Edge is in the minority here. Most websites are calling this the "greatest sonic game in 20 years". Check Amazon.com and you'll see how huge the user ratings are.
As for a comparison to Mario... I think everyone has it the wrong way round. Mario games are the ones that are over-rated. They are technically perfect, and generally quite boring and frustrating. I never have understood people seem to worship at the altar of Nintendo. It reminds me of people's downright nonsensical devotion to Apple products.
The simple truth is that either you appreciate the refreshingly different tone of Sega's games....or you don't. Most people don't get Jet Set Radio, Space Channel 5, or Panzer Dragoon. And I feel sorry for them. Sonic is a bit more accessible, and so has more fans. The general consensus online is that if you like Sega games, and Sonic in particular, you will love Sonic Generations.
My thoughts...are that if you DON'T like Sega games, and Sonic in particular GO BACK TO PLAYING MARIO AND LEAVE THE SEGA FANS ALONE.
