While flying around, Tails discovers an island. It seems to be completely abandoned except for some mine cart tracks. As he lands on the island, a cart approaches, and Tails hides in the bushes. The passing silver cart is driven by a woman who says she is Wendy Witchcart. She proclaims that everything on the island is hers and threatens to transform everyone in crystal who does not follow her rules. Tails, determined to save all the animals on the island, sets in a chase to catch Wendy Witchcart.
Gameplay is fairly similar to the Sonic series. Tails need to defeat enemies and complete obstacles while being constantly suspended in mid-air. He carries a golden ring that is used to take out enemies or latch on to devices. Unlike other games in the series, there are no Sonic, emeralds, or Dr. Robotnik to contend with, and no rings to collect during levels.