Infinite (インフィニット Infinitto?), also known as the "Ultimate Mercenary" (究極傭兵 Kyūkyoku Yōhei?), is a character that appears in the Sonic the Hedgehog series. He is an anthropomorphic jackal and the former leader of the Jackal Squad mercenary group. Infinite originally targeted Dr. Eggman before joining the Eggman Army, only to fall at the hands of Shadow the Hedgehog while defending one of Eggman's facilities. Ashamed of his failure, Infinite chose to wield the power of the Phantom Ruby not only as a means of becoming stronger, but also to abandon his "weak" past self.
With his newfound power, Infinite aided Eggman in expanding the Eggman Empire to its largest size to date by defeating Sonic the Hedgehog. Near the end of the war with the Resistance, Infinite confronted Sonic and the Avatar on multiple occasions, until he was defeated during the decisive battle for the planet and consumed by the Phantom Ruby.[3]
Quick Answers
What is the real name of Infinite in the Sonic series?
What role does Infinite play in Sonic Forces?
What is Infinite's backstory in the Sonic the Hedgehog series?
How did Infinite become the leader of the Eggman Army?
What led to Infinite's decision to obtain power after his loss to Shadow the Hedgehog?
Concept and creation[]
During the original drafts of Sonic Forces, Infinite was originally called "Zero".[4] His final name was intended to reference the nature of his ability.[5]
According to the producer of Sonic Forces, Shun Nakamura, Infinite was created with an impressive and strong presence in mind since he would be accompanied by old bosses in Sonic Forces. This is the reason why he was made stronger and faster than Sonic the Hedgehog. His nature likewise inspired the staff to elaborate on his origin story. Sonic Team was also particular about giving him a cool, but evil design, with his mask especially being designed to emphasize his evil.[6] Character artist Shinkichi Tanahashi elaborated that Infinite was designed as a vicious existence that stood in the way of the bonds with friends that Sonic represents. His overall design motif was derived from the namahage, a demon-like being in Japanese folklore, with focus on key words like "cruel", "clinging to power", and "not believing in bonds." Since namahage look scary, they ensured he had a striking and cool silhouette. Tanahashi noted as well that the design process was difficult, but that the silhouette of Infinite's face logo worked well during development.[7]
Infinite went through several designs. His original design was that of a ghost-like figure, with one of the examples including one with monster-like horns. A common element his early design shared with his final one was his mask and large hands with pointed claws. The team later proposed a design with a buffalo motif, but it was scrapped in favor of the jackal motif, which became the outline for the character's final design. Infinite's species, the jackal, was inspired by Anubis, the Egyptian god of the afterlife who possessed a jackal head. These designs included bandages to create an eerie sense of coolness, and a prehensile tail. It was also around this time that Infinite's mask began to take on its current form, albeit with scars on it. This mask was given its patterns inside the ears (with one pattern on one side and the inverted colors on the other) because it gave it a geometric eeriness. Late in Infinite's design process however, it was decided that his bandages and the scars on his mask were to be removed because they made him "look weak." Following then an adjustment in colors, Infinite reached his current design.[7]
Appearance[]
Infinite is an anthropomorphic jackal with black fur. He has a white fur pattern on his back that resembles a ribcage, a bushy tail with five white tips, and long, white and stiff dreadlocks. His muzzle is white and protruding with cheek tufts, and he has a black nose and noticeable fangs. He has complete heterochromia, with his right eye being blue and his left eye being yellow. There is a large white scar across the right eye. He wears a white collar around his neck and black gloves with silver designs on the backs, covering his sharp claws. He also wears pointed, metal and black hi-tops, with his personal infinity symbol engraved on the red soles.
After abandoning his old identity, Infinite began wearing a silver-colored metal mask with white and black circular patterns on the inside of the ears, with the right ear being black with white circular patterns and the left being white with black circular patterns. While his left eye is visible through a red visor, his right eye is covered by a black lightning bolt-shaped piece, similar to an eyepatch, that is connected to his mask's right ear, which glows red when he uses his power. His figure is usually accompanied with a red aura around him.
Infinite possesses the finalized version of the Phantom Ruby copies that is fused to his chest. When Infinite channels the power of the gemstone, he can surround himself in a red aura, with particles that resemble forms of pixelated glitching scattered throughout his body.
History[]
Past[]
Infinite was once the captain of the Jackal Squad, a band of mercenary thieves raiding others for a profit.[8] In time, he gained a public reputation as the "ultimate mercenary".[2]
One day, Infinite led his squad on a raid of Dr. Eggman's base in the Arsenal Pyramid in an attempt to steal his devices for a hefty bounty. Using the Phantom Ruby, Eggman created an army of Egg Pawn Phantom Copies to deter the Jackal Squad. Slipping past the Egg Pawns, Infinite ordered his squad to handle the robots while he moved in to slash at Eggman with his sword. However, Infinite accidentally struck the Phantom Ruby instead, causing it to show him an illusion of what he desired the most: a desolate, destroyed world. Eggman, who also saw the vision, took a liking to Infinite and offered to make him the leader of his Eggman Army so they could accomplish their goals together. Realizing he had grown bored of the world as it was, Infinite accepted Eggman's offer despite his squad's protests.[9]
Months before the War to Take Back the Planet, Infinite and the Jackal Squad were assigned by Eggman to guard his facility in Mystic Jungle. When Shadow the Hedgehog came to raid and destroy the facility however, the Jackal Squad were easily defeated by the hedgehog.[10] Berated by Eggman for his squad's failure, Infinite caught up to Shadow and tried to ambush him as payback and to live up to his title. However, the ultimate mercenary was caught off-guard by Shadow's power and was soundly thrashed by the hedgehog, who brutally insulted him before teleporting away. Reeling in defeat, Infinite realized, much to his horror, that he was shivering in fear from the encounter. He then fell into an emotional breakdown, screaming that he was "not weak".[11]
Spiraling in self-hatred, Infinite began wearing a mask to hide his old face while seeking more power. He agreed to be infused with Eggman's finalized Phantom Ruby replica, undergoing a number of experiments in the innermost area of the Eggman Empire Fortress,[12] which granted him virtually limitless power.[13] Infinite then became Eggman's right-hand-man,[14] the two plotting to use the Phantom Ruby to defeat Sonic and anyone else in their way to finally conquer the world.[15]
Shortly after obtaining the Phantom Ruby, Infinite was dispatched by Eggman to deal with E-123 Omega, who was wreaking havoc in one of Eggman's bases. Infinite effortlessly defeated Omega with his new abilities.[16] Soon after, Shadow arrived at the facility to locate Omega, and Infinite welcomed him to their reunion. When Shadow revealed that he did not remember him, Infinite proceeded to tell Shadow his backstory, then trap him in a virtual reality. Although Shadow broke free, Infinite was nonetheless confident in the power he now possessed. After hinting at his plan to defeat Sonic, the facility began to explode as he made his escape, laughing evilly.[17]
Sonic Forces[]
In Sonic Forces, about a month after Infinite's last meeting with Shadow, Dr. Eggman's army launched an attack on the City. When Sonic arrived to stop it, Infinite attacked him alongside Phantom Copies of Shadow, Zavok, Metal Sonic, and Chaos that he had created. Overwhelming Sonic with his power and Phantom Copies, Infinite defeated and captured Sonic.[18][19]
After imprisoning Sonic aboard the Death Egg, Infinite and Eggman continued their conquest unrivaled. Led by Infinite's Phantom Ruby powers, the Eggman Army was able to conquer over 99% of the planet.[20][21] In the meantime, Infinite worked alongside his Phantom Copies to instill fear into the subjugated population.[22][23] A rag-tag Resistance founded by Sonic's friends was formed to continue the fight for freedom, but they proved to be a little threat to Infinite.
