Hard Times: The Ice Cap Zone Story (The Brief Version)!

If you’re a 90’s kid, then somewhere along the line you were introduced to a little device called Sega Genesis. If that’s the case, then we’re pretty sure you were also introduced to the World’s Fastest Hedgehog. The 90’s icon and Sega’s answer to Nintendo’s mustachioed ‘franchise player’ has been keeping himself busy for almost 30 years, and we say thirty because in 2021, it will be Sonic the Hedgehog’s 30th Anniversary! We’re not kidding!

Before we get all excited and tweet SEGA like crazy to give us another hit from the franchise speedster, let’s talk about a story that some of you might know, and some of you might not. For many hardcore Sonic fans (including us), Sonic 3 was one of the best titles out there for the Sega Genesis. Even though there were only six zones (compared to its predecessor) the game was a great addition to the Sonic series. That brings us to one of the most well-known zones in the game, that is tied to one of the most well-known controversies between SEGA, and some ‘people you might know’.

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As we said before; some of you might know this story, and some of you may not. For those of you who are not aware of it yet; the background music for the Ice Cap Zone from Sonic 3, has been one of the most debated topics in the music and gaming industry. It is one of the most remixed songs within the history of the franchise, and is based off of a rare track from the 80’s band The Jetzons called “Hard Times”.

One of the members of the band is Brad Buxer, who is one of the composers of the Sonic 3 OST. He is also an associate of the late King of Pop himself, Micheal Jackson. Now you’re probably wondering, ‘What does this have to do with the actual track itself?’ we think it’s safe to say that the track speaks for itself…

Back in 1994 right around the time Sonic 3 was released, there was a big controversy surrounding the game’s Ice Cap Zone, as well as Micheal Jackson’s uncredited music contribution to the project. SEGA and Micheal denied his involvement with the game, and still does even to this very day. The same could also be said for the ending credits theme as well; as the song sounds a lot like Micheal Jackson’s Stranger in Moscow.

More and more evidence of Jackson’s involvement with the game is starting to come to the forefront. However we wanna hear from you; what do you guys think about this development that’s been going on for quite awhile now? Let us know in the comment section if you’d like! 🙂

 

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