Knuckles in Sonic 1 - Super Knuckles Mode (2023 Update)

Start the game and you'll see the title screen for the hack. Press Start to begin, then select a save slot if prompted. You control Knuckles through the same zones as Sonic 1. The core loop is reaching the end of each act while collecting rings, avoiding enemies, and finding hidden pathways. Knuckles can glide and climb walls, which opens up alternate routes and makes some areas easier to navigate than with Sonic.

The Super Knuckles mode activates when you collect all seven Chaos Emeralds, which are obtained through special stages accessed by finishing a level with at least 50 rings. In Super form, Knuckles becomes invincible and faster for a limited time. The hack maintains the original level layouts but tweaks enemy placements and ring placements to account for Knuckles' different capabilities. If you're familiar with Sonic 1, you'll feel right at home, though Knuckles' slower climbing may require some adjustment.