tw// Discussion of Pro-Israel propaganda and the genocide in Palestine
Okay... as a Sonic fan, I cannot recommend the Knuckles series. Sure, the plot's not good... but there's a much more disturbing reason: The Pro-Israel propaganda (Especially Episode 3).
In the episode, we meet Wade's (Knuckles' friend) family, and they (particularly the mother) make a big deal about being from Israel... they go really far with it. If it was just them being Jewish/it was only the religious traditions, that would be different. However, it is pointed out that the mother is from Israel, and the episode REALLY paints the country in a positive light. Considering the genocide Israel is committing in Palestine at the moment... it is clear why this is problematic.
In addition, they also compare Knuckles'/the Echidna Tribe backstory to Jewish culture (and even make a Holocaust joke) which is so wrong for so many reasons. As a whole, the episode made me very uncomfortable the whole time.
I am having a hard time processing the fact one of my favorite series did something like this. Sonic the Hedgehog characters, especially someone like Knuckles, would NEVER support a genocide... they're always supposed to defend those who can't help themselves. Yet this episode... seeing Knuckles connect with a person from Israel who's portrayed as innocent/inspiring... it feels REALLY messed up to me.
Also, Paramount delayed this series from late 2023 to early 2024... which makes me worried that this could've had something to do with it. Either way, please do not watch the Knuckles series. Especially without pirating.
Free Palestine.