Sonic Mania's levels are designed with multiple routes, and many of the fastest or most rewarding paths are hidden. Look for:
- Destructible Walls: Some walls can be broken by a Spin Dash or a powerful attack, revealing new areas.
- Hidden Springs: Springs are often placed in inconspicuous locations, leading to high-up platforms or secret passages.
- Character-Specific Routes: Knuckles' climbing and gliding, and Tails' flight, often open up entirely new sections of levels. Replay levels with different characters to discover these.
- False Floors/Walls: Some seemingly solid surfaces can be passed through, especially in older zones.
Exploration is highly rewarded in Sonic Mania, so take your time on your first playthroughs.