Sonic and Knuckles & Sonic 3

Developer: Sega / Sonic Team

Sonic 3 & Sonic & Knuckles fuses two Genesis-era platformers into a sprawling, momentum-driven run through layered, side-scrolling zones. Lock-on technology merges levels and adds playable Knuckles, opening secret routes, alternate paths, and extended boss encounters. Levels reward precise timing, speed, and exploration as you chain rings, uncover hidden item boxes, and face inventive Robotnik battles. The pace swings from serene platforming to intense, high-speed set pieces, delivering memorable melodies and a satisfying challenge. Nostalgic and rewarding, the combined cartridge feels like a definitive 16-bit Sonic experience built around replayability and skillful play.