# Sonic 3 & Knuckles

> 1994 video game

**Wikidata**: [Q10373364](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q10373364)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonic_the_Hedgehog_3_&_Knuckles)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sonic-3-knuckles

## Summary  
Sonic 3 & Knuckles is a 1994 platform video game developed by Sonic Team and published by Sega. It combines the originally separate titles *Sonic the Hedgehog 3* and *Sonic & Knuckles* into a single experience and has been re‑released on numerous platforms, including the Sega Genesis, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, Nintendo GameCube and Nintendo DS.

## Key Facts  
- **Release year:** 1994 【publication_date】  
- **Developer:** Sonic Team, a Japanese video‑game studio headquartered in Tokyo【Created / Developed by】  
- **Publisher:** Sega (Wikidata entity Q122741)【publisher】  
- **Genre:** Platform game【genre】  
- **Primary platforms:** Sega Genesis; later digital releases on Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux via Steam【platform】  
- **Game modes:** Single‑player and multiplayer video game【game_mode】  
- **Key staff:** Director Hirokazu Yasuhara; Producer & Programmer Yuji Naka; Executive Producer Hayao Nakayama; Composers Brad Buxer and Howard Drossin【director, producer, programmer, executive_producer, composer】  
- **Rating:** ESRB “Everyone”; PEGI 7 (violence)【esrb_rating, pegi_rating】  
- **Characters:** Sonic the Hedgehog, Knuckles the Echidna, Dr. Eggman, Eggrobo, Miles “Tails” Prower【characters】  
- **Digital distribution:** Available on Steam (app ID 71162) with digital‑distribution format【distributed_by, distribution_format, steam_application_id】

## FAQs  
### Q: When was Sonic 3 & Knuckles originally released?  
A: The game was first published in 1994 as a combined version of *Sonic the Hedgehog 3* and *Sonic & Knuckles*.  

### Q: Which platforms can I play Sonic 3 & Knuckles on today?  
A: Besides the original Sega Genesis, the title is available on Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux (via Steam), Nintendo GameCube, and Nintendo DS.  

### Q: What gameplay modes does Sonic 3 & Knuckles support?  
A: It supports both single‑player and multiplayer video‑game modes, allowing solo runs and competitive play.  

### Q: Who were the main creators behind the game?  
A: Sonic Team developed the game; key personnel include director Hirokazu Yasuhara, producer/programmer Yuji Naka, executive producer Hayao Nakayama, and composers Brad Buxer and Howard Drossin.  

### Q: How is Sonic 3 & Knuckles rated for age suitability?  
A: The ESRB rates it “Everyone,” while the PEGI system rates it 7+, citing mild violence.  

## Why It Matters  
Sonic 3 & Knuckles is a landmark entry in the long‑running *Sonic the Hedgehog* franchise, representing the first successful “lock‑on” integration of two separate cartridges into a seamless single experience. Its 1994 launch on the Sega Genesis cemented Sonic’s status as a flagship platformer, introducing advanced level design, expanded character abilities, and a richer soundtrack by Brad Buxer and Howard Drossin. The game’s later ports to modern operating systems via Steam demonstrate its enduring popularity and the industry’s commitment to preserving classic titles for new audiences. By offering both single‑player and multiplayer modes, it broadened the appeal of fast‑paced platforming and set a precedent for future releases that blend legacy content with contemporary distribution methods.  

## Notable For  
- First title to combine *Sonic the Hedgehog 3* and *Sonic & Knuckles* through cartridge “lock‑on” technology.  
- Released on the Sega Genesis in 1994 and later ported to PC (Windows, macOS, Linux) and consoles via digital distribution on Steam.  
- Features a dual‑mode design: single‑player story progression and multiplayer competition.  
- Soundtrack composed by notable musicians Brad Buxer and Howard Drossin, adding a distinct audio identity to the series.  
- Part of the broader *Sonic the Hedgehog* media franchise, influencing subsequent games, media, and fan culture.  

## Body  

### Development  
- **Studio:** Sonic Team, a Japanese developer based in Tokyo, created the game under the direction of Hirokazu Yasuhara.  
- **Leadership:** Yuji Naka served as both producer and programmer, while Hayao Nakayama acted as executive producer.  
- **Music:** The score was composed by Brad Buxer and Howard Drossin, marking a collaboration between the Sonic team and external composers.  

### Release and Platforms  
- **Original launch:** 1994 on the Sega Genesis, marketed as a combined cartridge that merged *Sonic the Hedgehog 3* and *Sonic & Knuckles*.  
- **Subsequent ports:** The game later appeared on Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux through Steam (app ID 71162). Additional releases include Nintendo GameCube and Nintendo DS.  
- **Distribution:** Modern versions are distributed digitally via Steam, classified under “digital distribution.”  

### Gameplay and Modes  
- **Genre:** Platform game, emphasizing speed, precise jumping, and level exploration.  
- **Modes:** Supports both single‑player and multiplayer video‑game experiences, allowing solo runs and competitive play.  
- **Characters:** Playable characters include Sonic, Knuckles, Dr. Eggman, Eggrobo, and Miles “Tails” Prower, each with unique abilities.  

### Audio and Composition  
- **Composers:** Brad Buxer and Howard Drossin provided the soundtrack, contributing to the game’s memorable auditory identity.  
- **Sound design:** Integrated with the fast‑paced gameplay to reinforce the series’ signature high‑energy feel.  

### Ratings and Reception  
- **ESRB:** Rated “Everyone,” suitable for all ages.  
- **PEGI:** Rated 7+, with a content descriptor for violence.  

### Legacy and Cultural Impact  
- **Franchise role:** As part of the *Sonic the Hedgehog* media franchise, it helped solidify Sonic’s status as a cultural icon of the 1990s.  
- **Preservation:** Ongoing availability on modern platforms ensures continued accessibility for both nostalgic players and new audiences.  
- **Community:** The game is referenced across fan sites, databases (e.g., IMDb ID tt21952452, TV Tropes, Steam), and social media channels, evidencing its lasting relevance.

## References

1. Steam
2. PCGamingWiki
3. [Steam](https://store.steampowered.com/app/71162/Sonic_3__Knuckles/)
4. [PEGI Rating Database](https://pegi.info/search-pegi?q=Sonic+3+%26+Knuckles)
5. Lutris database
6. YouTube API
7. [PCGamingWiki](https://www.pcgamingwiki.com/wiki/Sonic_3_&_Knuckles)