* Winning races: Unlocking characters is primarily done through winning races, especially in Grand Prix mode. Each track has a specific character you can unlock by finishing first.
* Completing challenges: Some characters are unlocked by completing specific challenges, like collecting a certain number of rings or performing a certain number of tricks.
* Using the "Trick" meter: As you gather rings, you can build up your "Trick" meter. Performing tricks increases your score and can unlock some characters.
* Unlocking "Secret Characters": Secret characters are often unlocked by completing special conditions, like winning with a specific character, or by playing through the game with a certain character.
Here's a breakdown of how to unlock each character:
Default Characters:
* Sonic: Starts unlocked
* Tails: Starts unlocked
* Knuckles: Starts unlocked
* Amy: Starts unlocked
* Shadow: Starts unlocked
* Rouge: Starts unlocked
Unlockable Characters:
* Jet: Complete all World 1 Grand Prix races.
* Wave: Complete all World 2 Grand Prix races.
* Storm: Complete all World 3 Grand Prix races.
* Cream: Complete all World 4 Grand Prix races.
* Big: Win a race in Story Mode using Cream.
* E-123 Omega: Win all three races in the "Omega vs. Sonic" Challenge mode.
* Metal Sonic: Unlock all other characters.
Important Notes:
* Some characters may be unlocked in specific versions of the game (e.g., Sonic Riders Zero Gravity).
* You can find detailed unlock information online for the specific game version you're playing.
Good luck unlocking all the characters!