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Press the Cross Button after jumping to launch a Homing Attack that zeroes in on enemies!


Omochao, Sonic Generations (PlayStation 3)

The Homing Attack (ホーミングアタック Hōmingu Atakku?) is a move that appears in the Sonic the Hedgehog series. It is a technique that allows the user to swerve while in midair, automatically zeroing in and striking a nearby enemy with a midair Spin Attack.

To date, the Homing Attack is one of Sonic the Hedgehog's most recognizable trademark attacks. Since its debut, others have picked up the move as well, making it one of the most frequently used techniques in the series.

Description[]

Homing attack02

Sonic targeting a Spinner with the Homing Attack, from the Xbox 360/PlayStation 3 version of Sonic Unleashed.

Sonic describes the basics of the Homing Attack as "don't think; roll". To perform this move, or at least how the blue hedgehog learned it, the user must have first mastered the ability to curl into a ball. After that, they must look at their opponent's direction and jump really high.[1] They then curl into a ball and launch straight into the target. After hitting, the attack's force will cause the user to bounce off the opponent. The user will then usually strike a pose. Also, when performing the Homing Attack, the user typically leaves a colored aura trail in their wake. The color of this trail depends on the user.

In gameplay, as its name implies, the Homing Attack allows the user to home directly into a nearby enemy with a target-seeking attack. However, it can only hit one target at a time. If it hits an enemy or breakable object, the Homing Attack will inflict damage. In addition, if used on a row of targets, the technique can be chained to both attacking and skipping across said targets after the Homing Attack makes the player bounce off them, which can be used to traverse certain sections of a level which are otherwise inaccessible. Aside from enemies, the Homing Attack can also be used to quickly target other objects, such as Springs, Grind Rails, Balloons, and Item Boxes. When hitting gimmicks like Springs and Grind Rails however, the Homing Attack's "bounce off" motions get negated by the gimmicks' functions.

The homing attack

Sonic targeting a Spring with the Homing Attack, from the Xbox 360/PlayStation 3 version of Sonic Unleashed.

In case the target starts moving as the Homing Attack is executed, it can still catch up with no problem. However, in games like Sonic Unleashed and Sonic Generations, if the target is moving at the same rate as the user, such as a boss, the user will stop chasing the target after about four seconds and cancel the Homing Attack. Regardless, some games increase the speed of the Homing Attack. Also, the "bounce off" motions that occur have varied from game to game.

HomingAttackChain

Sonic using a chain of Homing Attacks on a row of enemies, from the Xbox 360/PlayStation 3 version of Sonic Unleashed.

In gameplay, the Homing Attack will generally attack the closest target whom the user of the Homing Attack is facing towards while within the Homing Attack's range. As such, by using the characters' movement controls when launching the Homing Attack, the player will have limited control of the direction of the Homing Attack when there is more than one possible target. Also, a general rule about the Homing Attack is that it cannot target something that is located above the user, meaning the playable characters have to get on level or above what they seek to attack in order for the Homing Attack to lock onto it. Also, in the early games in the Sonic series, there was no indication of what had been targeted by the Homing Attack. As of Sonic and the Secret Rings, however, a targeting reticle/cursor now appears above those whom the Homing Attack has targeted. If there are no targets within the Homing Attack's range when the move is executed however, then the player will (in most cases) perform the Jump Dash instead.

In some games, the Homing Attack can send lesser enemies flying backward for a while before they blow up. If these flying enemies hit an enemy or breakable object that is in their flight path, then these recipients will be destroyed as well.

Game appearances[]

Sonic 3D Blast[]

Gold-Shield-&-Blast-Attack

Sonic using the Sonic Blast Attack, from Sonic 3D Blast.

In Sonic 3D Blast, the Homing Attack (or what could be considered a predecessor to it) was featured as a technique exclusive to Sonic named the Sonic Blast Attack,[2][3] or just the Blast Attack[2][3] (ブラストアタック Burasutoatakku?), although it was not an intrinsic ability of Sonic at this point. To use the Sonic Blast Attack in gameplay, the player has to possess a Gold Shield.

In gameplay, much like the Homing Attack, the Sonic Blast Attack causes Sonic to home straight into a nearby enemy for an attack. However, the Blast Attack cannot chain attacks. Also, Sonic cannot jump dash with this move when there are no enemies nearby and will instead go straight down to the ground. To perform the Sonic Blast Attack in gameplay, the player must press Sega Genesis A Button/Sega Genesis C Button // Sega Saturn A Button/Sega Saturn C Button during a jump while near an enemy.