A few months after Sonic's defeat, Infinite wiped out a Resistance squad in the City, before turning his attention to the sole survivor, the Avatar, who cowered in fear. Mocking and taunting them, Infinite allowed the Avatar to flee with their life, only so he could hear their terrified screams.[24]
Six months after Sonic's defeat, Infinite went to the Spaceport, but did not intervene in the Resistance's infiltration. Sometime later, Infinite went to the Mystic Jungle to pick up Eggman's remaining Phantom Ruby prototypes so they could be disposed of before they fell into the wrong hands. While there, Infinite met a defiant Silver the Hedgehog, whom he decided to defeat to send a message to the Resistance. Although Infinite overpowered Silver, he did make Infinite drop a Phantom Ruby prototype without noticing, and before Infinite could finish him, Sonic appeared, having been broken out of prison. Intrigued by Sonic's return, Infinite attempted to rattle him, only to get brushed off by Sonic, who was more interested in the secret to his powers. Infinite refused and instead engaged Sonic in battle. Although Sonic put up a better fight than before, Infinite still beat him, seeing him as no threat and letting him live.
Meeting Eggman in Green Hill, Infinite destroyed what was thought to be the last Phantom Ruby prototype. He then revealed to Dr. Eggman that he let Sonic go after their battle; while Eggman was greatly concerned by this, Infinite dismissed his worry. After ignoring a nearby sound, Infinite asked Eggman about the plan to wipe out the Resistance, and the two briefly relished at the thought of total victory before Infinite took his leave.
When the Resistance conducted Operation Big Wave in Metropolis, Infinite arrived to unleash his Phantom Ruby's power. Creating gravity shifts and giant monstrous versions of himself, Infinite cast the Resistance into chaos, resulting in them suffering huge casualties before withdrawing. Watching the mayhem, Infinite wondered aloud if the world would send him a challenge, just as the Avatar from months ago appeared. Infinite tried to intimidate them, but the Avatar stood their ground, leading to a battle. After their fight, Infinite recognized the Avatar. He proceeded to summon cannons to finish them, but, because the Avatar held the Phantom Ruby prototype Infinite dropped earlier, they disabled his attack. Though at first shocked, Infinite dismissed them and departed, stating that only two days remained before the Resistance would be wiped out.
When the Resistance destroyed the Phantom Rubies' primary power source aboard the Death Egg, leaving the Eggman Empire with only a backup reactor beneath the Eggman Empire Fortress, Eggman made himself, Orbot, Cubot and a reluctant Infinite retreat to Metropolis. When the Resistance cornered them, Infinite opened a portal to Null Space, which sucked both Sonic and the Avatar in, seemingly trapping them. However, while Infinite and Eggman escaped Metropolis, Sonic and the Avatar caught back up to them, having escaped Null Space together. While Infinite was only slightly displeased by this, a furious Eggman had them withdraw to the Eggman Empire Fortress.
When the Resistance Army stormed the Eggman Empire Fortress, Infinite confronted them with an army of Phantom Copies while the rest of Eggman's army backed him up. Infinite easily pushed Sonic and the Resistance back, only to be caught off-guard by a fully repaired and vengeful E-123 Omega. Growing irritated, Infinite initiated Eggman's endgame: using his Phantom Ruby, Infinite created a virtual sun that he planned to drop on the Resistance, which would certainly destroy them. As Infinite was about to drop the sun, however, it was suddenly disabled by the Avatar and their spare Phantom Ruby prototype.
Weakened by creating the sun, Infinite withdrew to the center of the fortress, although Sonic soon caught up to him. Confident that he could still beat Sonic, even in his weakened state, Infinite engaged Sonic in battle until his Phantom Ruby copy was fully recharged. As he prepared to finish Sonic, he was interrupted by the Avatar, who joined forces with Sonic. Working together, the Avatar and Sonic finally defeated Infinite. As Infinite struggled to comprehend his defeat, Sonic informed him that he was really defeated by heart, soul, and friendship. Unable to control his powers anymore, Infinite was suddenly pulled towards the reactor along with his Phantom Ruby replica, protesting as he was ultimately consumed by the original Phantom Ruby.[3][25]
Otherworld Comedy[]
After the end of the war, Dr. Eggman, having one weapon left still charged with the Phantom Ruby's power,[26] uses it to envelop the world in illusions known as Otherworlds. As a side effect, Infinite is brought back and put in the role of a J-pop idol alongside Shadow the Hedgehog.
