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{{Otheruses4}}
{{Quote|A battle plane type bird robot last seen in "SKY CHASE ZONE" from "Sonic 2". A whole bunch of them can be shot out of Metal Sonic's weapon unit, "Metal Carrier", in Episode II.|Profile, ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]'' website}}
 
 
{{Infobox character
 
{{Infobox character
|title = Balkiry
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|title = Balkiry
|image = [[File:Balkiry Runners.png|242px]]
+
|image = Balkiry Runners.png
|caption = The Balkiry in ''[[Sonic Runners]]''.
+
|caption = A Balkiry, from ''[[Sonic Runners]]''.
|first = ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
+
|first = ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
|games = *''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
+
|games =
 
*''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
  +
*''[[Knuckles in Sonic 2]]''
 
*''[[Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure]]''
 
*''[[Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure]]''
 
*''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]''
 
*''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]''
*''[[Sonic Lost World]]''
+
*[[Sonic Lost World|''Sonic Lost World'' (Wii U)]]
  +
*[[Sonic Lost World (Nintendo 3DS)|''Sonic Lost World'' (Nintendo 3DS)]]
 
*''[[Sonic Runners]]''
 
*''[[Sonic Runners]]''
|media = ''[[Sonic the Comic]]''
+
*[[Sonic Lost World (PC)|''Sonic Lost World'' (PC)]]
 
*''[[Sonic Runners Adventure]]''
|nickname =
 
  +
*''[[Sonic Forces: Speed Battle]]''
|species = [[Badnik|Robot]]
 
  +
*''[[Sonic Forces]]''
|color scheme = Red, yellow, silver
 
  +
*''[[Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020]]''
|eye color = Cyan, black
 
  +
|media =
|creator = [[Doctor Eggman|Dr. Eggman]]
 
  +
*[[Archie Comics]]
|affiliation = [[Eggman Empire]]
 
 
*''[[Sonic the Comic]]''
|alignment = Evil
 
  +
*[[IDW Publishing]]
|skills = *Flight
 
 
|creator = [[Doctor Eggman|Dr. Eggman]]
*Charging
 
 
|species = Robot
 
|color scheme = Red, yellow, silver, raspberry, magenta
 
|eye color =
  +
*Black
  +
*Cyan
  +
*Green
 
|alignment = Evil
  +
|affiliation =
 
*[[Eggman Empire]]
  +
**[[Badnik]]s
  +
*[[Deadly Six]] {{C|formerly}}
 
|skills = Flight
 
}}
 
}}
  +
{{Quote left|A battle plane type bird robot last seen in "[[Sky Chase Zone|SKY CHASE ZONE]]" from "[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2|Sonic 2]]". A whole bunch of them can be shot out of [[Metal Sonic]]'s weapon unit, "[[Metal Carrier]]", in [[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II|Episode II]].|Profile, ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]'' website<ref name="StH4Info">{{Cite web|url=http://www.sonicthehedgehog4.com/us/html/ep2-badniks.html|title=Sonic The Hedgehog 4: Episode II|author=[[Sega]]|publisher=[[Sega]]|work=Badniks: Balkiry|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130524063554/http://www.sonicthehedgehog4.com/us/html/ep2-badniks.html|archivedate=24 May 2019}}</ref>}}
{{Nihongo|'''Balkiry'''|バルキーン|Valkyn}} is a bird-like plane [[Badnik]] created by [[Doctor Eggman|Dr. Eggman]]. Balkiry have made their first appearance in ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]].'' These Badniks attack with the straight line or follow their target either at medium or high speeds like a homing missile.
 
  +
The {{Nihongo|'''Balkiry'''<ref name="StH2">''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'' ([[Sega Mega Drive|Sega Genesis]]) United States instruction booklet, pg. 16.</ref>|バルキーン<ref name="StH2Jap">''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'' ([[Sega Mega Drive]]) Japanese instruction booklet, pg. 53.</ref>|Barukīn}} is an enemy that appears in the [[Sonic the Hedgehog series|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' series]]. It is a mass-produced, bird/plane-based [[Badnik]] created by [[Doctor Eggman|Dr. Eggman]].
   
 
==Appearance==
 
==Appearance==
Balkiry Badnik's design is a hybrid of a bird and plane. The red and grey metallic body have wings on each side, a vertical stabilizer and two rotors on its back, which makes the Badnik move on medium or high speed. The head has small eyes facing front and a yellow bird beak. They have two support legs with small wheels that resemble eagles' feet.
+
The Balkiries' design is a hybrid of a bird and plane. Their red and gray metallic bodies have wings on each side, a vertical stabilizer and two rotors on their backs, which let these Badniks move at medium or high speed. Their heads also have small eyes facing the front and a yellow bird beak each. They also have two support legs each with small wheels that resemble eagle feet.
   