Sonic Adventure[]

ECSONIC2

Sonic using the Homing Attack, from Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut.

In Sonic Adventure and its enhanced port Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut, the Homing Attack was officially introduced. In this game, it is primarily used by Sonic the Hedgehog and Super Sonic. It is also used by Metal Sonic, but only in Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut. When using the Homing Attack in this game, the user leaves a colored trail. The user will also stay in spinball form after the Homing Attack makes them bounce off their target.

During the Character Conflicts with Sonic, Sonic will attempt to attack the player with the Homing Attack.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player has to press A/A Button GameCube v2 in mid-jump while near a possible homing target.

Sonic Adventure 2[]

CCGC57

Sonic using the Homing Attack, from Sonic Adventure 2: Battle.

In Sonic Adventure 2 and its enhanced port Sonic Adventure 2: Battle, the Homing Attack is used primarily by Sonic and Shadow in the main storyline. It can also be used by Metal Sonic and Amy, but only in the game's multiplayer mode. When using the Homing Attack in this game, the users leave a colored trail. The users will also perform various tricks after the Homing Attack makes them bounce off their target.

During the boss fights with Sonic/Shadow, the bosses will use the Homing Attack while they jump around or to attack the player.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player has to press A/A Button GameCube v2 in mid-jump while near a possible homing target. In addition, the player can cancel the Homing Attack in mid-flight by pressing the attack button. When canceled, the character will keep his/her current velocity, uncurl, and no longer home in on the target.

Sonic Advance series[]

Sonic Advance 2[]

Adv2 sonic homing
Sonic Advance 2 Homing Attack

Sonic using the Homing Attack, from Sonic Advance 2.

In Sonic Advance 2, the Homing Attack is used exclusively by Sonic. When using the Homing Attack in this game, rather than leaving a colored trail, Sonic leaves color-shaded afterimages in his wake.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player must press GameboyA while jumping near a possible homing target.

Sonic Advance 3[]

In Sonic Advance 3, the Homing Attack is used by Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles. In this game, the move retains its traits and visual presentation from Sonic Advance 2.

For the respective characters to use the Homing Attack, they must each be paired up with Cream the Rabbit. To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay with Sonic and Tails, the player must press GameboyA while mid-jump near a possible homing target. Knuckles on the other hand, can use the Homing Attack by pressing GameboyB near an enemy while using the Mid-Air Glide.

Sonic Heroes[]

In Sonic Heroes, the Homing Attack is a Speed Formation maneuver used primarily by Sonic on Team Sonic, Amy on Team Rose, Shadow on Team Dark, and Espio on Team Chaotix. When using the Homing Attack in this game, the user leaves a colored trail. The user will also perform a variety of flips or spins after the Homing Attack makes them bounce off their target.

In gameplay, when performing the Homing Attack, the user's teammates will occasionally follow through with the maneuver, thereby tripling the Homing Attack's attack power. Curiously, while in Speed Formation, the user's teammates can reach enemies with their Homing Attacks that are otherwise too high above the player's character to reach with their Homing Attack, even when the enemies are right above them. This breaks the general rule that one cannot aim a Homing Attack at targets at higher elevations than the character.

By collecting blue Power Cores during gameplay, the player can increase the power and nature of the Homing Attack. The levels of power are as follows:

  • Level 0: The attack causes one hit point of damage to the targeted enemy. When used, it leaves an aura trail from the respective character.
  • Level 1: The attack causes two hit points of damage to the targeted enemy. When used, rings are projected from the user's aura - Sonic, green; Shadow, magenta; Amy, blue; Espio, orange.
  • Level 2: The attack causes three hit points of damage to the targeted enemy. When used, the projected rings become larger.
  • Level 3: The attack causes three hit points of damage to the targeted enemy. The attack also simultaneously triggers the same effects as a Tornado Jump. When used, it showcases the effects from Rocket Accel.

To perform the Homing Attack technique in gameplay, the selected team must be in Speed Formation. The player then has to press Cross/XboxA/A Button GameCube v2/[SPACE] during a jump or fall while near a possible homing target to execute the Homing Attack. In addition, the player can cancel the Homing Attack in mid-flight by pressing the attack button. When canceled, the character will, like in Sonic Adventure 2, keep their current velocity, uncurl, and no longer home in on the target.

Also worth noting is that when in Power Formation, the Speed and Fly characters on the team will automatically Homing Attack nearby enemies.

