A Sonic game is a Sonic game only because it is part of the franchise. For example, Sonic Pinball Party isn't really a Sonic game in the vain of the Sonic the Hedgehog series, but it's a Sonic game within the Sonic franchise.
It's all about how carefully worded we speak out about them that makes the difference, but we usually infer a lot of definitions behind our opinions because we all assume we all know what we are referring to. Even if that isn't really the case. It's just improper linguistic communication because we are trying to convey our opinions as fast as possible so as to keep the attention of those listening, or reading.


