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Sonic 3 Metal Edition

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Sonic 3 Metal Edition: Genesis Platformer

SEGA Genesis
Platformer
ROM Hack
5· 0 votes

Unofficial ROM hack. The notes below come from community sources and have not been verified against the patch itself, so levels, mechanics and features may differ from what is described.

Sonic 3 Metal Edition is a ROM hack of Sonic 3 & Knuckles for the SEGA Genesis, created by Smedis2 for the Sonic Hacking Contest Expo 2019. This platformer mod swaps out Sonic for Metal Sonic, giving the game a fresh coat of paint and a different feel. It's a fan-made project, not an official Sega release, but it has gained attention in the hacking community for its quality and faithfulness to the original while offering something new. As Metal Sonic, you run through redesigned versions of classic zones from Sonic 3 & Knuckles. The core gameplay remains true to the original: you spin dash, jump on badniks, and collect rings. But Metal Sonic comes with his own set of abilities, including the Jet Engine that lets you fly briefly and a new movement style that changes how you approach levels. The level layouts are altered, so even if you know the original game by heart, you'll encounter new traps, alternate paths, and different enemy placements. What makes this hack worth trying is how it balances nostalgia with novelty. The idea of playing as Metal Sonic through Sonic 3 is a long-time fan fantasy, and Smedis2 executes it well with custom sprites, a new final boss, and rebalanced difficulty. It's not a massive overhaul, but a focused remix that respects the source material while offering a distinct challenge. If you enjoy Genesis-era Sonic games or have a taste for well-crafted ROM hacks, this one deserves a spot in your playlist.

GAME INFO

Platform: SEGA Genesis
Genre: Platformer
Players: 1
Based on: Sonic 3 & Knuckles
Made by: Smedis2

How to play Sonic 3 Metal Edition online

Getting Started

Once you load the game, press Enter to start. You'll see a title screen that says "Sonic 3 Metal Edition" - just hit Start again to jump into the action. The game uses the standard Sonic 3 & Knuckles level select and save system, so if you're familiar with the original, you'll feel right at home. Your goal is to reach the end of each zone, defeat Dr. Robotnik, and collect the Chaos Emeralds if you can.

The core loop is straightforward: run from left to right, avoid spikes and pits, and stomp or spin into enemies. Metal Sonic's jet ability can be activated by pressing up in the air (or while jumping) - it lets you hover or fly for a short time, which opens up new shortcuts and makes some tricky sections easier. Learn to use it wisely; you'll need it to reach certain collectibles and bypass obstacles. The game is tough but fair, with generous ring distribution and checkpoints scattered throughout each act.

If you're new to the hack, take a moment to explore the first zone (Angel Island Zone) - the layouts have been changed, and some hidden paths are worth finding. Keep an eye out for new badnik attack patterns and be ready for a fresh final boss that tests your mastery of Metal Sonic's abilities. No special tricks required; just play it like a classic Sonic game with a few extra moves in your pocket.

CONTROLS

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: A button
S: B button
Z: C button
A: X button (6-button pad)
Q: Y button (6-button pad)
E: Z button (6-button pad)
Enter: Start / Mode

Sonic 3 Metal Edition FAQ

Who developed Sonic 3 Metal Edition?

The hack was created by Smedis2 for the Sonic Hacking Contest Expo 2019. It is a fan project not affiliated with Sega.

Which regions was Sonic 3 Metal Edition released in?

It was not officially released in any region. The hack was distributed online as a free ROM patch, primarily through the Sonic Hacking Contest website.

Does Sonic 3 Metal Edition have a multiplayer or co-op mode?

Sonic 3 Metal Edition is designed as a single-player experience. While the original Sonic 3 & Knuckles included a competition mode for two players, this hack does not appear to include multiplayer functionality.

All SEGA Genesis games