Balkiry's appearance in ''Sonic the Hedgehog 4'' is more detailed, as now the support feet are removed and it has received two extra wings in the vertical stabilizer. From ''[[Sonic Lost World]]'' though, Balkiry once again retains its cartoony design from previous games.
+
The Balkiries' appearance in ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]'' is more detailed, as their support feet are here removed and it has received two extra wings on their vertical stabilizers. From ''[[Sonic Lost World]]'' onward though, the Balkiries once again retained their cartoony design from previous games, with the exception of their wheels which are not present on their feet.
   
  +
In ''[[Sonic Forces]]'', Balkiries have a much more streamlined and militaristic design, appearing raspberry in color with a cylinder-shaped body and a rocket engine on their rear. On each side of their body they have an adjustable wing with a magenta front edge, and on their back rear they have three tail fins. Also, situated on their underside is a miniature cargo space with a bottom hatch from where they deploy their bombs. Lastly, they have streamlined bird-like heads with thick lenses for eyes and a thin magenta beak.
==Powers and abilities==
 
These Badniks have been given a simple pattern, as they fly and attack toward its target like a missile. The flying speed of Balkiry varies on certain models, as some of hover with medium speed, while others fly with high speed. In ''Sonic Pocket Adventure'', these Badniks are also able to move to lateral directions, following its moving target.
 
 
In ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]'', Balkiry can be launched from the [[Metal Carrier]]. In ''[[Sonic Lost World]]'' for [[Nintendo 3DS]], these Badniks are able to do swing around in the mid-air to change their charging direction.
 
   
 
==Game appearances==
 
==Game appearances==
=== ''Sonic the Hedgehog 2'' ===
+
===''Sonic the Hedgehog 2''===
 
[[File:Balkiry sprite.png|left]]
 
[[File:Balkiry sprite.png|left]]
  +
In ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'', its several ports and remasters, and the [[Lock-on technology|lock-on]] game ''[[Knuckles in Sonic 2]]'', the {{Nihongo|'''Balkiry'''<ref name="StH2"/>|バルキーン<ref name="StH2Jap"/>|Barukīn}} is an enemy. In this game, the player encounters them in [[Sky Chase Zone]].
First appearing in ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'', Balkiry Badniks are featured at [[Sky Chase Zone]], flying fast in the opposite direction of [[Tornado]], where the playable character is almost only able to move thought the whole [[zone]]. At the beginning of the Zone, Balkiry appears one at a time. As the level progresses, they appear in larger groups of two or three, and at much faster speeds. They are not particularly dangerous, although some of them tend to move quickly and can take the player by surprise. The player can do [[Spin Jump]] to destroy these Badniks.
 
   
 
In gameplay, the Balkiries fly fast in the opposite direction of the playable character. At the beginning of the Zone, the Balkiries appear one at a time, but as the Zone progresses, they appear in larger groups of two or three, and at much faster speeds. However, the Balkiries have been given a simple pattern; they simply charge towards their target like a missile, from one side of the screen. As such, they are not particularly dangerous, although some of them tend to move quickly and can take the player by surprise. Also, upon their destruction, they will reward the player 100 [[point]]s and release an [[Animals|Animal]].
===''Sonic Pocket Adventure''===
 
[[File:Balkiry Pocket Adventure.png|left]]
 
Balkiry Badniks made another appearance in ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure]]'', as they are featured again in [[Sky Chase Zone]] along with other Badniks from previous games. Balkiry Badniks mostly have a similar pattern, however these Badniks are now able to move in lateral directions, as it tries to follow the player, who tries to dodge them.
 
   
 
===''Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II''===
 
===''Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II''===
[[File:Balkiry Sonic 4.png|thumb|Balkiry in ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]''.]]
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[[File:Balkiry Sonic 4.png|thumb|A Balkiry, from ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]''.]]
Balkiry Badniks made a reappearance in ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]'' as being featured in the first act and boss fight of [[Sky Fortress Zone]]. Balkiry's design and its behavior is slightly different from ''Sonic the Hedgehog 2'', as they are now launched from the [[Metal Carrier]]. They cascade down on the player from the top of the screen, and can be defeated with a [[Spin Jump]] or [[Homing Attack]]. However in the Boss Act, some Balkiry Badniks behave just as they do in ''Sonic the Hedgehog 2''.
+
In ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]'', the Balkiries appear as enemies once more. In this game, the Balkiries's design is slightly different from the one featured in ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''. They are only encountered in the first Act and boss fight of [[Sky Fortress Zone]].
  +
  +
In gameplay, the Balkiries' behavior is slightly different from the one displayed in ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''; they are now launched from the [[Metal Carrier]] and cascade down on the player from the top of the screen. However in the Boss Act, some Balkiries behave just as they did in ''Sonic the Hedgehog 2''. Also, upon their destruction, they will reward the player 100 [[point]]s and release an [[Animals|Animal]].
   
