Sonic and the Black Knight Is Actually Really Good 

Honestly, Sonic having all of these random, unconnected adventures in which he gets involved in these ridiculous stories makes so much sense for his character. Sonic is LITERALLY always on the go. It makes sense that he'd come across people in need of help and dealing with their own weird troubles, and then stop to help them. Let's get more games where Eggman plays no part in what's going on. Lets get steampunk Sonic. Give me Sonic the Dragonrider. Idk, he's a blue, anthropomorphic, fast hedgehog. Get a little weird with his adventures

I like how sonic doesn't care if you're a knight, king or even a god. If he thinks you're doing something wrong he will stop you.

A shame this game gets so much flack for it's concept alone and few look further. It's great.

Apparently the scene where Gawain attempts to kill himself is due to a misunderstanding from the Japanese writers. In Japan, it seems that knights are widely thought of as being just European equivalents to samurai. Because of this, they thought that European knights also had an equivalent to the custom of commiting seppuku (when a samurai commits suicide to atone for dishonouring themselves). That's why Gawain talks about being disgraced and says "only death can remove this stain upon my honour" before attempting to kill himself as a way of restoring his honour to King Arthur. The writers weren't trying to be edgy. They were simply misinformed and consequently wrote a samurai custom into a story about knights.

How sonic and the black knight starts: trying to overthrow a corrupted king. How it ends: therapy.

Sonic: *literally cuts through a sorceress’ giant monster with Excalibur and causes the monster and the sorceress to blow up* Also Sonic: 👍

In that last scene it seems like Griffith was mixing his real voice with his sonic voice because I've never heard him with that specific tone before.

Dear lord, this video helped me remember just how far sonic stories have fallen over the past decade or so. I miss the days where a sonic story could acknowledge how ridiculous it was while still taking itself seriously. And when they tried to make sonic cool and badass instead of funny and memeable

That little bit at the end is extremely true. These games didn't _"Suddenly become popular",_ the early 2000s Sonic fans finally have a platform where their thoughts on the franchise can be heard and validated through others who've shared the same experiences. The same will happen to every single era Sonic goes through, whether you grow up with 2010s Sonic, the movie, etc, your perspective matters in shaping that specific media's identity, and that's how we can appreciate a piece of art to the fullest amount.

I thought I beat the black knight till I started the game again

Just wanna say I respect bringing forth the idea that Black Knight can be good even if Secret Rings is bad (even though I personally think Secret Rings is vastly underrated).

You got me so emotional. This “dark age” of sonic was never that dark for me. Growing up with these games, experiencing them along with the games prior, was such a wonderful time in my life. My first Sonic game was Sonic Heroes, and through it I was able to revisit the adventures and Sonic 1 and 2 (3 was something I couldn’t get my hands on until Mega collection). Even a game like Shadow that I can laugh at now was so exhilarating back in the day. Joining the community (my first real dive into the internet), drawing fan art and discussing the games and comics with fans... reading sprite comics and (im)patiently waiting for Sonic Unleashed to come out so I could rent it day one.. my childhood was made great by the perceived Dark Age of Sonic.

In regards to Sonic easily beating the Knights of the Round Table, I think something that makes it a lot more logical is, Sonic ISN'T a better swordsman than them. They are far more experienced. But Sonic breaks the mold. He doesn't use a traditional fighting style, he invents his own incorporating his own abilities like his speed and the homing attack, and none of them are prepared for it. How do you parry a spinning midair cartwheel? How do you block an attack coming at you at the speed of sound? In that sense, them being worse than Sonic as playable characters makes sense; they're more traditional sword fighters, charging through enemies and cutting them down without stopping isn't something that comes naturally to them. Sonic breaking tradition and forging his own path is quite fitting, given that's how the series itself had always done to this point. They COULD just follow formulas, do what they know works, and call it a day, but the Sonic series used to really challenge perspectives of what can make a good story, or more early in the series, what was technologically feasible for game consoles of the time. The theme of rejecting tradition in favor of doing what's right and creating a name for yourself is quite prevalent in this game, and if this is to be the last Sonic game that still carries that passion and courage, then I'm glad it went out on such a loud and proud note.

