Recommended Team: Sonic (Leader) & Tails (Partner)
Sunset Hill Act 1 starts with a downhill dash, quickly building momentum. You'll encounter several large loops and springs. Use Tails' flight to reach high platforms and bypass some of the lower, more enemy-dense sections. There are sections with crumbling bridges; dash across these quickly to avoid falling. Look for a series of ancient pillars that can be climbed or jumped across; Tails' flight is invaluable here for maintaining height.
Mid-way through the act, you'll find a water section. While Sonic can swim, it slows him down considerably. Use Tails' flight to skim over the water, or look for platforms above the water to avoid it entirely. There's a hidden Special Spring located above a large waterfall; you'll need to use Tails' flight from a high point to reach it. The act concludes with a series of springs launching you towards the goal ring, often requiring a well-timed jump to land safely.