:30 - 53:00 would somehow make its way into White Space as well. would somehow make its way into White Space as well. You know? You know? I started this video with a neat little idea, one that I could almost feel myself forcing to make sense at times, I started this video with a neat little idea, one that I could almost feel myself forcing to make sense at times, like trying to fit different-sized coins into a single-sized slot. like trying to fit different-sized coins into a single-sized slot. Some ideas would fit perfectly, some would fit if you pushed them hard enough, and some of them just fell on in. Some ideas would fit perfectly, some would fit if you pushed them hard enough, and some of them just fell on in. But the more I thought about things, and the more I reflected and revisited what happened in some of these games, But the more I thought about things, and the more I reflected and revisited what happened in some of these games, the more I found things I hadn’t originally even considered that supported my theories. the more I found things I hadn’t originally even considered that supported my theories.

53:00 - 53:30 And again, I don’t think that this was the original plan for White Space at all: And again, I don’t think that this was the original plan for White Space at all: I fully believe that it’s just the backdrop to compile some of the most iconic characters and locations from the series’ history, full stop. I fully believe that it’s just the backdrop to compile some of the most iconic characters and locations from the series’ history, full stop. But it’s definitely fulfilling to me to know that, in a way, this DOES make sense, and they could absolutely But it’s definitely fulfilling to me to know that, in a way, this DOES make sense, and they could absolutely roll with this explanation if they really wanted to. roll with this explanation if they really wanted to. I’m excited to see what comes next in the series, because as chaotic as the storytelling in the 2000s were, I’m excited to see what comes next in the series, because as chaotic as the storytelling in the 2000s were, it now seems like they’re trying their best to… Control that chaos, in equally crazy ways. it now seems like they’re trying their best to… Control that chaos, in equally crazy ways.

53:30 - 54:00 There was a point in time where we sort of mocked Sonic fighting against water gods, and genetic experiments, and data-stealing robots, There was a point in time where we sort of mocked Sonic fighting against water gods, and genetic experiments, and data-stealing robots, and Shadow having alien DNA, and time travelling hedgehogs, but now that they’re trying to make sense of it all… and Shadow having alien DNA, and time travelling hedgehogs, but now that they’re trying to make sense of it all… It’s almost like we’re mocking them for even TRYING to consolidate this story. It’s almost like we’re mocking them for even TRYING to consolidate this story. Like, I get it, not everything NEEDS to make sense all the time in games where you play as a cartoon character that defies the laws of physics, but… Like, I get it, not everything NEEDS to make sense all the time in games where you play as a cartoon character that defies the laws of physics, but… I don’t know, I guess I also don’t see what’s WRONG with that. I don’t know, I guess I also don’t see what’s WRONG with that. Writing this whole thing was super fun for me because… Writing this whole thing was super fun for me because…

54:00 - 54:30 Have you guys ever seen those art pieces made up of puzzles that aren’t supposed to fit together, Have you guys ever seen those art pieces made up of puzzles that aren’t supposed to fit together, but then the artist arranges them in a way that creates something that was never intended but still manages to make it all fit? but then the artist arranges them in a way that creates something that was never intended but still manages to make it all fit? It’s kind of like that. It’s kind of like that. White Space was always interesting to me, there was always something TO it that I felt had an explanation beyond what we were given story-wise. White Space was always interesting to me, there was always something TO it that I felt had an explanation beyond what we were given story-wise. And hopefully, you see it the way I do now, too. And hopefully, you see it the way I do now, too. Thank you all so much for watching and please let me know your thoughts on this, I’d LOVE to hear it. Thank you all so much for watching and please let me know your thoughts on this, I’d LOVE to hear it. On screen, you’re seeing the names of the wonderful Patrons and Channel Members that support this channel each month. On screen, you’re seeing the names of the wonderful Patrons and Channel Members that support this channel each month.

54:30 - 55:00 You are by no means obligated to join them, but if you would like to do so, you can find links down in the description; any little bit helps. You are by no means obligated to join them, but if you would like to do so, you can find links down in the description; any little bit helps. But, if you can’t or if you don’t want to, Liking, Commenting, Sharing it with anyone you think might find it interesting, ALL of that helps a ton. But, if you can’t or if you don’t want to, Liking, Commenting, Sharing it with anyone you think might find it interesting, ALL of that helps a ton. So, please make sure to do that, any little bit helps. So, please make sure to do that, any little bit helps. And until next time, stay safe and stay awesome, everyone. And until next time, stay safe and stay awesome, everyone.

Making Sense of SHADOW'S White Space

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Making Sense of SHADOW'S White Space Transcription