 
===''Sonic Lost World''===
 
===''Sonic Lost World''===
Balkiry Badniks appear in both [[Wii U]] and [[Nintendo 3DS]] versions of ''[[Sonic Lost World]]''. During the game, it turns out that Badniks, Balkiry Badniks included, got hijacked by the [[Deadly Six]].
+
In the [[Wii U]] version, [[PC]] [[Sonic Lost World (PC)|version]] and [[Nintendo 3DS]] [[Sonic Lost World (Nintendo 3DS)|version]] of ''[[Sonic Lost World]]'', the Balkiries return as enemies. During the game, all [[Doctor Eggman|Dr. Eggman]]'s [[Badnik]]s, the Balkiries included, got hijacked by the [[Deadly Six]].
   
In Wii U version, these Badniks are seen as obstacles flying through during [[skydiving]] sections of [[Desert Ruins]] Zone 2. In [[Tropical Coast]] Zone ? and [[Sky Road (Sonic Lost World)|Sky Road]] Zone 3, they are seen charging from right on string formations towards Sonic, who is been maneuvered through the air. The player is able to destroy them above while performing [[Spin Attack]]. Balkiry badniks also appear in [[Hidden World]] Zone 2, where the player can only avoid them while piloting the Tornado.
+
In the Wii U/PC version of the game, the Balkiries appear as obstacles flying by in the [[skydiving]] sections of [[Desert Ruins]] Zone 2. In [[Tropical Coast]] Zone ? and [[Sky Road (Sonic Lost World)|Sky Road]] Zone 3 however, they charge from the right in string formations towards [[Sonic the Hedgehog|Sonic]] when he is maneuvered through the air, though the player can destroy them from above by performing the [[Spin Attack]]. Balkiries also appear in [[Hidden World]] Zone 2, where the player can only avoid them while piloting the [[Tornado]].
   
In Nintendo 3DS version, Balkiry badniks are featured in Sky Road Zone 1, where they have different type of charge pattern. They charge up towards until they come across the ceiling, wall or corner and will swing around to change the charging direction. They can be found at locked rooms, as the player has to destroy them to unlock [[switch]]es from [[case]]s. In Sky Road Zone 3, Balkiry Badniks will fly towards him on different string formations, which the player can only avoid while controlling Sonic on the [[Rocket (object)|rocket]].
+
In the Nintendo 3DS version of the game, Balkiries appear in Sky Road Zone 1 and 3. In Zone 1, they will charge forward until they come across the ceiling, wall or corner where they will turn around and head in the other direction. Here, the player has to destroy them to unlock a [[switch]] in a [[case]]. In Sky Road Zone 3 though, Balkiries will fly towards Sonic in different string formations, which the player can only avoid while controlling Sonic on the [[rocket (object)|rocket]].
   
===''Sonic Runners''===
+
===''Sonic Forces''===
 
[[File:SF Valkeen Flying.png|thumb|A Balkiry, as it appears in ''[[Sonic Forces]]''.|left]]
In ''[[Sonic Runners]]'', Balkiry is one of common [[Badnik]]s in [[Fly Type|flying type]] character's stages. Like in previous games, they charge from the right direction separately or in string groups.
 
  +
Balkiries<ref group="note">Internal files for ''[[Sonic Forces]]'' refer to the enemy as "Valkeen", the Japanese name for Balkiry. "Valkeen" is also the name used in the internal files for the enemy's appearance in ''[[Sonic Lost World]]'', and unused behavioral patterns for the enemy in ''Sonic Forces'' suggest it was at one point programmed to behave identically to this appearance.</ref> appear as enemies in ''[[Sonic Forces]]'', having undergone a more militaristic redesign, similar to [[Doctor Eggman|Dr. Eggman]]'s other robots in this appearance. They are only encountered in [[Mortar Canyon]], appearing in large groups that fly in rows above the routes throughout the [[stage]], all while dropping bombs that cause damage-inducing explosions when they hit the ground. Because the Balkiries stay out of reach, the player cannot destroy them, and must instead focus on dodging their bombs.
   
  +
== Other game appearances ==
Balkiry in ''Sonic Runners'' come in three types. Aside from the regular types, there is golden Balkiry that gives 300 extra [[point]]s each when destroyed, and black type called '''Super Balkiry''' that only [[Color Power]]s and [[Power Type|power type]] characters can destroy. Any type of Balkiry contains [[Animals]] inside them.
 
   
  +
===''Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure''===
==Appearances in other media==
 
 
[[File:Balkiry Pocket Adventure.png|left]]
===''Sonic the Comic''===
 
  +
In ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure]]'', the Balkiries return as enemies. They are only encountered in [[Sky Chase Zone (Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure)|Sky Chase Zone]].
[[File:Balkiry troops.png|thumb|120px|Balkiry Badniks in ''[[Sonic the Comic]]''.]]
 
