Whether playing the original or a "Plus" version, the core mechanics remain unique within the series:
: Adds the Sonic the Hedgehog 2 style Spin Dash, allowing for immediate speed from a standstill. Sonic CD Plus
: To reach a "Good Future," you must find a "Past" sign, maintain high speed for several seconds to travel, and then find and destroy the Robot Generator in that past version of the stage. Whether playing the original or a "Plus" version,
: Introduces the Homing Attack to help navigate the vertical, often cluttered level design of Sonic CD . Sonic CD Plus