Fans eager to explore the latest expansion of the Sonic cinematic universe can now get a free glimpse of the newly launched Knuckles TV series. Paramount has made the premiere episode available for viewing on YouTube in what seems to be a promotional tactic ahead of the show’s full exclusive rollout on Paramount+.

The six-episode live-action/CG hybrid series follows the powerful echidna Knuckles, voiced by Idris Elba reprising his role from the Sonic movie sequels, as he reluctantly agrees to train the hapless human Wade Whipple (Adam Pally) in the ways of echidna warrior culture. It’s set between the events of last year’s Sonic the Hedgehog 2 film and the upcoming threequel hitting theaters in December 2024.

While the complete Knuckles series requires a Paramount+ subscription, the premiere installment can be streamed for free on the show’s official YouTube channel as of today. No details were provided on how long this free sampling window will remain open.

Directed by Sonic film helmer Jeff Fowler, who also executive produced Knuckles, the YouTube premiere offers audiences their first extended look at the eccentric new series spinoff. Critical reviews for the show’s odd-couple buddy comedy premise and mixed live-action/animated aesthetics have been somewhat mixed so far.

VGC’s review praised the inspired debut but warned “It’s difficult to shake the feeling that Knuckles was originally intended for theatrical release, with momentum killing filler and heinous product placement the resulting collateral damage.”

Regardless, the free YouTube offering allows the franchise’s fanbase to decide for themselves whether Knuckles merits a Paramount+ investment for subsequent episodes. For those already subscribed, all six episodes are available to binge in full as of last week.

The premiere’s YouTube availability maintains momentum for the burgeoning Sonic cinematic universe ahead of next year’s third film installment. Sonic the Hedgehog and its 2022 sequel have grossed a combined $725 million at the global box office so far.

With an eccentric new series and another movie on the horizon, Paramount seems intent on establishing the speedy blue blur as a multi-platform multimedia franchise in the mold of Marvel’s recent Hollywood heroics. The free Knuckles episode aims to get more fans looping through Sonic’s growing expanded universe.

“Explore the latest adventure in the Sonic universe with our Knuckles review. Follow Knuckles and Wade on their humorous and action-filled road trip as they face new challenges and form unexpected bonds.”