I never got the hate for the Sonic and Elise romance. Like, there is clearly a difference between regular “keep as pets, eat as food” animals and Sonic’s crew. To me, Sonic and Elise kissing is like watching a human kiss a Klingon. Not really all that much to speak of.
I didn't mind it either, and it was solely one-sided too. Elise was a recluse overall, knowing nothing about actual romance or love. A full-out shut-in. So the knight in shining armor thing makes some sense. It's still poorly written, but it fits her situation enough. The ending also made sense, being a kiss of love and life. Doesn't mean Sonic felt the same way back. Again, not good writing to force it, though. At least Sonic was given the choice(and considering Unleashed, it's clear he would've chosen Amy if you remove the player control. We know he feels that way, but isn't able to really settle down in a relationship yet. Even casual dating).
It actually showed Amy not being an outright jealous *****, though, so that's something to give credit for. She got improved as a character throughout that game. Which also was kept for Unleashed, a far more mature personality. Probably wouldn't have kept the personality if it they didn't show her maturity in 06. I mean, she was ridiculous in Adventure 2, but at least go over it fast at times. Then Heroes came along and horribly reduced her to a lovesick puppy that was just... no. Shadow didn't have her in the game long, but she acted a lot better. Sonic Battle was as bad as Heroes, to the point she hallucinated Sonic into the battle(where he was overpowered as hell) to fight Emerl and Rouge. Like woooooooow. And Battle came out before Heroes too(though Heroes happens before Battle chronologically).
They've improved Amy ever since her massively good showing in 06, so that's nice. I hope they keep that up, not making her too lovesick as is. Sonic Boom also did a good job with keeping her not completely obsessed with Sonic. Show at least. I forget how she was in the games.