When Sonic the Hedgehog 3 launched in 1994, it once more improved over its predecessors just like the sequel earlier than it. New power-ups, higher graphics, transitions between zones, and a well-liked new antagonist named Knuckles made it a worthy successor to Sonic 2 and Sonic CD, however one thing did not fairly really feel proper. The sport abruptly ends following a wierd encounter with Knuckles and a robust battle in opposition to Dr. Robotnik in Launch Base Zone. In the meantime, Sonic & Knuckles, which launched later that very same yr, virtually felt prefer it picked up in the midst of the story, delivering the conclusion to Demise Egg saga and Knuckles' redemption arc.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a top-tier Sonic sport, as is Sonic & Knuckles. Nevertheless, while you mix them utilizing particular Lock-On Know-how (learn extra about its origins here), you get one of the best, most full sport in Sonic the Hedgehog franchise historical past. The cohesive story flows flawlessly from Sonic 3's Angel Island Zone by way of the key remaining boss in Sonic & Knuckles' Doomsday Zone.
Not solely does Sonic 3 & Knuckles string collectively all 14 zones of the 2 cartridges, nevertheless it fills within the lacking items of the person function units. The locked-on sport spreads Sonic 3's save performance to all the expertise whereas together with the choice to play as Knuckles throughout the entire Sonic 3 & Knuckles journey. Every component of Sonic 3 & Knuckles – degree design, story, music, characters – is among the many greatest the series has ever seen, however the sport remains to be one way or the other better than the sum of its components. Sonic 3 & Knuckles is not simply one of the best Sonic sport; it is among the finest 2D platformers to come back out of the '90s.
