This is the New Super Mario Bros. U of Sonic games. It functions, it overall plays pretty well, the graphics are clean and simple, but wow is it just so bland.

For starters, I appreciate that they went with all new zones for this one. No green hill zone or chemical plant, thank God. Some of the stage gimmicks were kinda neat, like the big drone in press factory. I just wish this game had more of a unique style/identity, which most Sonic games have no problem with. It just lacks that unique Sonic vibe, and the OST isn't doing it any favors.

I thought the emerald powers were a really solid concept, but went way underutilized, at least in my playthrough. Most of them just have highly specific use cases, and in the moment when I'm focused on going fast, I don't stop to think about opening up the ability wheel.

Collectables were also pretty lame, since they are restricted to the online multiplayer. A simple incentive could have involved letting players use their custom character in the main game.

Overall, a solid attempt. The gameplay fundamentals are solid, and a decent portion of the stages were fun to play through. I just can't justify this game being $60, since Sonic Mania is overall more complete, more fun, and far less cost.