Dive into the excitement with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, the latest kart racing game from the iconic Sonic The Hedgehog series. Developed by Sega and Sonic Team, this title promises to be a thrilling addition to the franchise with its expansive roster and innovative gameplay mechanics. Here's everything you need to know about the new features, characters, and the upcoming closed network test.
Largest Roster From The Series Ever
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to feature the largest character lineup in the series to date. According to a PlayStation.blog post dated February 12, 2025, by Sega of America Associate PR Manager Thalia Piedra, the game will include "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes." While the trailer showcased characters solely from the Sonic franchise, the official website confirms a launch roster of 23 characters, with more to be added post-launch.
The reveal trailer spotlighted fan-favorites such as Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, and Amy, alongside characters from Sonic Riders like Jet, Wave, and Storm. The Deadly Six's Zavok and Zazz also make an appearance, as well as Team Dark members Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega. Dr. Eggman and his creations, Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic, join the fray, along with the Chaotix trio of Vector, Charmy, and Espio. Completing the roster are Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big.
Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds
One of the standout features of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is the introduction of Travel Rings. These innovative gameplay mechanics allow characters to be transported to different worlds in real-time during races, offering a dynamic and immersive experience. As described by Piedra, these rings will "bring dramatic changes to races, transporting players from one world to a completely new location."
Each CrossWorld offers a theme park-like experience with unique surprises, including large monsters, engaging obstacles, and tracks filled with stunning scenery. The game will feature 24 main tracks and 15 CrossWorlds, ensuring a variety of environments for players to explore. The dynamic nature of the tracks, inspired by Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, ensures that each lap brings new challenges, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting.
Customization, Extreme Gear, Gadgets, and More!
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to offer the most extensive vehicle customization in the series. A preview shared on the game's official Twitter (X) account on February 17, 2025, showcased various customization options. Players can modify the front and rear parts of their vehicles, wheels, and even the color and glow of the body, tires, and cockpit.
In addition to vehicle customization, players can equip their characters with Gadgets to tailor their playstyle. With 23 different power-up items and 45 unique original vehicles, including the return of Extreme Gear from Sonic Riders, players have plenty of options to enhance their racing experience. Sonic Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka praised the game as "a great culmination of all the Sonic Racing series games to date."
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Closed Network Test Announced
Closed Network Test Registration Now Open
Fans eager to get a taste of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds can participate in an upcoming closed network test. Registration opened on February 12, 2025, and will close on February 19, 2025. The playtest will run from February 21, 2025, to February 24, 2025, and is exclusively for PlayStation 5 users.
- PST: 02/21/2025 (Fri) 04:00 PM - 02/23/2025 (Sun) 04:00 PM
- EST: 02/21/2025 (Fri) 07:00 PM - 02/23/2025 (Sun) 07:00 PM
- GMT: 02/22/2025 (Sat) 00:00 AM - 02/24/2025 (Mon) 00:00 AM
- JST: 02/22/2025 (Sat) 09:00 AM - 02/24/2025 (Mon) 09:00 AM
Participants who complete the post-test survey will receive an exclusive in-game sticker and title, adding extra incentive to join the test and provide valuable feedback.
