Sonic Racing: New Characters and Tracks Unveiled for Closed Test

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Characters and Tracks Revealed for Upcoming Closed Network Test

If you're a fan of the Sonic franchise, get ready for an exhilarating ride with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds! This upcoming kart racing game in the Sonic The Hedgehog series is set to feature an impressive roster of characters and innovative gameplay mechanics. Here’s everything you need to know about the new features, mechanics, and the upcoming closed network test.

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds New Features and Mechanics Revealed

Largest Roster From The Series Ever

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Characters and Tracks Revealed for Upcoming Closed Network Test

Sega and the Sonic Team are joining forces to bring you Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, which promises to have the largest character roster in the series yet. According to Sega of America Associate PR Manager Thalia Piedra's post on PlayStation.blog on February 12, 2025, the game will include "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes." Although the trailer only showcased Sonic franchise characters, the official website confirms that the game will launch with 23 characters, with more to be added post-launch.

From the trailer, we've spotted fan-favorite characters like Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, and Amy, alongside Sonic Riders' Jet, Wave, and Storm. The Deadly Six’s Zavok and Zazz make an appearance, as well as Team Dark members Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega. Dr. Eggman and his creations, Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic, are also in the mix. The Chaotix trio of Vector, Charmy, and Espio join the fray, with Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big rounding out the initial lineup.

Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Characters and Tracks Revealed for Upcoming Closed Network Test

One of the most exciting new features is the introduction of Travel Rings, which allow characters to be transported to different worlds in real-time during races. These CrossWorlds will offer a theme park-like experience with surprises at every turn, including large monsters, engaging obstacles, and stunning scenery. According to Piedra, these rings will "bring dramatic changes to races, transporting players from one world to a completely new location."

The game will also feature dynamic tracks that evolve with each lap, inspired by Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed. With 24 main tracks and 15 CrossWorlds, players will enjoy a transformative racing experience that keeps them on their toes.

Customization, Extreme Gear, Gadgets, and More!

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds offers 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 including changes to the vehicle's front and rear parts, wheels, deep color customization of the body, tires, cockpit, and overall glow.

Players can also equip their characters with Gadgets to tailor their play style, with 23 different power-up items available. The game will feature 45 unique original vehicles, including the return of Extreme Gear from Sonic Riders, which allows players to ride on flying hoverboards for a boost-based racing style.

Sonic Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka emphasized that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is "a great culmination of all the Sonic Racing series games to date," promising a thrilling experience for both new and veteran players.

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Closed Network Test Announced

Closed Network Test Registration Now Open

Fans eager to get a sneak peek at Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds can now register for the upcoming closed network test. 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, exclusively on PlayStation 5.

Here are the test times in various time zones: