"Rising Evil - Enerjak Reborn!": The demolition starts here, with super-powered villain Enerjak wrecking havoc on Angel Island ! Our heroes are readying their defenses while Sonic and Tails race against time to find the still missing Knuckles! Can they find him, or did Enerjak get to him first? PLUS: "Undone": You'll shudder at the shocking origin of this new Enerjak... if your nerves are strong enough to handle it!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn. ART: Tracy Yardley (pencils) & Jim Amash (inks). Earth-shattering cover by Tracy Yardley!
On sale Diamond October 24
On sale Newsstand November 6
32-page, full color comic, $2.25 US.
zomg, SHOCK!
Knuckles = Enerjak practically confirmed. Hope I'm wrong.
Actually I think it's Locke in that image. Note the stripe when you click the pic.
Sad part is I would not have guessed this afore, despite the hints in 169 & 171 (working with Fini), and possibly even 165 when Locke made clear his "whatever it takes to protect the island" attitude. Still thinking the new Enerjak is tricked/tempted by Fini any rate.
what stripe?
I don't think it's Knuckles, since Enerjak is obviously implied to have been reborn in the previous issue (hence Eggman and Sonic teaming up), and this implies he obstensibly took or is trying to take Knuckles after being reborn. Also note that there are no spikes where the hands are, which negates Knuckles being Enerjak altogether. It also isn't Remington since the color isn't correct.
That said, I have to go with Miss Puar and say it's Locke. He may want to get Knuckles back on the island and was tricked by Finitevus to leave the island in order that he could prepare to inject him with the power needed to "remake" Enerjak, and the resulting energy naturally makes him go maaaaad.
Otherwise, Lien-Da had a serious breast reduction done since #142. :p
I recently started reading the comic again, and had a huge gap from about issue 92 to around 160. Can someone fill me in on who enerjak is? Was he what Dimitri (I think) turned into when he used that emerald thing way way way in the past? I never followed the Knuckles stories much, so I don't recall.
Pretty much, Shmoil. Dimitri had his power drained by Mogul in a Knuckles story which stripped Dimitri of his Enerjak powers thus turning him into what he is now!
Augh...this cannot come soon enough. After noting the stripe that Puar pointed out, I kind of suspect Locke as well but is he the only guardian alive who has the stripes on his dreadlocks?
Whoa, Locke or like Sabre..but I doubt its Sabre. That's too much!
The page is streched! :O Who stretched it?
Double :O :O
* Shock Gasp *
Don't know what to say. Ohter than this:
Enerjak = Echidna
Which one is it?
Candidates:
1)Knuckles- You only see that person's arms. So his knuckles aren't visible
2)Locke- Stripes? Since when does he have stripes?
3)Dosen't Tikal have stripes?
4)Dimitri- Easy reason why 😛 Also, clue on #171
5)Dr. Finitivus- ??? Could be
6)Lien-da -As Cooki stated
7)Kragok back from the grave! :O
1, 4, and 5 are likable candidates.
Final note: I used this :O too much.
:O
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4)Dimitri- Easy reason why 😛 Also, clue on #171
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PLUS: "Undone": You'll shudder at the shocking origin of this new Enerjak...
For some reason, I seriously don't think it's Dimitri.
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For some reason, I seriously don't think it's Dimitri.
Not unless Ian and the Archie Sonic crew decided to make the reveal of Enerjak such a big deal that in the end, he reveals himself to be Dimitri thus blowing the entire fan's expectations who assumed it someone else because of the big deal-ness. GENIUS! 
i'm kinda doubting Dimitri cuz he really seemed to come to the realization that while he has power as Enerjak, it's still not enough, as explained during the Knuckles "Dark Alliance" story. Unless he gets tricked or forced into it by Finitivus.
Locke seems like a good choice. It would also explain why Finitivus worked with him (other than gaining access to the Master Emerald)
Could be Locke or Finitivus. Sounds like a good issue. I'm glad they're including Knuckles and his huge family ordeal in the storyline.
I'm almost sure that it's Knuckles. Because I seem to remember that Dimitri. Once said that Knuckles was the only one beside him that had that kind of power to be Enerjak at least that's what I think he said or something like that maybe. But if it's not Knuckles then it has to be none other then Dr. Finitivus because we still don't know a whole lot about him. Other then what we already know about Dr. Finitivus from past STH/Knuckles comic issue's to date.
I still see no stripes on the dreads other than the rays of light, but I'm curious, you guys talk about Finny working with Locke, but he send Locke to go look for the Brotherhood so how could Locke be Enerjak. Also, with Dimitri running away to warn the Chaotix, I seriously doubt that Dimitri is Enerjak. Finally, with Knux missing, I wouldn't be surprised if he is the new Enerjak.
