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Cheats & Codes genesiscodes

Sonic the Hedgehog - Cheat Codes

Level select, debug mode and the sound test, for the original Genesis release.

Updated Sep 21, 2026 Written Aug 2, 2026

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All codes are entered on the title screen while “PRESS START” is flashing. Do them before the demo starts.

Level Select

Input Effect
Up, Down, Left, Right A chime plays if the code registered
Hold A and press Start Opens the level select / sound test menu

Debug Mode

Enter this instead of the level-select code:

  1. Up, C, Down, C, Left, C, Right, C
  2. Hold A and press Start

In game, press B to turn Sonic into a placeable object, A to cycle objects and C to place them. Press B again to go back to Sonic. Ring counter turns into coordinates while debug is on.

Sound Test Easter Egg

From the level-select menu, play sounds 01, 09, 09, 02, 01, 01, 02, 04 in that order and then start any level. Enjoy. Chrono Trigger - Items

Notes

  • Achievements on RetroAchievements are disabled while debug mode is active, so keep the two runs separate.
  • These codes only work on the original cartridge version, not on the later mobile/remaster ports.