Well, guys. I just got the newest NP issue in today, and after reading the article on Sonic and the Black Knight, I can assuredly tell you that I am freaking stoked about this game.
The original devs of Secret Rings are the ones taking the helm on this project, and they've listened to fans' complaints on SSR. The guys developing this game are really trying to take the time and care on making this a great game.
It's controlled by nunchuk + remote this time around. The control stick strafes Sonic left and right, and a simple flick of the remote will allow Sonic to slash at enemies as he swooshes by -- there's no stopping to slash...which would break up the speed portions of the game. Now, when it pertains to enemies with a bit more health and/or resistance, the game allows Sonic to stop and perform some serious swordplay skills. He gains new sword abilities as you progress through the game, too. There are combo attacks aplenty, and when you finish off an enemy with one, it gives Sonic a speed boost right as you deliver the final blow -- which puts Sonic back on his speedy way. Also, the devs are incorporating multiple branching paths throughout each of the stages. Yes, the missions are back, but this time it's more refined -- they play into the story more. They wanted to make the game more approachable (not casual!) for the core userbase. And NO, there are no dinosaur egg missions!

After reading the developer interview, and reading how the control scheme is going to work, I'm absolutely excited about this game. I really got into Secret Rings, and this game is looking to outshine it by leagues better.
Oh, and throughout the majority of the stages, the game switches to a sidescroll view for instantly recognizable old-school Sonic action.

Can't wait!