Sonic Racing: New Characters and Tracks Unveiled for Closed Test

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience with *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 the biggest yet, with a reveal trailer and detailed reports hinting at an expansive roster and thrilling new features. Thalia Piedra, Sega of America's Associate PR Manager, shared insights into the game's mechanics and features in a PlayStation.blog post dated February 12, 2025.

Largest Roster From The Series Ever

*Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds* is set to boast the largest character lineup in the series. While the trailer focuses on the Sonic franchise, the game will feature "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes," according to Piedra. At launch, players can expect 23 characters, with more to be added post-release. The trailer showcases fan-favorites like Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, Amy, and introduces characters from Sonic Riders including Jet, Wave, and Storm. The Deadly Six's Zavok and Zazz make appearances, as well as Team Dark's Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega. Dr. Eggman is seen with Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic, and the Chaotix trio of Vector, Charmy, and Espio join the fray. Rounding out the roster are Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big.

Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds

A standout feature of *Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds* is the innovative use of Travel Rings, which transport racers to different worlds in real-time. This mechanic, as explained by Piedra, will "bring dramatic changes to races, transporting players from one world to a completely new location." These CrossWorlds are themed like amusement parks, filled with surprises such as "large monsters, engaging obstacles, and tracks filled with beautiful scenery." The game will also feature dynamic tracks that evolve with each lap, echoing the transformative experience of past titles like *Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed*. Players will navigate through 24 main tracks and 15 unique CrossWorlds.

Customization, Extreme Gear, Gadgets, and More!

*Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds* offers unprecedented vehicle customization. A preview shared on Twitter (X) on February 17, 2025, showcased options for modifying the front and rear parts of vehicles, wheels, and deep color customization of the body, tires, cockpit, and overall glow. Players can also equip their characters with Gadgets to tailor their play style, choosing from 23 different power-up items. The game introduces 45 unique vehicles, including the return of Extreme Gear from *Sonic Riders*, allowing players to race on flying hoverboards with a boost-based style. Sonic Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka described the game as "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

Fans eager to dive into *Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds* can participate in an 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, and is exclusively available on PlayStation 5. Participants who complete the post-test survey will receive an exclusive in-game sticker and title. Here are the playtest timings:

• 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