Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Unveils Characters and Tracks for Closed Test

Dive into the thrilling world of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, where the excitement of kart racing meets the beloved characters of the Sonic franchise and the broader Sega universe. Learn all about the innovative features and mechanics of this game, 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 set to deliver an exhilarating kart racing experience with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, potentially boasting the largest roster in the series yet. In a detailed PlayStation.blog post dated February 12, 2025, Sega of America's Associate PR Manager Thalia Piedra unveiled the game's new mechanics and features.

Piedra confirmed that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will feature "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes." Although the trailer showcased only characters from the Sonic franchise, the official website promises a launch roster of 23 characters, with more to be added post-launch. The trailer spotlighted familiar faces such as Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, and Amy, alongside Sonic Riders' Jet, Wave, and Storm. The Deadly Six's Zavok and Zazz made an appearance, as did Team Dark members Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega, with Dr. Eggman and his creations Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic. The Chaotix trio of Vector, Charmy, and Espio were also featured, rounding out the lineup with Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big.

Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds

The game introduces a novel gameplay mechanic with Travel Rings, allowing racers to be transported to different worlds in real-time. According to 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 surprises such as "large monsters, engaging obstacles, and tracks filled with beautiful scenery."

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds also features dynamic tracks inspired by 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 promises the most extensive vehicle customization in the series to date. A preview shared on the game's official Twitter (X) account on February 17, 2025, showcased options for modifying the front and rear parts of vehicles, wheels, and deep color customization for the body, tires, cockpit, and overall glow.

Players can also equip their characters with Gadgets, offering 23 different power-up items to tailor their racing style. The game will feature 45 unique original vehicles, including the return of Extreme Gear from Sonic Riders, allowing players to race on flying hoverboards for a boost-based racing experience.

Sonic Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka described the game as "a great culmination of all the Sonic Racing series games to date," highlighting its blend of new and returning mechanics.

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Closed Network Test Announced

Closed Network Test Registration Now Open

A closed network test for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is scheduled, offering fans an early look at the game. 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, 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 test will be exclusive to PlayStation 5. Participants who complete the post-test survey will receive an exclusive in-game sticker and title.