Encore Mode is where Sonic Mania finally hits its stride. The mode is barely different, most notably all the levels having a new palette. But the big difference is you can play as any two characters, swap between them, and rotate through the whole cast. This is Mania at its best

Everyone finally feels useful since some characters are better in certain areas, incentivizing you to change your team. And when you have the wrong characters it feel truly challenging. Despite my misgivings of Mania, Encore Mode is a delight & I'd love to see the idea expanded upon