For those who didn't erupt in cheers from their movie theater seats, we're here to tell you all about the "Ultimate Life Form" known as Shadow the Hedgehog. First off, he was created in a lab by Professor Gerald Robotnik — Dr. Roboknik's grandfather — as part of the effort to develop a cure for his granddaughter's deadly illness. However, Shadow was captured by the military and put into stasis for being "a threat to humanity," as Sonic Wiki noted.

Five decades later, Shadow was freed by Dr. Robotnik so he could enlist the hedgehog in his plan to conquer the world. Although he teamed up with Robotnik, Shadow secretly wanted to destroy the planet to avenge Gerald's granddaughter, who was killed by the military. Ultimately, Shadow was persuaded to turn against Robotnik and save the world from the latter's doomsday pursuits.

During this event, Shadow lost his memories. As a result, he urgently sought to uncover his past. Along the way, he met Black Doom and the Black Arms, and in the end, Shadow regained his memories, discovered the truth, intercepted Black Doom's plan, and saved the world yet again.

With Sonic the Hedgehog 3 already greenlit, the storyline will likely center around Shadow and his release from confinement. Like Knuckles, fans can expect Shadow to act as Sonic's antagonist and face off against him and his friends. But, before the final act, Shadow will turn face and become the newest member of Sonic's squad, or as Tom calls them, "wingmen."

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is now playing exclusively in theaters.