Spikes (obstacle)


 * For enemies or objects with the same name, see Spikes (disambiguation).

Spikes (スパイク) are obstacles that appear in the Sonic the Hedgehog series. They are one of the most common obstacles in the series, appearing in almost every game in some form. Usually set in places where the player would not expect to see them, getting skewered by spikes will result in the player taking damage.

Description
Spikes have varied in appearance and quantity across several Sonic games. Usually, a set of spikes consists of a gray base with five white metal spikes. In some games however, it may have more or less metal spikes. Depending on the Zone in which they are situated, the metal spikes may also be colored differently to fit the Zone's atmosphere. In other Zones, they may incorporate unique appearances as well. Such is the case of the spikes in the Flying Battery Zone from Sonic & Knuckles, which are animated, or the spikes in Toy Kingdom from Sonic Advance 3, which look liked sharpened pencils. Regardless, they all share the same purpose.

In gameplay, touching the spiky points on these obstacles will inflict damage on the player. Also, if the playable characters are invincible, they cannot get hurt by spikes at all (save for the first Sonic game). In most cases, spikes cannot be destroyed by any means available.

Spikes are usually placed in locations that can prove to be most hazardous to the player, such as on the floors of the path, walls or ceilings. Sometimes, there can be more than one set of spikes in a single location, thereby creating a wider field of spikes. There can also be chasms and holes in the path that are filled with a set number of spikes, sometimes with a moving platform over the top of them.

While spikes mostly stand out as stationary objects, there are instances where they are used in a more trap-like fashion to make progress through the stages more difficult than normal. In such cases, spikes may pop in and out of the ground at set intervals, which can be a nasty surprise for unsuspecting players, or be located on the crushing edge of a crusher.

Many of the enemies encountered in the stages defend themselves by using spikes as weaponry or even as part of the Badnik's body; Rhino Spikes for example have spikes on top of them.

Sonic the Hedgehog (16-bit)
Spikes first appear in the 16-bit version of Sonic the Hedgehog, and are widely seen in every Zone of the game. Unlike in later games, the spikes have no bases. Also, every single spike is erected separately in groups of three with a small gaps between each metal spike. Marble Zone also features crushers that have spikes on the bottom, which can fall down at high speed.

The original Sonic the Hedgehog also features an unexpected glitch that is often referred to as the "spike bug": when the player touches a set of spikes, Sonic does not receive mercy invincibility like he does after taking damage, meaning that if he rebounds off the spikes into another obstacle (like another set of spikes), he will be killed instantly. In short, if Sonic were to fall onto a bed of spikes, he would lose all his Rings, fall backwards and land on more spikes, losing a life. Later re-releases of Sonic the Hedgehog offer an option to toggle invincibility frames for spikes.

Sonic the Hedgehog (8-bit)
In the 8-bit version of Sonic the Hedgehog, spikes make a return appearance, with a graphical appearance similar to their 16-bit counterparts (though they are larger in comparison to Sonic). However, unlike the 16-bit counterpart, the "spike bug" is non-existent as the player gets a few seconds' invulnerability after getting hit.

Most other spiky obstacles from the 16-bit version are seen in the 8-bit version. In Jungle Zone Act 2, there are also wooden spikes sticking out of fallen tree trunks. The Game Gear port also features "!" signs that warn the player about upcoming spike pits.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (16-bit)
In the 16-bit version of Sonic the Hedgehog 2, the spikes consist of four metal spikes per set. Once again though, they have no base.

This time around, the spikes appear in groups or separately, and can also pop out of the ground. In addition, the spike bug from the previous game has been removed.

In this game, spikes are featured in almost every Zone (with a few exceptions). Chemical Plant Zone has only one set of spikes, which are located in an underwater area in Act 2. Mystic Cave Zone also features pits of spikes, including an infamous one which has no escape (until the 2013 re-release).

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (8-bit)
In the 8-bit version of Sonic the Hedgehog 2, the spikes consist of three metal spikes per set. Once again though, they have no base.

In this game, sets of spikes are featured in every Zone. It is also first game to feature different-colored spikes. Under Ground Zone has mostly dark yellow spikes on the ceilings, and some of them can fall down on Sonic when he passes underneath them. Also, Sky High Zone has yellow spikes in small ravines and deep pits. Also, white spikes can be found in underwater sections of Aqua Lake Zone and in the ravines and deep pits of Green Hills Zone. Cyan spikes are also seen in ravines and on the hall walls of Gimmick Mountain Zone. Lastly, white spikes are generally seen in Scrambled Egg Zone, while Crystal Egg Zone has pink and light yellow colored spikes.

