SEGA can learn a lot from this game. Its not 2005 anymore, people aren't looking for 'the best graphics' but a fun game that can be midtier. I mean, shit, you think Pokemon games had high budget? Honestly I think this is more technically impressive than any Pokemon game I played.
I think the whole 'We need this to be huge' is hurting them. I mean, look at Sonic Boom, it had 4 characters, fighting, sonic speed sections, platforming, exploring, 2D segments, and multiplayer etc etc. Not to mention the game didn't have enough development time. Whats wrong with focusing on a smaller mid-tier title?
Not even surprised that Sonic Runners turned out great (for f2p mobile title), it was a small and focused game.