New Sonic the Hedgehog Animated Short Revealed at Anime Expo 2026 — 10-Minute Film for Sonic 35th Anniversary
Sega has unveiled a trailer for a new Sonic the Hedgehog animated short during Anime Expo 2026, marking another entry in the franchise’s 35th anniversary slate.
The sneak peek was shown at the “Sonic the Hedgehog Animated Shorts: A Frame-by-Frame Retrospective” panel and features a lineup of core characters — Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Amy Rose, Shadow, and Rouge — confronting Metal Sonic after the robot is activated by Dr. Eggman.
Details and runtime
According to reporting from Sonic City, the animated short is ten minutes long and is slated for release in 2026.
Sega screened the trailer for attendees at Anime Expo 2026; an official wide release window or distribution platform has not been announced by the company.
The reveal adds to a year of activity for the franchise as Sega marks Sonic’s 35th anniversary with multiple cross-media projects.
Plot synopsis (reported)
Bleeding Cool published an official synopsis provided alongside the announcement.
It explains that Dr. Eggman attempts to upgrade Metal Sonic by stealing Sonic’s life-data and harnessing the power of the Chaos Emeralds.
Sonic and his allies must depend on the friendships forged during their adventures to stop Metal Sonic’s transformation into an “ultimate fighting machine.” This synopsis frames the short as a character-driven action piece centered on teamwork and series mythology.
Film series tie-ins and talent
Separately, Sega and the Sonic film producers have confirmed that Metal Sonic will be introduced into the live-action film continuity in the upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog 4.
The film will also bring Amy Rose to the series, with actress Kristen Bell announced as the character’s voice.
These casting and character additions position the short and the film as coordinated steps in expanding Sonic’s presence across animation and live-action.
Context and related projects
Sega’s 35th-anniversary activities extend beyond this short: the company has been involved in events such as a Cannes Lions appearance and collaborations with third parties like Jersey Jack, which revealed Sonic the Hedgehog Pinball.
The Sonic franchise continues to be multi-platform, with recent game releases available on systems including the Nintendo Switch.
Where to watch
Sega has not yet confirmed where the animated short will be distributed.
Fans can expect further updates from official Sega channels and major event coverage as release details are finalized.
Sega has unveiled a trailer for a new Sonic the Hedgehog animated short during Anime Expo 2026, marking another entry in the franchise’s 35th anniversary slate.
The sneak peek was shown at the “Sonic the Hedgehog Animated Shorts: A Frame-by-Frame Retrospective” panel and features a lineup of core characters — Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Amy Rose, Shadow, and Rouge — confronting Metal Sonic after the robot is activated by Dr. Eggman.
Details and runtime
According to reporting from Sonic City, the animated short is ten minutes long and is slated for release in 2026.
Sega screened the trailer for attendees at Anime Expo 2026; an official wide release window or distribution platform has not been announced by the company.
The reveal adds to a year of activity for the franchise as Sega marks Sonic’s 35th anniversary with multiple cross-media projects.
Plot synopsis (reported)
Bleeding Cool published an official synopsis provided alongside the announcement.
It explains that Dr. Eggman attempts to upgrade Metal Sonic by stealing Sonic’s life-data and harnessing the power of the Chaos Emeralds.
Sonic and his allies must depend on the friendships forged during their adventures to stop Metal Sonic’s transformation into an “ultimate fighting machine.” This synopsis frames the short as a character-driven action piece centered on teamwork and series mythology.
Film series tie-ins and talent
Separately, Sega and the Sonic film producers have confirmed that Metal Sonic will be introduced into the live-action film continuity in the upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog 4.
The film will also bring Amy Rose to the series, with actress Kristen Bell announced as the character’s voice.
These casting and character additions position the short and the film as coordinated steps in expanding Sonic’s presence across animation and live-action.
Context and related projects
Sega’s 35th-anniversary activities extend beyond this short: the company has been involved in events such as a Cannes Lions appearance and collaborations with third parties like Jersey Jack, which revealed Sonic the Hedgehog Pinball.
The Sonic franchise continues to be multi-platform, with recent game releases available on systems including the Nintendo Switch.
Where to watch
Sega has not yet confirmed where the animated short will be distributed.
Fans can expect further updates from official Sega channels and major event coverage as release details are finalized.
