Games like Sonic the Hedgehog 3 on Xbox
3 of the 5 modern alternatives to Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (1994) run on Xbox. The cheapest is Sonic Origins Plus at € 39,99.
Xbox has the strongest backwards-compatibility programme of any console, so a large number of original Xbox and Xbox 360 games run natively on current hardware. Add Game Pass and the steady stream of retro-styled indies and the coverage is broad.
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.
Sonic X Shadow Generations
€ 49,99Classic 2D Sonic stages alongside modern ones, remade with the Mega Drive physics in mind.
Sonic X Shadow Generations runs on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet. It is Steam Deck Verified.
Not on Xbox
These alternatives to Sonic the Hedgehog 3 are listed on the main page, but do not run on Xbox:
All 5 games like Sonic the Hedgehog 3