Sonic Racing: New Characters and Tracks Unveiled for Closed Test

Dive into the thrilling world of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, where Sega and Sonic Team have collaborated to bring fans an exhilarating kart racing experience. This upcoming title in the Sonic The Hedgehog series promises to be the largest yet, with a roster that could be the most expansive in the series' history. Learn more about the new features, mechanics, and the upcoming closed network test that will give players a sneak peek into this exciting game.

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds New Features and Mechanics Revealed

Largest Roster From The Series Ever

Sega and the Sonic Team are gearing up to launch Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, potentially boasting the series' most extensive character lineup to date. According to a PlayStation.blog post dated February 12, 2025, by Sega of America Associate PR Manager Thalia Piedra, the game will feature a diverse cast of "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes." While the trailer showcased only characters from the Sonic franchise, the official website confirms a launch roster of 23 characters, with more to be added post-launch.

The trailer highlighted key characters like Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, and Amy, alongside Sonic Riders' Jet, Wave, and Storm. Fans also spotted Zavok and Zazz from the Deadly Six, Team Dark's Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega, as well as Dr. Eggman and his creations, Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic. The Chaotix team, including Vector, Charmy, and Espio, made an appearance, joined by Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big, rounding out the impressive lineup.

Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds introduces groundbreaking gameplay mechanics that promise to deliver a fresh experience for both long-time fans and newcomers to the Sonic universe. A standout feature is the use of Travel Rings, which transport players across different worlds in real-time during races. These CrossWorlds offer a theme park-like experience with "large monsters, engaging obstacles, and tracks filled with beautiful scenery," as described by Piedra.

The game will also feature dynamic tracks that evolve with each lap, inspired by previous titles like Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed. This ensures a unique and transformative experience with every race. Players can expect 24 main tracks and 15 CrossWorlds, adding variety and excitement to the gameplay.

Customization, Extreme Gear, Gadgets, and More!

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to offer the most extensive vehicle customization seen in the series to date. A preview shared on the game's official Twitter (X) account on February 17, 2025, showcased various options for modifying vehicles, including changing the front and rear parts, wheels, and deep color customization of the body, tires, cockpit, and overall glow.

Players can further tailor their experience by equipping characters with Gadgets, choosing from 23 different power-up items to optimize their play style. The game will also feature 45 unique original vehicles, including the return of Extreme Gear from Sonic Riders, allowing players to ride flying hoverboards for a boost-based racing experience. Sonic Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka highlighted that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is "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

A closed network test for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is scheduled to give fans an early look at what the game has to offer. Registration for the test opened on February 12, 2025, and will close on February 19, 2025. The playtest will run from February 21, 2025, to February 24, 2025, exclusively on the PlayStation 5.

• 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 be rewarded with an exclusive in-game sticker and title, adding extra incentive to join the test and provide valuable feedback.