Can we all agree that this game has the best depiction of Sonic as a character? He’s still cocky and confident, but knows when it’s time to get serious and tone down the jokes and snarky attitude. Not to mention the game’s ending where he gets a bit philosophical with his views on mortality. It felt like Sonic was growing up alongside the fans that started with the Adventure era

The Storybook series is honestly such a ludicrously unexplored concept. On top of being a great vehicle for creating imaginative setpieces, there's kind of a fun "samurai champloo" esque anachronism to placing Sonic in these quasi period settings where what he culturally represents with all his edgy 90s irreverence is at odds with that world, that's even kind of a theme in Black Knight's story. It also makes sense for Sonic as a Mickey Mouse offshoot, as it's essentially the equivalent of putting Mickey in the Sorcerer's Apprentice or the Prince and the Pauper.

That fanart montage they did coming from the actual game is the cutest thing ever. I wonder why more games don't do stuff like that

Gameplay gets too much hate, it’s alright and fun. But the voice acting, characterization, and sound track, now those are straight up beautiful.

"Every World has its end. I know that's kinda sad, but... That's why we gotta live life to the fullest in the time we have. At least, that's what i figure" - Sonic the Hedgehog 2009

damn man… that fan art compilation at the end genuinely had me emotional. i genuinely feel so blessed to have discovered this series as a kid and grown up with them like i have :’)

Man, this game deserves a port and no motion controls and it has a good emphasis of story

One of the characters in BK that is pretty underrated is Merlina Her motives in the end are actually really relatable to People who are a afraid of Death and think the world should last forever But after the final battle with sonic she learns that She needs to appreciate life in the small time she has which is a lesson everyone should take Also This might be an unpopular opinion but Her theme song With Me is the best sonic track of all time

I’m quite surprised that you didn’t mention that sonic was supposed to be on a date with Amy, which is revealed right after he gets crowned King Arthur. That’s why he has 2 chili dogs in the opening cutscene.

Sonic as a whole holds a deep place in my heart, I grew up playing these games, 2000s games like SA, SA2, SH, Shadow, Secret rings, black knight, sonic unleashed, the rush series, riders, and the all-star racing series, only 1 I have not played is sonic 06, but I do plan on playing it, also generations, forces, colors, and mania for the 2010s, the shows as well I love, Sonic X, Sonic Boom, and Sonic Underground, and some comics, I will always love sonic and the franchise no matter what happens, cause honestly I loved playing these games, watching the shows, and reading comics of the blue blur and his pals doing what is right.

25:05 "Omega, count how many mouths he has"

Just...thank you for this. I’ve always loved this game, it’s nice to see it get some love.

26:13 Fun fact: One of the submissions that used the Hidden Palace zone was by Evan Stanley, who would go on to drawn for the Archie and IDW Sonic comics, and is now the current head writer of the IDW comics.

Black KNight really saved me when i was younger. The message stuck with me during tough times, and Live Life, the final song, is something i always put on when im feeling the darkest. i really love this game, and replaying it years later is such a jam.

I totally agree Also I miss the good storytelling Sonic games used to have, this was the last one to have good story and characterization

how fitting that the last game in sonic's dark age was set in the dark ages

I love that Blaze is in this game; it's really unexpected. She should be in more Sonic games!

I genuinely have to say that this concept could've gone way farther with the idea. As you said, you could do a wild west or Greek mythology themed one, but, more importantly, this game did something very unique that didn't outright suck, and for a one off idea, that's a success on that front. Not to mention the music is great and the story (apart from the execution of the psyche out ending) is also both more complex than OG sonic games and more cohesive than games like '06 and Shadow the Hedgehog and remains one of the only games that pulled that off. This game was (for like 5 or 6 years) the only sonic game I had, and even though I haven't gotten the emulators for some of the older ones, I really want to do that after reliving this game. Side note: I spent weeks on weeks trying to complete the gallery and unlock all the bonus stuff but I don't think I ever did, maybe I should do that too. . .

