Causality Chain is a series at PC Gamer exploring the unlikely links between history, culture, and videogames. And occasionally hedgehogs.
The arc of history curves in mysterious ways. Beloved actor Keanu Reeves—known for his roles as Ted, Neo, and John Wick—may not identify as a Buddhist, yet he finds himself intricately linked to the teachings of one of Buddhism’s most significant figures, which has influenced his latest blockbuster role.
A legendary journey
1590s: Xuanzang’s account of his travels inspires a thousand years of folktales, both in written form and oral tradition. By the late 16th century, a fictional narrative emerges, chronicling the adventures of the Buddhist monk Tang Sanzang alongside the monkey king, Sun Wukong, in a tale known as Journey to the West.
From the west to the east
1984: Manga artist Akira Toriyama, fresh off the success of his comic Dr. Slump, decides to shift his focus to a new series set against a backdrop of “Chinese scenery.” He draws inspiration from Journey to the West, stating in a 1995 interview that this classic tale provided a convenient framework, allowing him to rearrange elements as needed. His protagonist, Son Goku, is modeled after the Monkey King.
The Super moment
1991: As Dragon Ball gains traction as a popular battle manga, Toriyama introduces a power-up for Goku known as Super Saiyan. This transformation features a striking golden aura and blonde hair, a creative choice that simplifies the inking process for his assistant.
Sonic’s power-up looks mighty familiar
1992: The debut of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 in November brings with it a new transformation for Sonic. Upon collecting the Chaos Emeralds, he glows gold and becomes Super Sonic, a clear nod to the earlier transformations seen in Toriyama’s work.
Sonic needs a shadow
2001: To introduce a formidable rival for Sonic, Sonic Team creates Shadow the Hedgehog, dubbed the “ultimate lifeform.” Shadow’s character is layered with complexity, including a penchant for mischief, and perhaps even a touch of Vegeta’s essence.
Keanu is the ultimate life form?
2024: In a surprising twist, Keanu Reeves is cast as the voice of Shadow. During an interview, he confidently asserts that he, whether as a human or the voice of a CGI hedgehog, could triumph over Sonic the Hedgehog.
Sources and further reading
- Xuanzang, Wikipedia
- How to understand Journey to the West, Stone Bridge Press
- Akira Toriyama Super Interview, Kanzenshuu
- The Truth About the “Dragon Ball” Manga, Kanzenshuu
- Sonic the Hedgehog & Dragon Ball – Influences and Inspiration, Zed’s Writings
- Shadow the Hedgehog – This is like taking candy from a baby, YouTube
- Iizuka says Shadow the Hedgehog wasn’t inspired by Vegeta, but fans have receipts that say otherwise, PC Gamer
- Keanu Reeves Talks Voicing Shadow, YouTube
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