Sonic Rush series[]

Sonic Rush[]

In Sonic Rush, the Homing Attack is only used by Sonic. When performing the Homing Attack in this game, Sonic leaves no colored trail or afterimages in his wake. He also does not perform any tricks after the Homing Attack makes him bounce off his target.

Gameplay-wise, the Homing Attack works like it did in the Sonic Advance series. It also cannot be used on Springs and Grind Rails, although it can still target Item Boxes. To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player has to press RBUTTONDSSNNdisco during a jump while near a possible homing target. It cannot be activated if the player uses a gimmick, such as a Spring or Ramp, to get into midair, however.

Sonic Rush Adventure[]

In Sonic Rush Adventure, the Homing Attack is again only used by Sonic. In this game, the Homing Attack works and looks exactly like it did in Sonic Rush, except that Sonic stays in spinball form after bouncing off his targets. Like in Sonic Rush, to perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player has to press RBUTTONDSSNNdisco during a jump while near a possible homing target.

Shadow the Hedgehog[]

COSMICFALL6

Shadow using the Homing Attack, from Shadow the Hedgehog.

In Shadow the Hedgehog, the Homing Attack is primarily used by Shadow. It is also used by the Shadow Androids in the game's multiplayer. When performing the Homing Attack in this game, the user leaves a colored trail. The user will also perform a variety of flips after the Homing Attack makes them bounce off their target.

The Homing Attack is also used by Sonic in the stages where he appears as Shadow's partner. Also, during the boss fight against Diablon and Sonic, Sonic will use the Homing Attack to attack the player. However, Sonic's Homing Attack can here get canceled out with the player's own Spin Jump or Homing Attack. Interestingly, Sonic is able to aim a Homing Attack at targets at higher elevations than himself, despite the fact that Sonic has to be a bit above his targets in other games. This even works when Sonic is directly above a target, where in that case a Jump Dash would occur instead.

In gameplay, the player's Homing Attack does minimal damage to enemies. To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player has to press A Button GameCube v2/Cross/XboxA during a jump or fall while near a possible homing target.

Curiously, if one player in multiplayer launches a Spin Dash away from another's Homing attack, it is shown that they cannot escape it, unless they block it with another Spin Attack-derived move, or being shielded by certain obstacles that can be destroyed by a Jump Dash and Homing Attack alike; which as it also applies to any target that will put Shadow in a Homing Attack state, any object that can be destroyed can block the Homing Attack and cause one to bounce off of it despite not being targetable.

Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)[]

Sonic06screen3

Sonic using the Homing Attack, from Sonic the Hedgehog (2006).

In Sonic the Hedgehog (2006), the Homing Attack is used by both Sonic and Shadow. When using the Homing Attack in this game, the user only leaves a faint color trail, although they still emit a bright glow; Sonic in particular emits a rainbow-colored glow in this game rather than his standard blue. The user will also perform a single body flip after the Homing Attack makes them bounce off their target.

During the boss battle with Sonic, Sonic will attempt to attack the player with the Homing Attack.

In gameplay, hitting certain lesser enemies with the Homing Attack will result in said enemies being sent flying backwards for a moment before they blow up. If these enemies hit a breakable object or lesser enemy while flying, then they will get destroyed too (or at least take damage). To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player has to press Cross/XboxA in midair while near a possible homing target.

Sonic Rivals series[]

Sonic Rivals[]

HomingAttackRivals

Silver using the Homing Attack, from Sonic Rivals.

In Sonic Rivals, the Homing Attack is used by all five playable characters. When using the Homing Attack in this game, the user leaves a colored trail. Also, when bouncing off lesser enemies after hitting them with the Homing Attack, the user will stay in spinball form. If the player hits an opposing rival character with the Homing Attack however, the user will instead strike a pose after they bounce off of them.

In gameplay, the Homing Attack has a relatively short range. To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the user has to press Cross in midair while near a possible homing target.

Sonic Rivals 2[]

In Sonic Rivals 2, the Homing Attack is available to all eight playable characters. In this game, the move retains its traits and visual presentation from Sonic Rivals. To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the user has to press Cross/Circle in midair while near a possible homing target.

Sonic and the Secret Rings[]

HomingAttackSatSR

Sonic using the Homing Attack, from Sonic and the Secret Rings.

In Sonic and the Secret Rings, the Homing Attack is only used by Sonic. When using the Homing Attack in this game, Sonic does not curl into a spinball. However, he does leave a colored trail and will perform various tricks after bouncing off his target.