  +
Balkiry Badniks have made frequent appearances in [[Fleetway]]'s ''[[Sonic the Comic]]'', where these Badniks are standard flying units of [[Doctor Ivo Robotnik (Sonic the Comic)|Doctor Ivo Robotnik]]'s Badnik army. These Badniks are first seen in [[Sonic the Comic Issue 15|issue 15]]'s cover. Balkiry's model is seen at background in story "Sonic the Human!" of [[Sonic the Comic Issue 17|issue 17]]. In [[Sonic the Comic Issue 47|issue 47]]'s story "The Big Con", [[Buzzer]] and Balkiry Badniks got launched from the convention tower of [[Chemical Plant Zone]] after [[Sonic the Hedgehog (Sonic the Comic)|Sonic]] and the [[Freedom Fighters (Sonic the Comic)|Freedom Fighters]] are discovered from the crowd. All civilians believed this scene being part of the show. They soon change their mind when Balkiry Badniks start dive-bombing them. Despite the strike, Sonic and Freedom Fighters manage to destroy the convention tower and the Badniks along with it by pushing the Robotnik statue to the tower.
 
  +
In gameplay, the Balkiries have attack patterns similar to those they had in ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'', except they are now able to move in lateral directions, enabling them to follow the player should they dodge them. Also, upon their destruction, they will release an [[Animals|Animal]].
  +
  +
===''Sonic Runners'' series===
  +
====''Sonic Runners''====
  +
[[File:BalkirySRunners.png|thumb|225px|right|Balkiries, from ''[[Sonic Runners]]''.]]
  +
In ''[[Sonic Runners]]'', the Balkiries appear as enemies. In this game, they retained their design from ''[[Sonic Lost World]]''. They are also some of the more common foes encountered in the [[Fly Type|flying type]] characters' [[zone|stage]]s. In gameplay, they charge from the right direction, and appear separately or in groups.
  +
  +
The player can destroy the Balkiries with any move or offensive power-up in the playable characters' arsenal. When destroyed, a Balkiry will grant the player 100 [[point]]s.
  +
  +
Balkiries in ''Sonic Runners'' come in three types. Aside from the regular Balkiries, there are golden ones which grant 300 points when defeated, and silver ones that grant 200 points when eliminated and which only [[Color Power]]s, [[Invincible]] and the [[Power Type|power type]] characters' dash attack can defeat. All three variations also contain [[Animals]] that are released when they are destroyed. The Balkiries also appear as part of several episodes' narrative, which features them being defeated time and time again by [[Team Sonic]].
  +
  +
====''Sonic Runners Adventure''====
  +
In ''[[Sonic Runners Adventure]]'', the Balkiries appear as enemies. In this game, they retain their design from ''[[Sonic Lost World]]''. The player encounters them in [[Sky Sanctuary (Sonic Runners Adventure)|Sky Sanctuary]].
  +
  +
In gameplay, Balkiries slowly fly towards the player. Also, upon their destruction, they release an [[Animals|Animal]].
  +
  +
===''Sonic Forces: Speed Battle''===
  +
{{Main|Balkiry (power-up)}}
  +
In ''[[Sonic Forces: Speed Battle]]'', the Balkiries appears as a Projectile Item that can only be obtained at random from [[Item Box]]es by [[Doctor Eggman|Dr. Eggman]]. They also retain the design from ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]''.
  +
  +
=== ''Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020'' ===
  +
[[File:BalkiryM&S6.png|thumb|225px|Balkiries in the Tokyo Sky Flight mini-game, from ''[[Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020]]''.]]
  +
In the [[Nintendo Switch]] version of ''[[Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020]]'', the Balkiries appear as enemies in the "Tokyo Sky Flight" mini-game. Here, they have their sprite-based appearance from ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''. During the "Tokyo Sly Flight" mini-game, the Balkiries fly forward while firing projectiles at the the playable characters. However, they are easily destroyed with one gunshot from the [[Tornado]]. Also, upon destroying a Balkiry, the player receives 200 [[point]]s.
  +
 
==Powers and abilities==
  +
Thanks to their design, the Balkiries are capable of flight at various speeds. Certain variants are also shown to be capable of dropping bombs.
  +
 
==In other media==
  +
===Books and comics===
  +
====''Sonic the Comic''====
  +
{{Main|Balkiry (Sonic the Comic)}}
 