Sonic the Hedgehog CD
In Sonic the Hedgehog CD, the spikes consists of four metal spikes per set. Once again though, they have no base.

In this game, spikes are featured in every time frame of every Round. This time around, spikes are mostly set separately over the course of the Zones and will sometimes pop in and out of the ground (or the ceiling, or the walls). They can also often get in the way when building up momentum for time traveling. Sometimes, two sets of spikes will also be connected to each other back-to-back. Also, in Collision Chaos there are blocks with spikes attached to them that pop out from under the ground.

During the Quartz Quadrant Boss battle, Dr. Robotnik will try to force Sonic, who is running on a Conveyor Belt, into some large green-yellow and orange spikes that adorn the entrance. Also, during the race with Metal Sonic, Metal Sonic will easily destroy any set of normal spikes that get in his way without slowing down.

Sonic Chaos
In Sonic Chaos, the spikes consist of three metal spikes per set. Once again though, they have no base.

In gameplay, there will occasionally be spikes that slide in and out of the ground periodically. Each Zone in the game (expect for Sleeping Egg Zone) also features different-colored sets of spikes. Dark yellow spikes are seen in Turquoise Hill Zone, Gigalopolis Zone has light blue spikes, Mecha Green Hill Zone has white and dark yellow spikes, Aqua Planet Zone has white spikes, and Electric Egg Zone has orange and white spikes.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 & Knuckles
In Sonic the Hedgehog 3, its add-on continuation Sonic & Knuckles, and the combined Sonic the Hedgehog 3 & Knuckles, the spikes consist of four closely-packed metal spikes. Once again though, they have no base. They are nearly identical to the spikes in Sonic the Hedgehog 2, but are whiter in color.

In gameplay, spikes can be found on the floor, walls and/or ceilings in every Zone. In addition to that, different Zones in the game feature different takes on the spikes. Marble Garden Zone, for example, features crushers with thin spikes on their bottom side. There is also the IceCap Zone where the spikes on the ceiling and floor in the caverns are designed like frozen icicles. Flying Battery Zone also has slightly different, animated spikes that can be moved by pushing. By pushing these spike sets to the side, one can reveal hidden passages underneath them.

In Marble Garden Zone in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Sonic the Hedgehog 3 & Knuckles, there is a Badnik called Spiker that looks like a set of spikes. The spikes on this Badnik however, are bouncy like a Spring, and the Badnik itself will rise slightly out of the ground and shoot projectiles when the player gets near it.

Sonic the Hedgehog Triple Trouble
in Sonic the Hedgehog Triple Trouble, the spikes consist of four white metal spikes per set. Once again though, they have no base.

In gameplay, the spikes appear in every Zone, and will occasionally slide in and out of the surfaces they are embedded in. Also, if the player is riding a Spin Coaster in Sunset Park Zone, they can easily run over and destroy spikes.

Knuckles' Chaotix
In Knuckles' Chaotix, the spikes consist of four gray closely packed metal spikes per set. Once again though, they have no base.

In gameplay, spikes are featured in every Stage of the game. However, the sets are generally placed separated rather than being set in groups.

Tails Adventure
In Tails Adventure, the spikes make a return. This time, however, they are mostly part of the environment in the levels themselves rather than being separate structures set on the walls or floor.

In this game, the spikes' design depends on the level. Poloy Forest, Green Island and Caron Forest have wooden/stony spikes; Volcanic Tunnel and Cavern Island have gray and pointy stone formations; Polly Mt. 1 has green-brown stalactite-based spikes; Polly Mt. 2 has red stalactite-based spikes; Coco Island has gray metal spikes; and Battle Fortress 2 have orange metal spikes.

Sonic Labyrinth
In Sonic Labyrinth, the spikes consist of four gray metal spikes per set, which are arranged in a square pattern. Once again though, they have no base.

In gameplay, the spikes are only featured in a few Zones. They also pop out and back into the ground in intervals.

Sonic 3D Blast
In Sonic 3D Blast, the spikes make a return appearance. In this game, however, two distinctive types of spikes are used.

The first type is featured more generally in the game, and are located on gray plates with five red holes in them from which the spikes protrude and retract. These spike plates usually appear in two rows. If the player steps on these plates, metal spikes will pop out to harm Sonic. In Gene Gadget Zone, these sets of spikes are also electrocuted. The second type of spikes appear only in Gene Gadget Zone. These spikes have gray plates and tall stationary metal spikes protruding from them, and only appear in rows.

Sonic Blast
In Sonic Blast, the spikes consist of three gray metal spikes with yellow details per set. Once again though, they have no base.