In gameplay, the Homing Attack is a Skill available from the beginning of the game that costs ten Skill Points to be equipped. The game also features a number of additional Skills that allow the player to customize the Homing Attack's mechanics:

  • Homing Dash: Enables the player to attack again after launching a successful Homing Attack
  • Homing Cancel: Lets the player negate a Homing Attack by pressing Snnwii2buttondisco.
  • H-Expand: Increases a Homing Attack's range
  • Fire Lock-On: Lets the player target Fire Souls with the Homing Attack.
  • Homing Stability: Decreases a Homing Attack's recovery time.
  • Expert Attack: Experience is gained with each Homing Attack.
  • Homing Bonus: Bonus experience for defeating multiple enemies with Homing Attack.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player first has to press Snnwii2buttondisco while near a possible homing target to perform a slide and find a green cursor placed upon the target. Next, perform a jump to lock-on to the target in midair (locked when the cursor turns red), then quickly flip the Wii Remote in a forward direction for the Homing Attack.

Sonic Unleashed[]

Sonic-Unleashed460

Sonic using the Homing Attack, from the Wii/PlayStation 2 version of Sonic Unleashed.

In both the Xbox 360/PlayStation 3 version and the Wii/PlayStation 2 version of Sonic Unleashed, the Homing Attack is used exclusively by Sonic the Hedgehog in the daytime Stages. When performing the Homing Attack in this game, Sonic leaves a colored trail. Sonic will also perform a variety of flips and tricks after the Homing Attack makes him bounce off his target.

In gameplay of the Wii/PlayStation 2 version of Sonic Unleashed, hitting certain ground-bound enemies (like Egg Fighters) with the Homing Attack will result in said enemies being sent flying backwards a few meters before they blow up. Also, if the player connects enemies and certain gimmicks in succession via Homing Attacks, it will trigger Action Chains, which fill the Boost Gauge.

In gameplay of the Xbox 360/PlayStation 3 version of Sonic Unleashed, certain ground-bound enemies like the Egg Fighters will be sent flying backwards a distance when hit by the Homing Attack. If these enemies hit a breakable object or enemy while flying, then they will get destroyed too.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, Sonic must first get airborne by either jumping or utilizing a gimmick while near a possible homing target. Then, when a cursor (red on the Wii/PlayStation 2; green on the Xbox 360/PlayStation 3) appears above the target, use one of the following commands to execute the Homing Attack:

PS2 Wii PS3 Xbox 360
Wii Remote Classic
Controller
GameCube
controller
Cross Shake Wii Remote Wii-classic b button/Wii-classic x button A Button GameCube v2/Gamecube X Button/Gamecube Y Button Square XboxX

Sonic the Hedgehog 4[]

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I[]

Sonic4Episode1 HomingAttack

Sonic using the Homing Attack, from Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I.

In Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I, the Homing Attack is used by Sonic and Super Sonic. When performing the Homing Attack in this game, Sonic sets off with a burst of speed while leaving behind a colored trail. He also performs a single flip after the Homing Attack makes him bounce off his target.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player must first get into midair while near a possible homing target. Then, when a red cursor appears above the target, press XboxA/XboxB/Cross/Circle/Snnwii2buttondisco to execute the Homing Attack.

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II[]

Sonic-4-Episode-2-Zone-1-Act-3-Screen-4-620x

Sonic using the Homing Attack, from Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II.

In Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II, the Homing Attack is used by Sonic and Super Sonic again. In this game, the Homing Attack works and looks exactly like it did in Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode I, except that Sonic will perform different tricks after bouncing off his targets. In the game's additional episode, Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode Metal, the Homing Attack is available to Metal Sonic as well.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player must first get into midair while near a possible homing target. Then, when a red cursor appears above the target, press XboxA/Cross to execute the Homing Attack.

Sonic Colors[]

Dolphin 2015-09-05 19-02-55-398

Sonic using the Homing Attack, from the Wii version of Sonic Colors.

In both the Wii version and Nintendo DS version of Sonic Colors, and the remaster Sonic Colors: Ultimate, the Homing Attack is mainly used by Sonic. On the Wii version and in Sonic Colors: Ultimate, it is also used by Super Sonic and the Virtual Hedgehogs. The Mii can also use it, but only on the Wii version of the game.

When performing the Homing Attack on the Wii version, the user leaves a colored trail. The user will also perform a variety of tricks after the Homing Attack makes them bounce off their target. When performing the Homing Attack on the Nintendo DS version, Sonic leaves afterimages in his wake instead of a colored trail. Sonic will also stay in spinball form after the Homing Attack makes him bounce off his target. In Sonic Colors: Ultimate, the user leaves a rainbow-colored trail as opposed to the blue-colored trail from the Wii version.

