If you find yourself struggling with a particular stage or boss, or simply want to max out your character upgrades, grinding for EXP and Rings is a viable strategy. Here are the best methods:
- Replay High-Scoring Stages: Replay stages where you consistently get good scores and times. For Sonic, this means fast, efficient runs. For Werehog, this means clearing all enemies quickly.
- Hot Dog Stand Challenges: Many Hot Dog Stand challenges offer significant EXP and Ring rewards upon completion, especially the harder ones. They also provide a focused objective.
- Combat-Heavy Werehog Stages: Replay Werehog stages with many enemy encounters. Defeating enemies is the primary source of Werehog EXP. Use EXP Boosters if you have them.
- Ring Farming (Sonic): Replay Sonic stages with abundant rings or easy-to-access ring trails. Use the Light Speed Dash and Boost to quickly collect them.
- Sell Unused Items: If you have an excess of certain food items for Chip or other consumables you don't use, you can sell them at shops for Rings.
A few dedicated grinding sessions can make a significant difference in your character's power, making subsequent challenges much easier. Don't hesitate to take a break from the main story to power up.