[[File:Balkiry the Comic.png|thumb|right|150px|A Balkiry holding [[Amy Rose (Sonic the Comic)|Amy]], from [[Sonic the Comic Issue 89|''Sonic the Comic'' #89]]. Art by [[Carl Flint]].]]
  +
In the ''[[Sonic the Comic]]'' series published by [[Fleetway Editions]], the Balkiries are a part of [[Doctor Ivo Robotnik (Sonic the Comic)|Dr. Robotnik]]'s [[Badnik (Sonic the Comic)|Badnik]] army, where they serve as the standard flying units among the doctor's military forces. Unlike most other Badniks in the series, the Balkiries' design remain fairly consistent during the comic's run.
  +
  +
====Archie Comics====
  +
{{Main|Balkiry (Archie)}}
  +
[[File:ArchieBalkiry.jpg|thumb|left|A Balkiry, from [[Archie Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 289|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #289]].]]
  +
In the ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog (Archie comic series)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' comic series and its spin-offs published by [[Archie Comics]], the Balkiries are a part of the [[Badnik Horde]] in service to the [[Eggman Empire (Archie)|Eggman Empire]].
  +
  +
====IDW Publishing====
  +
[[File:BalkiryIDW.png|thumb|right|A Balkiry, from [[Sonic the Hedgehog: Bad Guys Issue 3|''Sonic the Hedgehog: Bad Guys'' #3]].]]
  +
In the ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog (IDW comic series)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' comic series and its spin-offs published by [[IDW Publishing]], [[Doctor Eggman (IDW)|Dr. Eggman]] disappeared while his Balkiries and the rest of his [[Badnik (IDW)|Badnik]] army remained. Without a leader however, the Balkiries were directionless and no longer a unified threat.<ref name="StH1">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 1|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #1]], "Fallout, Part 1"</ref> Even so, they would still randomly attack anyone they came across<ref name="IDWStH2">[[IDW Sonic the Hedgehog Issue 2|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' #2]], "Fallout, Part 2"</ref> (although such incidents were more accidental than aggression-based<ref name="StH1"/>).
   
  +
When discovering someone was intruding on one of the [[Eggnet]] hubs and a warehouse, [[Doctor Eggman (IDW)|Dr. Eggman]] mobilized a squadron of his Balkirys to carpet bomb the areas.<ref name="BG3">[[Sonic the Hedgehog: Bad Guys Issue 3|''Sonic the Hedgehog: Bad Guys'' #3]], "Trust Issues"</ref> After receiving an updated report which said that [[Zavok/IDW Publishing|Zavok]] was attacking the Eggnet hub however, Dr. Eggman directed his Balkiry squadron to the Eggnet hub. Although Zavok directed the Eggnet hub's defenses against Balkiries and Eggman when they arrived, the robots eventually succeeded in bombing the Eggnet hub into pieces.<ref name="BG4">[[Sonic the Hedgehog: Bad Guys Issue 4|''Sonic the Hedgehog: Bad Guys'' #4]], "No Honor Among Thieves"</ref>
[[File:Balkiry the Comic.png|thumb|left|Balkiry holding Amy Rose in ''[[Sonic the Comic]]'' [[Sonic the Comic Issue 89|issue 89]].]]
 
In [[Sonic the Comic Issue 52|issue 52]]'s story "Knuckles Versus the Cybernik", Robotnik launches one Balkiry Badnik after [[Shortfuse the Cybernik]] once relentlessly tailed one in order to destroy it, but was destroyed by [[Knuckles the Echidna (Sonic the Comic)|Knuckles the Echidna]]. Another set of Balkiry Badniks are got down this time by Shortfuse the Cybernik himself and [[Tekno the Canary|Tekno]] in Chemical Plant Zone in [[Sonic the Comic Issue 63|issue 63]]'s story "Cybernik Strikes Back". Balkiry Badnik is then seen kidnapping [[Amy Rose (Sonic the Comic)|Amy Rose]] much later in [[Sonic the Comic Issue 89|issue 89]]'s story "A New Hope", as this makes prompting the other Freedom Fighters to realize how badly they needed Sonic. Balkiry Badniks are also later seen along with other Badniks ordered to attack by [[Grimer]] in [[Sonic the Comic Issue 99|issue 99]]'s story "No Exit". After the fall of Robotnik's empire, later models of Balkiry Badniks were shown to be built with an electric attack, one of which accidentally revived Kog from under Citadel Robotnik as seen in [[Sonic the Comic Issue 109|issue 109]]'s "Kog the Mighty". Balkiry is also seen during the surprise attack of Badniks in [[Sonic the Comic Issue 131|issue 131]]'s "Shady Characters", where they later reveal to be sent out by [[Agent X]].
 
   
 
==Trivia==
 
==Trivia==
 
*In ''[[Sonic X]]'', the [[E-11 Beacon]] resembles the Balkiry, though it has a purple color scheme.
[[File:Unused Balkiry Pose.png|right]]
+
[[File:Unused_Balkiry_Pose.png|right]]
*In ''Sonic the Hedgehog 2'', Balkiry has unused in-game sprite showing its landing pose. It can only be found inside of the game's coding. It is possible that they were originally intended to start flying from this pose at [[Wing Fortress Zone]], but the movement has then become unused for unknown reasons.
+
*In ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'', the Balkiry has unused in-game sprite showing its landing pose, that can be found in the game's coding. It is possible that they were originally intended to start flying from this pose at [[Wing Fortress Zone]], but the movement has then become unused for unknown reasons.
*In ''[[Sonic X]]'', a robot called [[E-11 Beacon]] is based on Balkiry though it has a purple-colored scheme.
 
