Sonic the Hedgehog 3

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a side-scrolling platform game focused on speed, continuing the series. The story involves Dr. Robotnik's damaged Death Egg on Floating Island, where he deceives the guardian Knuckles into opposing Sonic and Tails to secure the Chaos Emeralds needed for repairs.

Levels are organized into six Zones, each with two Acts concluding in a boss fight to free captured animals. These environments are notably larger than in the previous game and offer multiple, branching routes. The core mechanics remain collecting rings for protection and lives, and defeating enemies by jumping on them. A Spin Dash move is executed by crouching and releasing the jump button.

New defensive options include three elemental shields, each granting a unique secondary ability when the jump button is pressed mid-air. The Fire Shield allows a dash, the Water Shield enables a bounce, and the Electric Shield attracts rings and provides a double jump. Without a shield, a temporary energy barrier can be activated. Tails has separate abilities, being able to fly or swim for a short duration and carry Sonic.

Players can enter two distinct bonus stages. One is accessed with 50 rings at a checkpoint, featuring a gumball machine that dispenses items. The more critical Special Stages are found via hidden giant rings and require collecting all blue spheres while avoiding red ones to earn Chaos Emeralds; gathering enough rings here can also grant a continue.

A two-player competitive mode uses a horizontal split-screen, with special items that can disrupt opponents. A time trial mode for solo play is also available.