Just discovered your blog, and as someone who is passionate about Amy and SonAmy, you *really* hit the nail on the head regarding her character and the ship's dynamic! Out of curiosity, though, how do you feel about Amy's characterization in recent media? I personally feel that Amy has been toned down too much or, even worse, has been made into the opposite of her established character; being a calm and quiet girl who acts as the "responsible one" to the others and expresses little to no romantic affection for Sonic. Sure, IDW and TMOSTH has Amy the way she was in the past, but those are the only exceptions whereas all other recent media (especially Frontiers and CrossWorlds) goes full-force into making Amy into something she's not. Or maybe I'm being too harsh, just as people were overly harsh with Amy's character in the 2000s? In any case, I'd like to hear your insight if you're okay with sharing.
Welcome! Thank you so much for the ask!
I'm always in the middle when it comes to these conversations. I don't think Amy's changed as much as people say she has, but I do understand where people are coming from with their criticisms. After a short time of knowing these characters and not growing up with them, I don't exactly have a bias. I do think Amy (and all the Sonic characters in general) could be more cartoony nowadays. As in the energy and spunk they used to have. Even the best writing nowadays has that style toned down. Sonic shouldn't have his edges straightened out this much. Luckily they've been improving though.
I don't think Amy’s lost her love for Sonic as much as she has more to do and isn't as cartoony as she could be. Then again…I mean, she's flirted with Sonic in Crossworlds with the “Got your attention, Sonic,” line. And she even hugs Sonic at the end of Frontiers. So, her love isn't erased. It's just not done as often as it used to. I still see Amy as the same character but that's just me.
There's also more content we’ve gotten between her and Sonic (which has been a lot) that overpowers my own criticisms because…I’m still happy whenever they interact. Especially since they hug more often than not with Sonic reciprocating which makes me sooooooo happy.
In all honesty, they barely…talked in the older games. Sure, the criticisms for her back then aren't something I agree with but in my opinion, Sonic and Amy didn't have full-on conversations as they do now. Most of their interactions were done as visual gags at most. Even though the way people took those jokes was overkill, they also didn't appeal to me. BUT Sonic Unleashed, SA1, and SA2 are examples of how great a character she is and always has been even with a few hiccups. I love the Sonamy content in Unleashed especially. How Amy encouraged Sonic and cheered him on was so sweet! 🩷
Unfortunately, I'd have to say I don't fully agree or disagree. Sorry if that's kind of an unsatisfying answer.
For the record, I won't judge your criticisms in any way. Your opinion is valid. Remember that. And I'm sorry if the content hasn't been your cup of tea lately. I understand the feeling all too well in terms of other fandoms that I've been a part of.
I recommend (if you haven't already) reading this Amy post to get my full opinions on her characterization.
