Technical Issues:
* Poorly Optimized: The game was riddled with frame rate drops, glitches, and slowdowns, particularly on the PlayStation 3. This made even basic gameplay feel clunky and frustrating.
* Level Design: Many levels were repetitive, uninspired, and confusing. The camera angles often hindered gameplay, making it difficult to navigate.
* Bugs: Sonic 06 was plagued by numerous bugs, from enemies phasing through walls to character models clipping through the environment. This made for an incredibly unstable and broken experience.
Gameplay Issues:
* Unresponsive Controls: Sonic, Shadow, and Silver all felt awkward to control, with inconsistent physics and slippery movement.
* Level Design: The levels often lacked variety, with repetitive environments and uninspired gimmicks. This led to a monotonous and unengaging experience.
* Difficult Boss Fights: Many boss battles were frustratingly unfair, with unclear attack patterns and cheap tactics.
Story Issues:
* Confusing and Convoluted: The story was a convoluted mess, with confusing plot points, inconsistent character motivations, and a nonsensical ending.
* Weak Character Development: The characters, particularly Shadow and Silver, were poorly written and lacked depth. Their interactions felt forced and lacked emotional weight.
* Forced Romance: The introduction of Elise, a human princess, was a jarring addition to the Sonic universe and felt forced and unnecessary.
Other Factors:
* Rushed Development: The game was rushed to meet a holiday deadline, which resulted in a highly unfinished product.
* Poor Marketing: Sonic 06 was heavily marketed before its release, which ultimately led to disappointment among fans due to the game's poor quality.
Overall, Sonic 06 failed to deliver on its promise of a fresh and innovative Sonic experience. Its technical issues, gameplay flaws, and convoluted story made for a frustrating and disappointing game that is widely regarded as a low point for the franchise.
It's important to note that some fans may have a different opinion on the game, and perhaps find enjoyment in its flaws. However, its overall reception and critical reviews are overwhelmingly negative.