After a successful concert in what was once an Eggman Empire base, Shadow and Infinite have an argument backstage. Shadow believes their performance should be perfect, while Infinite believes his performance is more authentic. As the argument escalates, the amnesiac Shadow's mind briefly reacts to the word "purpose," prompting him to kick Infinite away and tell him never to show his pathetic face again, just like before.
Infinite is absent for the rest of the story until after Dr. Eggman's defeat. Beneath the molten ruins of Eggmanland, the doctor holds the last of his Phantom Ruby prototypes, planning to use it for his next scheme. Suddenly, Infinite appears, still in his costume, and swipes it from his hands. He briefly contemplates putting it on his chest to regain the power he once lost, but is suddenly filled with doubt on whether he should really have to resort to using it again. Before he can make a decision, his body begins to disappear into light. Infinite smiles and nods, as if understanding it was for the best, and drops the Phantom Ruby prototype as he vanishes. His ultimate fate is left intentionally ambiguous.[27]
Other game appearances[]
Sonic Dash[]
In Sonic Dash, Infinite appears as one of the playable characters. In this game, he can be unlocked after obtaining 100 of his Character Cards.
Image | Rarity | Affinity Bonus | Upgrade Profile | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Power-Up | Highest level | |||
Epic | N/A | Dash Boost | 9 | |
x2 Multiplier | 11 | |||
Magnet | 11 | |||
Shield | 10 | |||
Headstart | 11 |
Sonic Forces: Speed Battle[]
In Sonic Forces: Speed Battle, Infinite first appeared in the version 4.0.1 update as a bot-controlled rival that could be encountered randomly. During the "Challenger Mode" Event, Infinite would appear in every race.
Infinite was soon after added as a playable character to the game's roster during the "Infinite" Event, as a celebration of the fourth anniversary of Sonic Forces: Speed Battle. He has the following gameplay characteristics:
Image | Rarity | Stats | Items | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Projectile | Boost | Trap | |||
Challenger |
Speed: 10/10 Acceleration: 10/10 Strength: 6/10 |
Reality Warp | Phantom Dash | Deadly Replica |
On 3 October 2023, Infinite was rereleased as Warlock Infinite, a variant character of Infinite dressed in a warlock costume, as a part of the version 4.21.0 update. This character has the following gameplay characteristics:
Image | Rarity | Stats | Items | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Projectile | Boost | Trap | |||
Challenger |
Speed: 9/10 Acceleration: 8/10 Strength: 8/10 |
Phantom Dagger | Phantom Dash | Phantom Dagger |
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate[]
In Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Infinite appears as a Primary Spirit with the following characteristics:
Image | Stat statistics | Spirit Battle | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Base | Max | Enemy Fighter(s) | Enemy Power | Stage | Battle conditions | |
Power: 1,790 Attack: 1,083 Defense: 707 |
Power: 7,185 Attack: 4,347 Defense: 2,838 |
Metal Sonic (140 HP) | 4,400 | Big Blue | Rule(s): Hazard: Screen Flip
| |
Name | Type | Class | Music | Acquisition | ||
Infinite | Attack | ★★ (Advanced) | "Fist Bump" |
| ||
No. | Slots | Ability | ||||
797 | 2 | N/A |
Sonic Dash+ / Sonic Prime Dash[]
In Sonic Dash+ and Sonic Prime Dash, Infinite appears as one of the playable characters. In these games, he can be unlocked by obtaining 500 of his Character Tokens.
Image | Affinity Bonus | Unlock Requirement | Upgrade Profile | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Power-Up | Highest level | |||
Obtain 500 | Dash Boost | 10 | ||
x2 Multiplier | 11 | |||
Magnet | 9 | |||
Shield | 12 | |||
Headstart | 10 |
Sonic Speed Simulator[]
In Sonic Speed Simulator, several UGCs related to Infinite can be bought for the Roblox avatar.
Sonic Frontiers[]
In Sonic Frontiers, Infinite was briefly mentioned by Tails when he was recalling his past behavior.[28]
Shadow Generations[]
In Shadow Generations, Infinite is shown in Sonic Forces artworks, as well as being mentioned in the Collection Room during a summary detailing Shadow's role in the events of said game.
Personality[]
Before fusing with the Phantom Ruby, Infinite was a selfish and arrogant mercenary whose Jackal Squad had a vicious reputation.[29] Openly encouraging his subordinates to go for the kill, he had no qualms about taking lives to obtain bounties.[8] He also had a large ego, using the title of the "ultimate mercenary".[2] When Infinite first encountered the Phantom Ruby, it revealed his true desires in the form of a desolate, war-torn world. He then ignored his comrades and chose to join the Eggman Empire, as he had grown bored of the world and sought to change it, evidently for the worse, just to provide some personal amusement.[9] While working for Dr. Eggman, he held little respect for his employer.[2]
However, Infinite's ego was completely shattered when he was so easily beaten by Shadow the Hedgehog. Infinite was angered that Shadow defeated his subordinates,[2] but he completely hated that he was so scared of Shadow's power in this encounter, conflicting with his preconceived views of himself.[11] This sent him into a spiral of fear and self-hatred, leading him to cast away his previous identity and wear a mask so he no longer had to see his own cowardly face.[13]
With the Phantom Ruby, Infinite gained a power that made him feel strong again through reality-warping illusions. He believed himself to be unbeatable, his arrogance growing astronomical. He began speaking in a more eloquent, theatrical, and self-important manner, with Shadow later noting that he had a "big mouth". He also proved to have a dark, dry sense of humor, often mocking his enemies with cruel jokes. Unlike Dr. Eggman, who would reveal his plans while gloating to his enemies, Infinite chose to never reveal anything about himself, remaining mysterious. He showed great pleasure in destruction and would sadistically torment those in the Resistance as he destroyed their forces, relishing in his own ability to make others fear him, the same fear and despair that he had felt.[24][30][31] He claimed that it was natural for the strong to vanquish the weak, placing himself at the top of the hierarchy.[32]
Though his confidence was not without validity, Infinite's hubris was so great that he would sometimes leave his enemies to grovel in fear rather than finish them off, believing fully that they were no threat to him; this may also be inspired by his encounter with Shadow, who did the same to him.[33] On some level, Infinite also desired a challenge, as he wondered if the world had any challenges left after crushing Operation Big Wave.[34] He was, however, able to acknowledge attributes of his opponents he deemed commendable, as he acknowledged that Omega was "spirited" before defeating him,[16] and during his rematch with Sonic, he begrudgingly acknowledged that Sonic had improved since their last fight.[35] In the Japanese version, he uses the impolite pronoun "ore" (俺) and often calls his opponents trash.
