The Flasher[1] (フラッシャー[2] Furasshā?) is an enemy in the Sonic the Hedgehog series. It is a mass-produced, firefly-based Badnik model created by Dr. Robotnik.
Appearance[]
Flashers are rather small Badniks comparing to other models. Based off of fireflies, they have a small red head with two grey antennae and two eyes with black dots for pupils. The upper part of their body is black, while their underside is flat with an electric bulb covering it.
Overview[]
The Flashers originally appeared in the 16-bit version of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 as enemies, where they can be found in Mystic Cave Zone.
In gameplay, the Flashers float around. Most of the time they are found in corners, narrow routes and can even fly through walls. Unlike enemies like Whisps, they do not usually move around in groups. Their flying pattern is also rather erratic. When a Flasher stops in one place after floating for three seconds, it creates a flashing barrier from its bulb that makes it impossible to hit it and cause damage to the player if they touch it. Even when the player has obtained Invincible or has gained invulnerability from taking damage, the Flasher stays invulnerable until it lowers its shield, upon where it can be taken out with a Spin Jump. With this ability, Flasher can block narrow routes. Also, upon their destruction, they release an Animal.
Powers and abilities[]
The Flashers are capable of flight. They also possess the ability to generate a completely impenetrable electrical force-field around themselves that can block any attack and as well electrocute those that make contact with it.
In other media[]
Books and comics[]
Sonic the Comic[]
Sonic and Tails facing a Flasher swarm in Sonic the Comic 23. Art by Richard Elson.
In the Sonic the Comic series published by Fleetway Editions, Flashers appear as part of Robotnik's Badnik army. Usually flying on swarms, Flashers were first seen attacking Sonic and Tails in Mystic Cave Zone, who had come to rescue Amy from Captain Plunder.
IDW Publishing[]
A Flasher, from Sonic the Hedgehog: Imposter Syndrome #4.
In the Sonic the Hedgehog comic series and its spin-offs published by IDW Publishing, when Dr. Starline took over the Eggman Empire, he sent out an override code that brought Badniks all over the world under his control, including the Flashers.[3]
Trivia[]
- In Sonic the Hedgehog CD, an enemy named Hotaru is similar to Flasher, as both being firefly-type Badniks and able to electrocute target with its weaponry.
- In its artwork as shown in Sonic Jam's Sonic World galleries, Flasher's name is misspelled as "Frasher".[4]
Gallery[]
Artwork[]
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 Artwork by Tyler McGrath, posted on the official Sonic Twitter account. |
Screenshots[]
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See also[]
References[]
- ↑ Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (Sega Mega Drive) United States instruction booklet, p. 14.
- ↑ Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (Sega Mega Drive) Japanese instruction booklet, p. 50.
- ↑ Sonic the Hedgehog: Imposter Syndrome #4, story one
- ↑ One of the artworks showcasing Asteron, Frasher and Crawlton from the Sonic World feature of Sonic Jam.
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