In gameplay of the Wii version and in Sonic Colors: Ultimate, hitting certain ground-bound enemies (like Egg Pawns) with the Homing Attack will result in said enemies being sent flying into midair before they blow up. Also, in Sonic Colors: Ultimate, the move has two targeting cursors that eventually overlap each other; using the Homing Attack the second these two cursors touch each other will result in the player accumulating a small amount of energy for the Boost Gauge and a short chime playing. On the Nintendo DS version, the Homing Attack displays no outstanding traits in gameplay.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player must first get into midair while near a possible homing target. Then, when a red cursor appears above the target, use one of the following commands to execute the Homing Attack:

Wii Xbox One PS4 Switch PC
Wii Remote
(sideways)
Wii Remote
& Nunchuk
Classic
Controller
GameCube
controller
Snnwii2buttondisco WiiDSA Wii-classic a button A Button GameCube v2 A button Cross Switch b

Sonic Generations[]

Sonic Generations 2014-11-6-23-38-54-492

Modern Sonic using the Homing Attack, from the console/PC version of Sonic Generations.

In the console/PC version and Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Generations, the Homing Attack is used by Modern and Classic Sonic, as well as Modern Super Sonic on the console/PC version of the game. When performing the Homing Attack in this game, the Sonics leaves a colored trail. The Sonics will also perform a variety of tricks after the Homing Attack makes them bounce off their target.

In gameplay on the console/PC version of Sonic Generations, Modern Sonic and Modern Super Sonic can use the Homing Attack by default. Meanwhile, Classic Sonic can only perform the Homing Attack when he has the Homing Attack Skill equipped. Also, in Modern Sonic's case, there is a Skill called Serial Homing that lets him chain Homing Attacks faster. In addition, hitting certain ground-bound enemies with the Homing Attack will result in said enemies being sent flying into midair before they blow up.

Gold Beetle 4

Modern Sonic using the Homing Attack, from the Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Generations.

In gameplay on the Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Generations, the Homing Attack is a part of both Modern and Classic Sonic's default moveset. However, while Modern Sonic's Homing Attack is available from the beginning of the game, Classic Sonic's is automatically unlocked after defeating the Big Arm. It should be noted that if Classic Sonic attempts to use the Homing Attack on the Big Arm while it moves into the background, Classic Sonic will either hit it or go right past it, depending on the timing.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the Sonics must first get into midair while near a possible homing target. Then, when a reticle (red on the Nintendo 3DS; green on the console/PC) appears above the target, press XboxA/Cross/WiiDSA/DSB to execute the Homing Attack.

Sonic Lost World[]

Why is he targetting to Moto Bugs eyes

Sonic using the Homing Attack as part of a Focused Homing Attack, from the Wii U version of Sonic Lost World.

In the Wii U version, Nintendo 3DS version and PC version of Sonic Lost World, the Homing Attack is used mainly by Sonic and his Super State. On the Wii U exclusively, the Virtual Hedgehogs are also capable of using the Homing Attack.

When performing the Homing Attack on the Wii U/PC version of the game, the user leaves a colored trail. The user will also stay in spinball form after the Homing Attack makes them bounce off their target. Notably, this version's Homing Attack will carry Sonic up in an arc, guaranteeing that he will always strike the enemy from the top. When performing the Homing Attack on the Nintendo 3DS version, Sonic leaves a colored trail as well, and will stop spinning after bouncing off the enemy. However, he does not travel in an arc, and will still not strike any poses.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player must first approach a target until a target mark (red on the Wii U/PC; yellow/red on the Nintendo 3DS) appears above it. The player then has to jump to lock onto the target and press the following buttons while in midair to execute the Homing Attack:

Wii U PC 3DS
Keyboard Xbox 360
controller
Xbox One
controller
WiiDSA WiiDSA/DSB

By targeting multiple targets, or just targeting a single target multiple times, the player can launch a Focused Homing Attack. This attack lets the player attack multiple targets in a row or launch an extra powerful Homing Attack at a single target. However, a fully charged attack will cause Sonic to uncurl and strike a pose, and until he lands he will not be able to Homing Attack again. This also occurs if the player uses six unfocused Homing Attacks attacks in a row without landing.

Sonic Forces[]

In Sonic Forces, the Homing Attack is only used by Sonic, Super Sonic and Shadow (the two latter of whom are only available through DLC). When performing the Homing Attack in this game, the user leaves a colored trail while surrounded in a buzz saw-shaped aura. However, the user only has 1 trick that they do after the Homing Attack makes them bounce off their target.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player must first get into midair while near a possible homing target. Then, when a green reticle appears above the target, press Switch b/Cross/A button to execute the Homing Attack.

