So, Sonic 2 XL is basically Sonic 2 on steroids—someone took the classic Genesis game and cranked up the speed, added new level layouts, and tweaked the physics just enough to make it feel fresh. You still blast through Green Hill Zone, but now there are way more loops, hidden paths, and some brutal new enemy placements that’ll catch you off guard if you’re used to the original.

First thing you’ll notice? Sonic moves fast. Like, "accidentally launch yourself into a pit because you didn’t brake in time" fast. The chaos emeralds are still there, but the special stages feel a little meaner—good luck nailing those sharp turns at this speed. If you’ve played the original to death, this mod gives you a reason to come back without feeling like a cheap reskin.

Honestly, it’s the kind of hack that makes you appreciate how tight the original level design was, even when it’s kicking your butt.