Despite all his illusory power, Infinite was clearly still scarred by his encounter with true power. He remained highly insecure and loathed his "old self", assuming that Shadow didn't remember him because he was too pathetic back then. His illusion of Omega also descended into a mantra of "I AM NOT WEAK", seemingly reflecting Infinite's inner torment. Infinite also refused to count on anyone but himself, forming illusory Phantom Copies as little more than drones in his army.[36] This was ultimately his downfall, as the teamwork of Sonic and the Avatar was capable of defeating his lone wolf mindset. Both Sonic and Amy noted that Infinite's existence was ultimately a sad and lonely one that he imposed on himself.[36][12]
In the Otherworld Comedy story, Infinite is exasperated by Shadow's pursuit of a perfect performance, showing that Infinite is far from a perfectionist and that his pride actually makes him quite complacent; this reflects some of his mistakes made in Sonic Forces, such as allowing enemies to live or failing to notice the lost Phantom Ruby prototype. In the story's ending, Infinite considers retaking the Phantom Ruby to regain his powers, but ultimately lets himself fade away instead. This implies that, at least this version of Infinite, saw the error of his ways and realized that hollow power would never make him complete.
Powers and abilities[]
Before obtaining the finalized Phantom Ruby, Infinite was apparently a strong fighter in his own right, his skills having earned him the title as the "ultimate mercenary".[2] However, he was nowhere near as powerful as the likes of Shadow the Hedgehog. After being fused with the Phantom Ruby, however, Infinite gained powers superior to those of the Master Emerald's. In his own words, Infinite had acquired "unrivaled" power and the "ultimate strength" through his gemstone.[37][38] Infinite's newfound strength proved so great that he was able to effortlessly defeat figures like E-123 Omega and Silver the Hedgehog, and ultimately best even Sonic the Hedgehog twice, the first time with great ease. He was even able to single-handedly overwhelm the entire Resistance army during Operation Big Wave. His power was such that not even the Miles Electric was able to give an accurate reading of his capabilities.[39]
On his own, Infinite was shown to be fairly fast and agile in his movements, being capable of high-speed leaps and lunges across several meters, although his speed was easily outclassed by Shadow's Chaos Control abilities. He has also demonstrated above-average durability by taking a sound thrashing from Shadow and then getting back up. He was also skilled at swordplay.[40]
After Infinite's fusion with the finalized Phantom Ruby copy, he acquired the ability to generate, destroy, and manipulate virtual realities, which he could turn into virtual reality projections to interact with reality.[41] Said virtual realities are illusions, which Infinite creates by exercising control of one's visual and depth perception by feeding the brain false information.[42] He was able to use his projections to enable his virtual realities to interact with the real world in order to bestow powers on himself. Having no limitations to the illusions he could create, Infinite had, within the influence of his Phantom Ruby, unlimited abilities.
Within his Ruby's virtual realities, Infinite was able to make himself faster and stronger than even Sonic.[23] His speed was so great that he was able to outpace Sonic while he was boosting. Similarly, his strength became potent enough to knock away someone of Sonic's size with enough force to crack a concrete arch upon impact.[43] He also used his Ruby to give himself the power of flight and levitation, deadly energy beam emission, energy ball projection, self-replication, size enhancement, shockwave manipulation, gravity distortion, object materialization, and teleportation. He was even able to manifest giant monsters in his likeness, trap beings in virtual realities, create a whole sun that moved according to his will, and mimic the special techniques of others, such as Metal Sonic's exclusive V. Maximum Overdrive Attack. In battle though, Infinite primarily used his finalized Phantom Ruby copy to generate crimson cubes that he could skillfully and willingly move around. If an opponent got struck by these cubes, they would be sent into a virtual reality where they were assailed by objects manifested by his Ruby's power. He could generate a large number of these cubes and arrange them into a variety of different shapes and forms.
Infinite could also use his Ruby's power to create Phantom Copies that cause his victims to falsely perceive the presence of other characters. These copies are described by Shadow as having "mass and form, but no heart or soul". These copies, so long as Infinite desired, could also carry the memories, powers, and personalities of the originals. Accordingly, Infinite could create an unlimited number of them. He could also alter them to make them stronger than the originals, such as making a Metal Sonic Phantom Copy bigger and granting him the ability to use electrified versions of his energy cubes as well as to materialize objects to use as a shield.
Using his finalized Phantom Ruby copy's power, Infinite was also capable of manipulating nothingness itself, allowing him to create Null Space, which is a seemingly inescapable void in space-time where absolutely nothing exists. When opening portal into Null Space, Infinite could reinforce such portals to expand and suck everything nearby into them.
Weapons[]
During his time as the leader of the Jackal Squad, Infinite possessed a red sword. This sword was evidently very sharp, being able to cut through robots with ease.
Weaknesses[]
While Infinite's illusions are formidable, they can be neutralized by someone who has a Phantom Ruby prototype. Likewise, his finalized Phantom Ruby copy's illusions only work if the target is within the Ruby's field of effect. Also, his finalized Phantom Ruby copy requires a tremendous amount of energy to function. Should its energy supply be cut off, his finalized Phantom Ruby copy would be rendered inert. In addition, he also was able to be consumed via the Phantom Ruby itself if it tried to reintegrate any prototypes, which was ultimately how he was beaten.
