Drop Dash

Demonstration of the Drop Dash in Sonic Mania.

The Drop Dash is a technique used by Sonic in Sonic Mania and by Classic Sonic in Sonic Forces, which is best described as a "midair Spin Dash". By pressing and holding any jump button in midair after jumping, Sonic will charge up the move, and will instantly dash off in a short burst upon landing. However, the move cannot be performed if the player takes damage before landing. If the move is executed by Super Sonic, a mini-earthquake is set off and the boost will be greater.

By collecting enough medals in Sonic Mania's Bonus Stage, this move can be replaced with the Super Peel-Out or the Insta-Shield by accessing the Secrets menu when starting a "No Save" game.

According to The Taxman in an interview, the Drop Dash was designed with new players in mind.