The Sonic & Knuckles Saga

[@ThatOneVideoGamer]

The amount of pride I have for you Satchbag is through the roof. Unbelievably great work. I've said it once and I'll say it again - Satchbag is the future of KZbin, mark my words.

[@igeljaeger]

guess you were wrong.

[@xxKrazyKxx]

@@igeljaeger ouch

[@AxeMain]

@@xxKrazyKxx :(

[@19bones99]

​@@AxeMain:( :( :(

[@Trixiethegoldenwitch]

Whoa whoa whoa an amazing analysis video that namedrops TMV and the Dear Hunter?! Subbed.

[@jordyjohnathan5123]

Oh cool didn't know you were a Sonic fan!

[@SuperSonic68]

Hey, Satch! This is my first video of yours I've seen. Well done, mate!

[@paulreeves8594]

SuperSonic68 HhEHEHHE Go To TRUThcOnteStCo, rEAd The PRESent

[@Manguy777]

+SuperSonic68 Mine too.

[@jessossenkopp]

I absolutely positively loved this video. Rarely do I find an analysis that hits on EVERY cherished facet of a topic, let alone Sonic. Like you, this saga really means a lot to me. I tie my memories of playing Sonic 1 through Sonic and Knuckles as the golden age of gaming for me (I am now 29). I still play games today; my adult gaming life consists of competitive fps', but I appreciate gaming in general today because of the countless hours I spent playing this series. Again, excellent excellent excellent breakdown of the exceptional visuals and audio in this saga. It's all subjective, but I honestly feel that this Sonic saga trumped the Nintendo counterpart Mario series (at the time). I really wish Sega (or Nintendo) would continue releasing 2D Sprite laden Sonic games.

[@mavrickindigo]

If Sonic means so much to you, why do you love a video that is THIS factually erroneous?

[@jessossenkopp]

Mavrickindigo Perhaps I looked past the errors and identified with his subjective proclamations.

[@mavrickindigo]

jessossenkopp Well I'm glad you could do that, but for me, his ethos is shattered when he claims to be a big Sonic fan, but can't tell the difference between game canon and Penders's stuff.

[@zyriuzstorm9971]

This review had a discipline order where everything was copped up to bits and presented. I really like that, I don't think that any review I've seen on KZbin have had this simple and informative structure, well done!

[@halfmoon4163]

I'm a huge Sonic nut, and I gotta say, this suprisingly in-depth analysis of most everything in Sonic 3, right down to skeumorphism for crying out loud, is MARVELOUS. I don't feel it's necessary to say I'm subscribing right now, but if it means complementing someone who does their work and does it well, then by all means, great job!

[@sonickhable]

Egoraptor needs to watch the beginning of this video

[@SalaComMander]

He needs to watch the whole thing...three times...

[@DarkMagus13]

Why? I'm still learning about Egoraptor's activity. Something I miss?

[@THEBEEDOOBOP]

DarkMagus13 Sequelitis.

[@badassoverlordzetta]

I get the distinct feeling that even if he did, he wouldn't care. Having said that, Satchbag's jabs at Sequelitis and Gametheory are both hilarious and awesome.

[@PKGamingOmega]

badassoverlordzetta When did he jab at Sequelitis?

[@killpenguin505]

My explanation of why I love these two games so much couldn't have been summed up more than they were here in this video. Thanks for making it man and seriously keep it up.

[@Goofzillers]

This channel's great, thank you JonTron! This definitely makes me want to play these games, as I've actually only played like... 2 acts of a stage in total from these games lol...

[@CmndrXander]

Everything about this video hit my soft spot for nerdy, sonic, video, everything... For me, this was 100% one of the few times I have ever LIKED, SUBSCRIBED, FAVORITED, ADDED to Playlist AND commented together on one video! Great job, I can't wait to see more!

[@knucklesfan8]

I love this video. I think the level design changes from Sonic 2 is worth mentioning. Sonic 1 and 2, while very open with multiple paths, mostly required linear progression from point A to point B. This game with the special stage rings, adds exploration into the mix, making you really have to explore and appreciate the levels if you want 100 percent. I love this change because it's so subtle, yet it makes a huge difference, and is a big part of what separated Sonic from Mario.

[@ahatt96]

Mr. Brock Lee I find Sonic 3 incredibly overrated. It isn't even that good of a game. Most of the levels suck mostly because the design and gimmicks are a complete mess. The music is awful I can see why Jackson didn't want his name attached with it.