Sonic Frontiers[]

Homing-Attack-Open-Zone-Sonic-Frontiers-Overview-Trailer

Sonic using the Homing Attack on Balloons, from Sonic Frontiers

In Sonic Frontiers, the Homing Attack (ホーミングアタック[4][5] Hōmingu Atakku?) appears as one of Sonic's basic moves in Open Zone areas and Cyber Space stages. Unlike in previous mainline games, when Sonic performs the move in his Spin Attack mode, he leaves a simple wind trail and has a small buzz saw-shaped aura around him when hitting his target.[6] Amy and Knuckles could also perform the Homing Attack. In this game, the Homing Attack's mechanics are adjusted with different functions in two different gameplay modes, as the target cursor for the Homing Attack takes the shape of an white upside down triangle with three short lines connected to triangle corners.[6][7] In Open Zone areas, the target cursor is also shown to have downwards pointing arrow above, that is being dedicated for Lock on mechanic, but it is not included in Cyber Space stages.[6] The triangle icon appears right when the player approaches close to the target cursor to perform the Homing Attack, such as objects, gimmicks, enemies and guardians.

In gameplay, there are two ways of performing the Homing Attack: Sonic can regularly set off doing the move towards the target cursor by pressing Square/X button after performing the Spin Jump.[8] The second, faster method to perform the Homing Attack is to simply press Square/X button without need to jump, when the target cursor is locked in front of Sonic on the ground or in the mid-air.[4][5] It is possible to cancel the Homing Attack towards the target with the Homing Attack Cancel Stomp by quickly pressing B button to perform the Stomp right after executing the move.[8] The player is unable to peform the Homing Attack in Grind Rails.[9][5]

The game excludes the Jump Dash as an alternative move and is replaced by basic chain combo attacks, when pressing Square/X button without target cursors on sight. Exclusive to the Open Zone gameplay, when hitting the enemy, the player can continue doing chain combo attacks at the target right after striking it with the Homing Attack.[8]

Sonic Superstars[]

In Sonic Superstars, the Homing Attack is a unique ability that Sonic can use if Extra is selected, in which the later can be selected if the white Chaos Emerald is obtained.[10]

Sonic Dream Team[]

Other game appearances[]

Super Smash Bros. series[]

Super Smash Bros. Brawl[]

HomingAttackBrawl

Sonic using the Homing Attack on Lucario, from Super Smash Bros. Brawl.

In Super Smash Bros. Brawl, the Homing Attack is Sonic's neutral special move. In this game, several of the Homing Attack's mechanics have been changed. In addition, the move takes longer to perform. The player can tap the attack or special button to attack sooner but with less accuracy and power. The attack can also be steered to a certain extent.

When used, Sonic curls up into a ball, hovers briefly while slowly moving upwards and grunting, then shoots towards the opponent closest to him. If there are no foes within the attack's range, Sonic will instead simply shoot downwards at a diagonal angle. Whether or not the move hits, Sonic will stall after it is used. This move can be used an unlimited number of times in the air, so it is effective for getting back onto the stage after being launched. If two Sonics (or Kirbys with Sonic's abilities) attack each another with this move, they will slowly jump upwards until they reach the top of the screen. It also possesses a unique quality in that it tries to hit the opponent's side facing away from Sonic by traveling over them. This means that it only hits effectively when the opponent is moving away from him on the ground or traveling towards him in the air.

Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U[]

Sonicbullying

Sonic using the Homing Attack on Luigi, from Super Smash Bros. for Wii U.

In Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, the Homing Attack returned as Sonic's neutral special move. In this game, it retains its mechanics and controls from Super Smash Bros. Brawl. This game also features additional variations of the Homing Attack that the player can customize Sonic with:

  1. Homing Attack (Default): Jump into the air, and then home in on the closest fighter (if there's one in range).
  2. Stomp: Jump into the air before slamming straight down with a meteor smash.
  3. Surprise Attack: A faster Homing Attack with less range and power than normal. When not locked on to a target, it rises upwards slightly.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate[]

In Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, the Homing Attack returns as Sonic's neutral special move. This time, the Homing Attack shows a reticle right before the attack lands on an opponent. The specific reticle is taken from the Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Generations. Knuckles, who appears as an Assist Trophy, also uses this as one of his attacks.

