Sonic's primary strength is his speed. He is the fastest thing alive, and the game is designed around this. Utilizing his speed allows him to bypass obstacles, clear large gaps, and defeat enemies by simply rolling into them. His Spin Attack (performed by jumping or rolling) is his main offensive move, making him invulnerable to most enemies while in ball form.
The Spin Dash is another core strength, allowing him to accelerate from a standstill to top speed almost instantly. This is invaluable for breaking through walls, launching off springs, and quickly dispatching groups of enemies. His high jump also allows him to reach elevated platforms and avoid ground-based hazards. Understanding when to use speed and when to be cautious is a crucial aspect of mastering Sonic.