[@knucklesfan8]

ahatt96 Just a warning, since this is one of my favorite games of all time, you're gonna get a long response (also because I'm not the best at precisely describing this point in a quick sentence),So be prepared my friend. I can see why some consider the level design a mess. However, I prefer it's level design due to the number of multiple pathways and variety. Yeah, in Sonic 2, the details within the levels look like they were more carefully placed and planned out, and that's probably also why it tends to be the favorite of most Nintendo fans as it follows a more Mario style design where it's more methodical and precise. Sonic 3, it's kind of a mess. However, I am more of a "big picture" guy than a "details" kind of guy. If I enjoy the overall feeling and flow of a game it makes up for little flaws here and there. Why am i saying this? Let's look at level design in Sonic 2 vs Sonic 3. In Sonic 2, I felt like almost all levels were just go left to right with some upper and lower routes, with Chemical Plant! Metropolis, and Wing Fortress being the only exceptions (which are my favorite levels, despite Metropolis Zone's questionable enemy placements). Yeah, I'm exaggerating a bit, but when I go from Aquatic Ruin Act 1 through Oil ocean act 1, I feel really tired out. Sonic 3aK mixes it up more. For example, Ice Cap Zone 1 is climbing up an ice cave, then Act 2 is a speedier level exploring an open outdoor snowy area. Launch Base is then a bit more Labyrinth in terms of the level design taking you up, down, left, right, and all around. Mushroom Hill is the more classic left to right in an open area. They each feel completely different. And the Gimmicks I feel do a better job keeping a sense of flow. For the most part, there is always a feeling of movement with them unless you screw up. Marble Garden, you have the tops, which may physically slow you down, but Sonic is still running on top of them. Carnival night, the spinning barrels may technically stop you in one spot, but Sonic still moving since he's spinning. In Sonic 2, Oil Ocean Zone, you gotta stop your movement, get on a plate, wait for it to launch, and then it launches up. Yeah, it's only a second, but it breaks a flow. The only times Sonic 3 really forces you to stop is when a big set piece comes up which feels okay because stopping you there giving you they "hey why did i stop suddenly" helps prepare you for the big set piece. The sound track, I can't really argue music so I'll just leave that one alone for the most part. I'll just say this, I think Sonic 2 has cleaner sound samples, but I find Sonic 3's music catchier overall.

[@ahatt96]

Mr. Brock Lee Want to just talk that would be easier and we didn't have our skype debate last time.

[@knucklesfan8]

ahatt96 if there's any easy way to do so that doesn't involve commenting on videos, I'd be down.

[@ahatt96]

Mr. Brock Lee Do you have google hangout or skype?

[@REXanadu]

That was amazing! I'm still shocked there was a name to the planet Sonic 3 & Knuckles took place on. I loved the breakdown on the palates in each zone. Sonic 3 and Knuckles were the first Sonic games I ever played, and I'm glad you did justice for them.

[@LtDipstick]

it disturbs me listening to people a console generation and a half older than me (born in 94, started playing in 97, played sonic 3+k in 98), like game grumps (ok danny doesnt count) who bash on sonic as a just inherently faulted game and use the more terrible examples (like 3d sonic, or modern renditions of 2d sonic) to justify their hate. this game was the best example of a sonic game done right, from actually having powerups you care about to having a challenging way to maintain forward momentum while not making it impossible like the stop and think puzzles in the first two games, and it all gets completely blown off because they refuse to believe that anything that made sonic 06 and sonic r could do something good, and god forbid it could compete on a level that of mario 3 or world. im glad someone actually addressed the awesome that was sonic 3 and knuckles. and for that, you have my subscription sir. also i will say im not bashing on gamegrumps, its easily my most frequented channel, with me visiting it at least 6 times a day, but it hurts to see such a great game shit upon at its mention. i would also like to mention my first encounter with this game wasnt even from the genesis, it was on the pc and it did not hinder in anyway how much i loved that game.

[@xaionik]

You have beef with Arin Hanson specifically. You shouldn't get bent out of shape about one person's opinion.

[@LtDipstick]

Yeah, i guess its more focused towards arin, but jon also expressed distaste even for this one. and its not that im bent out of shape over the one opinion, its because his opinion, ive noticed, is extremely popular with others who look at sonic. i know that there are a lot of people out there who do love the game but that doesnt even compare to how many bash on it outright in my experience. i chose to point out gg because one: i love the show and am an avid viewer and theyre a really notable one, and two: because it hits really close when i see someone who i agree with on most cases bash this series. which i guess says a lot about me and not being mature enough to accept their differing opinion but id like to think thats not the case and also, it still hit me pretty hard especially when my opinion about s3ak is rooted so far opposite. which, going back to what you said, is being bent out of shape about one guys opinion but like i said, i noticed that his reflects a large community of people as well.

[@xaionik]

LtDipstick I'd like to think that its because of the "Sonic cycle" and the typical peer pressure scenario. Sonic hasn't seen the best transition to 3D. It colors people's perception of the series as a whole.

