Sonic producer Yuji Naka would work with Square Enix to pursue his "one chance" at developing the game of his dreams: A one-button action platformer on an grand scale, complete with musical numbers.
It did not go over well.
Criticisms levied against it mainly focus on the overly-simplistic nature of its one-button gameplay, as well as the implementation of its costume system for changing abilities. Further contempt is shown for its QTEs, as well as its vague narrative and general lack of direction.
While the game is decidedly uneven, Naka's vision isn't without its merits? And as it turns out, much of the lore can be found outside of the game -- across a book and the game's website. Having the benefit of these materials helps contextualize many of the game's oddities.
I cannot recommend highly enough this video by Austin Eruption, which does so much digging into the circumstances and end product of this curious debacle. It weighs rightful criticisms with a clear want to give the game its proper due (where applicable).
