Sonic the Hedgehog #221

Sonic takes center stage on this cheerful 2011 Archie Comics cover, his signature grin and raised fist radiating confidence as a swirl of stars and hearts fills the background. Behind him, a trio of familiar hedgehog figures — rendered in soft blue tones — are caught up in the dynamic energy of the scene, hinting at a story full of friendship and high-speed adventure. At $2.99, issue #221 of "the world's most way past cool comic!" is a fun, visually lively entry in this long-running series.