This is a screenshot of the first level of the One Little Rat mod for Sonic Robo Blast 2. Very little of this level is done yet, but I think that what I have thus far looks nice. As you can see, there are various other animals around this starting area, though only two of them are visible in this screenshot. You can speak with the various animals, who may or may not give you something to aid you on your quest.

Speaking of which, who gives you items is actually random. When you enter the level, three of the animal NPCs who can potentially give items are chosen randomly. They give items, while the rest do not. This sort of thing will not be a unique occurrence. For example, in one spot thus far, the game will randomly spawn either a group of rings or a thermos. I am hoping that the random items will result in increased replayability, though this does mean I need to be careful with designing the game. Certain random items can make certain parts of the game easier or harder, but progression should never be impossible with any possible combination of items spawns.