It’s scenes like the first and final one especially, that solidify my claim that Jason Griffith was the best sonic voice, his tone and the way he speaks is incredible. He can be cocky without being too arrogant, and serious without being over dramatic

I'm glad to know I'm not alone in liking Black Knight too. I like the concept of Sonic with a sword, and though it's not always implemented well, I still liked waving the Wiimote around and pulling off a chain of Perfect Hits with the Soul Surge. Also, Knight of the Wind is my favorite Crush 40 song. ;)

I don't even play sonic but his videos are so interesting and well written I watch them anyway haha

The ending cutscene on Sonic and the Black Knight really does make me feel emotional. The song was amazingly composed, the line what Sonic said to Merlina was beautiful.

I already loved Sonic but watching that last scene of Black Knight made me love him as a character too, truly made him my hero.

I really wish we got more Storybook games, loved the tone and atmosphere for them.

I usually don't write comments but I have to say: Thank you for giving this game justice. This is probably one of my favorite videos on youtube and this sonic retrospective is always a new highlight with each upload.

Idk why but I really like the Black Knight Sonic model. It looks cool af

The story of this game is honestly a masterpiece. Just within a short period of time of an hour or so we learn what makes Sonic so endearing as a character as well as commentary and conflicts regarding many interesting topics, the acceptance of death being the finale and the pinnacle

Sonic and the Black Knight. The game that led to me discovering the Fate series. Also I enjoyed how this game basically tells you that not everything lasts, but that’s okay as long as you cherish each day you have. Sonic *can* be deep when the developers let it be.

Come on Sonic giving merlina a thumbs up as she’s falling is BAD ASS! 22:13

Sonic to me is more than just a video game character. He's a symbol of freedom and adventure. A role model, Sega may not have gone all out with the gameplay of the mid to late 2000s but one thing that they knew is that this character, this franchise means so much a lot of people.

One of the best soundtracks I’m looking at you “with me”

I teared up when you let the music play for that fan art collection. Some real heart went into this game.

Why do people always point to Knuckles trying to kill himself, but no one talks about Blaze purposely walk to the edge of a volcano preparing to kill herself? 🤔

J's Reviews, thanks for covering this game along with all the other games within the "Dark Age of Sonic". Even if there are flaws in these games, I appreciate that you have been able to recongize the good aspects of the games and celebrate them wholeheartedly. "Sonic and the Black Knight" is a personal favorite and the last console game that was able to stay true to the characterization of Sonic and Co. during the Adventure and "Dark Age" eras, as well tell a enjoyable story. I wish you the best of luck of the success of your channel and I hope your able to enjoy the rest of the Sonic the Hedgehog Series as you continue your crusade of reviewing the series.

Dude I’m not even a sonic fan but I’ve watched all these Sonic retrospective videos multiple times (specifically the 06, Adventure 1/2 and Shadow ones) you’re doing some outstanding stuff. You’re great with the whole “my opinion” thing. Never letting others dictate your opinion. Keep on being a king. Can’t wait for the eventual Lost World video simply because everybody seems to have wildly different opinions on that

Last game with my favorite voice actor, Jason Griffith

The 'Dark Age' of Sonic is my favourite era of Sonic games! So many iconic and fun games released, and I enjoyed each and every one of them for what they were.

Sonic And The Black Knight is honestly one of or maybe even my favourite Sonic game and possibly even one of my favourite video games in general. This game is so underrated.

Griffith was phenomenal in this game

I love the fan art and the cutscenes.

So you like Sonic and the black knight? Me,him and probably others: Yes and I'm sick of pretending I'm not.

