Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride with the latest addition to the Sonic The Hedgehog series, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds. This upcoming kart racing game promises to deliver an exhilarating experience with its expansive roster and innovative gameplay features. Read on to discover what's in store for fans and the details of the upcoming closed network test.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds New Features and Mechanics Revealed
Largest Roster From The Series Ever
Sega and Sonic Team are joining forces to bring you Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, potentially featuring the largest character roster in the series to date. According to a PlayStation.blog post by Sega of America Associate PR Manager Thalia Piedra on February 12, 2025, the game will include "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes." While the trailer showcased only Sonic franchise characters, the official website confirms a launch roster of 23 characters, with more to be added post-launch.
The trailer revealed a diverse lineup including mainstays 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 do Team Dark members Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega. Dr. Eggman is joined by his creations Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic, while the Chaotix team of Vector, Charmy, and Espio also feature. Rounding out the roster are Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big, ensuring a rich variety of racers for players to choose from.
Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds
The game introduces a groundbreaking mechanic with Travel Rings, which transport racers to different worlds in real-time during races. These CrossWorlds, as described by Piedra, 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 surprises such as large monsters, engaging obstacles, and tracks filled with stunning scenery.
Inspired by previous titles like Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will feature dynamic tracks that evolve with each lap, ensuring a fresh and transformative experience every time. Players can expect 24 main tracks and 15 CrossWorlds to explore and conquer.
Customization, Extreme Gear, Gadgets, and More!
Customization is taken to new heights in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds. A preview shared on Twitter (X) on February 17, 2025, showcased extensive vehicle customization options, allowing players to modify the front and rear parts of their vehicles, wheels, and even the color of the body, tires, cockpit, and overall glow.
Additionally, players can equip their characters with Gadgets, offering 23 different power-up items to tailor their play style. The game will feature 45 unique original vehicles, including the return of Extreme Gear from Sonic Riders, enabling players to race on flying hoverboards with a boost-based style. Sonic Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka emphasized that this game is "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 sneak peek of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds can now register for the 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, 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, adding an extra incentive to join the test and provide valuable feedback.
