Star Light Zone

Star Light Zone
A rather peaceful zone set in an urban environment at night, under the stars, and containing many loops. This stage contains many roller coaster-like sections in which Sonic is hurled along paths at great velocity; it is possibly the game's strongest showcase of Sonic's speed. Other city-based levels took similar roles in later games, such as Stardust Speedway in Sonic CD and Speed Highway in Sonic Adventure.

There are few enemies here, most of which cannot be destroyed by Sonic. The most prominent foes are smart walking bombs that will explode a short while after Sonic approaches them. The greatest hazards are the "bottomless pits" into which Sonic can fall to his death. Fans, descending stairways and see-saws hanging in thin air make navigation harder.

At the end of Act 3, Dr. Robotnik shoots spiked mines onto three see-saws. The mines detonate soon after, but Sonic can use the see-saws and the mines to either shoot the mines at Robotnik or use them to propel himself towards him. Act 2 of this zone is also Sonic's last chance to get a Chaos Emerald (see below).