Sonic, often associated with its flagship character, Sonic the Hedgehog, is a globally recognized video game brand created by Sega. Since its inception in 1991, Sonic has become an icon of the gaming industry, known for its fast-paced platforming games and the titular blue hedgehog's super speed. The brand's strengths lie in its long-standing fan base, innovative gameplay that emphasizes speed and agility, and its successful expansion into various media, including animated series, comics, and a feature film. Sonic's global brand awareness is significant, with a presence in virtually all gaming markets around the world, a wide range of merchandise, and a cultural impact that spans multiple generations of gamers.