Trick Action
From Sonic Retro
Tricks were first introduced in Sonic Advance 2. By inputting button commands in midair, the player can gain point bonuses and propel the player character in a given direction. In Sonic Rush and Sonic Rush Adventure, they build up your Tension Gauge as well.
Putting Tricks to Good Use: Gameplay Tips
In Sonic Rush and Sonic Rush Adventure, the Up+R trick allows Sonic or Blaze to perform a double-jump of sorts, by which you can reach areas that are otherwise inaccessible. Likewise, the Left/Right+R trick launches Sonic or Blaze forward in that direction, and, for Sonic, damages enemies. In addition, tricks can be chained together for higher and higher bonuses.