Another weakness of Infinite's is his extreme sense of confidence and constant need to satisfy his sadism. When Infinite destroyed the Avatar's squad, he willingly let them run away unharmed as he enjoyed the sounds of their screams. Later, when he had Sonic at his mercy a second time, rather than finishing him there and then, he just left, seeing Sonic as something he need not bother himself with. Both these actions proved to be Infinite's downfall when Sonic and the Avatar later ended up beating him together. To a lesser extent, his insecurities over perceived weaknesses he might have also interfered with his ability to channel Phantom Copies, which is demonstrated by how his facsimile of E-123 Omega ultimately started to break down when declaring he never knew defeat by going on a repetitive rant of "I am not weak!" (Heavily implied to be Infinite's feelings over being beaten by Shadow bleeding into the facsimile).
Relationships[]
Shadow the Hedgehog[]
Arguably the person who had the most impact on Infinite was Shadow the Hedgehog. After the Jackal Squad was destroyed by the hedgehog in an attack on Eggman's Facility, a furious Infinite tried to stop him, only to be effortlessly defeated too. Before he left, Shadow made his disgust clear and demanded never to see his "pathetic face" again. Infuriated by how weak and afraid this encounter made him feel, Infinite spiraled into self-loathing and subjected himself to Eggman's Phantom Ruby experiments to gain more power.[11][44]
Despite growing stronger with the Phantom Ruby, Infinite's behavior continued to reflect his encounter with Shadow. He relished in inflicting fear in others, the same way Shadow had done to him,[24] and frequently spoke about the strong defeating the weak.[32] Infinite was excited to face Shadow once more, though Shadow failed to recognize him. Infinite then cast him into a false version of Green Hill, taunting Shadow with copies of his friends in Team Dark. Although Shadow escaped, Infinite was satisfied with his ability to torment him and changed his focus to help Eggman conquer the planet. He later used a Phantom Copy of Shadow to instill fear into the Resistance during Eggman's reign.
Sonic the Hedgehog[]
Infinite's first meeting with Sonic the Hedgehog had him beating the blue hedgehog effortlessly. This ultimately had Infinite's ego receiving a massive boost. When meeting Sonic for the first time since he defeated him at Mystic Jungle, Infinite proceeded to sense a smell from Sonic and assumed the smell was the fear of encountering him due to last time, though Sonic corrected him and explained the smell was actually sweat due to Sonic having run all the way there, and also smugly explained that Infinite had not left an impression on him at all. After beating Sonic for the second time, he proceeded to spare him, solely because he deemed him not worth killing. However, he did express shock that Sonic held his own for longer than he expected, due to his data indicating he would not be a challenge from last time. Him sparing Sonic would ultimately prove to be Infinite's downfall, as not only did Sonic inspire the Avatar to fight against him, but both Sonic and the Avatar proceeded to bring him down for the count.
Similar to Erazor Djinn, Infinite also derogatorily referred to Sonic as a "filthy sewer rat".
Avatar[]
Infinite had a personal connection with the Avatar, as he was responsible for destroying their friends in the six months between Sonic's defeat and the Avatar joining the Resistance. Infinite ultimately spared them to satisfy his sadistic desire to watch them flee in terror.[24] They later reunited at Metropolis, where Infinite was surprised to see them again and tried to intimidate them. When this failed due to the Avatar feeling encouraged by their friendship with Sonic, Infinite was surprised that they put up a fight. This shows that Infinite and the Avatar are reflections of one another: when Infinite was faced with overwhelming fear, he turned inwards to selfishly increase his own power, but when the Avatar was faced with a similar fear, he turned outwards to find inspiration in his friendship with others such as Sonic. Despite this, Infinite continued to underestimate the Avatar, even letting them keep the Phantom Ruby prototype and live another day. Ultimately, Infinite was brought down by the teamwork of Sonic and the Avatar, proving his selfish and individualistic outlook wrong.[45]
Dr. Eggman[]
Infinite at first sought Dr. Eggman's technology to sell for bounties, but upon witnessing the power of the Phantom Ruby, accepted his offer to join him. He promised to help the doctor change the world, mostly for his own selfish amusement.[9] However, his relationship with Eggman proved to be a rocky one, as Infinite grew exasperated with his loud and overbearing orders.[2] After his crushing defeat at the hands of Shadow, Infinite became a willing subject in Eggman's Phantom Ruby experiments, doing anything to achieve more power.
Following Eggman's domination of Earth, Infinite would continue to prove loyal to the doctor, serving as his right-hand man and enforcer, though he did not hesitate to voice his displeasure Eggman's choices.[46] He also openly acknowledged himself as the better of the two, giving him somewhat more of an equal footing with the doctor than most.[35] Notably, Infinite is one of the few super-powerful entities that Eggman used in his plans who did not end up betraying him. In the end, it was Eggman who tired of Infinite's failures and watched him be pulled back into the Phantom Ruby.[25]
Jackal Squad[]
Although Infinite once led the Jackal Squad in battle, he saw them as little more than his underlings. He did not value their opinions, quickly disregarding their pleas to reject Dr. Eggman's deal and instead seeking his own satisfaction.[9] When Shadow defeated them in Mystic Jungle, Infinite seemed more offended that someone had beaten his subordinates than worried for their safety.[2] After obtaining the Phantom Ruby, Infinite came to regard interpersonal relationships as foolish, showing that he no longer cared for the Jackal Squad at all, if he ever did in the first place.[36]
Friends/allies[]
Enemies[]
Battle[]
Infinite appears as a boss that is fought on three separate occasions in Sonic Forces. The first battle is in Mystic Jungle and is against Sonic; the second battle is in Metropolis and is against the Avatar, and the third and final battle is in the Eggman Empire Fortress and is at first against Sonic, but then changes into a battle against both Sonic and the Avatar. During each of these battles, taking damage will result in the player getting thrown into a brief virtual reality with extra hazards. The first and the third battle have the player chase after Infinite, while the second one takes place in an arena.
Quotes[]
- "...Hahaha! Interesting. All this time I've been going though the motions. I've actually grown quite tired of the world as it is. Let's do it, Doctor! I'll help you change the world!"