  +
**The unused sprite is also used when the player is placing a Balkiry in [[Debug Mode]].
  +
*The Balkiry's Japanese name is not a corruption of "valkyrie," but derived from ''baru,'' meaning "to be persistently," and ''kin,'' meaning "muscle."
  +
*The [[Vultron]] is very similar to the Balkiry, both in design and behavior. However, Vultrons are capable of following the player, and lie in wait before doing so, similar to the Balkiry's unused in-game sprites in ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''.
   
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
 
===Artwork===
 
===Artwork===
 
{{Gallery start}}
 
{{Gallery start}}
<gallery>
+
<gallery widths="200">
 
Balkiry.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
 
Balkiry.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
Balkiry Sonic 4.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II|Sonic the Hedgehog 4]]''
+
Balkiry line art.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
  +
Balkiry-Murica.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
  +
Sonic 2 art Eggman and Badniks.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
 
Balkiry Sonic 4.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]''
  +
</gallery>
  +
{{Gallery end}}
  +
  +
===Sprites===
  +
{{Gallery start}}
  +
<gallery widths="200">
  +
Balkiry sprite.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
  +
Balkiry Pocket Adventure.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure]]''
 
Balkiry_Runners.png|''[[Sonic Runners]]''
 
Balkiry_Runners.png|''[[Sonic Runners]]''
  +
SFSBBalkiryNEW.png|''[[Sonic Forces: Speed Battle]]''
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
 
{{Gallery end}}
 
{{Gallery end}}
  +
  +
===Models===
  +
<gallery widths="200">
  +
Badnik01.png|''[[Sonic Forces: Speed Battle]]''
  +
Sonic Forces Valkeen.png|''[[Sonic Forces]]''
  +
SOSOConcept10.jpg|''[[Sonic Origins]]''
  +
</gallery>
   
 
===Screenshots===
 
===Screenshots===
 
{{Gallery start}}
 
{{Gallery start}}
<gallery widths="130" orientation="none">
+
<gallery widths="200">
 
You wonder Tails if those slow guys are gonna move fast.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
 
You wonder Tails if those slow guys are gonna move fast.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
 
HEY!.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
 
HEY!.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
 
Whoa!.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
 
Whoa!.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]''
Balkiry troops.png|''[[Sonic the Comic]]''
+
Dwjqnaiq91u1ka0a.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II]]''
Balkiry the Comic.png|''[[Sonic the Comic]]''
 
Dwjqnaiq91u1ka0a.png|''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II|Sonic the Hedgehog 4]]''
 
 
SLW 0430 2desert2 00.jpg|''[[Sonic Lost World]]''
 
SLW 0430 2desert2 00.jpg|''[[Sonic Lost World]]''
 
Which shield is this, normal or Bubble one.png|''[[Sonic Lost World]]''
 
Which shield is this, normal or Bubble one.png|''[[Sonic Lost World]]''
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Sonic Forces_2018-06-18_23-24-41.png|''[[Sonic Forces]]''
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West-Side-Island-Sonic-Origins.png|''[[Sonic Origins]]''
 
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==Notes==
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<references group="note"/>
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==References==
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{{Reflist}}
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{{Sonic 2 info}}
 
{{Sonic 2 info}}
 
{{Pocket info}}
 
{{Pocket info}}
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{{Sonic 4 Episode II info}}
 
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{{Lost World info}}
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{{Lost World (3DS) info}}
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{{Runners info}}
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{{Runners Adventure info}}
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[[es:Balkiry]]
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[[fr:Balkiry]]
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[[pl:Balkiry]]
 
[[Category:Badniks]]
 
[[Category:Badniks]]
[[Category:Sonic the Hedgehog 2 enemies]]
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[[Category:Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (16-bit) enemies]]
[[Category:Sonic the Comic characters]]
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[[Category:Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure enemies]]
[[Category:Sonic Pocket Adventure enemies]]
 
 
[[Category:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II enemies]]
 
[[Category:Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II enemies]]
[[Category:Sonic Lost World enemies]]
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[[Category:Sonic Lost World (Wii U) enemies]]
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[[Category:Sonic Lost World (Nintendo 3DS) enemies]]
 
[[Category:Sonic Runners enemies]]
 
[[Category:Sonic Runners enemies]]
 
[[Category:Sonic Runners Adventure enemies]]
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[[Category:Sonic Forces enemies]]
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[[Category:Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020]]
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[[Category:Badniks (IDW)]]

Latest revision as of 21:55, 20 March 2024

A battle plane type bird robot last seen in "SKY CHASE ZONE" from "Sonic 2". A whole bunch of them can be shot out of Metal Sonic's weapon unit, "Metal Carrier", in Episode II.


— Profile, Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II website[1]

The Balkiry[2] (バルキーン[3] Barukīn?) is an enemy that appears in the Sonic the Hedgehog series. It is a mass-produced, bird/plane-based Badnik created by Dr. Eggman.