In gameplay, spikes are featured in every Zone in the game, while many of said Zones having floors and crushing walls covered in spikes.

Sonic Adventure
In Sonic Adventure and Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut, the spikes consist of a square plate base each that is colored gray. These plates have a light gray top surface and four thick, gray metal spikes protruding from four holes.

In gameplay, the spikes are featured in every Action Stage of the game. Their metal spikes also slide in and out of their plate. Like in Sonic 3D Blast, these spike plates are organized in row carpets. However, their plates are easy to spot on the ground.

Sonic Pocket Adventure
Spikes make an appearance in Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure. Most sets have four spikes, but there are also many sets with only two spikes, particularly in Sky Chase Zone and Aerobase Zone. Some of these spikes pop out and retract at set intervals. Spikes are featured in most of the main zones in the game with the exception of Secret Plant. However, Eggman's vehicle in Secret Plant uses two platforms with spikes on the bottom of them.

Sonic Adventure 2
Spikes make an appearance in Sonic Adventure 2, with a different appearance and movement style than Sonic Adventure, but grouped in a similar way. More conventional spikes are located in the unlockable Green Hill stage. Because this stage is a 3D variation of the zone from the original Sonic the Hedgehog, spikes are located in similar positions to their 16-bit counterpart. Spike balls are seen in normal action stages. One type of G.U.N. enemy, the Rhino Spike, has spikes on top of it to defend itself.

Sonic Advance games
Spikes appear in the three Sonic Advance games, with similar appearances and methods to earlier games. However, there are now five spikes in one set. Spikes can also pop out of the ground or ceiling. Casino Paradise Zone and Angel Island Zone feature moving platforms that have spikes on the top of bottom. Music Plant in Sonic Advance 2 has yellow and white colored spikes, while Techno Base features sets of three thick, electric spikes that can also disappear and comes back few seconds later. Ocean Base in Sonic Advance 3 has crushers that activate spikes on their tops if the player tries to move above them, while Toy Kingdom features colorful sets of spikes.

There are several other spike obstacles, including moving yellow spike balls and spinning wheels with spikes on them in Egg Rocket Zone, boxes that include springs or spikes in Toy Kingdom, and spike balls on seesaws. Several of Eggman's robots are armed with spikes, as well as many of Eggman's vehicles.

Sonic Rush games
Spikes are featured in both Sonic Rush and Sonic Rush Adventure, once again with five spikes per set. Spikes are located as separated obstacles or in large spike pits, which the player must cross numerous times with different gimmicks. Several boss machines use spikes as weaponry.

Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)
Spikes make an appearance in Sonic the Hedgehog (2006), as four spikes will pop out from each black plate like in previous titles. Spikes can either be set in a row or in square formations. The game also features spike balls as separate obstacles, which Silver can use his Psychokinesis on to launch at enemies. Spiked traps are also featured in certain action stages.

Sonic Storybook Series
Spikes are widely featured in both Sonic and the Secret Rings and Sonic and the Black Knight, as there are now eight narrower spikes on one set. Spikes are mostly seen on floors and walls. As the player has to balance on walls at certain stages, they have to watch out for spikes coming out of plates. Spike balls are also seen moving in the air to certain directions.

Sonic Unleashed
Spikes appear in Sonic Unleashed as one of the more general obstacles, appearing in almost every zone. These plates have 13 narrower spikes. Spikes can now also appear on grind rails, and the player has to dodge them by jumping to another grind rail. Some spikes are also set in fences which the player has to dodge during Quick Step sections. Spike balls and spiked traps also return in the game.

Sonic the Hedgehog 4
Spikes make an appearance in both episodes of Sonic the Hedgehog 4, with each set having five spikes like in the Sonic Advance games. Spikes are located in every zone of the game and have the same methods from previous games, including popping out of the ground. Lost Labyrinth Zone Act 3 features an infamous spike placement, which is set in the upper corner of the water tunnel's end. It is hard to recognize, and the player is able to lose all their rings with none being available beyond that point. In Oil Desert Zone's boss battle, certain boxes contain spikes that will pop out if the player stands above it.

Sonic Colors
Spikes appear in both versions of Sonic Colors. The Nintendo DS version features sets with five spikes on them like in the Sonic Rush games, while the Wii version features sets with thirteen spikes on them, like in Sonic Unleashed.

Color Powers, with the exception of the Pink Spikes and Green Hover, make a player invulnerable to Spikes. In Sweet Mountain, there are Egg Pawns in the background that the player can destroy with Spikes by pressing Switches: the player can either activate plates with Spikes under Egg Pawns to skewer them, or drop Egg Pawns on platforms into Spikes.

