Sonic 3 & Knuckles (Sega Mega Drive / Genesis review)

Developer: Sonic Team
Publisher: Sega
Released: 1994

Sonic 3 & Knuckles is a platformer that combines Sonic 3 (1994) and Sonic & Knuckles (1994) into one game.

+ Levels are enormous with multiple routes, and the ability to play as Knuckles increases replayability due to his unique skills.

+ Worlds often have completely different scenic / gameplay concepts between acts, as well as almost seamless transitions.

+ Harks back to the original Sonic (1991, Sega Genesis) in terms of mixing pure speed with methodical platforming.

+ Power-ups add a new wrinkle to the gameplay and give you fresh ways to tackle both the environments and opponents. 

+ Graphics are stunningly beautiful, with some jaw-dropping animation, background effects and parallax scrolling.

+ Iconic 3D bonus stages are a joy to speed around, and the game provides eight save slots to continue your progress.

- Bosses pose little challenge and as long as you have a ring you can avoid skill and just brute force your way to victory.