Warning: SPOILERS ahead for the video game Sonic Adventure 2!

A theory about which characters could show up in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, sets the stage for one missing team member from the games, whose unexpected appearance could make for the perfect Sonic the Hedgehog 4. The upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will introduce Shadow to the cinematic universe, focusing on the threat he poses to Sonic and his friends. During Sonic the Hedgehog 2‘s post-credits scene, it was hinted that the follow-up will be inspired by the video game Sonic Adventure 2, where the Ultimate Lifeform was first introduced. This was later confirmed by producer Toby Ascher.

However, not every character who appears in Sonic Adventure 2 has been introduced in the movie franchise yet. While Shadow is the most central newcomer because of his prominent role in the game, the characters Rouge the Bat and Amy Rose have yet to be confirmed for the film. Amy in particular is a surprise, since she is one of the earliest characters created for the video game franchise. Even though Sonic the Hedgehog 2‘s ending didn’t hint at her future arrival, it would be a mistake for her to not show up in the near future.

Amy Was In The Video Game Sonic The Hedgehog 3 Is Based On

Her Words Helped Shadow Realize The Error Of His Ways

One key reason why Amy is speculated for Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is because of how important she ends up being during Sonic Adventure 2. During the game’s Last Story chapter, Space Colony ARK, the space station where Shadow was made, is automated to crash into Earth, something that could cause a devastating apocalyptic event. Amy pleads with Shadow to help save humanity, triggering a memory where he realizes that had been his promise to Maria before she died. Without Amy’s words, Shadow never would have assisted Sonic in stopping the ARK from destroying the planet.

While Amy is important to Shadow’s character development in the games, the lack of news about her appearing in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 makes it seem like she might not be part of the main story. However, given her longevity in the franchise coupled with how prominent she becomes in later games, it would make sense for the movie franchise to introduce her sooner rather than later. Even if Sonic the Hedgehog 3‘s game inspiration doesn’t guarantee her a major spot in the story, she could still appear in the film thanks to one unexpected medium.

Why Amy Could Appear In Sonic The Hedgehog 3’s Post-Credits Scene Instead

Amy Could Set Up The Next Game Adaptation For Sonic The Hedgehog 4

While anything could happen in Sonic the Hedgehog 3‘s post-credits scene, Amy’s introduction would be the perfect transition into the next adventure. Instead of appearing during the movie proper, her debut could be saved for the film’s post-credits scene. Even though this would cut her from Shadow’s story in the movie universe, it would give her a spot in the movie while explaining why she hasn’t been confirmed yet. It could also potentially set the stage for an adaptation of the game she debuted in.

Amy first appeared in the 1993 game Sonic CD, focusing on Robotnik using artifacts called Time Stones to enact his newest villain scheme. The game also introduces Metal Sonic to the franchise, Sonic’s robotic rival and one of his most classic antagonists. Because of how important concepts of the game became to the Sonic the Hedgehog universe, it wouldn’t be surprising for the movies to mirror this with Amy’s introduction. Instead of being part of Shadow’s story, it’s possible she instead ushers in a Sonic CD adaptation for Sonic the Hedgehog 4.

Why Sonic CD Is The Perfect Follow-Up To Sonic The Hedgehog 3

The Movie Could Focus On Amy As A New Hero & Metal Sonic As A New Villain

If Amy’s debut coincides with a Sonic CD adaptation, Sonic the Hedgehog 4 could more readily position her as a new hero on the team. This would allow her enough time to form an attachment to the group, such as her crush on Sonic, while being a direct force against the new threat they face. Her appearance could also offer a more stable ground for Metal Sonic’s debut, perhaps giving her a more active role in the story when adapted to the big screen.

In addition to her appearance, Sonic the Hedgehog 4 could establish Metal Sonic as coming from the quill still in Dr. Robotnik’s possession. This would make the metallic version of the franchise’s namesake all the more threatening, perhaps requiring Amy’s help to defeat him. By appearing in the post-credits scene of Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Amy would become an even more vital part of the story than if she shows up in the movie proper. This could help establish her in a more nuanced context, not just for the fourth movie, but for other adventures that follow.

While it’s still possible Amy will make an appearance during the events of Sonic the Hedgehog 3, it might be more fitting for her to show up in a post-credits scene instead. Setting the stage for a Sonic CD adaptation might delay her arrival, but it would allow her to get more thorough characterization when she does show up. With her being a strong candidate for the next big Sonic the Hedgehog character in the movie universe, it wouldn’t be surprising if she made a cameo, setting the stage for another adventure.