[@LtDipstick]

dude i totally agree and it totally disturbs me

[@ArtofZenDigital]

This video, as well as all of your other videos are great. It's very well put together and it's incredibly informative without ever needing to resort to campy humor or cussing. I only wish I'd found this channel sooner. It's also the first time I've heard the back-story for the Sonic & Knuckles Sega Genesis collection, as the games had no exposition at all, aside from having amazingly interconnected level designs. The way you broke down everything from the color theory to the stage speed layout was top notch in every sense of the word. Also, you're a very talented keyboard player and singer as well as designer. As a graphic designer and illustrator who loves making music as well, for me, this channel is literally perfect. Seeing the Mac filled desk in the intro of your video reminded me of home, as well as being at fellow designers and friends houses, along with places where I've freelanced. Thanks for not only making such a perfectly nostalgic video about my favorite game character ever, but also reminding me of the simpler times in gaming when design had to be relayed with far fewer resources, so it really had to pop off of the screen in a strong way. These games never age visually as a result, and they, along with other games of that era, inspired my friends and I to draw, much like you mentioned here. Again, great job!

[@skulldude596]

This analysis video was golden and has rectified my view on the entirety of the Sonic franchise. Satch my man you have earned a new loyal sub, keep it up!

[@ArcChristelle]

After finishing your video I gotta say, you hit the nail on the head about everything especially Sonic's inspiration on me as an artist and my interest in game design. Great video editing. This was glorious and looking forward to watching more in the future.

[@LeftoverCultureReview]

Wow man, KZbin actually made a really decent recommendation! Big fan of the whole look to this series.

[@Feelin_DanDy]

The lava cooling down at the start of Act 2 in Lava Reef Zone and the music for that Act combined with the look & atmosphere always gives me the warm feels.

[@MisterDutch93]

Hey Satchell, I found out about your channel via NormalBoots, and I'm happy that I did. Your videos are really high quality! I'm subscribed!

[@YoShockwaver]

Love your recent music but i'm definitly glad I got to see this as a kid, really made me appreciate the production side of art whether it's games, music or drawings

[@Tailikku1]

Not to be rude, but that Sonic Robot in Sonic 2 is Silver Sonic, not Metal Sonic. Metal Sonic is the robot from Sonic CD and NOT Mecha Sonic.

[@warlordgon]

Thank you!

[@PKGamingOmega]

Actually, it's Mecha Sonic apparently sonic.wikia.com/wiki/Silver_Sonic

[@LevoStevoWorldWide]

That's exactly what i thought, that the previous boos was silver sonic and Metal sonic is in Sonic CD

[@HonerableG]

except, technically they're all different versions of the Mecha Sonic line of Eggman robots. A few things get changed over with the US translations, like the whole Eggman/Robotnik stuff

[@brotherdavid]

Correct sir! I loved the video but that one detail stuck out to me and I was all like UGGGGH.

[@BigTwonLT]

Satch, I just gotta let you know man, this is one of the most amazing videos I have ever seen on youtube. I feel like there is an overabundance of reviews for games that just simply skim the surface and they all seem similar, but you have found your own lane. And the fact Sonic 3 & Knuckles is one of your favorite games automatically places you above the rest. Your analysis of every facet of what makes this game amazing blew me away as I shared those same sentiments. I gave up a long time ago trying to convince my brother how fantastic S3&K is, but alas, he was born in 1990 and pretty much only knows the embarrassing years of Sonic. It's nearly impossible to bridge that gap for younger gamers, but I feel like your case studies delve deep enough to make them at least understand why these games were great. Keep up the good work. Selfish PS... Would be nice if you released a case study on the 2nd greatest Sonic title of all time...Sonic CD. So these kids can truly understand why this game is in fact NOT overrated.

[@Diamonddeath]

The Archie Comics' story is actually different form the game's story. There was a text based lore for the old games in the instruction manuals, and I believe there was a bible that Sega of America made that was different from Sega of Japan until the two sort of fused or one was ignored. In the games, as opposed to the comics, it is the Master Emerald that keeps Angel Island afloat, not one of numerous Chaos Emeralds. Also, Knuckle's super form using the seven Chaos Emeralds in the games is called Super Knuckles, and his hyper form using the seven Super Emeralds is called Hyper Knuckles, just like Sonic, and unlike in the comics. Also, the comic does borrow heavily from the Sonic SatAM cartoon show, so Knothole Village and the Freedom Fighters existed at the time in the issues, as they always have since the first issue. The games also have no back story for Knuckles' family outside of Sonic Adventure and Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood, and thanks to the recent loss of material in the comics to former writer Ken Penders, Sega no longer holds any ownership of that lineage (that I know of), causing the recent comics to become rebooted and follow the games more closely. Metal Sonic was not the same robot from Sonic 2, but rather, that was a previous version of Mecha Sonic known in the US version as Silver Sonic, but Mecha Sonic in Japan. The Mecha Sonic from the Archie Comics is actually Sonic roboticized (turned into a robot). Interestingly enough, in the comics' Silver Sonic is later built using data from Mecha Sonic. It is actually the comic referencing the game and not the other way around. There are way too many differences between the comics and the games to use the comics' story as an explanation for the games.

[@SkipperWing]

+Diamonddeath I was going to rant, and then you did it for me.

