"Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Unveils Characters, Tracks for Closed Test"

Get ready for an exhilarating ride with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, the latest kart racing game in the beloved Sonic The Hedgehog series. Developed by Sega and Sonic Team, this game promises to deliver the most extensive roster yet, along with innovative features and mechanics that will redefine your racing experience. Dive into the details of what's in store and how you can participate in the upcoming closed network test.

Largest Roster From The Series Ever

In an exciting announcement on PlayStation.blog on February 12, 2025, Sega of America's Associate PR Manager, Thalia Piedra, unveiled the new mechanics and features set to feature in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds. The game is set to boast an impressive lineup of "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes," although the reveal trailer primarily showcased characters from the Sonic franchise.

At launch, players can expect 23 characters, with more to be added post-release. The trailer confirmed the inclusion of 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, Team Dark's Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega, and Dr. Eggman with his creations Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic are also featured. The Chaotix team, including Vector, Charmy, and Espio, round out the roster, with Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big completing the lineup.

Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds

One of the standout features of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is the introduction of Travel Rings, a mechanic that allows characters to be transported to different worlds in real-time during races. These CrossWorlds promise to bring "dramatic changes to races," as stated by Piedra, offering players a theme park-like experience filled with "large monsters, engaging obstacles, and tracks filled with beautiful scenery."

The game also introduces dynamic tracks that change with each lap, inspired by previous titles like Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed. Players will navigate through 24 main tracks and have the opportunity to explore 15 unique CrossWorlds, ensuring a fresh and transformative experience with every race.

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 the game's official Twitter (X) account on February 17, 2025, showcased a variety of customization options, including changes to the vehicle's front and rear parts, wheels, body color, tire color, cockpit, and overall glow.

In addition to vehicle customization, players can 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, allowing players to experience a boost-based racing style on flying hoverboards.

Sonic Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka emphasized that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds represents "a great culmination of all the Sonic Racing series games to date," promising a thrilling and comprehensive racing experience.

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's offerings. 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, exclusively for PlayStation 5 users.

• 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, making this a must-join event for Sonic fans eager to experience the new racing adventure.