Sonic Dash[]

In Sonic Dash, the Homing Attack is used by all playable characters. When using the Homing Attack in this game, the user leaves a colored trail. The user also tends to stay in spinball form after bouncing off their target.

In gameplay, the Homing Attack cannot be used as freely. Instead, it is restricted to when the player has to cross a gap in the road that is way too wide to cross by jumping. At these points, the player has to use the Homing Attack to skip across the enemies that appear in the gab until they reach the other end. Also, when finishing a boss battle, the player can time their actions so that they can launch up to three Homing Attack on the boss for extra points.

To perform the regular Homing Attack in gameplay, the player must first jump while near a possible homing target. Then, when a green cursor appears above the target, tap the screen to execute the Homing Attack. During boss battles, the player has to tap the screen when two green cursors overlap in order to launch a successful Homing Attack.

Sonic Speed Simulator[]

In Sonic Speed Simulator, the Homing Attack can be performed by every playable character in the game. When using the Homing Attack in this game, the user does not leave a colored trail in their wake by default when the move is used. The also feature floating red targets that the player can skip across with the Homing Attack.

To perform the Homing Attack in gameplay, the player must press the following button while jumping near a possible homing target:

PC Mobile Xbox One
[SPACE] Jump button A button

Variants[]

Fire Claw[]

Main article: Fire Claw
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Blaze using the Fire Claw, from Sonic the Hedgehog (2006).

The Fire Claw is Blaze the Cat's equivalent of the Homing Attack. When performing the Fire Claw, Blaze launches herself forward whilst spinning horizontally and holding one hand out in front of her to attack her foes. The move allows Blaze to home in on nearby enemy. Like the Homing Attack, the move can also be chained. This move has only appeared in Sonic the Hedgehog (2006).

Focused Homing Attack[]

Main article: Focused Homing Attack
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Sonic using the Focused Homing Attack, from the Wii U version of Sonic Lost World.

The Focused Homing Attack is a turbo-charged version of the Homing Attack. When performing this move, the user either locks onto multiple targets and launches a series of Homing Attacks at them, or they lock onto a single target multiple times and then launch an extra powerful Homing Attack that can deal significant damage. This move has only appeared in Sonic Lost World.

Ghost Attack[]

Main article: Ghost Attack
SCUGhostAttack

Sonic (as the Jade Ghost) using the Ghost Attack, from Sonic Colors: Ultimate.

The Ghost Attack is an ethereal version of the Homing Attack performed by users in the Jade Ghost form. When performing this move, the user locks onto a target and hovers towards it. What separates the Ghost Attack from the Homing Attack however, is that the Ghost Attack can lock onto and home towards targets on the other side of walls and objects, which the user will phase through on their way to said targets. This move first appeared in Sonic Colors: Ultimate.

Homing Dash[]

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Sonic using the Homing Dash, from Sonic and the Black Knight.

The Homing Dash is a non-offensive variant of the Homing Attack. When first introduced in Sonic and the Secret Rings, it was a passive ability that allowed the user to chain Homing Attacks. It later appeared as a move that cannot hurt Knights of the Underworld, but allows the user to zero in on targets. This move only appears in the Sonic Storybook Series titles.

Homing Smash[]

Main article: Homing Smash
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Sonic using the Homing Smash, from Sonic the Hedgehog (2006).

The Homing Smash is the White Gem's Custom Action, which is used exclusively by Sonic the Hedgehog. When performing this move, Sonic hangs in mid-air before dashing at his opponent with a Homing Attack that possesses increased range and power. This move only appeared in Sonic the Hedgehog (2006).

Jump Dash[]

Main article: Jump Dash
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Sonic using the Jump Dash, from the console/PC version of Sonic Generations.

The Jump Dash is a quick dash performed in midair. The move is performed whenever the user uses the Homing Attack when there are no enemies in the vicinity. The move lets the user move forward a bit, but it also takes the user out of a spin, so if the user collides with an enemy, they will (in most cases) take damage.

Light Speed Attack[]

Main article: Light Speed Attack
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Sonic using the Light Speed Attack, from Sonic Adventure 2.

The Light Speed Attack is a variant of the Homing Attack that resembles a cross between the Homing Attack and the Light Speed Dash. When performing the Light Speed Attack, the user destroys all nearby enemies with series of Homing Attacks at light speed. This move first appeared in Sonic Adventure.

Maximum Heat Knuckles Attack[]

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Knuckles using the Maximum Heat Knuckles Attack, from Sonic Adventure.

