Sonic: Lost World is a 3D action platformer in the Sonic the Hedgehog series and not identical to the 3DS version of the same name. In the introduction, Sonic and Tails chase Doctor Eggman who has kidnapped critters to power his robot army. Tails' plane is shot down and they land in Lost Hex, a world in the clouds. There they discover Eggman has used a magic conch to control the Deadly Six, members of the Zeri race. Sonic manages to break the influence, but the Deadly Six then use one of Eggman's machines to drain the world below of its life force. This leads to an unlikely alliance between the duo and Eggman to defeat the Deadly Six.
The game's levels combine three types of gameplay. There are full 3D levels where Sonic progresses through spherical worlds similar to those in Sonic X-treme . In these Sonic needs to move forward, but can go entirely around the sphere along the way by moving left or right. The second type of levels are side-scrolling 2.5D environments with a fixed side view and regular camera turns to maintain the perspective in the 3D world. The final type of levels are 3D and on-rails. Classic gameplay elements include collecting rings, dodging obstacles, using launch pads to travel between areas and platform climbing.
The control system incorporates a mechanic to manage Sonic's speed. Regular directional controls guide Sonic around at a regular speed, used mostly for sections where he has to be careful. By holding a trigger however Sonic starts running and can perform quick parkour-like moves such as wall running and vaulting. Sonic has a dash, a spin attack, a homing attack to target enemies more easily and in succession and he is also able to double jump.
Some moves were previously featured in Sonic Colors . The same goes for Wisp powers, temporary power-ups provided through Wisp creatures when they are located in a level. These include Asteroid, Bomb, Drill, Eagle, Hover, Laser, Lighting, Quake, Rocket and Rhythm. Red coins can be collected in levels to unlock bonus stages with a circus theme to free more animals. If they are all collected in the game, Sonic can transform into Super Sonic.
After completing a level it can be played in a Time Trial mode to reach a fast time. Cooperative gameplay is supported with a second local player who flies an RC vehicle that moves alongside Sonic. The second player then provides some assistance by collecting rings, dropping bombs or firing rockets. Owners of the Wii U version can collect items to have Tails build items and RC vehicles that can be used in the game.
There are competitive races as well, with one player using the Game Pad and the other a controller and the TV. Game modes are Speed Race, Expert Race and Ring Race. In the latter the player who collects most rings, wins. Additionally, there is a link to the Miiverse to influence the vehicles and swap items such as Wisps and shields.