- —Infinite agreeing to help Eggman, Sonic Forces: Rise of Infinite
- "You... You destroyed my squad. I'll show you why they call me the ultimate mercenary! Take THIS!!"
- —Infinite to Shadow, Sonic Forces (Episode Shadow)
- "I... I'm shaking... Me? Me... Afraid?! Ugh. Pathetic?! Me... He's calling ME weak!? No! I am not weak. I'm... I'm not. I'm not weak! I! AM! NOT! WEEEEAAAAAAK! URRRAAAAAAAAAAAGH!!!"
- —Infinite's breakdown after being defeated by Shadow, Sonic Forces (Episode Shadow)
- "Heh... You are spirited. I'll give you that. Very well. My new power will be the last thing you see!"
- —Infinite confronting E-123 Omega, Sonic Forces: Looming Shadow
- "I can taste your terror, child. All that anxiety and doubt... It's delicious. Give in to your fear. Flee screaming and I'll let you live."
- —Infinite taunting the Avatar, Sonic Forces
- "Well, look who's back from the dead: The little blue savior. But what's that I smell? You reek of fear. Glad to see I left an impression."
- —Infinite facing Sonic for the second time, Sonic Forces
- "Your insistance is futile!"
- —Infinite refusing to share the Phantom Ruby's secret to Sonic, Sonic Forces
- "I will teach you to hold that tongue next time we meet. You can count on it."
- —Infinite after being defeated by Sonic in the Mystic Jungle, Sonic Forces
- "Fine... I will teach you fear, then pain, and then... well, at least the fear and pain will end."
- —Infinite about to fight the Avatar, Sonic Forces
- "Pathetic little hedgehog. Even with the Phantom Ruby weakened, I still have enough power to smash you into blue jelly. I'll show you how outclassed you really are!"
- —Infinite facing Sonic for the third and final time, Sonic Forces
- "No, wait! I can still fight!"
- —Infinite's last words after being defeated by Sonic and the Avatar, Sonic Forces
Theme songs[]
- "Infinite" - by Tyler Smyth and Andy Bane
Merchandise[]
Various merchandise of Infinite has been sold, such as a pin from the Sega Shop, and an action figure made by Tomy. A player piece figurine of Infinite was made for the Sonic the Hedgehog: Battle Racers board game. In 2020, a 10" plush toy of Infinite was released by Great Eastern Entertainment. An enamel pin of him made by the same company was also released. A 4" articulated action figure of Infinite and an included Phantom Ruby as an accessory was released in May 2023 by Jakks Pacific.
Reception[]
Infinite received a mixed reception from fans and critics. Martin Wood from Game Rant writes that players found Infinite to be one-dimensional and generic, with a weak revenge story and premise.[47]
In Otherworld Comedy, Infinite won a poll to appear alongside Shadow the Hedgehog with 50.1% of the votes, his opponent being Cream the Rabbit. However, in a second poll he lost to Sonic the Hedgehog to appear alongside Knuckles the Echidna.
Trivia[]
- According to Ian Flynn, who asked what Infinite's real name was when writing the script for the Sonic Forces digital comic, "Infinite" is in fact the jackal’s real name.[48]
- It was also revealed by Flynn that Infinite, alongside the Jackal Squad, are not allowed to be used in the IDW Publishing Sonic the Hedgehog comic series.[49]
- According to Christian Whitehead, Infinite was originally going to debut in Sonic Mania, but ultimately was not implemented.[50]
- According to Morio Kishimoto, there is always a possibility that Infinite might return in future games, due to him being a character from the mainline games.[51]
- Concept artwork for the stage Null Space implied that Infinite may have been planned to appear in the level in some way.
- Infinite's Phantom Ruby aura varies in design depending on the console. In the E3 2017 trailer and the comic prequels, his aura is depicted as being flame-like. In the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 versions of Sonic Forces, his aura glows red and forms a purple haze with glitch-like effects. In the Nintendo Switch version of the game, he merely has a red, glowing outline.
- Infinite has a brief cameo near the end of the "Come Join the Eggman Empire" propaganda video, where he emerges from behind the Egg Pawns when the narrator claims that the possibilities for those under his Empire are "infinite", acting as a subtle pun as well as a foreshadowing.[52]
- Infinite is the most frequently fought boss in Sonic Forces, fought a total of three times in the game.
- Infinite is one of the few Sonic characters with heterochromia, the other being Abraham Tower.
- Infinite is the second villain who disparagingly refers to Sonic as a rat, with Sonic correcting him regarding his actual species. The first is the Erazor Djinn.[53]
- Jokingly, according to Sonic Twitter Takeover #3, Infinite collects or at least has some form of media involving Sonadow, the popular romantic ship between Sonic and Shadow.[54]
Notes[]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Could use this move in Sonic Dash.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Could use this move in Sonic Forces: Speed Battle.
References[]
- ↑ VOICE OF Infinite. Behind the voice actors. Retrieved on 7 November 2017.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Event: Episode Shadow. Cutscene: Eggman's Facility. "Eggman: Hey, you! I know you can hear me! You're the captain of Squad Jackal, aren't you?! Your squad was useless! Go clean up their mess already! / Infinite: Yeah, yeah, I got it... You. You destroyed my squad. I'll show you why they call me the ultimate mercenary!"
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Flynn, Ian; Sega (8 December 2021). Sonic the Hedgehog Encyclo-speed-ia. Dark Horse Books. ISBN 978-1506719276. "Once the leader of a mercenary team called "Jackal Squad," Infinite made the mistake of trying to raid one of Dr. Eggman's bases. The doctor took a shine to Infinite's bleak worldview and employed him and his squad. Their security detail was brief, as Shadow destroyed the team and left Infinite scarred. Eager for revenge, Infinite had himself outfitted with a helmet and a Phantom Ruby prototype, giving him the ability to create hyperrealistic virtual reality constructs. After his final defeat, he and his prototype are consumed by the original Phantom Ruby."
