I can't be the only one in the world who enjoys CD's Special Stages, can I?

I beat Knuckles Campaign first (he's been my favorite since I first played Sonic Advance), and the Lava Reef Zone cutscene was something special. I'll probably play as Sonic later; I've been going through the time trial mode and am in danger of burning myself out. I think I'd say this is the most solidly designed Sonic game; there's nothing like Grounder from Aquatic Ruin Zone, or the ball and chains from Marble Hill (well, the latter are in Stardust Speedway, but they're smaller and easier to see coming, makes me want to see Christian Whitehead release that prototype S3&K remaster).

That being said, because most of the levels feel like a "Sonic's Greatest Hits", the story (narrative?) doesn't "flow" like it does in S3&K. There are some cool moments like the transitions from Chemical Plant to Studiopolis to Flying Battery. I also miss the Bonus stages; with all the new qualities the elemental shields have, it's disappointing that I can't try my luck for a shield that will help with the level I'm on. These are more nitpicks than anything else, but I'd say while Mania is a better "game" than Sonic 3, the latter stuck with me more.