That's no stripe it's a part of the mask design. Because if you really look at it. You can tell that it's the same color as the mask.
I'm putting my money on Knuckles. For one, they have both Sonic and Tails on the front cover now it may be just me but those three always seem to be seen together alot, (off topic a bit Sonic Heroes?) another thing is that yes his arms can be seen but his hands are behind his head/mask. Follow the arms up and you'll see what looks like a gold gauntlet of sorts before the blue covered hand continues. Look at the very edge of the gold gauntlets, there is a little upraised "bump" on each of the gauntlets, those being the "knuckles" perhaps?
Just for refrence use, here is a picture of the old Enerjak. If you can find a better picture, slap it on this here topic.
I keep looking at the so-called "stripes" and I'm coming to the conclusion that they really aren't. The one on the left (from Sonic's view) looks that it is part of the mask, while the one on the right dosen't. I'm just getting annoyed as to whether they are or not.
^That is extremely debatable Betheny. They are sleeves. And they tend to swively back and forth. At first, I was also thinking that. But then then I noticed that those arms do seem quite large, especially near the wrists.
Another reason why it's Knuckles: He seems to be the only one who's tail points in that exact same zigzag-ish look. =O Oh, yes. This has turned the argument around. And therefore, I confine Knuckles, GUILTY!
I just don't want this to turn into another green Knuckles saga, or something of the like.
Similar cover too:
sonichq.mobiusforum.net/c...nic101.jpg
For the record, this Enerjak looks sexy.
Seems like Sonic and Tails kissed and made up.
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Seems like Sonic and Tails kissed and made up.
Because no one saw that coming.
I don't understand it. Why have Sonic vs. Tails, if everyone knows they're just going to become friends again.
Because it adds drama? And who is to say it won't flare up again down the road? Almost like saying, why have Sonic vs. Robotnik, he's going to win eventually...=p
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Because it adds drama? And who is to say it won't flare up again down the road?
Not before an intervention from Sega, and I personally don't want to see it happen again. Not because I care, but because it would be tiresome by that point.
Although, I'll leave it for that story arc.
having them together like that on the cover doesn't necessarily spell out a happy ending. they would be united with Enerjak rising. It doesn't mean that they're best buds again. Could be just them agreeing to table their issues to handle a real threat
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having them together like that on the cover doesn't necessarily spell out a happy ending. they would be united with Enerjak rising. It doesn't mean that they're best buds again. Could be just them agreeing to table their issues to handle a real threat
We know they will be friends again eventually. They're feud isn't going to last.
As I said before, I will leave it to the arc.
Obviously Sonic and Tails will be friends again at some point, but their friendship isn't the important issue - it's what will result from their fallout. The civil war, etc.
Not to go off topic or anything. But I get this really odd feeling that this might/could be a set up to/for the real 25 year later story arc.
That's strictly a possible future, and has absolutely no bearing on anything that happens in the current continuity.
The fact that it hog tied current events was the exact reason why it was made clear that it was nothing more than an alternate future.
If Ian tries to make serious links to a continuity with the likes of Tails/Mina and the benevolent dictatorship of Our Echidna Housewife Overlords, I'll be very, very shocked - not to mention contemplating giving up my subscription.
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Knuckles = Enerjak practically confirmed.
I haven't been reading around Ian's board, but I'm currently buying what you're selling.
However, those who think "Knuckles" because of the tail are wrong though. Locke's tail had the bent when he was re-designed and I know I saw it bent back in #171--as the last time I saw Locke. I don't pay that much attention to artist consistency, but I remember Finitevus had a bent tail when he was introduced in "Return to Angel Island" along with Remington in his new design as well. So many male echidnas at least have had their tails drawn with a bent since "Home."
If it isn't Knuckles, Knuckles probably would've been used to ressurrect Enerjak most likely. I disagree that the spoiler mentions when Knux turned up missing. Just because they've finally noticed that Knux is gone, doesn't mean he just disappeared on them. It could very well be Knux went away for some reason and then the Enerjak danger suddenly starts. When they can't reach him, they figure something is up.
Point taken True Red. I went back and skimmed at the tails and noticed that Locke's was only bent (and in the other direction) in #171. So it could still highly be Knuckles. I also believe that if it is one of them, it would be sort of like a double-crossing, cliche ordeal.
What if it's Lien-da?
