Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds promises to be an exhilarating addition to the Sonic franchise, bringing together a host of characters from the Sonic universe and beyond. Dive into the details of its innovative features and mechanics, and get ready for the upcoming closed network test.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds New Features and Mechanics Revealed
Largest Roster From The Series Ever
Sega and Sonic Team are collaborating on the highly anticipated kart racing game, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, which is set to feature the largest roster in the series' history. In a detailed PlayStation.blog post dated February 12, 2025, Thalia Piedra, Sega of America's Associate PR Manager, unveiled the exciting new mechanics and features that players can expect.
The game will boast "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes," with a confirmed launch lineup of 23 characters, and more to be added post-launch. Although the full roster remains under wraps, the reveal trailer showcases a diverse lineup including Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, and Amy, as well as characters from Sonic Riders like Jet, Wave, and Storm. The trailer also features Zavok and Zazz from the Deadly Six, Team Dark's Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega, alongside Dr. Eggman and his creations Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic. The Chaotix team, including Vector, Charmy, and Espio, joins the fray, with Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big rounding out the initial lineup.
Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds
The gameplay trailer and PlayStation.blog post introduce groundbreaking mechanics that promise a fresh and engaging experience for both long-time fans and newcomers. Central to this is the use of Travel Rings, which transport characters across different worlds, known as CrossWorlds, in real-time during races. Thalia Piedra explains that 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, packed with surprises such as "large monsters, engaging obstacles, and tracks filled with beautiful scenery." The game also introduces dynamic tracks, inspired by Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, where the course evolves with each lap, requiring players to adapt on the fly. Players can expect to race on 24 main tracks and explore 15 different CrossWorlds.
Customization, Extreme Gear, Gadgets, and More!
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds sets a new standard for vehicle customization within the series. A preview shared on the game's official Twitter (X) account on February 17, 2025, showcases an array of customization options, including modifications to the vehicle's front and rear parts, wheels, body color, tire, cockpit, and overall glow.
Players can further tailor their experience by equipping characters with Gadgets, which can be edited to match individual play styles, with a selection of 23 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 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 first look at Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds can now sign up for the closed network test. Registration opened on February 12, 2025, and will close on February 19, 2025. The playtest will be available from February 21, 2025, to February 24, 2025, worldwide.
- 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
The closed network test will be exclusive to PlayStation 5 users. Participants who complete the post-test survey will receive an exclusive in-game sticker and title as a reward.
