Get ready to rev your engines with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, the latest kart racing extravaganza from Sega and Sonic Team. With an expansive roster and innovative gameplay mechanics, this game promises to be the ultimate racing adventure in the Sonic universe. Dive in to discover the new features and mechanics, and don't miss out on the upcoming closed network test!
Largest Roster From The Series Ever
According to a PlayStation.blog post by Sega of America's Associate PR Manager Thalia Piedra on February 12, 2025, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to feature the most extensive character lineup yet. While the trailer showcased only characters from the Sonic franchise, the official website promises a launch with 23 characters, with more to follow.
From the trailer, fans can spot fan-favorites like Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, and Amy, alongside characters from Sonic Riders such as Jet, Wave, and Storm. The Deadly Six's Zavok and Zazz 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, are also in the mix. The Chaotix team, including Vector, Charmy, and Espio, rounds out the roster, with Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big completing the ensemble.
Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds
The game introduces a thrilling new mechanic with Travel Rings, which will transport players to different worlds, or CrossWorlds, during races. As per Thalia Piedra, these rings will dramatically alter the racing experience by shifting players from one world to another, offering a theme park-like adventure filled with large monsters, engaging obstacles, and stunning scenery.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will also feature dynamic tracks inspired by previous titles like Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed. Each lap will bring new changes, challenging players to adapt on the fly. The game promises 24 main tracks and 15 CrossWorlds for an ever-changing racing landscape.
Customization, Extreme Gear, Gadgets, and More!
Customization takes center stage in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, with the game offering the most extensive vehicle personalization options to date. A tweet from the official account on February 17, 2025, showcased the ability to change the front and rear parts of vehicles, wheels, and even the body's color, tires, cockpit, and overall glow.
Players can also equip their characters with 23 different Gadgets to tailor their play style. The game will introduce 45 unique original vehicles, including the return of Extreme Gear from Sonic Riders, allowing players to ride flying hoverboards and enjoy a boost-based racing style.
Sonic Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka highlighted that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a culmination of the entire Sonic Racing series, bringing together all the beloved elements fans have enjoyed over the years.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Closed Network Test Announced
Get a first-hand experience with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds through its closed network test. Registration opened on February 12, 2025, and will close on February 19, 2025. The playtest is scheduled to run from February 21, 2025, to February 24, 2025, exclusively on PlayStation 5.
Participants can look forward to the following test times:
- 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
Those who participate and complete the post-test survey will be rewarded with an exclusive in-game sticker and title.