That would be nice. She dosent like Fini trying to bogart her, she goes and uses the Chaos Syphon {Does one even exist still, maybe in Albion-do the even KNOW about Albion nowadays!?!} and does it to herself from the Master Emerald.
Anyway, this issue needs to come out.
Here is what Ian said at Bumbleking:
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What I don't like is threats of angry letters and being put out about the big reveal when that reveal isn't for four months. I can understand folks thinking one character as being a more reasonable choice than another, for whatever reason, but it crosses the line when the idea is condemned before it sees the light of day. The identity of Enerjak will be revealed and explained in one fell swoop, so give it a chance. Otherwise you're violating forum rules and being mean spirited to boot.
Secondly, I fully understand folks wanting Knuckles to lead the charge in this storyline. If there was a Knuckles title, or a mini-series, or a 48-page special - anything - that wasn't Sonic-centric in nature I would do that. But the title of the book is Sonic the Hedgehog. Sonic is the star, Sonic gets the most screen time, and Sonic is going to throw-down with Enerjak. To demand otherwise is to waste your energy. It's something I have to tackle as a writer and it's something I cannot change.
All that said, Knuckles will be a central figure in the story arc. A lot of outstanding echidna-related plot points are going to be addressed. The works: the Dingoes, the Brotherhood, Locke, Finitevus' plan and origin, the Frost/Flame Legions, I'm even touching on the Remington speculation some folks are talking about. How it all plays out will surprise you as well. I'm sure of it. A story arc this large is bound to surprise you with something somewhere.
So douse the torches and put away the pitchforks. After STH#181, if you still can't enjoy it for whatever reason, speak your mind.
I hope this clears a few things up.
Well, I feel like a complete idiot because I started another topic for this and didn't check beforehand to see if anyone else had. Now I feel dumb; feel free to mock me.
In all seriousness, I'm betting that the new Enerjak is Knuckles. I mean, look at the strong indications: Knuckles is missing, Enerjak 2.0 has a "shocking" origin, Enerjak's hands are cleverly obscured so that you really can't tell if he has fist spikes or not, he's got Knuckles' same style of crooked tail, and he has Knuckles' short (at least compared to Dimitri's) dreadlocks.
Besides, just look at that cover picture! The whole cliche "villain unmasked" scene is obviously pointing to a shocking revelation of Enerjak's identity, and who would be a more shocking Enerjak than his former arch-nemesis?
Knuckles=Enerjak? I dought that theory after I read what Ian said. I will keep it in mind, though.
What EHH said. He's sort of going into the defensive that it's not Knuckles. He was obviously replying to some groupie who couldn't containt the wait. It's only 4 months. And it's only a comic book. We can wait. It's just the imaturity of some people that's throwing us off.
As you say, ChaoRcute, it's four months away. We'll see then who's right and who's wrong. Besides, it may be a comic book, but it's a COOL comic book. I can wait, though I'm not going to be too happy about it.
I hope I can resist spoilers this time!
Probably not 
Well, here's what I have to say about Ian's opinion about Sonic: it sucks! Sonic may be the main guy in the comic, but that doesn't mean he should get all the screen time! We want to see some of the other characters! If he refuses to give the other characters the respect they deserve, I think he should bring back all the cool Super Specials and stuff so they get it!
Anyway, the whole deal with Sonic throwing down with Enerjak doesn't appeal to me. Enerjak is Knuckles' arch-nemesis (or at least he was last time-Enerjak may be Knuckles this time), and Sonic has no business messing around with that. Why is it that Tails got to take on Master Mogul, but ever since then Sonic's been hogging all the bad guys? Is it so wrong for one other character to rise to a status where they can take on Enerjak?
My contempt for Ian's Sonic policies aside, #181 sounds like it's going to be awesome! I'm looking forward to seeing what's become of the Brotherhood, the whole stories behind Finitevus and Remington, how the Dark Legion civil war works out, and whatever's going to happen to the Dingoes (I hope they die; they're almost as bad as the Overlanders/humans).
I have just one thing more to say regarding Sonic vs. Enerjak: Sonic should become Ultra Sonic again. Given that Super Sonic is logically weaker than Enerjak (and that he's been used every time Sonic has a colossal battle with someone), Ultra Sonic is a logical choice. Of course, he'd have to be powered down somewhat, since he's supposed to normally be as strong as Chaos Knuckles, who could kick Enerjak's butt.
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Well, here's what I have to say about Ian's opinion about Sonic: it sucks! Sonic may be the main guy in the comic, but that doesn't mean he should get all the screen time! We want to see some of the other characters! If he refuses to give the other characters the respect they deserve, I think he should bring back all the cool Super Specials and stuff so they get it!