You know I think this storybook series has a chance to make a great comeback if handled properly. This leads into my idea that I think the series going forward should be separated into 3 styles to appease all main groups of the franchise. Long comment incoming be warned. The boost gameplay of modern games would, I think, be a nice transition for these games. Of course I would hope for unleashed levels of detail when it comes to the stages. The adventure games did a great job taking the way sonic worked in 2d and what made it special and putting it into 3d. Unleashed made what was special about classic sonic it's own flavor with game familiarity and mechanical mastery of the game lending to quicker run times through levels with alternative yet harder paths but I digress. On the storytelling end I think these self contained character oriented tales told through the lens of sonic and a companion also translates well into how modern games handle the supporting cast (which by that I mean they take a back seat and the story is focused on sonic and his characterization more). I think roger craig smith has a great performance in him he just needs a good script a la the writers from the storybook games and unleashed. The second style of games can be the adventure style games which are more plot oriented stories. Not to mention having a sense of continuity and maybe even overarching plots through sequel games contrary to the self contained nature of the boost games to fully feel like that adventure flavor. These games naturally present more serious tones so that would be covered in the story end. As for gameplay we can see multiple characters return again with different gameplay styles to offer different perspectives and angles on the unraveling plot. With of course sonic and shadow controlling like they did back then. Lastly this is something already being done sort of. Classic sonic getting regular releases as well. My only suggestion would be to make completely original stages from now on. I also would like the games to move forward in their own right, instead of relying on nostalgia, they introduce new characters (or reintroduce forgotten ones) and use them to tell the subtle stories classic sonic is known for which made them special. It wasn't all gameplay after all. The classic side of things can have it's world expanded too in it's own more subdued way. With the movie being a hit and a series on it's way sonic is already doing well in media and I'm happy for that. Anyway I don't know why I wrote down my dream direction for sonic in a comment section as if this was some sort of feedback forum on sonic team's website that they would read somehow. Regardless to anyone that read this far thanks and hope you enjoyed my rambling lol.

I used to rewatch that fanart compilation over and over again as a kid, I loved the music over it. Good video man, thanks for putting this in words. Loved this game.

Great story, great visuals utilized multiple characters, multiplayer party games and amazing music. The gameplay wasn't even that bad considering it was on the Wii. Black knight really is underrated.

There are things to appreciate but Black Knight is just a game I was never able to get behind at all. Beat it on a rental, was disappointed with it, and never had a desire to return to it. It's mostly just how the game sticks to being on rails despite that not making sense anymore with it now having normal analog control. The level design was also just too bland for me. Shame this was one of the last mainline Sonic games with multiple playable characters and how even that feature was heavily restricted for no real reason.

Seeing all that fan art was so heartwarming man And Jason as Sonic was so unbelievably good oh man

All I have to say about this game is when I think of Sonic, this is the Sonic I think of. As a kid him throwing the chili dog in the air and beating all the enemies and still catching the dog was the coolest thing I had ever seen. I love this version of him

Bruh I must’ve died a million time on the King Arthur fight because I couldn’t get the timing right for the shakes

fun fact: this game happen after unleashed because in unleashed if you finish the game you can to choose to date amy and in this game sonic was going in a date with her thats why he had 2 chili dogs

I never thought that I would almost cry with nostalgia from a Sonic and the Black Night review. The ending was a great recap of what I felt playing those games and be a sonic fan at that time. I've been watching more reviews of yours and I really enjoy them, keep up the great work and thank you for reminding me how fun those games and my memories were

This game had the best characterization of Sonic himself.

Always love the implied continuity from the last cutscene from Black night and that one dialogue option from Unleashed

The storybook games and unleashed has the best sonic storys ever

Yo i found your channel about a year or so ago & from watching your older videos to present day it's awesome to see how much your presentations/commentary has improved over the years. Cheers, keep it up

I really wished they would have continued the Story Book series. I mean there is so much stuff they could have did,like Sonic in Ancient Greece with Zeus,or maybe Ancient Egypt with Cleopatra.

Just like the historical European Dark Age that it's named after, the Dark Age of Sonic wasn't all negative even if it seems like it to some people. How unintentionally fitting that a piece of Dark Age literature should serve as the capstone for Sonic's Dark Age, and that these times coincide with the series' teenage years...

the art in the thumbnail is brilliant as usual

Years later after this video was made I still relate to a lot of stuff you have said here, while I didn't exactly grow up around the time Jason Griffith was at his peak, I can still say that message is very heart warming, no matter who says it. Thank you for this video

I played this game so much as a kid. Playing Silver in multiplayer with my brothers were fun and hawk was basically another Knuckles. I loved upgrading all the characters and unlocking all the swords. All the best swords of the trio unlocked new abilities. Shadow even was able to stop time and I found that so cool as a kid. And the Shadow Rematch was awesome and took me a while to beat.

