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Sonic Racing: New Characters and Tracks Unveiled for Closed Test

by Peyton May 01,2025

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

Dive into the thrilling world of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, the latest kart racing adventure in 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. Get ready to learn about the new features, characters, and the upcoming closed network test.

Largest Roster From The Series Ever

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

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

The trailer showcases a diverse lineup including Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, and Amy, alongside Sonic Riders' Jet, Wave, and Storm. Fans will also spot Zavok and Zazz from the Deadly Six, Team Dark's Shadow, Rouge, and E-123 Omega, and Dr. Eggman with his creations, Egg Pawn and Metal Sonic. The Chaotix team, including Vector, Charmy, and Espio, join the race, rounded out by Blaze, Silver, Cream, and Big.

Travel Rings Will Transport Characters To Different CrossWorlds

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

A highlight of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is its unique gameplay mechanic involving Travel Rings. These rings transport racers to different worlds in real-time, known as CrossWorlds, offering a dynamic racing experience. Thalia Piedra explains that these transitions will "bring dramatic changes to races, transporting players from one world to a completely new location." Each CrossWorld promises a theme park-like atmosphere with surprises like large monsters, engaging obstacles, and stunning scenery.

The game also introduces dynamic tracks that evolve with each lap, inspired by Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed. Players will navigate through 24 main tracks and 15 CrossWorlds, ensuring a fresh and challenging experience every time.

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 modifying the front and rear parts of vehicles, wheels, and deep color customization for the body, tires, cockpit, and overall glow.

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

Sonic Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka describes Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds as "a great culmination of all the Sonic Racing series games to date," highlighting its blend of new and returning mechanics.

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, exclusively on PlayStation 5.