Sonic Racing: New Characters and Tracks Unveiled for Closed Test

Are you ready to dive into the high-speed world of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds? This exciting new addition to the Sonic The Hedgehog series, developed by Sega and Sonic Team, promises to bring fans and newcomers alike an unparalleled kart racing experience. Let's explore the new features, mechanics, and details about the upcoming closed network test.

Largest Roster From The Series Ever

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to feature the largest roster in the series' history. According to Sega of America Associate PR Manager Thalia Piedra in a PlayStation.blog post dated February 12, 2025, the game will include "iconic characters from the Sonic and Sega universes." The official website confirms a launch roster of 23 characters, with more to be added post-launch.

The reveal trailer showcases a diverse lineup including Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, and Amy from the main cast. Fans of Sonic Riders will be thrilled to see Jet, Wave, and Storm, while the Deadly Six's Zavok and Zazz make an appearance as well. Team Dark members Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega join the fray, alongside Dr. Eggman and his creations, Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic. The Chaotix crew, including Vector, Charmy, and Espio, are also in the mix, rounding out the roster with Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big.

Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds

One of the standout features of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is the innovative use of Travel Rings. As detailed by Piedra, these rings will transport players to different worlds, known as CrossWorlds, in real-time during races. This mechanic promises to "bring dramatic changes to races, transporting players from one world to a completely new location," offering a theme park-like experience filled with surprises such as "large monsters, engaging obstacles, and tracks filled with beautiful scenery."

The game will also feature dynamic tracks inspired by Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, ensuring each lap offers a new and transformative experience. Players can expect 24 main tracks and the ability to move between 15 different CrossWorlds.

Customization, Extreme Gear, Gadgets, and More!

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to offer the most extensive vehicle customization 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, from changing the front and rear parts, wheels, and deep color customization of the body, tires, cockpit, and overall glow.

Players can further enhance their racing experience with Gadgets, allowing for 23 different power-up items to be equipped and edited according to their play style. The game will feature 45 unique original vehicles, including the return of Extreme Gear from Sonic Riders, providing a boost-based racing style on flying hoverboards.

Takashi Iizuka, Sonic Creative Officer, described Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds 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 glimpse of what the game has to offer. Registration for the test opened on February 12, 2025, and will close on February 19, 2025. The test 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 receive an exclusive in-game sticker and title, adding an extra incentive to join the test and provide valuable feedback.