Sonic Generations
Spikes are seen in both versions of Sonic Generations, in both the Classic and Modern acts of stages. Like in Sonic Adventure, there are five spikes on one black plate. In Act 2, spikes are seen in Quick Step sections and are also set in grind rails, like in previous games. Rooftop Run Act 2 features a Quick Step section where Eggman's ship drops spinning barrels with spikes on them.

Sonic Lost World
Spikes in Sonic Lost World use the same design from Sonic Generations, with five spikes on each base. While spikes are set on walls and floors, iron balls appear as well, set in rows or in narrow canyons, where the player has to use parkour movements to get through.

Sonic Runners
Spikes make another appearance in Sonic Runners, where they have the same design as in recent games. One or more sets of Spikes are (usually) placed on the lower pathway. In this game, after taking damage from hitting a set of spikes, the player character will get stunned while still moving forward. The edges of the screen will also turn red as a caution signal.

Sonic Runners Adventure
Spikes reappear in Sonic Runners Adventure, functioning similar as to how they did in the game's predecessor.

Sonic Mania
The Spikes reappear in Sonic Mania, and its expansion Sonic Mania Plus. In Press Garden Zone, there is a frozen variant that behaves like normal spikes, but can be destroyed with a Fire Shield. Additionally, in Lava Reef Zone the player can destroy spikes using a walking platform

Sonic Forces: Speed Battle
In Sonic Forces: Speed Battle, spikes are obstacles that are randomly placed in different areas on the tracks.

Sonic Forces
The Spikes make an appearance in Sonic Forces.

Other appearances
Spikes are featured in a few levels of Sonic Labyrinth, where there are four spikes on each set. Spikes are also featured in every zone of Sonic Blast. This game only features three spikes on each set, while many zones also have floors and crushing walls with spikes. Spikes are also seen in Tails Adventure, where they are mostly part of the environment of the island itself rather than being separate structures set into the walls or floor. Spikes are featured in the Sonic Jump mobile games, as the player has to avoid platforms that have sets of spikes on them. Sets of five spikes are also seen in Sonic Dash, which can be dodged or jumped over while moving. Touching spikes makes the player lose any Rings that they have collected.

Iron balls
Iron balls are variants that are described as heavy black or gray balls that are covered in white- or gray-colored spikes. Like spikes, they are dangerous obstacles. They come in multiple sized and function differently in each Zone, either moving in a certain pattern in mid-air, or swinging around on chains. Since Sonic Adventure, iron balls have become more common obstacles. These obstacles may be swinging around, or moving up and down on one spot.

Crushers
In many Sonic the Hedgehog games, crushers in certain Zones can have sets of spikes on their crushing edge. Despite this, they function just like any regular crushers.

Spike Traps
Spike Traps, variants of Weights, are obstacles that appear in the console/PC versions of Sonic Generations. Spike Traps have sets of Spikes placed on their bottom surface. The player can jump on them but avoid getting crushed by them.

Giant spears
Giant spears are minor obstacles that work much like regular Spikes, except they protrude and retract in intervals. In several games, they are also thrown from midair.

Frozen Spikes
A Variant of spikes that is exclusive to Press Garden Zone Act 2 in Sonic Mania. They behave like normal spikes, but they have a translucent blue palette and they can be destroyed with a Flame Shield.

Sonic the Hedgehog Story Comic
In Sonic the Hedgehog Story Comic Volume 2 story "Clash!! South Island", spikes briefly ambushed Sonic during the dangerous tunnel sections in Marble Zone.

Sonic the Comic
In Sonic the Comic, Spikes are inexplicable hazards littered across Mobius in large pits placed near cliffs. In many instances, Spikes are traps as seen in Green Hill Zone, Labyrinth Zone and Casino Night Zone. Occasionally through the comic's run, characters would be in danger to fall down into these spike pits, but it is usually Badniks like Rhinobot who fall into them. In rare cases, the landscapes are littered with Spikes.

Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie
In Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie, Spikes made a brief appearance. As Sonic and Tails travelled to Robotropolis, they came across numerous sets of spikes with yellow sharp heads in the forest. As Sonic dodges them, he also manages to destroy a few of them.

Sonic Mania Adventures
In Sonic Mania Adventures, Dr. Eggman employed the use of spikes in an attempt to trap Sonic. Unfortunately for Eggman, Sonic turned the tables on him.

Trivia

 * One of the scrapped gimmicks in the original Sonic the Hedgehog was a horizontal crusher with spikes, intended for Marble Zone. The object can still be placed in Debug Mode, but doesn't appear to have programming.