[@Diamonddeath]

I'm surprised it took 9 months for anyone to agree

[@TestubeI3aby]

Well I am super glad JonTron brought me here this channel is fantastic. I'm also happy to see I was not the only one who had such a natural curiosity to the story of these two games as a kid great video man.

[@DjGaza18]

Wow man, great review, you are very detailed in your explanations. This is way off topic, but growing up as a kid and being a die hard dragon ball fan. I always got my liking to sonic, because it reminded me of dbz in very small ways, you had the seven chaos emeralds which reminded me of the seven dragon balls, you had super sonic which reminded me of super sayian, sonic who was the hero that linked me to goku, tails who reminded me of tails, mainly because he's weak but always had the courage to face his enemies, and knuckles who played the role of vegeta, times when he played villain and a hero, anyways great video, i am currently subscribed

[@DjGaza18]

I'm sorry tails who reminded me krillin. I messed up there

[@Sarsion]

Thank you for this video! I spent my entire first decade of life playing the original Sonic trilogy games on repeat, and you absolutely nailed my reasons for why S3&K resonated with me above all the other games I played during that time period. There's something excellent and personally-rewarding about implied and discovered canon, rather than delivered and direct canon. Everyone has their own head-canon and experiences with games like that, so it enriches the whole experience, I think. Great video man, subscribed! :D

[@bethanylutty4622]

man, I could just listen to this guy talk for hours. he's so intelligent and leaves me hanging on to every word and begging for more. also, he's pretty attractive lol

[@buggin2099]

True.

[@Ivy-Woods]

"I heard that Satch has an 8 pack, that Satch was ripped."

[@InfiniteRandom]

Lmao at how your avatar makes that comment sound in my head. XD

[@jamariwhite949]

gayy

[@alc4513]

I like how your analysis of the game was so well-thought-out; and then when it came to the ending you had trouble articulating your thoughts. It's adorable.

[@XxBarkThePolarBearxX]

What an excellent video! I was already going to sub, but then you mentioned Jirard... and that would have sealed the deal on it's own. Looking forward to whatever else you bring out man. Again, great video.

[@-autotroph-]

SEALED the deal? I see what you did there...

[@StevenImpson]

Really loved the video, you have a new subscriber! I've always struggled to articulate exactly what it was about Sonic 3 & Knuckles that made it so incredible, and you've managed to so it. The consistent lore and development without a single word of exposition, the levels designed around the concept of speed, underlying themes. It's really something special.

[@derekhogan9685]

Sonic3&Knuckles was my fave Sonic game. I miss those days

[@Chibiknux]

this is my favorite sonic game ever, and my favorite side-scroller too. i've played from start to end endless times. it always suprises me how overshadow by sonic 2 and CD this game always is. I love how this game shows you what's happening through the stages without needing text or voice acting. The way you go from one stage to another makes you feel you're really travelling and going foward. It had 3 playable characters but the game didn't needed to redesign stages or change the gameplay mechanic to fit their characters in. The soundtrack is great, always maintaining the beat of the stage. The way the music changed from Angel Island act 1 to act 2, swaping some major chords into minor chords to represent urgency because the island was on fire was one of the reason i got interested in music in the first place. This game means the world to me. I would really love that Sonic Team went back to this game and studied it to make a new sonic game because i think this is the one sonic game that did everything right.

[@nazra7]

Sonic 3 and Knuckles is by far THE best Sonic game, the best Sega game (of all their consoles), and THE best platforming game of all time! Period. Everything about it is just epic.

[@christopherwillcock-irving8538]

I saw this video when it first came out, I didn't have a clue what I wanted at that age (I think I would have been like, 14, I'm 21 now,) but I went on to do graphic design at university, and just learning the principle of skeumorphism is something that's heavily influenced my understanding of design. Also, some of your analysis on the design, colour, and character artwork has been critical in my journey. I know it sounds daft, but I owe you so much. Thank you for making this.

[@preacherduderox]

I'd agree with everything except the mechanics part. Although I completely understand the questions you posed, and your comparison of quantifiable speed and the idea of speed, I have to say that the idea of speed ISN'T A GAME MECHANIC. Having the player feel like they're going fast isn't enough. Putting yourself in a position to zoom? That's a notch away from just pushing a button to win. If anything, when Sonic embraces speed through PHYSICS, speed becomes more of an acceptable game mechanic, because it's not just a feeling, a sensibility, or a visual treat. If speed as just an idea is needed to complete a level, speed can be exchanged for literally anything else, like strength let's say, because it's an aesthetic choice, and doesn't impact that gameplay.

[@AprilMartinShinkaStudios]

Hi Satch! I was the girl who tagged along with Heidi, Jared, Jon and you to whataburger at SGC. Wish I had known you were such a big sonic fan too! I love the fact that you spoke about the lore from the comics. I've been collecting them for years. They add a new layer to the games for me.

[@Firestar4342]

I wish i went to whataburger with you guys :

[@gallenfier]

Even though I love this game, there is one part of the game that ruined it for me when I was a child: the stupid Carnival barrel that requires you to push up and down repeatedly! Me and my siblings spent hours trying to beat the zone, but that barrel made it impossible for us. We jumped in time and got to the bottom, but we had no luck at all. That one moment made something special cruel and mean.

