Sonic Racing: New Characters and Tracks Unveiled for Closed Test

Dive into the thrilling world of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, the latest kart racing game from the Sonic The Hedgehog series, developed by Sega and Sonic Team. This game promises to be a standout with its expansive roster and innovative gameplay mechanics. Here's everything you need to know about the new features, mechanics, and the upcoming closed network test.

Largest Roster From The Series Ever

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to feature the largest character lineup in the series to date. According to Sega of America Associate PR Manager Thalia Piedra's PlayStation.blog post on February 12, 2025, the game will include "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes." While the trailer showcased only Sonic franchise characters, the official website confirms a launch roster of 23 characters, with more to be added post-launch.

The trailer revealed a diverse cast including Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, Amy, Jet, Wave, Storm from Sonic Riders, Zavok and Zazz from the Deadly Six, Team Dark's Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega, Dr. Eggman with Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic, the Chaotix trio of Vector, Charmy, and Espio, and Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big. This extensive roster ensures a variety of playstyles and fan favorites.

Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds

One of the most exciting new features in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is the use of Travel Rings. These rings will transport players to different worlds, known as CrossWorlds, in real-time during races. According to Piedra, these transitions 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.

The game also introduces dynamic tracks that change with each lap, inspired by Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed. With 24 main tracks and 15 CrossWorlds, players will experience a transformative and engaging racing environment.

Customization, Extreme Gear, Gadgets, and More!

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds offers the most extensive vehicle customization seen in the series. A preview shared on Twitter (X) on February 17, 2025, showcased options for changing the front and rear parts of the vehicle, wheels, and deep color customization of the body, tires, cockpit, and overall glow.

Players can also equip their characters with Gadgets, allowing for 23 different power-up items to optimize their play style. The game includes 45 unique original vehicles, including the return of Extreme Gear from Sonic Riders, offering a boost-based racing style.

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

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Closed Network Test Announced

Closed Network Test Registration Now Open

A closed network test for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is scheduled, giving 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, adding an extra incentive to join the test and provide valuable feedback.