Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, the latest kart racing game from the Sonic the Hedgehog series. Developed by Sega and Sonic Team, this game promises an expansive experience with a roster that could be the largest in the series to date. Learn more about the new features, mechanics, and the upcoming closed network test.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds New Features and Mechanics Revealed
Largest Roster From The Series Ever
On February 12, 2025, Sega of America's Associate PR Manager, Thalia Piedra, shared exciting details about Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds via a PlayStation.blog post. The game will boast "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes," though the reveal trailer focused solely on Sonic characters. The official website confirms a launch roster of 23 characters, with more to be added post-launch.
The trailer showcased a diverse lineup including Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, Amy, and characters from Sonic Riders like Jet, Wave, and Storm. Fans also spotted Zavok and Zazz from the Deadly Six, Team Dark members Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega, as well as Dr. Eggman with his creations Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic. The Chaotix team, featuring Vector, Charmy, and Espio, along with Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big, round out the initial roster.
Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds
The game introduces a unique mechanic called Travel Rings, which will transport players to different worlds, known as CrossWorlds, in real-time during races. According to Piedra, these rings will "bring dramatic changes to races, transporting players from one world to a completely new location." Each CrossWorld will offer a theme park-like experience with surprises like large monsters, engaging obstacles, and tracks filled with beautiful scenery.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will feature dynamic tracks inspired by past titles like Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, ensuring each lap presents a new challenge. Players can expect 24 main tracks and 15 CrossWorlds to explore.
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 Twitter (X) on February 17, 2025, showcased options to modify the front and rear parts of vehicles, wheels, color customization of the body, tires, cockpit, and overall glow, among others.
Players can also equip their characters with Gadgets, tailoring their play style with 23 different power-up items. The game will feature 45 unique original vehicles, including the return of Extreme Gear from Sonic Riders, offering a boost-based racing style.
Sonic Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka described this 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
A closed network test for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is scheduled, giving fans a sneak peek at the game's offerings. Registration opened on February 12, 2025, and will close on February 19, 2025. The test will run from February 21, 2025, to February 24, 2025, exclusively on PlayStation 5.
- 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.
