Sega formally unveiled "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds," an electrifying new installment in the "Sonic the Hedgehog" racing series.
Unveiled during Sony's State of Play 2025, the arcade-style high-speed racer is coming soon on the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Steam, and Epic Games. If you're obsessed with "Sonic" games, this one is definitely a blast thanks to its fresh mechanics, a vast amount of gadget customization, and an immense character roster.
'Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds:' Release Date and Platforms
Sony's State of Play is an annual event for video games featuring game updates, new titles, gameplay teases, and more.
Sega, one of the participants in this program, has announced that "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds" will be released digitally and physically across a broad spectrum of platforms, including PC (Steam and Epic Games Store), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. Although no specific release date has been given, the Japanese gaming giant has hinted that the game is "coming soon."
Fans who are excited to taste some action in advance can try their luck through a closed network test, starting on Feb. 21. Here, they get a unique chance to sample the game mechanics as part of exclusive players chosen by the developer.
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A Game-Changing Racing Mechanic: What's on Offer
Sega calls "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds" a game-changer within the franchise that brings a curiosity-triggering feature known as Travel Rings, IGN reports. These interdimensional portals dynamically change the path of a race by taking players to alternate worlds in real time.
Apart from that, this feature introduces a random element of surprise to each competition, pushing racers to adjust to land, air, and sea-based courses at the drop of a hat.
The Largest Roster in 'Sonic' Racing History
Perhaps the most eagerly awaited feature of "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds" is its massive character roster. Although Sega has not yet announced the full list, the game has been officially stated to have the largest cast of any "Sonic" racing game to date.
Gamers can expect old favorites such as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Shadow, with likely cameos from lesser-known faces throughout the history of the franchise.
Customizable Vehicles for a Unique Racing Experience
For the first time in a "Sonic" racing game, there is rich customization in the spotlight. Gamers can combine parts, powers, and abilities in their cars and create custom setups that meet their play style.
You have the means to choose what type of racer you are. You can lean more on being a speed specialist or if you want a more intense collision on tracks, you can become a defensive-oriented racer. You can come up with different tactics because, at the end of the day, that's all up to you.
Why 'Sonic' Fans Should Be Excited
"Sonic" racing games have long been characterized by quick action, bright visuals, and retro references to classic Sonic games. "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds" will be pushing those elements to new heights by combining high-speed racing with multi-dimensional gameplay that guarantees no two races are ever the same.
When Can You Play?
With a closed network test-launching on Feb. 21, it won't be long before players get their first hands-on experience with "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds."
While the official release date remains a mystery, Sega's "coming soon" statement suggests that fans won't have to wait too long before they can dive into the action.
In the meantime, you can check more information about Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order leaks.
