• Publisher: THQ
  • Release Date: Jun 7, 2004
Metascore
79 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 30 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 30
  2. Negative: 0 out of 30
  1. The value of this cartridge will keep you playing and playing until your fingers rub raw.
  2. They've tweaked and improved the gameplay considerably, included two fantastic multiplayer games and wrapped it all up in a beautifully drawn and dynamic sounding environment.
  3. 90
    The addition of two tag-team characters in Sonic Advance 3 definitely changes things up considerably, as do the much larger and more expansive level designs.
  4. While the game still maintains the same traditional platformer level design and old-school Sonic action, the game is designed around teamwork this time around and this is handled superbly throughout the game.
  5. With the well developed co-op, blazingly fast single player, and the underused but excellent multiplayer, and with an excellent soundtrack, Sonic Advance 3 expands in ever way over Sonic Advance 1 & 2.
  6. Sonic Advance 3 doesn't revolutionize the franchise but the new multi-character system allows it to keep it from being redundant and allows for an enjoyable experience.
  7. Faster than ever, with loads of replay value - let down slightly by some extremely dodgy level design. One for speed-addicts. [GamesMaster]
  8. The level design is fantastic, with large imaginative interactive environments. [Summer 2004, p.33]
  9. Sonic Advance 3 actually brings something new to the table--a tag-team play mechanic that ultimately enhances the overall product rather than mucking it up.
  10. Graphics and sound are, as expected, top-notch (I love the remix of old Green Hill music), and the bosses are outstanding. [July 2004, p.71]
  11. It can be a little too difficult at times, especially when trying to make finicky jumps on a small screen while, for example, riding a bus. But the balancing issues are confined mostly to the bosses. [Aug 2004, p.91]
  12. The combination of the terrifically-executed side-scrolling action game that became the killer app for the Genesis, along with the replay-enhancing tag-actions feature, makes Sonic Advance 3 a winner.
  13. Another excellent side-scroller with a special focus on variety.
  14. The strongest point of the game is also its weakness. The fact that for most of the games features it remains the same as all the older 2D sonics will have some fans happy but other gamers wondering why they should again fork out for a few new features.
  15. 80
    When the speed stops, the fun stops. Otherwise, Sonic Advance 3 moves fast, looks and sounds good (Sonic fans will certainly groove to a remixed tune or two), and has a few multiplayer options to boot.
  16. Sonic Advance 3 doesn't make any significant changes to the traditional Sonic gameplay but what it does it does bigger and better than any previous handheld Sonic game before it.
  17. As you explore the seven extensive worlds, you'll find hidden Chaos that you can maintain in the Chao Garden. [Aug 2004, p.122]
  18. 8 / 7 / 7 / 8 - 30 silver [Vol 810; 25 June 2004]
  19. 75
    The core mechanics and level designs are all excellent enough that the extra characters won't detract from the game should you decide to ignore them. In the end, this is the best and most realized of the Sonic Advance games.
  20. 75
    Sonic Advance 3 finally comes up with a way of introducing teamwork and variance between characters that doesn't overwhelm Sonic's bread-and-butter gameplay.
  21. 75
    We can't help but feel a little disappointed by Sonic Advance 3. There's nothing really wrong with the game, it's just feeling like Sega are treating this game like an EA update, with a few roster changes and minor enhancements. This feels more like Sonic 2.5 than a full fledged sequel.
  22. Everything else is just as you'd expect from the blue blur's 2D exploits; dynamic momentum and solid-but-clunky feedback making for a satisfying game regardless.
  23. Easily the best Sonic title for a long time...there's something here for everyone, no matter which era of Sonic you prefer. [July 2004, p.118]
  24. Whereas the previous Sonic Advance titles have seemed to miss that little bit of soul that made the series' first appearance's on the humble Sega Mega Drive, Sonic Advance 3 has it in abundance.
  25. Surprisingly, it's this split between the game's determination to showcase new elements while reintroducing more traditional gameplay that makes Sonic Advance 3 such a success; there's something here for everyone, no matter which era of Sonic you prefer.
  26. 70
    The hedgehog species is heavy on attitude but has a hard time with evolution.
  27. If you're tired of Sonic's antics and you've been yearning for some innovation, you won't find it with this title. The multiplayer does its best to keep things interesting, but it's not enough to make Sonic's latest outing a must have.
  28. These are great characters that have been the same since the start of the franchise. I want more now. [July 2004, p.123]
  29. It's Sonic business as usual, with few surprises. We still love the little guy and the game looks gorgeous, but maybe it's time for the old dog to try some new tricks.
  30. Sonic is a bit like the band you used to love when you were a nipper but just refuse to change their sound: they keep a loyal crowd and play all the hits on demand for nostalgia's sake, but the new tunes sound like the old ones. Only the real obsessives need worry about this one.
User Score

Generally favorable reviews- based on 10 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 9
  2. Negative: 0 out of 9
  1. Even though it's nothing we haven't seen before, Sonic Advance 3 is still an undeniably gorgeous 2-D side-scroller that's fun to play. Pros: Excellent graphics, control, and sound; fantastic level design; variety of characters. Cons: Nothing new or innovative. Full Review »
  2. The fastest of the Sonic Advance series. Pros: Excellent graphics, control, and level design; lots of characters to play; new moves; one of the fastest Sonic games to date. Cons: Isn't as innovative as the first game; too many bonus challenges. Full Review »
  3. CamillaD.
    10
    This game is BBBBBAAAAADDD! And i mean it in a good way. I only just got this game for Christmas and so far i have got 2 chaos emeralds! This one is much better than SA2 because its easier to get the emeralds. Plus there is a great display of teamwork and excellent combinations. SEGA have really outdoing themselves making these awesome games like Sonic Heroes andof course Sonic Advance 3! Full Review »