This isnt close to where sonic and knuckles left off

First of all, sonic and knuckles had these features: transitions between acts and zones, mini bosses on every second act, multiple playable characters, 3d special stages and 2d bonus stages, special types of protector shields (electric, water, fire), and an introductory cutscene. If you havent played it (sonic and knuckles), then I recommend that you at least watch some playthroughs to see wou sonic the hedgehog 4 is inferior.

Plecofish about Sonic The Hedgehog 4™ Episode I, v1.2