Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is poised to be a thrilling addition to the Sonic franchise, featuring a diverse array of characters and innovative gameplay mechanics. Dive in to discover more about its new features and the upcoming closed network test.

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds: New Features and Mechanics Unveiled

Largest Roster in the Series Yet

Sega and Sonic Team are collaborating to bring fans Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, the latest kart racing game in the Sonic The Hedgehog series. According to a PlayStation.blog post dated February 12, 2025, by Sega of America Associate PR Manager Thalia Piedra, the game will boast the largest roster to date. While the reveal trailer showcased characters primarily from the Sonic universe, the official website confirms a launch roster of 23 characters, with more to be added post-launch.

The trailer highlights familiar faces such as Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, and Amy, alongside Sonic Riders' 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 and his creations, Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic, join the race, along with the Chaotix team featuring Vector, Charmy, and Espio. Rounding out the lineup are Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big.

Travel Rings: A Gateway to Diverse CrossWorlds

The gameplay mechanics introduced in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds promise to enrich the racing experience. Travel Rings, a new feature, enable racers to shift between different environments in real-time, known as CrossWorlds. As Thalia Piedra explains, these transitions will dramatically alter races by transporting players to entirely new settings. Each CrossWorld offers a theme park-like atmosphere with surprises like large monsters, engaging obstacles, and scenic tracks.

The game also introduces dynamic tracks that evolve with each lap, drawing inspiration from Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed. This feature ensures varied and challenging races, with 24 main tracks and 15 CrossWorlds to explore.

Enhanced Customization and Returning Favorites

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds aims to offer the most extensive vehicle customization in the series to date. A tweet from the game's official account on February 17, 2025, showcased the customization options, including modifications to the front and rear of vehicles, wheels, and deep color adjustments for the body, tires, cockpit, and overall glow.

Additionally, players can equip Gadgets to tailor their racing style, with 23 different power-up items available. The game includes 45 unique original vehicles, with the return of Extreme Gear from Sonic Riders, providing a boost-based racing experience. 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 Details

Registration for Closed Network Test Now Open

A closed network test for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is scheduled, offering fans an early glimpse into 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, globally.

• PST: February 21, 2025 (Fri) 4:00 PM - February 23, 2025 (Sun) 4:00 PM
• EST: February 21, 2025 (Fri) 7:00 PM - February 23, 2025 (Sun) 7:00 PM
• GMT: February 22, 2025 (Sat) 12:00 AM - February 24, 2025 (Mon) 12:00 AM
• JST: February 22, 2025 (Sat) 9:00 AM - February 24, 2025 (Mon) 9:00 AM

The test is exclusive to PlayStation 5 users. Participants who complete the post-test survey will receive an exclusive in-game sticker and title.