>>717145945 (OP)
Yes, but honestly the classic stages held it back. They made some stellar new ones too, and if the entire game was that rather than overelying on nostalgia sure, it would easily be considered the best 2D Sonic.
If they want a chemical plant inspired zone, they can do that, the Genesis Sonics did exactly that with multiple zones, just give it new music and colors and introduce the new gimmicks. It doesn't have to be literal chemical plant, it could be Chemical Factory or something and be red instead, inspired by Chemical Plants theme but with its own identity and bopping song.