Labyrinth Zone

Labyrinth Zone

Labyrinth Zone is the fourth zone in Sonic the Hedgehog, a ruin-like maze zone, most of which is underwater. It features many spikes and water-driven contraptions. The greatest hazard of this zone is not the enemies or the traps, but the water. Sonic, being a hedgehog, is terrible at swimming. After staying underwater for a limited amount of time (18 seconds, with warning bells at 5, 10, and 15 seconds) a countdown starts (5 breaths/about 12 seconds), at the end of which Sonic automatically drowns. Collecting air bubbles found in certain points resets the counter and prevents Sonic from drowning. This element has found its way into many more Sonic games, much to the dismay of most players.

At the end of Act 3, Dr. Robotnik does not attack Sonic. Instead, the hedgehog has to follow him through an ascending passage filled with poison-spitting statues and tridents that is soon after flooded with water, with no air bubbles in sight. To beat the level, Sonic must climb to the top without dying or drowning. However, if Sonic does manage to land 8 hits on Dr. Robotnik, he will be defeated nonetheless.

Instruction Manual Description

Explore an intricate maze filled with water. A countdown begins to let you know when you are running out of oxygen. Breathing in air bubbles keeps you from drowning.