- ↑ Shun Nakamura (@Nakamura_ShunR) on Twitter (Japanese). Twitter (15 July 2017). Retrieved on 15 July 2017. "Shun Nakamura: インフィニットは、原案ではゼロという名でした。 (Infinite was named Zero in the original draft.)"
- ↑ Sonic Forces - Japanese Interview [With English DUB] With Gameplay from TGS 2017 HD. YouTube (23 September 2017). Retrieved on 24 December 2017. "Shun Nakamura (as translated by board's translator): So about Infinite... ah, I can't really tell you what his power... his power is, but I can you that, uh, his name has something to do about his special ability, but I am not gonna reveal more than that."
- ↑ KitKat (27 October 2017). A long Sonic Forces interview with Iizuka and Nakamura. Sonic United. Retrieved on 4 November 2017.
- ↑ 7.0 7.1 絵と音から魅力を紐解く『ソニックフォース』:設定画公開編(2018年2月号より) (Japanese). Nintendo Dream (24 November 2019). Archived from the original on 25 September 2020. Retrieved on 4 October 2020.
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 Ian Flynn (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces: Rise of Infinite. Sega. "Infinite: Jackal Squad! Move in for the kill! Raid the base! All of that Eggman technology is sure to fetch a hefty bounty!"
- ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 Ian Flynn (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces: Rise of Infinite. Sega. "Jackal Squad: Boss! Don't be tempted by him, we'll be fine! / Infinite: ...Hahaha! Interesting. All this time I've been going through the motions. I've actually grown quite tired of the world as it is. Let's do it, Doctor! I'll help you change this world!"
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (Episode Shadow). Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: Eggman's Facility. "Eggman: We've got an intruder! Shadow has entered the facility! Defense Squad Jackal has already been completely annihilated! All available troops, intercept that blasted hedgehog by any means necessary!"
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Event: Episode Shadow. Cutscene: Eggman's Facility. "Infinite: I... I'm shaking... Me!? Me... Afraid!? Urgh. Pathetic!? Me... He's calling ME weak!? No! I am not weak! I'm... I'm not. I'm not weak! I AM NOT WEEEEAAAAAAK! URRRAAAAAAAAAAAGH!"
- ↑ 12.0 12.1 Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces. Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: Eggman Empire Fortress, Final Judgement. "Tails: So this is where Eggman built Infinite. / Amy: It's so sad. What a lonely place to be brought into the world."
- ↑ 13.0 13.1 Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (Episode Shadow). Nintendo Switch. Sega. "Infinite: That day, I gave up my own unsightly face. And I let go of the old me, the one that was so weak, so that I could become stronger. And then, at last... I obtained the power. The power to make all yield to my will. I... was... REBORN!"
- ↑ Sonic Forces - Story Trailer. YouTube. Sega (22 September 2017). Retrieved on 22 September 2017. "Eggman has taken over the world. It's up to Sonic and the resistance to liberate it from his iron fists. But things won't be so simple with Eggman's new right-hand man, the mysterious Infinite. Get ready to take back the planet."
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (Episode Shadow). Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: Opening cutscene. "Eggman: Sonic. How I hate him. And all of that loathing has been focused into this invincible instrument of destruction. Every defeat. Every humiliation at the Hedgehog's hands will be returned a thousandfold by my unstoppable creation. This is my dream come true. With this invention, I can expand the Eggman Empire across the globe, and conquer the world!"
- ↑ 16.0 16.1 Sonic Forces: Looming Shadow, "Looming Shadow"
- ↑ Sonic Forces: Episode Shadow.
- ↑ Sonic Forces (PC) English digital instruction booklet, "Story".
- ↑ Sonic Forces (PC) English digital instruction booklet, "Characters".
- ↑ Sonic Forces website (Japanese). Characters. Sega. Archived from the original on 11 September 2017. Retrieved on 11 September 2017.
- ↑ SSF1991 (12 April 2017). Famitsu Has Released New Information On Sonic Mania & Forces, Iizuka Interview. TSSZ News. Retrieved on 12 April 2017.
- ↑ SEGA® Releases New Sonic Forces™ Trailer and Key Art. Gamasutra (13 June 2017). Retrieved on 14 June 2017.
- ↑ 23.0 23.1 Media:SFscan_15.jpg
- ↑ 24.0 24.1 24.2 24.3 Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. "Infinite: I can taste your terror, child. All that anxiety and doubt... It's delicious. Give in to your fear. Flee, screaming, and I'll let you live."
- ↑ 25.0 25.1 Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Cutscene: Cutscene 025. "Infinite: No, wait! I can still fight! / Dr. Eggman: You never fail to surprise me, Sonic. I didn't believe Infinite could lose. Victory will be so much sweeter when I defeat you. Don't think this is over yet, you blue nuisance. My plan just went into overtime!"
- ↑ Eitaro Toyoda on Twitter. Twitter (December 21, 2023). Retrieved on December 21, 2023. "cooki15xd: @E_Toyoda39 Hi really huge fan here, i want to ask, how did exactly Eggman was able to create a new Phantom Ruby since the original went to parts unknown last time we saw it and the copies were destroyed? / Eitaro Toyoda: Hi! Eggman didn't create the Phantom Ruby. He only had one weapon left over from "Sonic Forces" that was charged with the power of that, and he put it to good use. The one he wore on his chest was a modified version of a prototype phantom ruby that he had forgotten to discard. :)"
- ↑ Eitaro Toyoda on Twitter. Twitter (January 1, 2024). Retrieved on January 1, 2024. "Hydrixtheaqua: @E_Toyoda39 hello! I’m a really huge, massive fan of the series. I have to ask, given the recent resurgence of interest in Infinite’s character, would it be possible for Infinite and the Phantom Ruby to ever return? I ask because I really like Infinite & hope he returns someday. / Eitaro Toyoda: Hi, thanks for liking Infinite. As for him, I have no idea where he is or if he is alive or dead. Phantom Ruby seems to have warped into the world of "Sonic Mania" Plus, but its current status is unknown. I am very curious too. I too hope to see him back and active someday! :D)"
- ↑ Sonic Team (8 November 2022) Sonic Frontiers Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: Chaos Island "Tails: It's like how I couldn't handle it after Infinite attacked. One wrong turn and I fall apart..."
