Does double the hedgehog mean double the epicness?
There are two types of gameplay in this game, just like Unleashed basically. But both gameplay types are actually very tolerable. Classic 2D platforming Sonic, and the modern 2D to 3D high speed Sonic. It's probably the only time that multiple playstyles is actually not a problem at all.
The classic platforming is what you'd expect it to be. There's less focus on speed and more on the platforming, which is a nice diversion from the high speed modern gameplay. If I'm honest, it's definitely not as good as the genesis games. It kinda feels like something different actually, and not that much like the classic platforming. One reason is probably the incredibly over powered spin dash. This is both a good and bad thing. While it does not live up to the Genesis games due to some awkward controls, it still is an enjoyable experience by itself and the only reason to really dislike the classic gameplay is because how it doesn't live up to the old games.
The other gameplay is where I feel the game shines actually. In Unleashed, I genuinely enjoyed the new Sonic gameplay, but there were numerous faults to it and often it would get to points where the game just isn't fun anymore. Cheap level design is what plagued Unleashed, not to mention shaky controls. Colors improved on it magnificently, but with a little too much 2D, it still lacked something. Generations continues to improve upon the formula, and now the gameplay is at a point where it is insanely fun. Lots of fun 3D sections accompanied with fun 2D sections. Exciting level design that's difficult but not cheap, equals a true nearly flawless execution of modern Sonic gameplay. There's still control issues and at lower speeds, I still find it difficult to make precision moves. But with experience, you learn to play with these faults and it gets extremely satisfying to just be able to run through the levels flawlessly at such high speeds. It's also such a blast that the levels no longer require constant boosting to get anywhere.
The presentation is your typical Sonic goodness. Graphics are great in motion and since you're a high speed hedgehog, you won't have to look closely at the textures which may seem a little under-developed. The music is great. I love basically all of the music. It's a nice diverse soundtrack and is classic Sonic music. One thing that stands out about Sonic is the music, and there's no disappointment here. Voice acting is up to par too. Though, Amy's voice actor needs to be fired ASAP. Last part of the presentation is, the storyline. I have ALOT of harsh things to say about Colors' storyline, so I didn't come in here with large expectations. And thankfully, that was the right decision. There might as well be no story in Generations, because it's almost non-existent. And while a story is not necessary, there's just so many missed opportunities and it's just a complete disappointment. The Sonic games do have a focus on story whether certain fans want to admit it or not. And it's disappointing to see it take a back seat in a game with so much potential story wise.
By far the biggest fault of Generations though is its incredibly short length. It's as short as Colors basically, and that is not a good thing. Sonic Team may have improved the gameplay, but they've neglected to improve other areas like the story and replay value. Luckily, you'll love to replay alot of the levels in the game, but the length of the actual campaign is disappointingly short compared to the campaign in many past Sonic games, even the classics. There's also many side missions though, which is good, and you can unlock extra content. But it's not enough. And until Sonic Team really go out all the way on a Sonic game, it'll never be enough for a nine from me. But Generations comes very close, as it's a game not only packed with nostalgia, but lots of fun in its gameplay. Definitely recommend a buy, especially for Sonic fans familiar with some of these levels.