[@LamanKnight]

I remember that barrel. When I had a Genesis, we never owned Sonic 3, but we did rent it once. We never got any farther than that barrel before we had to return the game. It wasn't until the Gamecube and the Sonic Classic Collection that I learned how get past that infuriating thing. But now, it's kind of funny how that one moment has become so iconic. We all feel that pain.

[@DareDB]

You made me remember that barrel problem I had when I was playing it back in 1994. It took me I believe several months before a friend told me what to do. Now I see I wasn't the only one who went through this problem. Makes me feel a little better. Seeing how this was pre-Google, this easily would've been solved in a much shorter time span if I went through this today, haha.

[@TheGuyWhoGamesAlot1]

I never beat the game until 4 years ago because of that. When I finally figured it out my siblings were impressed, since they liked the game too, and also never beat that part.

[@basirelyassi4310]

I didn't even figure that out until not too long ago, however, i still managed to beat the level by constantly jumping up and down.

[@cockshield]

GreenFox59 That pissed me off too... luckily though, when I first came across the barrel i just happened to find the solution in the May 94 Sega Magazine. So it really didn't bug me for more than a half hour, but sympathies for those who probably suffered much longer.

[@TylerJMcGrath]

Sonic 3 and Knuckles was definitely my favorite game I grew up with and it's also the reason I've drawn so much to this day (It's my career!) Great video, I really enjoyed watching and getting a great perspective on something I haven't visited in a long time. Keep it up!

[@sonictoast]

How did it take me two years to see this? Great video Satchbag! I want to be your best friend.

[@zachzap9987]

sonictoast Dude, I love you! You're the best, and I wholeheartedly agree! This video is great!

[@pablodariobarros]

Hi! Im from Argentina, and This game gave me the most magical moments on my entire life, the music, the sounds, the desing, EVERYTHING was amazing, even more when i play for the first time the Doomsday Zone!. Thank you for making this video about Sonic & Knuckles. :)

[@Dobogio]

The video was great however the reason MJ was not credited for the music in sonic 3 was due to being unhappy with the sound quality of the sega genesis. The explanation that he was let go due to the controversy around him at the time was simply a PR move to aim criticism away from the systems sound quality. The same PR people also claimed none of MJ's music was used in the final retail game so clearly they aren't exactly a reliable source. Aside from that small error the video was great.

[@IconicSince84]

I believe that it is very understated and underrated that a game series about a speed based character called "Sonic" relies so heavily on beautifully orchestrated themes, jingles and other sounds. It's remarkable how much of what you hear influences how each level and gameplay mechanic feels to play. To emphasize my point try to play one of these earlier games with the volume down. It actually looses some of the aesthetic and that says quite a lot considering how well crafted the gameplay mechanics and level designs were constructed. This entire early series (Sonic CD included) was a beautiful marriage of sight, sound and touch. I hope one day that we to get to play a proper sequel.

[@DrIvoRobotnick]

Your only error is that there are actually 4 different Metal Sonics and they have different names based on the country. (Not including Metalix and Psudo Sonic) Sonic 2 Master System is Silver Sonic Sonic 2 Gen is Silver Sonic in Eroupe and Mecha Sonic in the US (The neo Geo game uses the same version) Sonic CD is Metal Sonic (Sometimes referred to as Hyper Metal Sonic because of the anime) He is by far the most used. Sonic 3nK was Mecha Sonic or Super Mecha Sonic when transformed

[@zyriuzstorm9971]

Yeah the way I see it is that there's 3 silversonic (wich I think is by far coolest since he has chainsaw spikes) Metal sonic And mecha sonic, and metal and mecha has supertransformations I do miss a return of silversonic

[@GoodBloodGames]

I come back to this video every few months. It really did change a lot for me.

[@GRIZFROST]

❤️

[@NaturalProgressGames]

I'm only 7 minutes in and you've already gotten me to sub. Very well done, sir!

[@nooneboone4463]

Same.

[@HellbornGaming]

Same Too

[@jumaanecabrera8091]

The part where you mention Sonic's poses as regular Sonic opposed to Super Sonic is one of the reasons I love your videos; attention to detail. The power run stance, the nervous tittering opposed to the confident pointed stance. Copacetic!

[@luisvega6559]

Wow... This was a really good review, I'm going to subscribe right now!

[@tiodinero6301]

Happy

[@SleepingPepper]

This game means everything to me. This is the first one of your videos i watched and after seeing it I can safely say I am going to watch everything on your channel. I have never seen anyone treat this game with such diligence and respect for the story.

[@DrStabkill]

Great video- but I really do find genesis sonics mechanics to be kind of a mess. You really cant go fast unless you have memorized the levels, they interrupt your flow with cheap surprises and random stuff. Also sonic has very slippery and floaty controls. I mean otherwise its fun, but the fact that it relies on memory rather than instinct, I think hurts the integrity of the gameplay.