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Event: Episode Shadow. Cutscene: After Eggman's Facility. "Dr. Eggman: Rrrrrgh! I went to great pains to get the best mercenaries around and he STILL totally wrecked the Defense Squad! SHADDDOOWWRRRGH!"
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces. Nintendo Switch. Sega. Cutscene: Cutscene 10. "Infinite: This wasn't part of my agenda, but I'm always happy to crush a hero. It keeps the rabble in line. Shows them there is no hope."
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Cutscene: Cutscene 10. "Infinite: Well, look who's back from the dead. The little blue savior. But what's that I smell? You reek of fear. Glad to see I left an impression."
- ↑ 32.0 32.1 Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Area/level: Boss: Infinite 2. "Infinite: The strong will always vanquish the weak. You have only your own frailty to blame."
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Event: Episode Shadow. Cutscene: Eggman's Facility. "Shadow: Worthless. Don't show your pathetic face around me ever again."
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Cutscene: Cutscene 16. "Infinite: More ants to crush. I wonder if this world can offer me a real challenge."
- ↑ 35.0 35.1 Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Cutscene: Cutscene 012. "Dr. Eggman: You let the hedgehog LIVE? That is a great source of concern. / Infinite: For you, perhaps. He has beaten you for decades, yet I defeated him in our first encounter."
- ↑ 36.0 36.1 36.2 Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (Episode Shadow). Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: Eggman Empire Fortress, VS. Infinite. "Infinite: Friends are nothing but a fleeting illusion. You can count on nobody but yourself! / Sonic: Your mask can't hide how sad and lonely you are! That Phantom Ruby virtual reality of yours is the real illusion!"
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (Episode Shadow). Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: World Map. "Infinite: Hahah. The world's most powerful robot is no more a challenge than Crabmeat. As I suspected, this power is without peer, It's the ultimate strength."
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (Episode Shadow). Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: World Map. "Infinite: Hahah... Oh, this power, before we've even tuned it! Just as I thought. It is unrivaled!"
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces. Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: Lost Valley. "Sonic: Tails! I need to know what's going on with this guy! / Tails: I'm trying, Sonic, but these readings are all messed up! They don't make any sense!"
- ↑ Sonic Forces: Rise of Infinite, "Rise of Infinite"
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces. Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: World Map. "Shadow: Infinite can create virtual reality projections. They have mass and form, but no heart and soul."
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces. Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: World Map. "Tails: Found it! Virtual Reality weapon. The Phantom Ruby. A weapon that takes control of people's visual and depth perception to feed false information to the brain, creating a new reality for them! Like a dream so real, if you bump yourself in it, your sleeping self will bruise? It's hard to believe."
- ↑ Sonic Forces- Rental Hero Gameplay. YouTube. Sega (17 October 2017). Retrieved on 17 October 2017.
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Event: Episode Shadow. Cutscene: Eggman's Facility. "Infinite: That day, I gave up my own unsightly face. And I let go of the old me, the one that was so weak, so that I could become stronger. And then, at last... I obtained the power. The power to make all yield to my will. I... was... REBORN!"
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Cutscene: Cutscene 025. "Infinite: Impossible. I cannot be defeated. / Sonic: Wrong, loser! The things that can't be defeated are heart, soul, and the bonds of friendship. Three things you and your counterfeit cronies lack!"
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces (in English). Sega. Cutscene: Cutscene 019. "Dr. Eggman: Five more hours before the plan is executed. Infinite, let's make a tactical retreat so that we can re-mobilize our forces. / Infinite: And by "tactical retreat", you mean to say "flee with our tails between our legs". I'm quite displeased about this, Doctor. / Dr. Eggman: Shut up and just follow me."
- ↑ BARF: Sonic Frontiers' Sage Needs to do Better Than Infinite. Game Rant (13 September 2022). Retrieved on 4 March 2024.
- ↑ BumbleKing Videos (6 July 2020). BumbleKast Q&A for July 6th, 2020. Youtube. Retrieved on 28 December 2020. "Ian Flynn: As for Infinite, that is his real name. I asked this specifically when writing up the script. I said can we, you know, touch on what his name was before he became 'Infinite', and no, that's his name. It's always been his name."
- ↑ Into the Cinematic Spider-Verse - BumbleKast #83 (45:46). YouTube. BumbleKing Videos (21 January 2019). Retrieved on 31 July 2023.
- ↑ Christian Whitehead confirms Hard Boiled Heavies backstory Sonic Lore. YouTube (26 February 2022). Retrieved on 3 March 2022.
- ↑ Morio Kishimoto (3 February 2023). Morio Kishimoto on Twitter. Twitter. Retrieved on 6 February 2023. "SaltySealz (INFINITE'S STRONGEST SOLDIER): 岸本こんにちは、お元気で!インフィニットの運命と彼が戻ってくることができるかどうかについての洞察を共有できるかどうか、私はただ思っていました. [Hello Kishimoto, how are you! I was just wondering if you could share some insight into Infinite's fate and whether he can come back.] / Morio Kishimoto: こんにちは!インフィニットはメインストリームタイトルのキャラクターですから、今後のタイトルで登場することがあっても不思議では無いと思います。[Hello! Infinite is a character from mainstream titles, so I wouldn't be surprised if he appears in future titles.]"
- ↑ Come Join the Eggman Empire!. YouTube. Sega (2 November 2017). Retrieved on 3 November 2017.
- ↑ Sonic Team (7 November 2017). Sonic Forces. Nintendo Switch. Sega. Area/Level: Mystic Jungle: VS. Infinite. "Infinite: Still thrashing around, I see, you filthy little sewer rat. / Sonic: Haven't you seen a hedgehog before? C'mon, I'll show you my spines!"
- ↑ Sonic Twitter Takeover 3 - All Answers (Sonic, Shadow and Eggman). YouTube. The Sonic Show (3 November 2017). Retrieved on 7 October 2020. "Eggman: Oh! I just got a message from Infinite! It's a file called 'Sonadow'. / Sonic: No! Don't open that!"