Sonic the Hedgehog #79 (2025) Review: A Thrilling Showdown with Mimic the Octopus
Introduction
The latest issue of Sonic the Hedgehog #79 (2025) delivers an action-packed, emotionally charged confrontation between Whisper the Wolf and her former ally-turned-traitor, Mimic the Octopus. This issue, which combines psychological tension, character development, and fierce battle, is a must-read for Sonic fans. Ian Flynn wrote Sonic the Hedgehog #79, while Adam Bryce Thomas did the illustrations.
The Storyline: A Long-Awaited Reckoning
Sonic the Hedgehog #79 delivers a gripping narrative centered on Whisper the Wolf’s final confrontation with the treacherous Mimic the Octopus. The issue masterfully blends action, deception, and emotional closure, making it one of the most impactful chapters in IDW’s Sonic series.
The Trap is Set
Whisper and Silver the Hedgehog are shown planning in Rainbow Ravine, a colorful canyon with tumbling waterfalls, at the start of the novel. Mimic, the shapeshifting spy who had betrayed Whisper's squad, the Diamond Cutters, and ultimately led to their annihilation, was their objective.
Mimic’s Disguise: Posing as Cream the Rabbit, Mimic approaches Whisper, feigning friendliness.
A Fatal Mistake: Whisper notices subtle inconsistencies—Cream saying "mummy" instead of "mom" and forgetting Cheese the Chao’s name.
The Reveal: Whisper coldly declares, "You’ve done your homework, Mimic."
This moment is charged with tension, as Mimic’s cover is blown, and the real battle begins.
Psychological Warfare
When Mimic realizes his trick has failed, he stops the performance and starts a verbal spar with Whisper. Their exchange reveals deep-seated resentment:
Mimic’s Taunts:
"Friends uplift? No, they’re liabilities. You can’t account for their weaknesses."
"You only survived before because you worked alone."
Whisper’s Resolve:
"I was always there for them. You weren’t."
"No more hunting. No more running. We finish this."
This dialogue highlights the core theme of trust vs. betrayal, reinforcing Whisper’s growth since her isolation in earlier arcs.
The Battle in the Marketplace
The fight spills into a crowded bazaar, forcing Whisper to adapt:
Mimic’s Tactics:
Uses his shapeshifting to blend into the crowd (turning into a red quokka).
Attempts to exploit Whisper’s reluctance to endanger civilians.
Whisper’s Counter:
Tangle the Lemur intervenes, using her elastic tail to corner Mimic.
Silver uses psychic powers to track Mimic’s movements.
The choreography is dynamic, with Adam Bryce Thomas’ art emphasizing speed and precision.
The Final Blow
Desperate, Mimic detonates an energy core, trying to take everyone down with him.
Silver’s Shield: He protects the group with a psychic barrier, though the blast disorients him.
Tangle’s Save: She catches Whisper mid-fall, showcasing their strong bond.
Mimic’s Last Stand: He attempts to flee, but Whisper disarms him, finally ending the chase.
As Mimic is subdued, Whisper whispers, "It's over... it's finally over."
Aftermath: What Comes Next?
With Mimic defeated, Whisper honors her fallen teammates (Smithy, Claire, Slinger), but faces a new dilemma:
Tangle tries to cheer her up, joking about not breaking the Wispon.
Silver reassures her, but Whisper admits, "I never had an after-battle plan."
This sets up her future arc—will she remain a lone wolf, or embrace her new friendships?
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Key Characters & Their Roles
| Character | Role in Issue #79 |
|---|---|
| Whisper the Wolf | Protagonist; faces Mimic for justice. |
| Mimic the Octopus | Antagonist; manipulative, slippery foe. |
| Tangle the Lemur | Whisper’s energetic ally; provides crucial support. |
| Silver the Hedgehog | Uses psychic powers to track Mimic. |
| Team Chaotix | Investigating a robot recycler (subplot). |
Art & Writing Highlights
Adam Bryce Thomas’ Dynamic Art
Action Sequences: Fluid combat scenes, especially Whisper’s sniper moves vs. Mimic’s shapeshifting.
Emotional Close-Ups: Whisper’s expressions convey grief, resolve, and relief.
Ian Flynn’s Sharp Dialogue
Mimic’s taunts ("Friends uplift? No, they’re liabilities!") contrast Whisper’s growth.
Tangle’s humor ("See? I didn’t break your Wispon!") lightens tense moments.
What’s Next? Future Teases
Team Chaotix’s Jungle Mystery
In a scene that teases "Something Dark in the Jungle" for Sonic #80, Vector, Espio, and Charmy are shown in Rainstorm Forest looking into a dubious robot recycler.
Whisper’s New Path
With Mimic defeated, Whisper must decide: What’s next for a soldier without a war?
FAQs About Sonic the Hedgehog #79
1. Is this Mimic’s final appearance?
Probably not. Mimic is skilled at trickery; he could make a comeback in a later storyline.
2. Will Whisper join Team Dark or another group?
Her solo journey seems possible, but Tangle’s influence may keep her with friends.
3. How does this tie into the IDW Sonic universe?
This concludes a long-running Whisper-Mimic feud while setting up new mysteries (Chaotix subplot).
4. Is this a good place for new readers to start?
Indeed! The emotional core (revenge vs. redemption) is strong on its own, even though prior information is helpful.
Final Verdict: 9/10
Sonic the Hedgehog #79 delivers a satisfying climax to Whisper’s arc, blending high-octane action, deep character moments, and stunning art. The defeat of Mimic marks a turning point, while the Chaotix tease ensures fans will return for more.
🔥 Must-read for:
Fans of Whisper & Tangle’s dynamic
Readers who love psychological villains (Mimic)
Those invested in IDW’s Sonic lore
📌 Follow the story in:
Sonic #80 (Chaotix’s jungle mission)
Sonic Universe: Tangle & Whisper (if exploring their bond further)
What Did You Think?
Did Sonic #79 meet your expectations? Share your thoughts in the comments! And stay tuned for more Sonic comic breakdowns.
🚀 Next Up: Sonic #80 Preview :What’s Hidden in Rainstorm Forest?