sonic 4 episode 2 is at least a little bit better than the original game. i wouldn't say it's worth playing but there's some redeeming aspects to it, like the more creative level aesthetics and much, much better looking graphics on top of better sounding audio too. but the partner mechanic is overused to the point of being annoying, and none of the progress from the first episode is carried over, you only get an additional metal sonic chapter, which is pretty much as average as the base game anyways. wouldn't really recommend, considering there are better 2D sonic games on steam to be playing instead