I can’t believe IGN have the balls to give this a lower score than Sonic Free Riders and Chronicles

Sonic and the black Knight is my favourite sonic game, not the best, but my favourite. Style, story, voices, characterization, music, and overall feel. It’s the only sonic game I’ve 100%. This is also my favourite Sonic, He is literally written and acted perfectly. Cocky and sarcastic but a genuinely good person who cares about stuff. Also the last time Sonic would feel like “just a guy that loves adventure.” I loved Sonic before but THIS is what keeps me attached to this franchise. I genuinely adore and admire the character and everything he represents and everything I still look up to. Cool, compassionate and sincere, something I feel has been lost post this game.

Sonic and the Black Knight is a great game with some good tracks. Its about damn time it got some attention and love. I played this game so much as a kid.

That ending was really beautiful J! Keep up the good uploads! 👍

Thank god someone got behind this game. The story on this game really hit me like no other sonic did before, and Merlina is bar none my favourite Sonic antagonist. I really liked the 2000s era of sonic deeper themes, and this was the deepest cut, with commentary on mortality and the passage of time. The game did feel like it needed more time in the oven to iron out the other playable characters and make the campaign bigger, but with the music and the story the game gave us, it's one of my favourite Sonic games regardless, if not my personal favourite!

This is one of the most UNDERRATED sonic games

I'm not joking but I cried at the art gallery part. it felt like I was being hit by my entire childhood

still to this day my fav game it really got me into knight styled stuff and is a big part of my childhood amazing video man!

I'm sad that I never got to play Sonic and The Black Knight, but this video should be titled..."Why Sonic and The Black Knight Succeeds where Secret Rings Failed"

The art style in black knight is spectacular

That was a beautiful review and your script and choice of music were very nice keep it up this was great

woah man towards the end there i got a lil emotional from sega acknowledging the vast fan community and their experiences in an official game

Finally, someone who actually loves this game. The soundtracks, gameplay, cutscenes, artstyle, and voice acting in this game was amazing. I especially loved the bonus content when you get to see a bunch of fanart that people had sent to Sega throughout the years. This is one of my favorite games from childhood and I still play. Sonic is forever known as THE KNIGHT OF THE WIND

It's funny that we both uploaded a video on this game in the same day, it's really underrated ‼️

The ending of this video really took me back I'll never stop being a sonic fan

Spot my cameo at 26:25 ! haha Nice retrospective video, man! As always!

Sadly the first Sonic v Shadow drawing at 26:23 turned out to be a tracing of someone else’s drawing and the Tracer was disqualified but still had their artwork shown in the game 😔

Seeing the list of games for future videos made me smile from ear to ear.

Sonic and the Black Knight it's one of my childhood games, I loved it.

I saw a couple of your videos before, but this is the one that made me subscribe. Sonic and the Black Knight is the game I spent so much time on during my WII faze

J your reviews just keep getting better and better every time!

Ok the transition from the cutscene from Unleashed to Black Knight near the end of the video was seamless

the Dark Age was a diverse creative age in my opinion. I loved it and its games

Black Knight will always go down as one of my all time guilty pleasures.

Fun Fact: This game had a crossover with NeoPets, a virtual pet web game. That's why there are apples in the first level!

That line from Jason though. I miss Jason as Sonic but as he said stuff changes so you’ve got to live life to the fullest.

absolutely beautiful descriptions and sonic, I gotta suscribe

Sonic and the Black Knight is still one of my favorite Sonic games, but that’s probably because it’s one of the only Sonic games I owned back then and I played the hell out of it. And of course, the soundtrack slaps, like it always seems to. A bit sad I didn’t hear you bring up the song “Live Life”, because it’s a beautiful song, but I digress.