Spoiler warning for Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Even before Sonic the Hedgehog 2 hit theatres, we already knew that it was getting both a sequel and a spin-off show. Given all the hype in the Sonic community recently, this was enough to get fans speculating about what stories will make the big screen next. And with the story of the recent movie in mind, fans have decided who they want to see next: Rouge the Bat.
In a thread about what female character from the Sonic series should be the first to appear in the movie's universe, most fans are in agreement that Rouge would be the perfect fit. While she may not have the name-power of Amy Rose, she would fit into the story quite well, given what we saw in the post-credits scene of Sonic 2 - and the fact that her rival, Knuckles, is getting his own show.
Debating whether Amy, Rouge, or Blaze should make their debut first, most fans are in agreement that the jewel thief would be the perfect fit.
"Rouge was introduced in the series as an undercover GUN agent/spy so she would be most likely to appear", says user xSalty_Lightningx.
"She is actually involved Shadow's story, unlike the other two", agrees Bigfoot_G. "I can see Amy being a stinger maaaaybe, but she isn't going to drum up hype like a rival character."
Most say that Rouge's introduction would work well in the Knuckles show. "I would expect Rouge to show up in the Knuckles show just because I can't really think of a more fitting antagonist", says IanMazgelis. "If they introduce her there, I do think it would make sense for her to show up in Sonic 3."
Rouge's stories almost exclusively focus on either Knuckles or Shadow - or both. With the former getting his own spin-off, and the latter likely taking the antagonist role in Sonic 3, it does look like the stage is being set for the bat's debut. However, we don't have any official details on these upcoming projects just yet, and likely won't until Sonic 2 leaves theatres.