Part 40

Explore the deep connections between Sonic Advance 3 and older Sonic games, including characters, music, and mechanics.

The theme of Sonic Advance 3 appears to be the inclusion of as many elements from older Sonic games as possible. This section details which older Sonic games and their respective content are featured in Sonic Advance 3.

Sonic the Hedgehog (1991):

This foundational game introduced the core concepts of Sonic and his adversary, Robotnik (Eggman), along with his Badnik robots. Sonic's initial moveset included the Spin Jump and ground spin. Item boxes, similar to the video monitor item boxes, are present. The Chaos Emeralds were also introduced, though only six existed and they unlocked a slightly different ending.

Things in Sonic Advance 3 from Sonic the Hedgehog (1991):

• Many common elements like Badniks, Rings, Chaos Emeralds, the concept of dying, drowning mechanics requiring bubbles for survival, and basic item boxes (Ring, Shield, Speed Shoes, 1-up, Invincibility) first appeared here and function similarly in Sonic Advance 3.
• The basic story structure of Sonic vs. Eggman is present.
• The music for Sunset Hill Zone is a remix of Green Hill Zone's music, and the zone itself resembles Green Hill Zone.
• Some Badniks, such as hornets and motobugs, debuted in this game.
• In-level elements like the see-saw with a spiky ball and the spinning objects in Cyber Track Zone are from this game.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992):

This game marked significant progression, introducing many elements that became standard in later Sonic titles. The story became more complex with Eggman building the Death Egg ship.

Things in Sonic Advance 3 from Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992):

• Introduced Tails, the Spin-dash move, the original Tornado Plane, the 7th Chaos Emerald, Super Sonic, and the robot Silver Sonic.
• The Death Egg ship, while not central to Sonic Advance 3, was a primary focus in this game and subsequent titles.
• Some Badniks, including the first appearances of the monkey, grasshopper, and oil-drop Badniks, are from this game.

Sonic CD (1993):

Originally considered non-canon, Sonic CD's storyline was later integrated into the main series with the creation of Sonic Adventure. Amy Rose and Metal Sonic became significant characters.

Things in Sonic Advance 3 from Sonic CD (1993):

• Amy Rose made her first appearance in this game.
• Minigames, particularly those involving defeating all enemies, are themed after Sonic CD, where flowers pop out after defeating Badniks.
• When the Amy/Sonic team is selected, Amy follows Sonic with hearts around her head, reminiscent of her behavior in Sonic CD.
• Amy's Dash move resembles Sonic's Super Peel-out from Sonic CD.

Sonic 3 and Sonic and Knuckles (1994):

These two games, released close together, were intended as one and share similar level structures, item boxes, and Special Stages. Connecting them allows for a continuous story experience. This game introduced unique elements, including Knuckles as a playable character who could achieve Super form with the Chaos Emeralds. Combining the games after obtaining 7 Chaos Emeralds allowed for the earning of 7 Super Emeralds, leading to Hyper Sonic, Hyper Knuckles, and Super Tails forms.

Things in Sonic Advance 3 from Sonic 3 and Sonic and Knuckles (1994):

• First appearance of Knuckles.
• Angel Island.
• The Master Emerald.