The Sonic series has become an all-star cast of characters - not just the blue hedgehog that we've all come to know and love. While it began with just Sonic and Dr. Robotnik, Tails soon entered the picture, then Amy Rose and Knuckles. Now, Yuji Naka and his staff at Sonic Team introduce us to new characters. But for Sonic Adventure, the artwork is a departure from previous titles. It's got a raw, more urban look to it that fits the series and takes it to the next level.

　　Sonic the HedgehogHe's blue, he's fast, and he's back in Sonic Adventure protecting Earth this time around from the evil clutches of Dr. Robotnik (Dr. Eggman in Japan). Sonic's design has changed somewhat, with green eyes and a larger buckle on those sneakers of his. He's still as fast as ever, and you'll begin playing Sonic Adventure as Sonic (duh).

　　Miles "Tails" ProwerHe's been Sonic's sidekick since the sequel to the original 16-Bit Sonic the Hedgehog. In the screenshots we showed you late Friday night/early Saturday morning, you've seen him doing his patented helicopter tail move on Speed Highway.

　　Knuckles The EchidnaEver since Sonic 3, Knuckles has been on the scene, once even starring in his own game (Knuckles Chaotix on the 32X). Knuckles comes back to help Sonic out, and he can still use his climbing and gliding moves around Sonic Adventure's 3D worlds.

　　Amy RoseShe first appeared as Sonic's would-be girlfriend in Sonic CD but hasn't been heard from since - until now.

　　BigLooking like a mix of Totoro and that cat out of Alice In Wonderland, he's one of the newest additions to Sonic's growing lineup of friends.

　　E-102rHow did a robot get caught up in all this? He is also one of the new characters along with Big. His exact role in the story of Sonic Adventure isn't known quite yet. He appears to have a laser rifle, so he is now also the first Sonic ally that happens to have a weapon (except Robotnik, who's had plenty of weapons).

　　Each of these characters is playable, will have its own strengths/weakness, and their own storylines that diverge from that of the others. Plus, levels played one way with one character will change when played with another. Should be very interesting playing through as all of them.

　　The following pictures are from postcards handed out to attendees at Saturday's Sonic Adventure event.