Level Select Code

Level Select Code

Unlocking the Level Select is a classic trick in Sonic the Hedgehog 2, allowing you to jump to any Zone and Act you desire. This is incredibly useful for practicing difficult sections, replaying your favorite stages, or even accessing the hidden Sound Test menu. Follow these precise steps to activate it:

Activating the Level Select

1. Start the Game: Power on your Sega Genesis (or launch the game on your preferred platform).
2. Title Screen: Wait for the "SEGA" logo to fade and the main title screen to appear, displaying "SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 2" with Sonic and Tails.
3. Sound Test Input: On the title screen, use your D-Pad and buttons to input the following sequence:
   • Up
   • Down
   • Down
   • Down
   • Down
   • Up
   • Up
   • Up
   • Up
   • Up
   • Up
   • Up
   • Up
   • Up
   • Up
   • Up
   • Up

   You should hear a ring sound effect if entered correctly. This sequence is essentially "Up, then Down four times, then Up eight times."

4. Access the Options Menu: After hearing the ring sound, press the Start button. This will take you to the game's Options menu, which now includes the "Sound Test" option at the bottom.
5. Enter Sound Test: Select "Sound Test" from the Options menu.
6. Sound Test Code: Within the Sound Test menu, input the following numbers in order, pressing the A button after each number to play the corresponding sound. You must hear the sound for each input to register:
   • 19
   • 65
   • 09
   • 17

   If done correctly, you will hear another ring sound effect after entering the last number (17).

7. Return to Title Screen: Press the Start button to exit the Sound Test and return to the main title screen.
8. Start Game: From the title screen, press Start again. Instead of going to Emerald Hill Zone Act 1, you will now be presented with the Level Select screen!

Using the Level Select

On the Level Select screen, you can:

• Choose Your Zone: Use the D-Pad Up/Down to cycle through the various Zones, from Emerald Hill Zone to Death Egg Zone.
• Select Your Act: Each Zone has multiple Acts. Use the D-Pad Left/Right to choose the specific Act within the selected Zone.
• Start the Level: Once you've highlighted your desired Zone and Act, press the Start button to begin playing from that point.

Advanced Level Select Features (Debug Mode)

While on the Level Select screen, you can also activate Debug Mode, which grants you even more control over the game. To do this:

1. Access Sound Test (Again): From the Level Select screen, select "Sound Test."
2. Debug Mode Code: Input the following numbers in order, pressing the A button after each:
   • 01
   • 09
   • 09
   • 02
   • 01
   • 01
   • 02
   • 04

   You will hear a ring sound effect after the last input.

3. Return to Level Select: Press Start to go back to the Level Select screen.
4. Start a Level: Choose any Zone and Act, then hold down the A button and press Start. You will now begin the level in Debug Mode!

In Debug Mode, you can transform into an item-placing object by pressing the B button, move freely with the D-Pad, and place various items (rings, monitors, springs, etc.) with the C button. Press B again to return to Sonic/Tails. This is invaluable for exploring levels, finding secrets, or just having fun!