Sonic 3: Episode Shadow

The blue speedster is back with Sonic 3: Episode Shadow, but this time in a new version of himself! Meet Shadow, the red version of Sonic! You will take control of this character to help him bring back all the gems. Don’t worry, you’re not alone, you have assistance from your best buddy Tails. Your enemy Knuckles has stolen all the gems, can you retrieve them safely? 

On your way, look out for enemies, traps, pits and obstacles, one tiny mistake can lead to your death! Don’t forget to collect the rings as well, they can be very profitable to you. Good luck on our journey!

🌑 What's Included?

• Play as Shadow the Hedgehog
• Based on Sonic the Hedgehog 3
• Custom character sprites
• Modified abilities and movement
• Classic Sonic 3 zones
• Original boss encounters
• Fan-made Sega Genesis ROM hack
• Chaos Emerald collection

📖 The Original Story Continues

The adventure follows the events of Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

The Death Egg crash-lands on Angel Island, and Doctor Eggman begins another attempt to restore his plans. Meanwhile, Knuckles the Echidna protects the Master Emerald and frequently interferes with the hero's progress.

In this ROM hack, Shadow takes the place of Sonic throughout the adventure.

🏝️ Explore Angel Island Again

You will travel through the same zones found in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, including:

• Angel Island Zone
• Hydrocity Zone
• Marble Garden Zone
• Carnival Night Zone
• IceCap Zone
• Launch Base Zone

The familiar level designs remain one of the hack's biggest attractions.

⚡ Shadow's Presence Changes Gameplay

Shadow first appeared in Sonic Adventure 2, several years after Sonic 3 was released.

Because of that, ROM hackers had to adapt Shadow for Genesis gameplay. Depending on the version of the hack, you may find:

• Custom running animations
• Unique sprite work
• Modified jump behavior
• Character-specific abilities

The exact feature set can vary between releases and updates.

🔷 Chaos Emerald Hunt

Special Stages remain part of the adventure.

By finding Giant Rings, you can collect Chaos Emeralds and work toward enhanced transformations, just as you would in the original Sonic 3.

Exploring alternate routes often leads to hidden opportunities to access these stages.

💡 Gameplay Tips

• Search for Giant Rings in every zone.
• Collect rings before boss encounters.
• Learn Shadow's movement differences early.
• Explore alternate pathways throughout each stage.
• Keep momentum when crossing long platform sections.

🎮 How to Play

EmulatorJS Controls

Mobile Controls

• Use the on-screen D-Pad to move Shadow.
• Tap the jump button to attack enemies and cross obstacles.
• Use the secondary action button if supported by your version.
• Open the emulator menu for Start and Select functions.