[@ranbummerz729]

YES!! I respect the genesis games and what they have done for gaming, but I never could really get into the game because of these exact reasons.

[@IconicSince84]

I always thought that these games were most "intimidating" on the initial play through. Once you stick around long enough to play the stages and attack it in different ways it becomes more of a beautiful experience. The design really built the levels to be conquered in dynamic fashion based off of the physics of the controls. When I play the newer games I think it's a direct contrast and the main reason that the gameplay never feels as dynamic except for a few beautiful (but automated) sequences like when the whale chases sonic in Emerald Coast, when the G.U.N. truck chases him in City Escape or the thrilling but extremely challenging end of the Kingdom Valley level in Sonic 06. .

[@masterpirate774]

Watching this makes me feel all warm and fuzzy man. Great job! Sonic 3 & Knuckles will forever be my favorite game of all time and you definitely did it justice with this video!

[@AdanMGarcia]

Did he say Canadia?

[@russelltietjen4407]

While I wasn't a Sonic fan up until about 2009 (funnily enough, until I was a teenager), I played this on the Classic Collection on the DS and this is probably my favourite Sonic game. A story that's easy to follow without dialogue, gameplay that's fun and actually lets you run (unlike Sonic 1 which is mostly platforming), 3 playable characters with different abilities, a decent number of levels, great level design, great music, satisfying rewards for getting collectables. Truly one of the greats in Sonic's history!

[@NightChime]

Hehe, from Canadia.

[@terrificTBO]

Thank you So much for being without a doubt the only person on the internet to review s&k non-biasedly. I have a lot of history with this game series and your review brought up tons of emotion i havent felt since i was 6 and played this game for the first time. Keep up the great work.

[@ArcChristelle]

Man you had me on board until you pulled out that damn Archie's Comic book.

[@IkeOkerekeNews]

I know right.

[@sixth_shinx6016]

While I am fine with Archie's Sonic Comic, he had no need to reference Comic-exclusive stuff like Knuckle's family.

[@mcknackus4721]

Your videos are fantastic. I've never seen anyone examine game design this thorougly and it's great to see games broken down to their elements and examined this closely. Having played Sonic 3&K recently with very little exposure to it as a kid, I can back up your nostalgia. The game is superbly designed with all the right visual cues to show when to go fast and when to go slow. It also kept the tension high, even when you weren't moving fast. This goes for the whole genesis trilogy, but playing 3 without the nostalgia goggles really cemented the genesis trilogy as my favorite Sonic games.

[@TheDirtbaggrif]

WHAT THE FFFFUCK IS A SONIC!?

[@FreeArtFreestheWorld]

I think the big difference between old school Sonic and new school Sonic is that there were a manageable number of characters, they never talked but their personalities came out very well through their animations, the story was straight forward, and perhaps most importantly the gameplay and controls were perfect. There were no problems with the camera, the controls were fluid, and it was simple (get from Left to Right and beat a boss every 2-3 levels) and no collectathon or anything to slow it down. BTW, I found your channel through JonTron (he favorited a vid) and I like the production value you have in your vids. Well done. I think I'll subscribe.

[@l3rvn0]

I lost interest when he decided to take Sonic Archie as a reference for the plot, instead of the Japanese manual...

[@SkipperWing]

+l3rvn0 Yeah, the "I'm not going to reference elements exclusive to the comics" disclaimer doesn't work when you reference elements exclusive to the comics (knuckle's expanded backstory, the planet's name, etc.).

[@tomstonemale]

+SkipperWing To be fair, most people dont know Sonic's backstory. I never read the manual despite having the game. I tried later, but all seemed like a clusterfuck to me.

[@JynxBlack13]

Ohhhh man do I ever understand your position on this look at the avatar!!!

[@KERNSX117]

Sonic will always have a place in my heart even with recent history not favoring Sonic. When I finally beat Sonic 2, I literally cried due to how much pain and anguish I went through to do so. That was when I was sold on Sonic, then came the pinnacle of Sonic in the form of Sonic 3 and S&K. Put the two together and you have the greatest story told without a single word of dialogue. You just knew the whole story without questioning it and it was a fun adventure that I still enjoy to revisit. You saw Dr. Robotnik's evil plan come to flourishion when he tested his mech hands in the Lava Reef Zone, to stealing the Super Emerald in the Hidden Palace to power his giant robot that you would face in his rebuilt Death Egg. You would foil his plans, blow up his Death Egg again, chase him through space, save the world and restore peace. And do I really need to say anything on ALL THE MUSIC, OMG I LOVE IT SO MUCH!!!

[@Krieschman]

What an excellent video, you have a lot of talent with reviewing and all the intelligence that goes into it and the polish on your videos is fantastic too. I'm a big fan.

[@SunderCR]

Satch, your style is really getting defined, everything you touch is magic, my friend! Beyond blown away by this one, I'm inspired to double down on my own stuff!

