Sonic also does not level up anymore in this mode, instead setting him at what would be the maximum level in the original game by default but scaling enemies to be more difficult later in the game. Another notable change in these stages is the fact that Sonic's arms stretch longer in combat and combo attacks can be performed much quicker. For one, Sonic no longer has a life meter in his Werehog form and instead uses the classic ring system, and going into unleashed mode drains his rings instead of his health. Both Sonic and the Dark Gaia enemies move much faster in this mode, but there are other changes to make the game more fluid as well. This mode leaves most of the daytime stages unaltered except for minor changes (though Sonic does now have a double jump and can drift), but significantly changes the nighttime stages. Recommended Mode is the recommended way to play the game.

There are also two additional bonus features that are exclusive to specific consoles: Motion Mode, exclusive to Nintendo Switch, and Virtual Mode, exclusive to PlayStation VR. There are three game modes in Re:Unleashed, each with different gameplay styles.

Sonic unleashed enemies