Sonic the Hedgehog (ソニック・ザ・ヘッジホッグ Sonikku za Hejjihoggu?) is the eponymous and main protagonist of the Sonic the Hedgehog series and Sega's mascot. He is a 15-year-old, blue, anthropomorphic hedgehog, and is a laid-back and cool-headed character, meant to symbolize peace. Like his name and species would imply, Sonic can move at the speed of sound (and can exceed this), with lightning fast reflexes to match it, and can as well curl up into a ball, primarily to attack enemies. These are the distinguishing traits that were used to make his character and world-famous video games.
Ever since stepping into the battle against injustice, Sonic has been the champion of peace. Well-known for his legendary cocky attitude, easy-going demeanor and somewhat short temper, yet strong sense of justice and love for freedom and adventure, Sonic uses his abilities to protect the innocent and his world (as well as many others) from the forces of evil, especially his arch-enemy Doctor Ivo "Eggman" Robotnik who constantly seeks world domination.
Sonic has been acknowledged as the most recognizable and famous character in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise according to an official popularity poll in 2011.