Games like Sonic the Hedgehog 3 on Linux
3 of the 5 modern alternatives to Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (1994) run on Linux. The cheapest is Spark the Electric Jester 2 at € 14,99. One is made by independent developers.
Linux is unusually strong for classic gaming, because the open-source engine ports that keep old games alive were often written on it. Native builds are common for anything using a community engine, and most of the rest runs through Proton, which is the same technology that powers the Steam Deck.
Prices, platform availability and Steam Deck compatibility can change at any time. Always check the store page before buying.
Sonic Superstars
€ 59,99A modern 2D Sonic platformer with the classic side-scrolling feel.
Sonic Superstars is also an alternative to 2 other classics
Sonic Superstars runs on PC, Mac, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet. It is Steam Deck Verified.
Sonic Origins Plus
€ 39,99The official bundle featuring Sonic 3 & Knuckles and its siblings.
Sonic Origins Plus is also an alternative to 2 other classics
Sonic Origins Plus runs on PC, Mac, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet. It is Steam Deck Untested.
Spark the Electric Jester 2 Indie
€ 14,99An indie platformer inspired by classic Sonic's momentum and speed.
Spark the Electric Jester 2 runs on PC, Mac, Linux. Not available on iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Playable.
Not on Linux
These alternatives to Sonic the Hedgehog 3 are listed on the main page, but do not run on Linux:
All 5 games like Sonic the Hedgehog 3