

Autistica: Sonic The Hedgehog Is Autistic
Mar 4, 2025
01:03:55
In this episode of Autistica, Matt and Angela explore why Sonic the Hedgehog is an autism icon—from stimmy visuals and structured gameplay to monotropic flow states and even a surprising connection to Michael Jackson.
🎧 What You’ll Learn
- The Michael Jackson connection – How MJ’s uncredited work on the Sonic 3 soundtrack reflects his neurodivergent traits, obsessive creativity, and passion for video games.
- Masking in public personas – Parallels between MJ, Taylor Swift, Walt Disney, and how long-term public image curation can function as autistic masking.
- Autism-Sonic synergy – Bright colours, predictable level structures, justice-driven themes, and deep lore that feed autistic special interests.
- Flow state gameplay – Why Sonic’s fast-paced yet structured world is ideal for hyper-connected autistic brains.
- Fandom and representation – Jim Carrey’s portrayal of Robotnik, the role of uncredited industry work, and how ABA narratives have attempted to co-opt autistic fandoms.
Resources & Links
- 🕹️ The History of Sonic – Mascot Wars – Read on the Delcampe Blog
- 🎨 The Concept Creation of Sonic – Read on The Boar
- 🔄 Sonic & Knuckles: Turning a Problem Into Success – . Read on VentureBeat
- 🧩 What Is It with Autistic People and Sonic the Hedgehog? – Read on Medium by Eccentric Emmie
- 🎶 Michael Jackson’s Involvement in Sonic 3 – Michael Jackson Songs in Sonic 3 – YouTube
Related Episodes:
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