I love the series. Not my absolute favorite on Genesis/Mega Drive, but pretty close.
SOR2 is obviously the perfect package. It had everything. Music, graphics, gameplay.
SOR3 (or the uncensored Japanese version) had its moments and some nice gameplay additions, but the lack of a leap forward (SOR1 to SOR2) and the so-so music always made me ambivalent about that sequel.
If this topic takes, I can maybe post a little extra to make it more than just a trip down memory lane. I'm still new at this forum so I don't know what's hot or not over here.