Appearance

The Balkiries' design is a hybrid of a bird and plane. Their red and gray metallic bodies have wings on each side, a vertical stabilizer and two rotors on their backs, which let these Badniks move at medium or high speed. Their heads also have small eyes facing the front and a yellow bird beak each. They also have two support legs each with small wheels that resemble eagle feet.

The Balkiries' appearance in Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II is more detailed, as their support feet are here removed and it has received two extra wings on their vertical stabilizers. From Sonic Lost World onward though, the Balkiries once again retained their cartoony design from previous games, with the exception of their wheels which are not present on their feet.

In Sonic Forces, Balkiries have a much more streamlined and militaristic design, appearing raspberry in color with a cylinder-shaped body and a rocket engine on their rear. On each side of their body they have an adjustable wing with a magenta front edge, and on their back rear they have three tail fins. Also, situated on their underside is a miniature cargo space with a bottom hatch from where they deploy their bombs. Lastly, they have streamlined bird-like heads with thick lenses for eyes and a thin magenta beak.

Game appearances

Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Balkiry sprite

In Sonic the Hedgehog 2, its several ports and remasters, and the lock-on game Knuckles in Sonic 2, the Balkiry[2] (バルキーン[3] Barukīn?) is an enemy. In this game, the player encounters them in Sky Chase Zone.

In gameplay, the Balkiries fly fast in the opposite direction of the playable character. At the beginning of the Zone, the Balkiries appear one at a time, but as the Zone progresses, they appear in larger groups of two or three, and at much faster speeds. However, the Balkiries have been given a simple pattern; they simply charge towards their target like a missile, from one side of the screen. As such, they are not particularly dangerous, although some of them tend to move quickly and can take the player by surprise. Also, upon their destruction, they will reward the player 100 points and release an Animal.

Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II

Balkiry Sonic 4

A Balkiry, from Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II.

In Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II, the Balkiries appear as enemies once more. In this game, the Balkiries's design is slightly different from the one featured in Sonic the Hedgehog 2. They are only encountered in the first Act and boss fight of Sky Fortress Zone.

In gameplay, the Balkiries' behavior is slightly different from the one displayed in Sonic the Hedgehog 2; they are now launched from the Metal Carrier and cascade down on the player from the top of the screen. However in the Boss Act, some Balkiries behave just as they did in Sonic the Hedgehog 2. Also, upon their destruction, they will reward the player 100 points and release an Animal.

Sonic Lost World

In the Wii U version, PC version and Nintendo 3DS version of Sonic Lost World, the Balkiries return as enemies. During the game, all Dr. Eggman's Badniks, the Balkiries included, got hijacked by the Deadly Six.

In the Wii U/PC version of the game, the Balkiries appear as obstacles flying by in the skydiving sections of Desert Ruins Zone 2. In Tropical Coast Zone ? and Sky Road Zone 3 however, they charge from the right in string formations towards Sonic when he is maneuvered through the air, though the player can destroy them from above by performing the Spin Attack. Balkiries also appear in Hidden World Zone 2, where the player can only avoid them while piloting the Tornado.

In the Nintendo 3DS version of the game, Balkiries appear in Sky Road Zone 1 and 3. In Zone 1, they will charge forward until they come across the ceiling, wall or corner where they will turn around and head in the other direction. Here, the player has to destroy them to unlock a switch in a case. In Sky Road Zone 3 though, Balkiries will fly towards Sonic in different string formations, which the player can only avoid while controlling Sonic on the rocket.

Sonic Forces

SF Valkeen Flying

A Balkiry, as it appears in Sonic Forces.

Balkiries[note 1] appear as enemies in Sonic Forces, having undergone a more militaristic redesign, similar to Dr. Eggman's other robots in this appearance. They are only encountered in Mortar Canyon, appearing in large groups that fly in rows above the routes throughout the stage, all while dropping bombs that cause damage-inducing explosions when they hit the ground. Because the Balkiries stay out of reach, the player cannot destroy them, and must instead focus on dodging their bombs.

Other game appearances

Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure

Balkiry Pocket Adventure

In Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure, the Balkiries return as enemies. They are only encountered in Sky Chase Zone.

In gameplay, the Balkiries have attack patterns similar to those they had in Sonic the Hedgehog 2, except they are now able to move in lateral directions, enabling them to follow the player should they dodge them. Also, upon their destruction, they will release an Animal.

Sonic Runners series

Sonic Runners

BalkirySRunners

Balkiries, from Sonic Runners.

In Sonic Runners, the Balkiries appear as enemies. In this game, they retained their design from Sonic Lost World. They are also some of the more common foes encountered in the flying type characters' stages. In gameplay, they charge from the right direction, and appear separately or in groups.

The player can destroy the Balkiries with any move or offensive power-up in the playable characters' arsenal. When destroyed, a Balkiry will grant the player 100 points.

Balkiries in Sonic Runners come in three types. Aside from the regular Balkiries, there are golden ones which grant 300 points when defeated, and silver ones that grant 200 points when eliminated and which only Color Powers, Invincible and the power type characters' dash attack can defeat. All three variations also contain Animals that are released when they are destroyed. The Balkiries also appear as part of several episodes' narrative, which features them being defeated time and time again by Team Sonic.