[@PocketUnv]

You've basicallly covered everything that my 12-year old self loved about these games. Thanks for the nostalgia trip! I'll definitely check out your other videos seeing how good this one was!

[@RevrenD23]

This was by far the best analysis of this game I have ever seen.. I didn't think would ever see this saga get credit like this from anyone other than myself.. You actually might be the best gaming analyst I've ever seen.. You sir, kick ass..

[@iinvaderrand]

Sonic and knuckles was one of my first games back in the day and it has remained near and dear to my heart. i have to agree that it is one of the best games/2 games of the genesis era. i still play it to this day and love every second of it. great review man.

[@lookingforsmalldads7588]

Satch you never fail to impress me, I'm always happy when I see one of your videos posted in my feed of crap and slop and when you see something like this so well put together and perfect it's just beautiful.

[@adrianpaul1985]

I love SatchBag's videos. They're intelligent,informative and well edited. No swearing just clean and professional.

[@1337rooster]

I had no idea that Knuckle's story happens after Sonic's story. And it makes a lot of sense. This was one of the first videogames I played as a child. And I played it a lot, and it was a really fun game to replay. I'm filled with so much joy to learn about all that lore after all these years. Thanks for making this video, it was really well done. And, I just want to say I think that you're awesome and we should be friends.

[@TheMogmatt]

Subscribed my good sir! S3&K is a game from my childhood that I can revisit over and over again and will never get tired of. Starting off with S1 myself and getting S2 then S3&K I appreciated the gradual change of physics and sense of self that the games presented. It was one of the best evolutions to ANY series out there and I'm proud to call S3&K my favorite all time game ever.

[@DarkDiamondCthulhu]

Two things that maybe other people already wrote to you: -first issue of the archie comic series (the one with Sally and Rotor) was published a year before the cartoon release (in the comics Sally start being blonde, so the second animated series, the one that is less comical and more dramatic, is just an adaption of the comic books); -planet Mobius is the name used in archie comic series, and it's technically non-canonical, cause the world of Sonic's games is called Planet Freedom (mentioned in the official OAV made by Sega in the 1995 and in some interview with Sonic Team, as far as I can remember). Really impressing work, btw.

[@RUTVonline]

Wonderful look into one of my favorite games as a kid. Satchbag is really great at articulating the subtleties of easily overlooked gameplay mechanics and ideas.

[@LuminousDecibel]

Ah, I share your passion for S3&K. One of the first games I played growing up, this game (or these games, whatever) is what motivated me to draw. Because of my love of the game, I started drawing little comics in the first grade of a Sonic-spin off character and his adventures. SA2 furthered these comics. And because that happened, not only do I find drawing a passion and am relatively experienced artistically, I developed writing as a hobby and a passion, when creating the dialogue and .._plot_ for my amateur comics. And because of my passion for developing characters I got into acting and theatre. I wouldn't be surprised if the fantastic soundtrack for this game also influenced my taste in music. Nonetheless, it's crazy to think that a video game has had such a significant impact on my life. It's one of my all time-favorites. _....also I commend you for writing and producing such an elaborate and eloquent review that expresses why I love this game so much, in expressions I would have never formed myself._ Bravo. I'm excited to see what you'll produce in the (hopefully) near future.

[@becausebenjohnson]

Those stage tracks brought back so much nostalgia. Sonic 3 & Knuckles still remains one of my most favourite platformers ever. Thanks for the trip down memory lane :)

[@JoshuaDolman]

A fantastic video explaining the brilliance behind one of my favourite games. I'd say that it tempted me to play it through again, but I already did so just the other night.

[@saintjimmy806]

Holy crap, I just went on a total nostalgia trip. One of my favorite gaming memories was when I was 6 years old and I rented Sonic 3 from the Blockbuster down the street and stayed up all night playing it... until my Dad woke up at 8 AM and made me go to bed. Well made video, sir.

[@nano69ify]

Why haven't I heard of this guy until the NormalBoots annoncement? He's the only person I didn't subscribe until now, this is the most informational game review Ive ever seen. I'm glad you're in the Normal Boots team dood!

[@LunatheLoungeSinger]

I found about you through Continue and JonTron and am in love with all this info I had no idea about. also you make this info relatable, understandable and charismatic. Thank you so much!

[@CaptainFeral]

Utterly fantastic video. You've described easily one of my favorite games in such detail and in such a way that I could not, helped me appreciate it even more. Watching through your other videos now, you've totally got me as a subscriber.

[@drinkycrow6375]

I'm so glad someone brought Archie's series into light, a friend gave me a file with ALL the comics long ago, I wish I still had it. The comic series is soooooo good! Thanks Satchbag, for this.

[@DarudeF1]

I loved the Sonic series when I was a kid. A family friend brought his genesis over (megadrive here in the UK), and brought Sonic 1 with him. I was instantly hooked! I was about 7 at the time. Soon enough I was bought my own for a birthday and got Sonic and Knuckles the following Christmas and I cried because I was so happy.