The Maximum Heat Knuckles Attack is Knuckles the Echidna's personal variant of the Light Speed Attack. When performing the Maximum Heat Knuckles Attack, Knuckles glides into all surrounding enemies at high speed, taking them out in one fell swoop. This move first appeared in Sonic Adventure.

Screwdriver[]

Main article: Screwdriver

The Screwdriver is Knuckles the Echidna's personal variant of the Homing Attack. When performing the Screwdriver, Knuckles will charge up the attack while standing in place, before flying forward, spinning himself around. If Knuckles is near an enemy while doing it, he will home in on it. This move first appeared in Sonic the Hedgehog (2006).

Wire Attack[]

Main article: Wire Attack

The Wire Attack is a move used by the Avatar. It is very similar to the regular Homing Attack, but instead of launching themselves at the enemy, the Avatar uses their grappling wire to hook on to an enemy, pull themselves towards it and kick off. This move has only appeared in Sonic Forces.

In other media[]

Animation[]

Sonic Prime[]

Homing Attack Prime

Sonic using the Homing Attack, from "Situation: Grim".

In the Sonic Prime television series, the Homing Attack is used by Sonic, Shadow and Knuckles the Dread.

Books and comics[]

IDW Publishing[]

IDW Homing Attack

Sonic performing the Homing Attack, from Sonic the Hedgehog #2.

In the Sonic the Hedgehog comic series and its spin-offs published by IDW Publishing, the Homing Attack is used by Sonic and first appears in Sonic the Hedgehog #1.

Trivia[]

  • In Sonic Unleashed, the Wii version of Sonic Colors, and Sonic Generations, Sonic will strike one out of five poses after bouncing off the enemy.
    • Sonic and Shadow also had a few different animations after each Homing Attack in Sonic Adventure 2.
  • In some games, as long as the Homing Attack hits anything damageable, the character will bounce off. Thus in some cases, it is possible for the Homing Attack to be blocked by other targets that cannot be locked on, such as breakable walls in Shadow the Hedgehog, though this happens rarely.
  • A strange lock-on occurrence can occur where using the move can cause the player to circle around the target several times instead of actually hitting them.
    • A glitch can also occur, most often in Sonic Unleashed, where using the move can make the player clip through their target and not hit it, or just miss it completely.
  • In Super Smash Bros. Brawl, depending on the circumstances, Sonic can go under a stage (like Final Destination) and perpetually use the Homing Attack to move around under it.
    • Super Smash Bros. Brawl is the only game where Sonic cannot choose which opponent to attack and the move itself has a delay.

See also[]

Notes[]

References[]

  1. ソニック・ザ・ヘッジホッグ【公式】 (13 July 2022). 【特別企画】音速!一問一答 ソニックアンサー動画まとめ (2022//6/24実施) (Japanese). YouTube. Retrieved on 6 December 2022.
  2. 2.0 2.1 Sonic 3D Blast (Sega Genesis) United States instruction booklet, pg. 7.
  3. 3.0 3.1 Sonic 3D: FLickies' Island (Sega Saturn) European instruction booklet, pg. 32.
  4. 4.0 4.1 Sonic Team (8 November 2022). Sonic Frontiers. PlayStation 5. Sega. Area/level: 1-1. "敵はホーミングアタックで倒そう: 道中で攻撃してくる敵は、ホーミングアタック ( Square )で倒すことが出来ます。"
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 【實測】SEGA《索尼克未知邊境》Sonic Frontier實機試玩@東京電玩展Tokyo Game Show 2022 | 4Gamers. YouTube (21 September 2022). Retrieved on 24 September 2022.
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 TGS2022スペシャル!セガ/アトラスブースのゲームやってみよう!. YouTube (16 September 2022). Retrieved on 24 September 2022.
  7. セガにゅー # TGS2022スペシャル 【セガ・アトラスTGS2022オンライン】. YouTube (16 September 2022). Retrieved on 24 September 2022.
  8. 8.0 8.1 8.2 15 Minutes of Sonic Frontiers GAMEPLAY: Open-World, Cyberspace & More! (Gamescom Hands-On). YouTube. GameXplain (25 August 2022). Retrieved on 24 September 2022.
  9. Sonic Team (8 November 2022). Sonic Frontiers. PlayStation 5. Sega. Area/level: Loading screen. "Tip: グラインドレールに乗っている時はホーミングアタックができないので注意しましょう。"
  10. Shea, Brian (July 25, 2023). Sonic Superstars Preview - Exclusive Look At Every Emerald Power. Game Informer. Retrieved on July 27, 2023.

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