Sonic Runners Adventure

In Sonic Runners Adventure, the Balkiries appear as enemies. In this game, they retain their design from Sonic Lost World. The player encounters them in Sky Sanctuary.

In gameplay, Balkiries slowly fly towards the player. Also, upon their destruction, they release an Animal.

Sonic Forces: Speed Battle

Main article: Balkiry (power-up)

In Sonic Forces: Speed Battle, the Balkiries appears as a Projectile Item that can only be obtained at random from Item Boxes by Dr. Eggman. They also retain the design from Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II.

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020

BalkiryM&S6

Balkiries in the Tokyo Sky Flight mini-game, from Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.

In the Nintendo Switch version of Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, the Balkiries appear as enemies in the "Tokyo Sky Flight" mini-game. Here, they have their sprite-based appearance from Sonic the Hedgehog 2. During the "Tokyo Sly Flight" mini-game, the Balkiries fly forward while firing projectiles at the the playable characters. However, they are easily destroyed with one gunshot from the Tornado. Also, upon destroying a Balkiry, the player receives 200 points.

Powers and abilities

Thanks to their design, the Balkiries are capable of flight at various speeds. Certain variants are also shown to be capable of dropping bombs.

In other media

Books and comics

Sonic the Comic

Balkiry the Comic

A Balkiry holding Amy, from Sonic the Comic #89. Art by Carl Flint.

In the Sonic the Comic series published by Fleetway Editions, the Balkiries are a part of Dr. Robotnik's Badnik army, where they serve as the standard flying units among the doctor's military forces. Unlike most other Badniks in the series, the Balkiries' design remain fairly consistent during the comic's run.

Archie Comics

Main article: Balkiry (Archie)
ArchieBalkiry

A Balkiry, from Sonic the Hedgehog #289.

In the Sonic the Hedgehog comic series and its spin-offs published by Archie Comics, the Balkiries are a part of the Badnik Horde in service to the Eggman Empire.

IDW Publishing

BalkiryIDW

A Balkiry, from Sonic the Hedgehog: Bad Guys #3.

In the Sonic the Hedgehog comic series and its spin-offs published by IDW Publishing, Dr. Eggman disappeared while his Balkiries and the rest of his Badnik army remained. Without a leader however, the Balkiries were directionless and no longer a unified threat.[4] Even so, they would still randomly attack anyone they came across[5] (although such incidents were more accidental than aggression-based[4]).

When discovering someone was intruding on one of the Eggnet hubs and a warehouse, Dr. Eggman mobilized a squadron of his Balkirys to carpet bomb the areas.[6] After receiving an updated report which said that Zavok was attacking the Eggnet hub however, Dr. Eggman directed his Balkiry squadron to the Eggnet hub. Although Zavok directed the Eggnet hub's defenses against Balkiries and Eggman when they arrived, the robots eventually succeeded in bombing the Eggnet hub into pieces.[7]

Trivia

Unused Balkiry Pose
  • In Sonic the Hedgehog 2, the Balkiry has unused in-game sprite showing its landing pose, that can be found in the game's coding. It is possible that they were originally intended to start flying from this pose at Wing Fortress Zone, but the movement has then become unused for unknown reasons.
    • The unused sprite is also used when the player is placing a Balkiry in Debug Mode.
  • The Balkiry's Japanese name is not a corruption of "valkyrie," but derived from baru, meaning "to be persistently," and kin, meaning "muscle."
  • The Vultron is very similar to the Balkiry, both in design and behavior. However, Vultrons are capable of following the player, and lie in wait before doing so, similar to the Balkiry's unused in-game sprites in Sonic the Hedgehog 2.

Gallery

Artwork

Gallery

Sprites

Gallery

Models

Screenshots

Gallery

Notes

  1. Internal files for Sonic Forces refer to the enemy as "Valkeen", the Japanese name for Balkiry. "Valkeen" is also the name used in the internal files for the enemy's appearance in Sonic Lost World, and unused behavioral patterns for the enemy in Sonic Forces suggest it was at one point programmed to behave identically to this appearance.

References

  1. Sega . Sonic The Hedgehog 4: Episode II. Badniks: Balkiry. Sega. Archived from the original on 24 May 2019.
  2. 2.0 2.1 Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (Sega Genesis) United States instruction booklet, pg. 16.
  3. 3.0 3.1 Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (Sega Mega Drive) Japanese instruction booklet, pg. 53.
  4. 4.0 4.1 Sonic the Hedgehog #1, "Fallout, Part 1"
  5. Sonic the Hedgehog #2, "Fallout, Part 2"
  6. Sonic the Hedgehog: Bad Guys #3, "Trust Issues"
  7. Sonic the Hedgehog: Bad Guys #4, "No Honor Among Thieves"
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