There's a FP2 theory that's been on my mind for a while now. I call it "Target Demographic Theory", or the "Kids Theory" for short.
-Notice how FP1 is marketed. It's suave, sassy, and dark. More appealing to an older audience.
-FP2 has a very lively and fun gold palette to it, as well as a giant, not-so-subtle Smash symbol in the background, something that'd make kids more likely to beg their parents to buy.
-FP1's lineup consists of 4 adult/teen-oriented characters, and a family friendly character who's been MIA since 2008 and hasn't been relevant since 2000.
-Now consider FP2's lineup. Min Min, a character from a really recent game with bouncing and lively characters, and Steve, a character who, although popular with all demographics, is most popular among kids.
If anyone has more things to pile on to the theory, tell me.
Hot Take #2: let Tee Lopes be in charge of all music for Sonic games, or at least mimic his style of music. Crush 40, while had a good run, is WAY overhyped and their era overstayed it's welcome imo. Also whoever did the fist bump theme in Sonic Forces can kick rocks somewhere else. Maybe it's just me, but the theme was too cringey.