Sonic Team has finally lifted the curtain on Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, revealing a host of innovative mechanics and features sure to thrill fans of the Blue Blur. From Travel Rings that warp racers to entirely new worlds mid-race, to the triumphant return of Extreme Gear hoverboards, this entry has all the makings of the most ambitious Sonic Racing title yet.
The centerpiece of CrossWorlds is a new gameplay element called Travel Rings, which teleport players to completely different locations during the second lap. Even better, the racer in the lead decides which dimension everyone warps to, adding a strategic twist to each race.
- Dynamic Track Changes: Each CrossWorld is packed with surprises, like massive monsters, shifting terrain, and evolving set pieces.
- Theme Park Vibes: Sonic Team likens these worlds to theme parks, packed with excitement and fresh takes on classic track design.
Just like the fan-favorite Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, CrossWorlds features tracks that morph across different terrains. Whether you’re drifting across solid ground, splashing through water, or soaring through the air, you’ll need to adapt to maintain your lead:
- Lap-to-Lap Transitions: Tracks evolve each time you cross the finish line, forcing adjustments to both driving style and vehicle setup.
- Real-Time Transformations: Expect your chosen vehicle or Extreme Gear to handle differently depending on the environment.
CrossWorlds introduces Gadgets, bringing a new layer of strategy to your races:
- Customizable Perks: Equip and combine Gadgets before each race for unique advantages like extra boost, higher item-drop rates, or defensive buffs.
- Gadget Slots & Upgrades: Stronger Gadgets take up more slots, so you’ll have to balance resources and upgrades to build the perfect loadout.
For the first time in a Sonic Racing game, you can break free from fixed characters and vehicles:
- Mix & Match Parts: Fine-tune speed, acceleration, and handling by swapping out different parts.
- Full Visual Customization: Choose colors, decals, and textures for nearly every aspect of your vehicle—even the interior!
Hoverboards from Sonic Riders return, offering a boost-centric racing style for anyone craving a more futuristic flair on the track:
- Jet the Hawk’s Legacy: After glimpses of Extreme Gear in early teasers, fans can officially celebrate.
- Fan-Favorite Features: Creative Officer Takashi Iizuka confirms CrossWorlds draws inspiration from the best elements of Sonic Racing—combining All-Stars Racing Transformed’s morphing mechanics with the adrenaline of the Riders series.
Sega has announced a Closed Network Test for PlayStation 5 users, granting select players early access to most of these new features—though you’ll have to wait a bit longer for the chance to hit the track on Extreme Gear.
From the sound of it, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds promises to be a thrilling homage to the series’ racing legacy. By merging the high-flying antics of Sonic Riders and the dynamic transformations of All-Stars Racing Transformed—plus a slew of fresh innovations—the game looks poised to become a must-play installment for racing fans.
Stay tuned to Sonic City for more info on the official release date, upcoming gameplay reveals, and details on securing a spot in the Closed Network Test. Don’t forget to wishlist Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on your platform of choice so you can jump right into these high-speed, cross-dimensional races!
Which new feature are you most excited about—Travel Rings, Extreme Gear, or deeper vehicle customization? Let us know in the comments, and keep it locked to Sonic City for the latest Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds News and Updates!
Source: PlayStation Blog