[@lukesk11135]

6:45 Correction: The Metal doppelganger in sonic 2 is named Silver sonic, the regular Metal sonic was in Sonic CD.

[@jacbros]

I love so much of this. The editing, the intro and your way of reviewing that sounds so clever that it would make me look like a prehistoric ape. You can clearly see that the production quality is through the roof. While the modern Sonic kinda annoys me, this reminded me that I should like the other parts of a franchise. Really outstanding job good sir.

[@SoundOfAShadow]

Glad to see someone else who was inspired by the Sonic series to the point of it aligning their career path. Kudos, Satch!

[@shockwave122]

Sonic 3 and S&K will always hold a special place in my heart. i have fond memories of playing these games when i was little.

[@jshuen]

Just saw this, and boy am I glad I watched it! Growing up I had exactly the same feelings towards these games/this game as yourself. It blew my child brain with its lore, the graphics, the mechanics, the narrative, the sound - especially the sound. Sonic 3 & Knuckles is hands down my favourite video game ever, and I'm glad to see it getting the respectful and informative praise it so rightly deserves!

[@HiddenPlease]

How does this not have more views! You are truly the future of video game analysis on youtube

[@KoopaKart]

Your videos are the best put together I think I've ever seen, hope you go far Mr. Satchbag

[@NatStarlight]

While my views are certainly influenced by nostalgia (Sonic was my childhood, even more so than Mario), Sonic 3 and Knuckles is masterful; a brilliant platformer that I return to year after year and never tire of. The visuals, the music, the level designs, even the silent narrative that you talked about, it's all so well-executed and it's a shame that Sonic's amazing past is often clouded because of more recent entries in the franchise (though Colors and Generations are great). Glad to know other people appreciate classic Sonic as much as I do. I particularly enjoyed your analysis of the zones and themes in the game. Sonic's varied and creative level design is something that has always stood out to me and stands apart from Mario's often more generic reliance on grass, desert, beach, snow, lava world, etc. clichés (though these themes can be and are often done well by Mario, they are getting tired, especially with the New Super Mario Bros. series wearing them into the ground). The industrial landscapes, the underwater ruined cities, the season-changing Mushroom Hill; even if there are familiar landscapes, they are given their own creative spin in Sonic and I truly adore all the colorful, creative energy put into these games. :)

[@notwhoyouthink1]

I still remember being a kid and getting to the special stages in Sonic 3, and thinking "Damn, these graphics are awesome!". It was too hard for me at the time, but it's still one of my favorite games ever.

[@FabledTriple]

Great audio, fantastic visuals, informative with a soothing narrative, and a modern feel that isn't words flying at my face and abhorrent sound effects. You sir, just got another sub :)

[@mikethw1]

Awesome review! Agreed with all the points and was particularly intrigued by all your points on the artwork (e.g. reflecting nature/science fiction) that I had never considered in these games I thought I knew so well. Thanks heaps!

[@Uh_Oops1]

Wow, this review genuinely made me rethink my entire viewpoint of how speed relates to Sonic, or at the least in this generation of Sonic. This was an incredibly well done review.

[@paulbunyunn]

Man, all of this is extremely fantastic and very well researched! You seem like a very worldly man. I never knew how much depth and factors of immersion took place in the Sonic & Knuckles saga! As for me, it was probably consciously the music that drew me to the game and possibly subconsciously the colors! I'm a very big fan of solid color schemes. :)

[@YaBoyEdGames]

This is a great review on one of my favorite games. Sonic 2 is my all time #1 but I loved this saga. I appreciate the time you took to get information on each part of this game and dissecting it. Great job man. You have a follower in me. Cannot wait to see what you have next down the line.

[@16bitbrit]

Seriously, your editing is an inspiration. Some excellent work, sir. Thanks for taking the time to entertain and inform.

[@CaptainKreepingDeath]

Sonic 3 & Knuckles is probably my favorite game of all time, so thanks for the critical breakdown. It was well said and concise. A cousin and I spent god knows how much time as kids reading in to that mural during the Knuckles fight in the Hidden Palace, and we also competed at drawing Sonic characters, mostly using the Archie comics as a reference. It's nice to know someone else was out there doing the exact same things.

[@sonicrocker25]

I'm on the SAME level with you Satch, Sonic is the whole Reason I draw to this day. I'm glad to see Sonic has inspired others the sameway he has me.

[@TwoHeadedGiant]

Holy shit, man. This was one of the biggest surprises in a channel I've ever come across. I was never a Sega kid so sonic games never appealed to me but I'm honestly way more inclined to play them to completion now. Also dat Mars Volta reference. Subscribed. Youre an inspiration for my channel and the more in depth videos we're going to do. Thank you.

[@MutantAnomaly]

S3&K is one of my all time favorite games. When I was 17 I was stuck at home all summer and ended up playing it so much I had every level memorized and could get through them all without ever taking a hit.