Before you go freaking out here, try to keep in mind that that kind of thing is up to the editor and the SEGA representatives. How much screentime the main character gets or whether or not Super Specials return is not up to the writer. Besides, a lot of characters who have been long shoved aside have been getting more attention lately. Bunnie, Antoine, Espio and others have gotten a lot more involvement than they had been in recent years, and now, despite a huge cast, the focus is being given to the Knuckles-series characters. So where do you get "refusing to give characters the respect they deserve?"
Take a minute to think before you post. You might've seen the part about "It's something I have to tackle as a writer and it's something I cannot change."
If you want to whine about this kind of stuff, write to the person who actually has some control over it - the editor.
Don't take this the wrong way but I think the fight sould come down to Tails vs Enerjak aka Knuckjak. Because I think alot of people are sick of see'ing Sonic vs Knuckles or even Sonic vs Shadow. Plus that would kind of cool to see Tails go from having a fight with Sonic right into having a fight with Knuckles.
In fact the only fights that we have yet to see are Shadow vs Tails in the main Sonic comic (Not the Sonic X comic.) Super Sonic vs Turbo Tails, Super Shadow vs Turbo Tails, Knuckles vs Shadow, Hyper Knuckles vs Super Shadow or even all four of them at once.
Actually, rattrap, though there are strong indications, we don't know for a fact that Knuckles is the new Enerjak. However, I do agree that if he is, it would probably be better to have him do battle with Shadow then have another incarnation of the long-running "Sonic vs. Knuckles" fight.
Forgive me if I sound rude, CCL, but what I'm talking about is the fact that none of the other characters gets to be the big hero all by themselves. I mean, where is it written that the only people who can take on cool Super forms and defeat the big villain of the story all by themselves are Team Sonic and possibly Shadow?
What I'd like to see is Sally, Julie-Su, or any other individual member of the Chaotix or Freedom Fighters getting into a big fight with a major world threatening villain and kick their butt! I don't want to see them all team up to total one of Robotnik's robots; I want to see one of them total it! Why is it that only four guys in the comics seem to have what it takes to challenge a villain to a final battle and emerge victorious?
I will concede that the more minor characters have been getting more respect than I indicated; I'm just a bit obsessed. But I want to see them get the same level of respect as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Shadow-no, strike that, I want the entire cast to get a bigger level of respect. To tell the truth, even those four haven't been having a good time lately.
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Why is it that only four guys in the comics seem to have what it takes to challenge a villain to a final battle and emerge victorious?
Because not everyone can be a big gee whizz goshdarned hero!
Even leaving aside the fact that those're the central four characters in the franchise and the ones that the book's supposed to focus on, from a narrative point of view, they take these things on because they can - because they've got mystical destinies or special enhancements or can pull Chaos Emeralds out of their backsides.
Not every character's a superhero - as they say in The Incredibles: if everyone was special, then nobody would be.
One of the things that made me abandon Buffy the Vampire Slayer for several years was the way that it turned its emphasis away from the teenage allegory of one lone, isolated superhuman to the way that suddenly, almost the entire Scooby Gang had to have some sort of special power. That sort of thing ticks me off a bit.
You wouldn't expect Jimmy Olsen to go up against Lex Luthor all on his own, or Commissioner Gordon to think that just putting on the Bat Suit means that he's a match for the Joker.
If Sally, Antoine, St. John, Hershey or any standard Mobian went up against the likes of a Robotnik war machine on their own, all that you'd hear would be a very sudden squishing sound, and that'd be the end of the fight.
Those characters have their redeeming points - charisma, leadership ability, bravery, brains, a good level of strength and fighting ability for a normal mortal - but being able to do something against a gigantic "final boss" one-on-one in a fist fight isn't their way. The reason why we see them in teams is because there's strength in numbers.
I see what you're saying, but unless they all start driving giant mechas, I don't see it happening. Even without the fact that the comic's biased towards The Big Four for a reason.
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Knuckles = Enerjak practically confirmed. Hope I'm wrong.
Why do I get the feeling that Enerjak will be ...
<_<
>_>
<_<
Pachacamac, Tikal's father. Now that will a plot twist.
There's only one thing wrong with that idea of your's Shadonic. This is Archie's STH not Sonic X! Although for some reason as of late. It does kind of look like the Archie STH comic is starting to look somewhat like a rip- off of the Sonic X comic. I mean the whole sixteen year old Charmy acting more like his six year old Sega, Sonic X verson.
What does this comic not being Sonic X have to do with anything? Pachy was in the Sonic Adventure adaptation, so I don't see why it couldn't be.
