Sonic the Hedgehog 2's gameplay is largely the same as its 1991 predecessor. A side-scrolling platformer, the player controls Sonic the Hedgehog as he runs at high speeds, defeats enemies, and overcomes obstacles. The story takes place following the events of the last game; Sonic returns home to find that Doctor Robotnik has captured Miles "Tails" Prower, so he heads off to rescue him before it's too late.