Xbox 360

Sonic the Hedgehog 3

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a fantastic game, but you can find it elsewhere for cheaper. This package adds a few things you can't find in most other Sonic re-releases, such as online play and leaderboards, but those really don't add much. Even with all of the downsides, this XBLA game is a great trip down memory lane for the remaining SEGA fanboys.

It's not Sonic & Knuckles, but that's about the only serious criticism that can be levelled at such a confident and polished sequel. Not quite a stone-cold classic, but close enough to make the low asking price a no-brainer.

For 400 Microsoft points, Sonic 3 is not just a pleasant trip down memory lane, but a welcome return to a series that has gone awry. In retrospect, it may not be the best in the series, but compared to recent outings it can almost be called a classic. Also, don't forget the imminent arrival of Sonic & Knuckles brings with it the connectivity ability to play as Knuckles in Sonic 3, which makes this very worthwhile.

Sonic 3 is a fast and entertaining platformer, although it may be worth considering buying it inside of one of Sega's larger collections.